Explore the towering giants of the Garden Route. From the 800-year-old Woodville Big Tree to the towering Tsitsikamma Big Tree as well as the famous Big Tree in Knysna.
If you’ve ever ventured into the lush forests of the Garden Route, you’ve probably heard of its towering giants and ancient trees that have stood watch over the land for centuries.
The Garden Route’s big trees are more than just a tourist attraction; they are living legends. Let’s take a walk through some of the most remarkable big trees in the region, from the iconic Woodville Big Tree in Wilderness to the famous Dalene Matthee Big Tree in Knysna.
The Woodville Big Tree
Deep within the Wilderness Forest, the Woodville Big Tree is an awe-inspiring Outeniqua Yellowwood, over 800 years old. This grand tree stands 33 meters high with a crown width of 34 meters, and its massive stem has a circumference of 12 meters. Walking up to it feels like embarking on a tranquil walk around the tree, surrounded by rich dense greenery and the sounds of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to spot birds like the Knysna Turaco or Cape Parrot fluttering through the branches.
After your stroll, unwind at a nearby picnic area, where the forest atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation. The Woodville Big Tree stands as a symbol of nature’s resilience and beauty, and the small conservation fee goes a long way to preserving this treasure for future generations.
The Tsitsikamma Big Tree
Further east along the Garden Route, the Tsitsikamma Forest is home to another towering Yellowwood known simply as the Tsitsikamma Big Tree. At an estimated 600 to 800 years old, this massive tree stretches 36.6 meters into the sky, with a trunk circumference of 9 meters. A short, easy 10-minute walk along a wooden boardwalk through the indigenous forest takes visitors to this magnificent Yellowwood giant.
If you’re up for more adventure, the Ratel Nature Walk offers an extended exploration, with options of a 2.6km or 4.2km trail through the wet, high forest. The trails weave through lush vegetation, allowing hikers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Tsitsikamma’s ancient landscape.
Dalene Matthee Big Tree
One of the most well-known of the Garden Route’s giants is the Dalene Matthee Big Tree, found at Krisjan-se-Nek near Knysna. Named after the beloved South African author Dalene Matthee, this tree is a towering 40-meter-tall Outeniqua Yellowwood, approximately 880 years old. The surrounding forest, which inspired much of Matthee’s writing, is filled with mystery and magic. Visitors can also explore the “Circles in a Forest” trail, where they can wander through an ancient forest filled with towering Yellowwoods, ferns, babbling streams, and wildlife.
The area offers two hiking options, one of 3 km and another of 9 km, catering to both casual walkers and more seasoned hikers. Both trails provide a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Knysna forest. After your hike, it’s worth visiting the nearby Forest Legends Museum, which delves into the fascinating history of the area’s woodcutters, the elusive Knysna elephants, and the legends of the ancient forest.
Beyond the Trees
Apart from their sheer size and beauty, the Garden Route’s big trees serve as critical habitats for wildlife. Yellowwoods are essential for the survival of rare bird species like the Cape Parrot, Knysna Turaco, and African pigeon, which feed on their fruits and take refuge in their branches. Mammals like bush pigs, monkeys, and bats are also commonly found around these trees, adding to the biodiversity of these rich ecosystems.
Exploring the Garden Route’s big trees is not just about seeing the tallest and oldest trees; it’s about stepping into an ancient world that has remained largely untouched. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, or someone looking to connect with the natural beauty of the Garden Route, visiting these remarkable trees should be at the top of your list.
So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your picnic basket, and head out to experience the Garden Route’s giants. They’ve been waiting centuries for you.
Discover a wide selection of Garden Route accommodation options along the Garden Route, ideally located near the region’s famous Big Trees. Whether you’re planning to visit the Woodville Big Tree in Wilderness or explore the ancient Tsitsikamma forest in Knysna.
