Aquila Private Games Reserve Safari including wine tasting with free lunch and return transportation

Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is a luxurious, malaria-free Big 5 safari destination located just two hours from Cape Town. Perfect for those short on time, Aquila offers day trips and overnight stays in a 10,000-hectare reserve that’s home to lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard, as well as giraffe, hippo, zebra, and a wide range of antelope and bird species.

Whether you’re seeking a quick wildlife escape from the city or a romantic bush retreat, Aquila combines authentic African wildlife experiences with world-class service, comfort, and sustainability.

Top Safari Experiences

• Big 5 Game Drives – Spot lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo, and the elusive leopard with an experienced ranger on 4×4 game vehicles

• Sunset Safaris – Watch the wildlife as the sun sets over the mountains, with sundowners provided

• Night Drives – Discover nocturnal animals and predators in action

• Horseback Safaris – Unique and immersive rides through the bush with trained guides

• Quad Bike Adventures – Guided off-road quad experiences through the reserve’s rugged terrain

 Accommodation Options

• Premier Lodge Suites – Luxurious rooms with mountain views, en-suite bathrooms, and all amenities

• Cottages – Thatched cottages ranging from standard to family luxury, with fireplaces and outdoor showers

• Family Suites – Spacious setups ideal for couples with kids

• Safari Tents (Glamping) – For those wanting a more adventurous, yet comfortable experience

 Dining & Refreshments

• Aquila Restaurant – Pan-African buffet with a variety of freshly prepared dishes

• Outdoor Boma Dinners – Enjoy fireside dining under the stars during overnight stays

• Bar & Lounge – Relax with a drink and take in the stunning Karoo landscape

All meals are usually included in the overnight and full-day safari packages.

 Spa & Wellness

• Aquila African Spa – Treat yourself to massages, facials, hydrotherapy, and other treatments in a serene Karoo setting

• Heated Indoor Pool, Sauna, Steam Room & Outdoor Pool available to all spa visitors

 Conservation & Community

• Aquila Animal Rescue & Conservation Centre (ARC) – A registered NPO dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered and vulnerable species

• Eco Practices – Solar energy, water recycling, and anti-poaching efforts are central to the reserve’s operation

• Community Employment – Aquila actively hires and trains local residents, empowering the surrounding rural areas

 Getting There

• By Car: ±2-hour drive from Cape Town via N1 to Touws River

• Shuttle Transfers: Available from Cape Town hotels (at additional cost)

• Helicopter Transfers: VIP guests can arrive in style via private charter

 Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but wildlife viewing is especially good in the dry winter months (May–August)

• What to Pack: Comfortable clothes, hat, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, and a warm jacket for evening drives

• Booking: Recommended in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends

• Child-Friendly: Family rooms, kids’ play areas, and child-friendly game drives available

 Instagram-Worthy Moments

• Sunset silhouettes of elephants and giraffes

• Rooftop spa views with Karoo backdrops

• Close-up shots of lions on game drive

• Infinity pool with a view of the reserve