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Place in Western Cape, South Africa
Photo: Martbouter, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Wilderness is a coastal village situated in the Western Cape province in South Africa. It is set between the Kaaimans River and the Goukama Nature Reserve in the heart of the Garden Route, bordered by the Outeniqua Mountains and swept by the Indian Ocean. Renowned for its tranquil sea, seemingly endless beaches and natural lakes and lagoons, Wilderness has become a sought-after international holiday resort. This charming paradise is a great spot for water-sport enthusiasts, but also offers a fantastic wildlife variety, particularly birds, and is the ideal location from which to enjoy rejuvenating hikes, hang-gliding, paragliding, horse-riding, or leisurely scenic drives. Wilderness is also home of many craftsmen and women in the area, whose work is for sale at the weekly and monthly craft markets. Just outside Wilderness, two breathtaking viewing points offer magnificent views of the ocean for miles – namely the 'Map of Africa Viewpoint' and 'Dolphin Point'. A photographic hotspot is the Kaaimans River Bridge, over which the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train used to pass on its journey between George and Knysna.
A pleasant backpackers' hostel a few hundred feet from the beach, on the Baz Bus route.
Atop the hill at the back of Wilderness, superb 360-degree views.
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.
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.
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