Knysna Tourism Sector United in Water Conservation While Safeguarding Local Livelihoods
Press Release by Greater Knysna Business Chamber, 22 January 2022
The Garden Route, and particularly the greater Knysna area, continues to experience acute water scarcity as a result of prolonged low rainfall and depleted water reserves. In response, the Greater Knysna Business Chamber’s Tourism Forum—representing private tourism and hospitality businesses—has mobilised a coordinated, sector-wide approach to responsible water conservation, while continuing to safeguard visitor experiences and local livelihoods.
Tourism and hospitality businesses across the region have already implemented extensive water saving measures. These include the installation of low-flow fixtures, linen and towel reuse programmes, targeted irrigation controls, proactive leak detection, and clear guest communication initiatives. Where implemented, these measures have resulted in significant reductions in water consumption.
Elmay Bouwer, spokesperson for the Tourism Forum, says:
“I could not be prouder of our industry—of its resilience, adaptability, and positive attitude in the face of uncertainty, enquiries, and even potential cancellations. Many hospitality and tourism businesses began implementing water-saving measures as early as September 2025, and water stewardship has now become part of our everyday business operations.”
Teresa Da Mata, SATSA Garden Route Vice Chair, says:
“Knysna is a resilient destination, and we will overcome this challenge. The town remains open and fully operational, with tourism businesses continuing to deliver exceptional experiences. Our iconic natural water body, the Knysna Estuary, together with our flourishing forests and vibrant culture, continues to define the unique appeal of the area for both visitors and locals. Only by working together will we overcome this challenge, and we therefore ask that, while enjoying this special part of the Garden Route, everyone uses water responsibly and helps to protect this precious resource.”
The tourism sector fully acknowledges its responsibility to operate sustainably under current water restrictions. Knysna’s identity—captured in the Visit Knysna slogan ‘Naturally Knysna’—has never been more relevant. With South Africa’s largest estuary opening onto the ocean, water shapes our environment, experiences, accommodation offerings, activities, and events. Protecting this precious resource is therefore not only essential, but deeply personal to our community.
Knysna remains open for business, operating with a strong focus on water-wise practices and long term water stewardship. The Greater Knysna Business Chamber continues to play an active role in Joint Operations Committee (JOC) clusters, working alongside key stakeholders to address daily water challenges, implement immediate interventions, and develop proactive, long-term strategies to strengthen water security.
Knysna is, and will remain, a must-visit destination for both individual and group travellers. We thank our visitors for their continued support—particularly those who join us in using water responsibly and helping to preserve this vital resource for residents and future visitors alike.
Together, through collective responsibility and collaboration, we are ensuring that Knysna continues to thrive—now and into the future.
