Aquila’s Karoo Stargazing Experience
Imagine this: After an exhilarating day exploring the reserve and sighting the big 5 animals, you settle down beside a crackling campfire, serenaded by the nocturnal symphony of the Karoo wilderness. As the last rays of the sunset surrender to dusk, a breathtaking spectacle unfolds above—a million glittering diamonds splashed across a vast, remote canvas. This is the magic of Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa’s Karoo Stargazing Experience, complete with a family-friendly marshmallow braai, offered exclusively to overnight guests. Karoo Stargazing: Your Celestial Guide The remoteness of the Karoo offers unparalleled conditions for stargazing. Removed from Cape Town’s city lights, the night sky here explodes with a clarity that will leave you breathless. With minimal light pollution, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way in all its glory, a swirling band of stars stretching across South Africa’s heavens. Our stargazing guide will be on hand to help you navigate the celestial wonders above. Learn to identify the Southern Cross (a constellation unique to the southern hemisphere) and spot the dazzling Crux stars that form its core. Gaze upon the form of the Sagittarius constellation, home to the centre of our Milky Way galaxy. And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a shooting star streaking across the inky blackness. But the wonders don’t stop at stars. The Karoo skies are a haven for planet-gazers as well. Look out for Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, shining brightly with its moons dancing around it. On clear nights, you might even be able to see Saturn’s iconic rings, a breathtaking sight that will transport you to another world. Experience Aquila at Night Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is Karoo wildlife haven that transforms after dark. Nestled within the vast and stunning Karoo Mountain valley, the reserve’s vibrant orange and pink sunsets will leave you humming to the rhythm of the ‘circle of life’ as the magic of Africa’s night sky unfolds around you. The Karoo Stargazing Experience offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the universe. As you marvel at the universe’s vastness, Aquila adds another layer of fun to the evening. Every night, after dinner, our safari lodge hosts a locally-beloved marshmallow braai (barbecue). Guests are invited to roast marshmallows to gooey perfection, share their safari stories under the starlit sky, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Aquila Celebrates 25 Years of Cape Town Safaris
We are incredibly excited to announce that, in September 2024, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa. What started as a vision and dream by Searl Derman back in 1999, has evolved into a globally recognised brand and leading name in wildlife conservation. Over the past two and a half decades, Aquila has had the honour of hosting countless safari guests, ranging from everyday wildlife adventurers to international icons like Rihanna, Paris Hilton, and Mariah Carey. We’ve come a long way since 1999, and we’ve shared a glimpse of our humble safari lodge at the beginning — comparing the same location in 1999 to 2024 at Aquila Private Game Reserve and spa. Enter Aquila’s 25th Birthday Giveaway for the chance to Win one of 25 Family Safaris! Celebrating 25 Years of Cape Town Safaris Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa has become synonymous with Big Five Cape Town Safari Tours, offering a unique blend of luxury, conservation, and wildlife adventure close to the city. As we reflect on a quarter-century of conservation and service excellence, we’re reminded of the passion and dedication that has shaped Aquila into the iconic Cape Town safari destination it is today. Africa’s colonisation history saw a devastating impact on the Western Cape’s native flora and fauna. Human settlements, farming, and inhumane trophy hunting led to the extinction of the Cape Lion, as well as a concerning decline in native animal species across the region. However, over the years, Aquila’s tireless work has seen a remarkable impact on the recovery of native animal and plant populations, from the smallest of birds to the mightiest of elephants. Since Aquila Private Game Reserve was founded in 1999, the reserve’s conservation team oversaw the reintroduction of the first elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and lions to Cape Town in 250 yeas. Not only did Aquila reintroduce the first rhinos back to the Western Cape, but, in 2002, they became the first game reserve to successfully relocate elephants to the region. Although the cost of introducing two elephants into the reserve cost more than R2 million at the time, Aquila officially transitioned from a ‘Big 4’ safari to a ‘Big 5’ safari, making it the first Big 5 game reserve close to Cape Town. In 2024, 25 years after Aquila was founded, the elephants at the reserve have become one of the top attractions for guests to see on safari. Today, the Saving Private Rhino (SPR) organisation, the Animal Rescue Centre (ARC), the reserve’s ongoing efforts to protect the region’s endangered Cape Leopard population, and the ongoing goal of establishing the closest relative to the Cape Lion, are only small facets of our conservation initiatives. Cape Town Tourism Celebrates 25 Years of Cape Town Safaris Over the years, Aquila has evolved into a world-class safari destination, drawing visitors from across the globe. Its proximity to Cape Town, just a two-hour drive away, has made it especially popular among international tourists looking for a taste of the African bush without having to travel far from the city. Aquila offers an array of experiences, from day trips and luxury accommodation to guided game drives and conservation-focused tours. The reserve has also embraced eco-tourism by incorporating solar power and other sustainable practices into its operations. To honour the incredible impact Aquila Private Game Reserve has had on Cape Town and South Africa, Cape Town Tourism printed a special 2024/25 edition of their official visitor’ guide, featuring Aquila Safari’s on the front cover. This special edition cover, which shows two of Aquila’s lions, states: “Celebrating Aquila’s 25th Birthday, a proud partner of Cape Town Tourism.” Book Your Cape Town Safari From humble beginnings to a leading wildlife sanctuary, Aquila continues to play an important role as Cape Town’s very own Big Five safari destination. Through education, eco-tourism, and ongoing conservation projects, the reserve remains dedicated to protecting and preserving the Western Cape’s wildlife for generations to come. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of Aquila’s 25th-anniversary celebration. Book your big five Cape Town Safari now and join in the celebratory spirit at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa. Book Your Big 5 Safari
Cape Town Safari Day Trips
It’s time to explore Cape Town’s top rated safari adventure to see South Africa’s famous Big Five animals, the African lion, African elephant, cape leopard, southern white rhinoceros, and cape buffalo. Conveniently located under 2 hours from the city (90 minutes), Cape Town safari day trip guests at Aquila Private Game Reserve are treated to an authentic African wildlife adventure without having to travel far from the city. Book a Cape Town Safari Day Trip or Stay Overnight at Aquila’s Big Five Karoo Safari Lodge. See Africa’s Big Five in One Day The highlight of any day trip safari is a traditional Big Five game drive safari. Led by experienced game rangers in 4×4 open-top vehicles, Aquila’s traditional day trip safari tours offer an immersive experience through the reserve’s 10 000 hectare wildlife conservancy. Cape Town safari day trips at Aquila offer guests the chance to see many of South Africa’s iconic wildlife and free-roaming large game, including lions, elephants, cape buffalo, rhinos, cape leopards, hippos, giraffe, zebra, ostriches, wildebeest, black-backed jackals, meerkats, and over 150 native bird species, just to name a few. With seven different day tour packages to choose from, Aquila’s is a unique opportunity to experience a real South African Big 5 safari close to the city. And, if you choose a morning or afternoon safari, you could even be back in Cape Town in time to enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the city’s world-famous restaurants. Cape Town Safari Day Trips Morning Safari (Half Day) See the first sightings of the day. Your safari guide will take you through Aquila’s 10 000 hectare wildlife reserve, sharing inside stories and facts about the natural Karoo environment. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear, sunblock and hat, as day trip guests are invited to enjoy Aquila’s lodge facilities during their safari leisure time, including the outdoor infinity pool and wet bar. Book: Morning Big 5 Safari Tour Price: From R1 440, per adult. Time: 07h00am – 11h45am. Includes: Vehicle Game Drive, welcome drinks, breakfast, and park entrance fees. Transport: For guests’ own arrangement. Afternoon Safari (Half Day) Make the most of your day at Aquila Safaris with an Afternoon Big Five Safari Tour. A great choice for those looking for a family-friendly or outdoor day trip activity that aligns with their busy Cape Town schedule, an afternoon big five safari tour allows you to experience a South Africa big 5 safari and be back in time to experience the city’s incredible night-life. Book: Afternoon Safari Tour. Price: From R1 690, per adult. Time: 12h00pm – 16h30pm. Includes: Vehicle Game Drive, welcome drinks, lunch, refreshments, and park entrance fees. Transport: Return transport available for an additional cost. Sunset Safari (Half Day) Witness the African bush transform and settle for the night as the sun begins its descent. Perfect for those who prefer to sleep in or have morning plans in the city, a sunset safari is the ultimate South African safari experience for wildlife photographers, offering guests the chance to sight wildlife in the golden light of the setting sun. Book: Sunset Safari Tour. Price: From R995, per adult. Time: 15h00pm – 19h00pm. Includes: Vehicle Game Drive, welcome drinks, sundowners and safari snacks, and park entrance fees. Transport: For guests’ own arrangement. Full Day Safari / Traditional Big Five Safari Immerse yourself in the magic of Aquila’s Western Cape African Private Game Reserve, and take your time to enjoy the beauty of nature, relax by the pool, explore the kids adventure zone, or visit the Tranquila Spa . Welcoming safari guests of all ages, a traditional, full-day Big Five safari tour is the perfect choice for first-time visitors and safari guests wanting to experience a South African safari in one day. Book: Traditional Big 5 Vehicle Safari Tour. Price: From R2 195, per adult. Time: 09h00am – 16h30pm Includes: Traditional 4×4 Vehicle Safari Game Drive, welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and park entrance fees. Transport: Return transport available for an additional cost. Quad Bike Safari (Full Day) The ultimate adrenaline-pumping journey through the Cape’s untamed landscapes. Navigate the wild terrain on a quad bike and prepare for the excitement of unexpected wildlife encounters. A great option for groups and families with older children, please note that this full-day quad bike safari tour has a minimum age restriction of 16 years. Book: Quad Bike Safari Tour. Price: From R2 990, per adult. Time: 09h00am – 16h30pm. Includes: Quad Bike Safari Tour, welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and park entrance fees. Transport: Return transport available for an additional cost. Horseback Safari (Full Day) Explore the beauty of the Karoo and sight wildlife from a unique perspective. Ride through Aquila’s 10 000 hectare wildlife conservancy on a horseback safari tour and get close to the wildlife in an intimate and unforgettable way. This full-day safari tour is has a minimum age restriction of 16 years and a maximum weight restriction of 95 kgs / 209 lbs. Book: Horseback Safari Outride. Price: From R2 625, per adult. Time: 09h00am – 16h30pm. Includes: Horseback Safari Outride, welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and park entrance fees. Transport: Return transport available for an additional cost. Combo Safari (Full Day) Maximise your day trip safari adventure with a combination of a vehicle game drive and either a quad bike safari or horseback safari tour. Experience the best of Aquila, sight the Big Five, and explore the Karoo wilderness with this epic full day combo safari. Please note: Quad Bike and Horseback safari tours have a minimum age restriction of 16 years. Book: Full Day Big 5 Combo Safari. Price: From R3 595 per adult. Time: 09h00am – 16h30pm. Includes: Traditional 4×4 Game Drive + Safari Outride (Horseback or Quad Bike), welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and park entrance fees. Transport: Return transport available for an additional cost. Can you do a Day Safari from Cape Town? Yes, you can do a day trip safari from Cape Town. As the city’s closest big 5 safari experience, several tour operators offer day tours and day trip safaris to Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, located only two hours from the city centre. Day Trips to Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers seven different day trip safari packages,
Meet The Springbok, South Africa’s National Animal and the Symbol Behind the Rugby Team
The springbok, a small and agile antelope, is South Africa’s national animal—and the symbol behind South Africa’s National Rugby team. The Springboks, also called the “Bokke” or “Amabokoboko” by locals, are currently the top-ranked rugby team in the world and reigning World Cup Champions, having recently won the France 2023 Rugby World Cup — a new record of four times (1995, 2007, 2019 and 2023). With rugby fever gripping the nation, there’s no better time to combine the thrill of the game with the excitement of an African Big Five game reserve adventure. Here, at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, you can experience the best of South Africa’s iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and, yes, springboks, while still being able to attend your favourite sporting events at Cape Town’s DHL stadium or watch televised matches at Aquila’s world-class safari lodge. The Springbok: A South African National Icon The Springbok antelope (Antidorcas marsupialis), is known for its ‘springing jumps’ (pronks) and striking appearance, holds a special place in the heart of South Africans. It’s a symbol of national pride, resilience, and unity. The Springbok’s black stripes, white markings, and distinctive horn shape (curved inwards, like a ‘U’), makes it an easily identifiable symbol that is proudly represented by many of South Africa’s top sports teams. If you find yourself watching a Springboks rugby match, you’ll notice the Springbok emblem on the jerseys of South Africa’s national rugby team. The Springbok rugby team is one of the most identifiable teams in the rugby world – and probably the most feared. Springboks The springbok antelope (Antidorcas marsupialis) is native to the Karoo’s arid habitat, and can only be found in southern Africa. Springboks got their name from the Afrikaans words “spring” (meaning jump) and “bok” (meaning antelope). This apt name refers to the Springbok’s unique ‘pronking’ and ‘stotting’ behaviour, characterised by their ability to make their legs straight and rigid as they jump, propelling them high into the air as if they were ‘springing’ upwards. These leaps can reach impressive heights of up to 2 meters (6 feet). The Symbol Behind South Africa’s National Rugby Team Can you really watch national and international Rugby games at Aquila Game Reserve? Yes, absolutely! Aquila’s safari lodge has a dedicated upstairs lounge and bar area for overnight safari guests to enjoy freshly-made cocktails, beers on tap, live sports games, and panoramic views of the reserve. So, while the Springboks chase victory on the field, you’ll be chasing your own adventure, filled with once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters and untamed African landscapes. Imagine celebrating a Springbok victory while savouring sundowners against the backdrop of a stunning Karoo sunset. Join us in celebrating the strength and beauty of South Africa, both on and off the field. The Best of South Africa Cheering for the Springboks on the rugby field is a national pastime filled with excitement and pride, but watching springboks in their natural habitat is an experience like no other. Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, located only 2 hours from Cape Town, in the Western Cape, offers visitors the chance to explore South Africa’s wildlife and get up close with the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo). Among these magnificent and fearsome creatures, the springbok holds its ground, gracefully roaming the vast plains of the reserve. As you venture into this 10 000 hectare wildlife reserve, you’ll be able to tell your friends and family back home that you “watched the springboks in person”. Whether you choose a day trip safari, overnight safari, horseback trail, or quad bike tour, encountering South Africa’s national animal in the wild is a something you’ll always remember.
Spring into Safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve
Spring is a magical time to visit Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, located just two hours from Cape Town. Every September, the Western Cape’s wildflowers start to bloom, transforming the reserve into a kaleidoscope of colour. Exploring Aquila this time of year is like stepping into a living canvas, where every petal and leaf seems to tell a story of resilience and renewal. It’s a wild paradise for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking the thrill of a Big 5 South African Safari. Wildflower Wonderland Spring is a time of new beginnings, and there’s no better place to experience the magic of the season than at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa. Located just outside of Cape Town, in the Ceres Karoo, one of South Africa’s most beautiful and untouched regions, Aquila is home to a variety of wildflowers. From late August to December, and at the height of spring (September through November), visitors can sight cape daisies, proteas, and other unique fynbos flowers endemic to the south-western and western region of South Africa. These wild flowers bloom every year, transforming the reserve into a kaleidoscope of colour, making it a must-see paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The spring rains also bring new life to Aquila’s landscapes. The trees and shrubs are lush and green with new leaves, and the rivers and streams are flowing freely. This is a great time to explore the reserve on a Horseback or Quad Bike Safari, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wilderness and take in the stunning scenery. Spring into Safari Of course, no “Spring Safari” adventure would be complete without a chance to see South Africa’s wildlife. Aquila Private Game Reserve is home to Cape Town’s most authentic Big Five safari experience, and there isn’t a better time to visit the city or to go on safari than in the spring. On a guided game drive, your ranger will be able to point out some of Africa’s most iconic species and tell you all about them, including lions, elephants, rhinos, cape leopards and cape buffalo. You can also expect to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches, hippos, wildebeest, and jackals, just to name a few. Spring is the season of new life, and Aquila in the spring time is no exception. The rainy winter days and cool weather has left the Cape lush and green, and wildflowers cover the fields — and everywhere you look. Spring is also the birthing season, and your chances of seeing the newest members of Aquila wildlife are at their highest. Luxury Accommodation & World-Class Facilities Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers a variety of luxury accommodation options to suit every style and budget-preference. From family lodge rooms to romantic premier cottages, no matter your choice, Aquila’s accommodation options are beautifully situated and offer stunning views of the reserve and surrounding Karoo mountains. Wake up to the sound of migratory birds as they rediscover South Africa at the start of spring, or sight passing wildlife as they make their way to the nearby watering hole. Aquila also offers a variety of world-class facilities, including two buffet-style restaurants serving delicious African cuisine, a pool bar, a day-visitors centre, and three swimming pools. And, after a long day of exploring, you can relax and unwind at Aquila’s Tranquila Spa, where guests can indulge in a variety of treatments, from massages to facials and traditional body wraps. Experience Aquila in Spring With its combination of wildflowers, rejuvenated landscapes, and abundant wildlife, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is the perfect place to experience a traditional Big 5 safari combined with the magic of Spring in the Western Cape. Witness the untamed beauty of the reserve for yourself and book your Spring Safari today!
Aquila’s Rhino Conservation Milestones
Aquila Collection is proud to have reintroduced the first rhino back into the Western Cape since its human-led, local extinction 250 years ago. In February 2005, Aquila Private Game Reserve announced the birth of the first rhino calf in the region, marking a significant milestone for rhino conservation across South Africa. Unfortunately, in August 2011, the reserve faced a devastating poaching incident involving three rhinos, setting back Aquila’s rehabilitation efforts and leaving them without a male rhino. This devastating loss, and the horrific violence inflicted upon these endangered animals, led to the formation of “Saving Private Rhino”, a Cape Town NGO focused on the conservation and protection of private-owned rhinos and private game reserves against poachers. In 2014, Aquila welcomed a new male rhino bull to the family and, fast forward to the excitement of 2015 and 2016, they celebrated the arrival of four rhino calves at the reserve. These milestones highlight not only the dedication of Aquila’s rhino conservation in the Western Cape, but also the successful efforts against poaching and the ongoing work to preserve Cape Town’s wildlife heritage. The Saving Private Rhino Initiative The Saving Private Rhino initiative was established with the primary goal of ensuring the future of Africa’s rhino and wildlife heritage. By offering the most comprehensive and integrated anti-poaching solution available (free of charge) to private game reserves in Africa who require assistance in defending their wildlife, the SPR organisation aims to train, educate, and equip staff to better protect and monitor their rhinos. Aquila Game Reserve initiated the Saving Private Rhino programme, which is funded by Aquila, public contributions, and much-needed donations. The programme has since expanded its focus to include conservation education, rhino rehabilitation, and ‘rapid rhino response’ for private game reserves facing potential poaching incidents. Help Donate to ARC or visit www.animalrescuecentre.org for more information. Aquila’s Rhino Orphanage ARC, Aquila’s Animal Rescue Centre, has developed the infrastructure and expertise to care for orphaned rhinos in a safe and secure environment, providing these vulnerable calves with the best possible chance at survival. Once the orphaned rhinos are capable of feeding and fending for themselves (or have recovered from their injuries) they will be returned to their original owners or released to spacious, free-roaming, and appropriately protected game reserves. In 2016 alone, there were 1,054 recorded rhino poaching deaths in South Africa, potentially leaving around 500 orphaned calves in need of urgent care. The Saving Private Rhino Orphanage and Rehabilitation Centre is not open to the public, ensuring the best interests of the rhinos in terms of rehabilitation and security. Also Read: Private Game Reserves Now Conserve Half of South Africa’s Rhinos At the Frontline of South Africa’s Rhino Conservation The Saving Private Rhino initiative has recognised the need for a comprehensive approach to rhino conservation, extending its efforts to encompass public and private sector collaboration. Private sector involvement has led to 33% of South Africa’s rhino population being safeguarding under private protection. The Saving Private Rhino initiative’s award-winning conservation efforts encompass providing free anti-poaching training courses to game reserves throughout South Africa. The rescue centre, which forms a large component of our rehabilitation and conservation initiatives, is strategically situated at the base where the anti-poaching courses are conducted—which acts as a powerful deterrent to potential poachers. This location also guarantees access to highly skilled ex-military and police personnel, firearm and anti-poaching instructors, as well as K9 anti-poaching dog handling instructors overseeing our K9 breeding centre. Our Facilities and Expertise The Saving Private Rhino Orphanage & Rehabilitation Centre prioritises the welfare of rhinos by remaining closed to the public, ensuring their rehabilitation and security are not compromised. The dedicated team is committed to rehabilitating and releasing rhinos that have endured severe facial and respiratory injuries due to poaching incidents. Dr. Johan Marais serves as our Patron and National Head Vet and Wildlife Surgeon. In 2012, he founded the Saving the Survivors Initiative to care for injured endangered wildlife, particularly rhinos and elephants. He is renowned worldwide for his innovative procedures and pioneering surgeries on critically injured rhinos. Dr. Marais is supported by Dr. Doempies Trichardt from Tulbagh Veterinary Services. Click here to learn more about Aquila’s Conservation and Community Upliftment projects.
