Wilderness
A peaceful small town of rivers, lagoons and long sandy beaches. Paddle a canoe up the Touw River to a forest waterfall, or visit the “Map of Africa” viewpoint.
Wilderness lies about 12 km east of George. To the north are forest-covered slopes of the Outeniqua Mountains, and to the south stretch dozens of kilometers of white sandy beaches. In between lie the Touw River, the Swart River and a chain of lakes and lagoons. It is the core of the “Wilderness” section of Garden Route National Park. It is less bustling than Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and it suits travelers who want quiet and outdoor activities. Classic things to do: (1) Rent a canoe at the Ebb & Flow camp and paddle about 3 km upstream on the Touw River, then walk about 1 km through the forest to a small waterfall on the Half-collared Kingfisher Trail. The round trip takes half a day. (2) Walk along Wilderness Beach at sunset. The waves are large and the currents strong, so swim only within the lifeguarded area. (3) Drive up to the Map of Africa viewpoint, where the Kaaimans River loops around in a bend shaped like the African continent. It is also a takeoff point for paragliding, and you can take a tandem flight over the coast. (4) The lagoon area is a birdwatching hotspot, where you can see kingfishers, fish eagles and Knysna turacos. The national park charges a conservation fee. Wilderness is about 20 minutes by car from George Airport. Coordinates refer to the Ebb & Flow camp.
Opening hours
Open all day (national park campground reception around 07:00–19:00)
Nearby sights
- Dolphin Point
- Map of Africa Viewpoint
- Victoria Bay
- Outeniqua Transport Museum
- Garden Route Botanical Garden
- Montagu Pass
- Herolds Bay
- Outeniqua Pass