During a recent visit to South Africa, Karlie Place visited Aquila Private Game Reserve and spa, a Big 5 Safari 2 hours from Cape Town. Along with four of her companions, Karlie wrote about her two-night Cape Town Safari adventure at the reserve — and we’re excited to share it with you!
Aquila Safaris is a “Big Five” safari destination just two hours from Cape Town. Ideal for day trips from the city, weekend getaways, and even those hoping to enjoy an authentic South African safari during their Cape Town holiday, Aquila offers guests the chance to “see the big five and other wild animals in their natural habitat”. Even the journey from the city to the reserve is “filled with scenic landscapes and the anticipation of the wildlife encounters that await.”
The Cape Town Safari Experience
On the first evening, Karlie and her travel group set out on a sunset game drive. Led by experienced game rangers in open-air, traditional safari vehicles, a sunset safari is a great choice for those wanting to take wildlife photos during ‘golden hour’ or to see animals heading down to the water hole as they prepare to settle down for the night.
“Aquila offers private as well as regular game drives. I highly recommend opting for a private drive at least once during your stay, as it provides the opportunity to spend more time observing your favourite animals and offers flexibility for photography. We did four game drives throughout our stay, each traversing a different path around the reserve.
Notable moments included a family of elephants trotting up to our vehicle, and a male lion locking eyes with us while enjoying his dinner. The morning safaris lasted around an hour and a half, while the evening ones went up to two hours, with breaks for warm beverages and snacks.”
“Aquila’s horseback safari took us much farther into the reserve than I had anticipated. We found ourselves face to face with zebras and giraffes, while also catching distant glimpses of rhinos and hippos.”
A horseback safari is a unique and exciting way to see wildlife and explore the reserve. One of the most important rules of any horseback safari tour is to never get off your horse while riding through the game reserve or when approaching wild animals.
Not only does this enhance the experience, as guests who remain mounted in the midst of wild animals are often able to venture closer than a vehicle or walking safari would typically allow, but riding through the open landscapes offers an intimate perspective of the terrain and leaves one feeling “more connected to the environment”.
Known for service excellence and luxury African hospitality, Aquila Private Game Reserve’s safari lodge offers guests overnight accommodation and world-class facilities suited to every budget and travel preference. From family-lodge suites to premier cottages overlooking the expanse of the reserve, Aquila is an ideal safari getaway close to the city.
“The accommodations at Aquila are nothing short of exceptional. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a welcome fruit plate accompanied by local sparkling white wine, adding to the warm hospitality. We sipped from our glasses as we watched some Giraffes walk by the reserve.
The rooms were beautiful, overlooking the vast expanse of the game reserve. Just from my room alone, I was able to spot wild ostriches, zebras, giraffes, and elephants. The bed was incredibly comfortable, complete with hot showers and regular cleaning service.”
Karlie was also able to visit the Tranquila Spa during her stay at Aquila, and went on to state that “the spa was the perfect end to our chilly evenings out on the reserve.” Tranquila spa boasts an indoor heated pool, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, and luxurious African Spa treatments. From couples’ massages and hot-stone massages, to deep-cleansing facials and gel manicures, Aquila’s spa combines the soothing power of nature with traditional African spa treatments.
Visit Tranquila Spa
Dining at Aquila Safaris
Aquila Private Game Reserve’s Overnight Safari Restaurant and Karoo Vista Centre (Day Visitor’sCentre) has an amazing selection of freshly prepared meals and delicious buffet-spreads, featuring freshly-grown herbs, fruits and vegetables grown right here, in Aquila’s on-site greenhouses.
“I visited Aquila Safari Game Reserve with four friends and each of us concluded that the dining experience exceeded our expectations. The buffet was our choice for every meal and it never disappointed. A variety of vegetarian options were always available, reflecting the truly inclusive nature of this place that caters to all dietary preferences and needs.
The quality of food in South Africa, especially the vegetarian dishes, consistently amazed us. The meals at Aquila not only met but went above and beyond our expectations, always offering a variety, and ensuring that everyone thoroughly enjoys their meals.
Want to book a Day Visit to Aquila?
Not enough time to stay overnight? You can book a single-day Big 5 safari experience on Aquila’s website and get an incredible full-day or half-day tour! Welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, and game drives are included in your full-day safari! Transportation to and from the reserve can also be purchased with your safari tour.
Book your Aquila Big 5 Safari only 2 hours from Cape Town!
