This is certainly one of Knysna’s hidden gems and I am fortunate to have heard about it. Although it is a relatively short walk, only 3.6km, the hills and descents are very steep. It is advised that you wear proper shoes, keep your flip-flops for the beach. Be sure to take your camera and eats because when you reach the Homtini River the rewards are satisfying and you will want to spend some time there. The waters of the river are very refreshing and is a great idea to take your swim wear for a dip in the summer. The depth of the big pool hasn’t been established and diving is not recommended. Don’t be so engrossed with the river and entertaining rock pools that you miss seeing the stalactites and stalagmites in the ‘cellar’. Take care on the rocks as they can be slippery. The discolouration of the water is caused by tannins and humic acids from leaves on the forest floor. Take your time to check out all the different shapes and colours of fungi on dead trees and listen to the birds. Enjoy your hike!
Distance: 3.6km, there and back.
Difficulty: Moderate to hard, quite a steep walk back
Managed by: SANParks
Permits/Costs: Entrance fees may apply. Only 12 people are allowed at a time. A permit must be obtained from the access gate at the Goudveld Entrance boom. You will turn left at this boom on your way to Drupkelders. You can also obtain a permit from the SAN Parks office on Thesen Island, Knysna.
Contact Number:
Thesen Island Office – 044 302 5600
Goudveld Entrance – 044 389 0252
Directions: From Knysna take the N2 towards George, 8km out take the Rheenendal turn-off to the right. Travel along this road slowly while you just absorb the vistas of the distant mountains till you get to the Bibby’s Hoek signpost after 12.6km. Follow this road for 2.3km to a four way intersection at the SAN Parks boom, turn left here and continue with this road to the end (1.3km). Beware of the numerous speed bumps. At the end there is a shot right and a gate with a SANParks sign on, stop here. There is a pedestrian entrance and the walk starts here.
Coordinates: S33 55.721 E22 56.406
Other: The water in the streams are drinkable, the dark colour is due to the tannins and humic acids from the leaves on the forest floor.
Please preserve our environment for our posterity by not littering.