Wilderness
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Get in
By train
The train that ran between George and Knysna via Wilderness was known as the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe. The scenery along the route is stupendous, and includes the Kaaimans River bridge (the most-photographed railway bridge in the world) and the bridge over the Knysna lagoon. The railway station is in town; the tracks run right next to the main east-west road (the N2 national road). However the Choo-Tjoe service remains suspended following storm damage to the tracks along the route. Classic Rail is working to restore service on this line.
There is a pleasant short walk along the closed tracks that is accessible by the beach near the Wilderness Beach House.
By bus
All the major bus companies that ply the Cape Town-Port Elizabeth route stop in Wilderness.By car
The N2 national road from George (to the west) and Knysna (to the east) runs through Wilderness. Driving between George and Knysna there are permanent speed cameras in the Kaaimans River Pass. The speed limit on this pass is 60 km/h for a reason, the pass is very dangerous to take at high speeds, especially when wet.Get around
If you are staying in the village, it is an easy walk to the beach going underneath the train tracks. It's definitely easier to get around either by bike or by car. The nearest car rental is in George.
See
- Dolphins Point, halfway up the Kaaimans there is a lookout point that offers great views of the coastline.
- The Ocean, there are many public access points to the beach but be careful of strong currents in the area.
- Serpentine River viewpoint, on your way up to Hoekwil, stop and admire the view.
- Map of Africa, driving through the village up to the old George Road, follow the signage to the Map of Africa. It's a viewpoint close to where the paragliders launch and shows a beautiful view of the river valley that looks like the coastline of Africa.
Do
- Go to the Wilderness National Park
- Paraglide, there are many local companies that offer tandem flights.
- Surf, local surf stop Steps is always a hit, and world renowned Vic Bay is a short hike over the train tracks.
- Canoe, rent a canoe and paddle up the Kaaimans or the Touw river.
- Swim, the beaches are beautiful, but be careful of the currents. The safest place to swim is on the main beach or the beach at the end of Sands Road.
Sleep
Ample accommodation exists in Wilderness, but it can get full during season.
Budget
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phone: +27 44 877-0549A pleasant backpackers' hostel a few hundred feet from the beach, on the Baz Bus route.
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phone: +27 44 877-1285address: Dumbleton Rd
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phone: +27 82 838-5944address: 291 Whites RdAtop the hill at the back of Wilderness, superb 360-degree views.
Mid-range
Splurge
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phone: +27 82 395-9986address: 2125 Constantia Kloof