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KNYSNA BUSINESS NEWS - Founded in 1994 as the first reserve of its kind in South Africa, the Knysna Elephant Park has only grown from strength to strength, having firmly cemented itself as one of the best elephant rehabilitation centres in Southern Africa.
Situated 11km from Plettenberg Bay and 24km from Knysna, the elephant park was founded by husband-and-wife team Ian and Lisette Withers on their 200ha farm just off the N2.
Just as the country was turning a new page in 1994, the opening of Knysna Elephant Park saw the rise of a new dawn for elephants in the Greater Knysna area.
Little did the Withers realise just how much of a difference they would make in the world of elephant rehabilitation and care in the coming years, as 25 years on, the elephant park has grown from the two original elephants (Harry and Sally) to 10 elephants, with more than 40 of the animals coming under the care of the park and either staying there, or being placed into other associate reserves.
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Of the original two, only Sally remains, having firmly established herself as the matriarch of the park's herd. The park has not only been a safe haven for outside elephants but has also brought two of its very own calves – Thandi and Shungu – into the world, born at the park in 2003 and 2007 respectively.
Over and above how they have helped rehabilitate so many elephants, the park has also completely rewritten society's idea of an elephant by giving the public a chance to enjoy intimate interactions with one of nature's gentle giants. Even though you are a guest at the park, the tours are not conducted on your or the guides' terms but rather the terms determined by the elephants, as the main goal of the park is to offer a unique, intimate experience while still keeping the elephant's best interests at heart.
The park has further firmly established itself as a prime destination for holidaymakers, with a six-room lodge that overlooks the boma situated where the elephants rest at night. It is also a stunning location for weddings, with a number of these events held at the park right throughout the year.
All in all, in its 25 years' existence, Knysna Elephant Park has become one of the most spectacular destinations on the Garden Route, and is definitely worth a visit.
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