Karatara adds another beautiful dimension to Knysna. It’s found approximately 35km inland of the town. Away from the sea and lakes, its landscape is one of lush farmland and and indigenous forests under the watchful eye of the Outeniqua Mountains.
In the early 1900s, woodcutters made a living from the forest but when the government withdrew permits they were housed in a settlement that became Karatara. Most of the houses still have an “antique” look and gardens are well maintained. It’s not uncommon to find a calf tied to a tree or the streets empty of cars during the day. Karatara is home to Karatara Primary School and Tsiba College, a passionate initiative that educates, feeds and gives lodging to students from impoverished areas on the Garden Route.
Interestingly, Karatara was one of apartheid President PW Botha’s favourite places in South Africa and he use to hold meetings in the town hall.
Karatara lies on the Seven Passes, a beautiful, mostly dirt road route that’s sure to amaze. You can head north to Rheenendaal or South to Wilderness and George.
