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Pools of gold, Knysna forest hike - South coast of Africa

Pools of gold, Knysna forest hike - South coast of Africa

November 2023 · 4 min read · Western Cape

Today, fellow-travellers of our beautiful planet, I want to share with you one of my most beautiful nature experiences here on these wild yet pristine shores. In today's epic exploration I was able to find one of the most beautiful golden pools, right in the heart half what remains to be the last of the indigenous Knysna Forest here on the South cape coast of Africa.

Ferns in abundance on either side of the trail entering the forest.
Ferns in abundance on either side of the trail entering the forest. 

This region is called the Garden Route specifically because it has such a fine moist climate with relatively abundant rainfall, that vegetation here has become really lush by comparison to the rest of the coast. As a result the beautiful Knysna Forest has been one of the epic features of this garden Route region for many centuries, since the times of the explorer who sailed from Europe around the southern Cape coast of Africa on their search for a route to the east.

Epic landscape from a timeless realm.
Epic landscape from a timeless realm. 

Indigenous Knysna Forest was an abundant source of timber for the Shipbuilding industry and later also for housing and timber for construction. As well as furniture. As a result hardly any of the indigenous Forest remains now. Perhaps only 3% of the forest is actually in existence and today I was able to have an exceptionally revealing hike into the heartland of this Knysna forest.

My hike took me along a path which stretched for about just over 4 km which took me about 1 hour to hike in a very pleasant atmosphere with occasional  meandering hills and Valleys. All the while I was surrounded tightly by tall indigenous trees that grow to massive heights all around.

Golden streams surrounded by lush indigenous vegetation.
Golden streams surrounded by lush indigenous vegetation. 
Exquisite colors enrich the surroundings throughout the forest.
Exquisite colors enrich the surroundings throughout the forest. 

After about an hour my thin narrow path brought me eventually to what is known as Perdekop waterfall. It is here that I encountered this most lush stream of golden liquid 10 just so by the tenants found in the indigenous fynbos vegetation.

Moist mossy growth on the rock face at the water’s edge.
Moist mossy growth on the rock face at the water's edge. 

If you love exploring lush forest hiking trails then this is just a path for you. After spending some time at the beautiful golden waterfall and ponds I began my return journey of another hour's hike back to the main road. Sitting here meditating on these shallow but exquisite streams of golden flowing river water, is an ideal opportunity to center the mind and to become calm and to awaken an idea of contemplation on higher matters of life... of deeper meaning.

The waterfall and trail is called Perdekop, which means horse head in the vernacular Afrikaans language, originally derived from Dutch.
The waterfall and trail is called Perdekop, which means horse head in the vernacular Afrikaans language, originally derived from Dutch. 
Lush ferns make for an inviting setting.
Lush ferns make for an inviting setting. 

Here in the centre of this still Forest at this golden Pond it is possible to find oneself to become centred and to rise above the Monday in affairs the coming and going of human world struggling to survive all over the planet in different sometimes I highly challenging conditions.

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Timeless scene from the eternal present moment.
Timeless scene from the eternal present moment. 

So if  you ever want to find peace and tranquility then this is just a place for you to come and escape on the South cape coast of Africa where the beautiful Knysna Forest will enshroud you in its mysteries as you  hike to the beautiful golden ponds lying at its Centre. 

Paradise awaits you on the southern shores of Africa.
Paradise awaits you on the southern shores of Africa. 

This just a place for you and your family so do take the opportunity to make a booking and place the South cape coast of Africa on your travel itinerary so as you can take advantage of these hidden gems hair on the dark continent.

Photos my own. Published from my mobile phone using the Travelfeed App.

So if  you ever want to find peace and tranquility then this is just a place for you to come and escape on the South cape coast of Africa where the beautiful Knysna Forest will enshroud you in its mysteries as you  hike to the beautiful golden ponds lying at its Centre. This just a place for you and your family so do take the opportunity to make a booking and place the South cape coast of Africa on your travel itinerary so as you can take advantage of these hidden gems hair on the dark continent.Photos my own. Published from my mobile phone using the Travelfeed App.

Travel Resources for your trip to South Africa

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Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to South Africa.

Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in South Africa on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.

Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.

Transportation: Use 12go and Omio to find detailed bus and train schedules, making travel planning easier.

Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.

Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!

Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.

Tickets: Save on entrance fees in South Africa with Klook and Tiquets.

Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to South Africa. Chat now.

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