Wilderness is a small, laid-back seaside village and the heart of the lakes district between George and Knysna, and the Touw River is the best way to see it. The river winds through Wilderness National Park, which forms part of the Garden Route National Park, and the water is stained dark by the plants it flows through, which makes for perfect reflections. A boat cruise takes you slowly past reed beds, forested banks and quiet corners that are hard to reach on foot, with a good chance of seeing kingfishers and other water birds. The cruise has a high rating from over a hundred reviews on the booking page. It is an easy, calm outing for all ages, and a good choice after a few days of adrenaline further east. Operators also run boat trips from the Waterside jetty at Wilderness to the Ebb and Flow section of the park, so ask about the route and the departure point when you book.
What you see
The cruise glides along the river between the lakes and the forested valley, and the guide points out birds, plants and the geography of the lakes system. Expect an unhurried pace, with time to watch kingfishers hunting from the reeds, fish eagles overhead and the quiet reflections in the dark water. The river is sheltered from the wind, so it is a good choice on days when the open coast is rough, and it is one of the calmest ways to spend an hour or two in Wilderness.
Fees and extras
Wilderness National Park charges a day fee for visitors, and the details on one of the Wilderness river operators' booking pages say that the park day permit is not included in the cruise price, so check the inclusions on the page for the exact product before you pay. Canoe hire is also available separately from park operators if you would rather paddle yourself. Bring a hat, sunscreen and binoculars, and wear shoes you do not mind getting damp.
Making a day of it
Wilderness suits a slow day, with a cruise, a walk on the long beach and a meal in one of the village restaurants. It is about half an hour from George airport, so it is an easy first or last stop on a Garden Route trip.
Pair it with a visit to the Cango Caves over the mountains, or with a night at a riverside hotel in the village. Check the weather, because heavy rain can raise the river and change the schedule, and book ahead in the December holidays when the cruises are busy.
What to expect
The experience
A calm guided boat cruise on the Touw River through Wilderness National Park, with reed beds, forest banks and plenty of birdlife.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the birds are most active.
How long
Around an hour or two, depending on the route you book.
Tips
Check whether the park day fee is included, bring a hat, sunscreen and binoculars, and book ahead in the December holidays.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a calm, scenic hour on the water and a chance to see birds.
- Families
- A gentle ride that suits most ages, though check the operator's conditions for young children.
- Couples
- A peaceful outing that pairs well with a riverside lunch or an evening in the village.
- Pair with
- A beach walk in Wilderness and a day trip to the Cango Caves.
- Time needed
- Half a morning.
Good questions
What will I see on the cruise?+
Dark tea-coloured water, reed beds and forested banks, with kingfishers, fish eagles and other water birds. The guide explains the lakes system as you go.
Is the park fee included?+
Check the inclusions on the booking page, as park day permits are often charged separately by SANParks. Confirm before you pay.
Can I paddle myself instead?+
Yes, canoe hire is available separately in the park for those who want to explore under their own power.
Is the cruise suitable for children?+
Yes, it is a calm outing that suits most ages. Check the booking page for the operator's rules on young children.
How far is Wilderness from George?+
About half an hour by car, so it is an easy first or last stop on a Garden Route trip.
