Day Trip Safari Booking Guide

Aquila's Big 5 Safari Day Trip Booking Guide

Enjoy a Big 5 Safari Day Trip to Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, Cape Town’s closest safari. If you’re thinking of booking a South African safari adventure close to the city, but are unsure of where to start, our day trip safari booking guide offers step-by-step details to help you plan and book the ultimate Cape Town Safari Day Trip.

Two young woman leaning out a traditional 4x4 safari vehicle at Aquila Private Game Reserve - Day Trip Safari Booking Guide

Step 1

Choose Your Day Trip

Browse the 7 day safari packages that are on offer, and choose the one that suits your preferences and schedule. We offer different options, at different times of day, so make sure to select the one that includes the activities and inclusions you’re interested in. 

*If you require transport to Aquila, please note that transfers are only offered as a paid extra, and only for FULL DAY or AFTERNOON Safaris.

Step 2

Book Your Day Trip

Use the website’s booking system to check the availability of the chosen package on your preferred date. Ensure there are spots available for your desired day. Fill out the required information, including your name, email address, and contact number. 

Please provide your mobile number (valid for South Africa) as your information will be used for booking confirmation and communication with the reserve. 

Step 3

Pay and Review Your Booking

Once you’ve selected the date and package, proceed to confirm your booking. Double-check all the details to ensure they are accurate. Provide your payment information and complete the payment process. Aquila typically accepts major credit cards and online payment methods.

Three women seen walking and laughing together - Aquila Day Trips Booking Guide

Step 4

Receive Booking Confirmation

After the payment is processed, you will receive a booking confirmation via email. This will include details of your reservation and a booking reference number. Please check your junk folder or “All Mail” folders. We suggest printing this out or keeping it handy, for referencing before your Day Safari. 

Step 5

Plan & Book Your Transport

Located under two hours from Cape Town, South Africa, guests can choose to self-drive to the reserve. For return city transfers and shared shuttle transport options, please refer to Aquila’s Transport page.

Please Note: Your driver will contact you the night before your departure to confirm your location & pick-up time/drop-off time, so please ensure you provide a valid South African contact number. 

Tranquila Spa showing a woman lying on a spa table whilst experiencing a rejuvenating facial cleansing treatment.

Step 6

Book Your Safari Activities

Please view our day safari packages to book a horseback,  quad bike, or combo safari. Day visitors are free to enjoy our outdoor pools, children’s entertainment area, and communal lodge facilities, but Tranquila Spa is an additional offering. 

  • Day Spa Pass: R290pp (use of the spa facilities.)
  • Spa treatments can only be booked once you have checked in at Aquila (subject to availability).
  • You will not be asked to pay for a spa pass if you have booked a treatment to the value of R590 pp, or more.

Step 7

Plan & Pack For Your Safari Day Trip

Prepare for your day safari with essential outdoor gear. Sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses is essential. Don’t forget your bathing suit to enjoy the swimming pools and spa. Capture wildlife moments with binoculars, a camera, extra memory cards, batteries, and a power bank. 

Wear comfortable clothing, closed shoes, and a light jacket—even in warm weather—as open safari vehicles expose you to the wind and elements. Pack any medications, personal items, a valid South African payment method, and ID or passport.

Two elephants walking down the road at Aquila - Big 5 Day Trip Safari Booking Guide

Step 8

Travel to Aquila Private Game Reserve

If you’re planning on driving to the reserve, please check your navigation apps a few days prior to your departure and try leave Cape Town over an hour before your navigation app departure time. This allows for rest stops and unforeseen traffic delays (especially during high season in the summer).

For guests using Aquila’s return shuttle transport service or private airport transfers, please note that your  driver will contact you the night before your departure to confirm your pick-up location & pick-up time.

open safari vehicle driving guests through Aquila Private Game Reserve: shown as part of Aquila's Day Trip Safari Booking Guide

Step 9

Enjoy Your Cape Town Safari Day Trip

It’s time to embark on your Cape Town big 5 safari day trip to Aquila Private Reserve and Spa. 

Please note, game drives at Aquila leave promptly at their scheduled times. We ask that you arrive on time, enjoy the experience, and be prepared for an unforgettable day of wildlife sightings and South African adventure.

Aquila's Big 5 Safari Day Trips

Prefer to visit Aquila for the day? With 7 different day trip safari options to choose from, day visitors have the unique opportunity to enjoy a South African big 5 safari and be back in Cape Town in time for dinner. For more information about Aquila Private Game Reserve day trips, please read our day trip safari FAQ. Â