30/01/2026
🌿 Knysna Needs You More Than Ever — And We Are Still Open
Knysna, like many towns across the Western Cape, is navigating the realities of the drought. And with the recent cancellation of the Oakhill Water Polo Festival due to high bacteria levels in the lagoon, we know some travellers are wondering what this means for visiting our beautiful town.
At Knysna Manor House, we want to share an important message:
Knysna is open — and your visit truly matters.
The cancellation of the festival is a major blow. Each weekend would have brought over 100 participants, plus their teachers, coaches, staff, and parents — hundreds of people who would have stayed in our guesthouses, eaten in our restaurants, supported our shops, and contributed directly to the livelihoods of local families.
Losing that influx over three consecutive weekends is significant.
Tourism isn’t a luxury for Knysna — it’s the backbone of our economy.
We are fully operational
• We are open and managing water restrictions responsibly.
• Guests can expect a comfortable, welcoming stay.
• Our systems ensure minimal disruption despite the drought.
About the lagoon - The bacteria levels that led to the festival’s cancellation — as highlighted on Carte Blanche — are a separate issue from the drought. While disappointing for the community, it does not affect the rest of Knysna’s attractions. Our forests, viewpoints, restaurants, and experiences remain as magical as ever.
Supporting those who support Knysna
We’re proud to share that Knysna Tourism reached out to us for accommodation for Gift of the Givers from 8 February — and we immediately put our hands up.
Hosting them while they distribute water throughout Knysna is an honour, and a reminder of how united this town is in times of challenge.
Your presence keeps Knysna going
If you love Knysna — its people, its beauty, its spirit — this is the moment to show it.
Come stay, come explore, come support.
Every visitor helps keep our community strong.
Knysna Manor House
Where heritage meets heart.
[email protected]
www.knysnamanor.co.za
Visit Knysna Carte Blanche Devi Sankaree Govender