Overnight guests may check into their rooms from 14h00. We invite guests to enjoy lunch before check in, served from 12h00. Guests may also enjoy swimming and the pool area.

Check out is at 10h00 for overnight guests.

Is reception open 24 hours?

Yes, reception service is available 24 hours a day.

Can I leave my luggage?

Yes, you can hand in your luggage at reception if your room is not yet ready at check-in, or if you check out early. We will gladly store your luggage free of charge on your arrival and departure days.

Is Aquila malaria-free?

Yes, Aquila Private Game Reserve is malaria-free. However, even though Cape Town and the Western Cape are malaria-free, there are still mosquitos and other insects. Please remember to pack bug spray or insect repellent (available at the curio shop) for your safari.

What do I bring with when coming to Aquila Game Reserve?

PLEASE REMEMBER TO ADD YOUR BOOKING REFERENCE NUMBER WHEN MAKING PAYMENT VIA EFT/BANK TRANSFER: AQPlease remember to bring with proof identification when visiting for an overnight stay.

What else should I pack?

camera equipment Sunglasses sunscreen mosquito repellant (even though we are malaria free in the Western Cape, we still have mosquitos) bathing suits hats casual shoes for walking around the lodge medical kit for travel that you can ask your doctor to prescribe, plus the usual suspects such as after sun, antiseptic cream, plasters and children’s medicines.

Wear what you would usually wear when you pack for a holiday, including a very warm jacket for our winter and spring time, including beanies and gloves for winter game drives. Pack a lighter jacket with your normal clothing for your summer stays, plus swimwear for visits all year round as we have pools and a spa which guests can access at a small fee.

Do you have an age restrictions for children?

No, Aquila Private Game Reserve welcomes safari guests of all ages. However, certain activities do have restrictions. Horseback safaris have a minimum age requirement of 16 years and a maximum weight limit of 95kg per person. Quad bike adventures also require guests to be at least 16 years old, with a maximum weight limit of 150kg per person.

Apart from the game drives, what else is there for kids to do?

Aquila offers many fun and exciting activities for our youngest safari guests. Visit our Children’s Entertainment page for a full list of children’s activities and more information on our child-friendly facilities. Big 5 Game Drives Outdoor Adventure Zone Mini Golf Wooden Playground Indoor Play Area Junior Ranger Programme Marshmallow Braai Infinity Pool

Can children go on game drives?

Yes, children of all ages can go on Aquila’s Guided Safari Game Drives. However, they must be accompanied by an adult.

How will my children be entertained?

Aquila has an exciting new Outdoor Adventure Zone, especially designed for kids to have fun and play in a safe and controlled environment. For the younger members of the family, there is a stimulating indoor play area with loads of toys and daily activities. The Junior Ranger Programme also offers a fun, educational way for kids to learn about wildlife and conservation.

Can children access the spa?

Yes, but they have to be 16 years old and up.

Does Aquila have child minding services?

Yes, childminding services are available at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa and can be arranged on request. Please note that additional charges apply, and we recommend arranging this in advance to ensure availability.

Do you provide return transfers from Cape Town?

Yes, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers return shuttle transfers options from Cape Town. Return transfers are available at an additional charge per person for Day Trip and Overnight Safaris.

How long is the drive from Cape Town to the reserve?

The drive from Cape Town to Aquila Private Game Reserve takes approximately just under 2 hours (177km).

Which is the nearest airport?

The nearest airport is Cape Town International off the N1 national highway. It is 2 hours away from Aquila Private Game Reserve, but please be advised that due to it being a high traffic area highway, you will need to check your google maps beforehand. During peak, for instance, we advise adding 2 hours to your travel time.

Is transport available to Aquila?

Yes, return transfers to Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa are available for overnight stays and selected day trips at an additional cost. Private transport can also be arranged on request through our reservations team. Please note that transfers are not available for Early Morning Safari and Sunset Safari day trips.

Where do pickups take place?

Pick-up regions and locations include: Atlantic Seaboard: Sea Point, Three Anchor Bay, Green Point, Mouille Point, V&A Waterfront: central collection points Cape Town CBD: Nearest major hotels (recommended collection points) Camps Bay & Hout Bay: The Bay Hotel, 12 Apostles, South Beach Southern Suburbs: Muizenberg, Constantia, Claremont, Rondebosch: Alphen Boutique Hotel, Vineyard Hotel Gardens Region: Oranjezicht, Vredehoek, Tamboerskloof: Mount Nelson Woodstock Region: Salt River, Woodstock, Walmer Estate, Mowbray: Protea Mowbray, DoubleTree, Garden Court Nelson Mandela Boulevard Tygerberg Region: Plattekloof, Bellville, Century City: Bellville Town Lodge, Crystal Towers, Bridgewater, Colosseum West Coast: Bloubergstrand, Table View, Milnerton: Dolphin Beach Hotel, Sunset Beach Hotel, Lagoon Beach Hotel Cape Winelands: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Pniel, Simondium): on request Please note: your exact pick-up time and location will be confirmed the afternoon prior to your arrival.

If I come by car, which motorway exit should I take?

Follow the scenic N1 out of Cape Town CBD towards Worcester (through the tunnel), and through the Cape Winelands. Situated under two hours from the CBD, guests will take the R46 Ceres turnoff from the N1, and find the Aquila entrance to the left .

What time should I be ready for collection?

Your pickup time will be confirmed and shared with you the day before travel. Guests are advised to be ready at least 15 minutes before the confirmed pick-up time. Drivers will wait a maximum of 5 minutes after the scheduled time before departing. Missed transfers due to late arrival will result in forfeited transport with no refunds applicable.

What happens if I miss my transport?

Drivers will wait up to 5 minutes after your confirmed departure time. If you miss your transfer, it will be forfeited and no refunds will be issued. Guests will need to arrange their own transport to Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa. Please note that late arrival may result in missing your scheduled safari activity, and failure to arrive will lead to a forfeited booking with no refunds applicable.

When should I book transport?

Transport must be booked before 15:00 for next-day arrivals to ensure availability.

Are there car parking spaces or a car park?

Yes. We have safe and secure, on-site parking. Guests can find Aquila’s car park at the entrance to the reserve, located next to the reception.

How much does parking cost?

Aquila’s parking area is free of charge. However, the car park is exclusively reserved for overnight guests, day visitors, and transport vehicles dropping guests off at the reserve.

Are there different transport rates for children?

Yes: Ages 3 and under: no charge when accompanied by an adult Ages 11 and under: 50% of the adult rate Ages 12 and over: full adult rate applies

Is wheelchair-accessible transport available?

Yes, this can be arranged on request. Please contact reservations for a quote and availability.

Would we be able to swap one of our game drives for another activity as part of our overnight stay?

Yes, you are welcome to swap one of your game drives for one of our other activities at an additional charge per person per Horseback Safari or Quad Bike Safari. Looking for an activity outside of the reserve? You can add a visit to Dekkersvlei Vineyards as an added experience to your stay.

Can I self-drive through the reserve?

No, all our game drives are guided. The safari is led by an experienced guide who will share resourceful information about the topography, wildlife and personality of the reserve.

How long in advance do I have to book?

Bookings are subject to availability, which changes hourly. We would suggest you book and pay the deposit as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

How certain are you that we will see the Big 5?

There is no guarantee that you will see the entire Big 5 during your safari, as wildlife sightings are always dependent on nature and animal movement. However, our experienced guides know the reserve well and use their knowledge of the land and wildlife behaviour to maximise your chances of sightings. The goal on each game drive is to spot as many of the Big 5 as possible, along with other animals indigenous to the reserve. We understand that seeing the Big 5 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many guests, which is why our team always goes the extra mile to make your safari as rewarding as possible.

What is the best time of year for game-viewing?

Although you will be able to see variations of wildlife all-year-round, we recommend you visit from September to November. This is when you will be able to experience lush wildflowers, new animal life and warmer weather conditions.

Will I see all of the Big 5?

As our rangers will explain, there are no guarantees when it comes to wild animals. We do not use tracking collars, so sightings depend on natural animal movement during the day. Our experienced guides know the reserve well and will do their best to find the best possible wildlife sightings during your 2 to 3 hour game drive. While we cannot promise that you will see the all of the Big 5, every safari is guided with the aim of creating a rewarding and memorable wildlife experience.

Are the animals at Aquila wild?

Yes, the animals at Aquila are wild. What started as a 10 000 hectare conservancy for native antelope species and small game animals, slowly transformed into a Big 5 game reserve with the introduction of lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and the cape leopard. While some animals at Aquila have been rescued or rehabilitated, they remain wild animals. Aquila follows a strict no-touch policy to protect both guests and wildlife.

Are the lions at Aquila kept in a separate enclosure?

Yes, the lions at Aquila are kept in a spacious, secure enclosure that is separate from the reserve’s free-roaming wildlife. This enclosure is fully aligned with South African conservation legislation and follows ethical wildlife care standards.

Why are the lions at Aquila kept in a separate enclosure?

Aquila complies with provincial and national conservation regulations governing the management of predators within private reserves. These measures ensure the safety and welfare of the lions, protect other wildlife, and maintain the ecological balance of the reserve. Like all private game reserves in South Africa, Aquila upholds these standards to promote ethical and sustainable wildlife conservation.

Can I take photos on safari?

Yes, photography is very much encouraged during your stay at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa. The reserve offers excellent opportunities to capture wildlife, landscapes, and memorable safari moments. Guests are welcome to use cameras and mobile devices throughout game drives, provided this is done respectfully and in accordance with your ranger’s guidance. For your safety, and to protect the wildlife, guests must remain seated inside the safari vehicle at all times. Please do not stand, lean out, or reach beyond the vehicle when taking photographs. Flash photography should also be avoided, particularly when animals are nearby.

Can I take videos on safari?

Yes, guests are welcome to record videos during safari experiences. Whether you’re capturing a quiet moment in the veld or a wildlife sighting, filming is permitted as long as it does not disturb the animals or other guests. As with photography, guests must remain inside the vehicle at all times and avoid extending cameras or mobile devices beyond the vehicle. Keeping movements calm and controlled helps ensure a safe and uninterrupted wildlife experience for everyone.

Can I fly my drone at the reserve?

No, the use of drones is strictly prohibited at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa. This policy is in place to protect the animals, maintain the tranquillity of the reserve, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

What would be included in our Overnight Stay at Aquila?

Please note: the same itinerary repeats itself daily. 12h30 – Welcome drinks at Aquila. 12h30 – Buffet Lunch 14h00 – Check in to Cottage 16h30 – 2hr to 3hr Game Drive 19h30 – Buffet Dinner 06h00 – Game Drive and visit to ARC 08h00 – 09h00 – Buffet Breakfast 10h00 – Check Out of Cottage 10h00 – 11h30 – Time at leisure 12h30 – Depart for Cape Town

What are the differences between your Premier Cottages and Standard Karoo Cottages?

Premier CottagesThere are five premier luxury cottages, each a swank style and equally exclusive. Cottages are privately situated and have been built into the hillside of the reserve.Chalets combine natural rock elements, wood and stone – creating a definite back to nature ambiance. The en suite bathrooms include; twin hand basins, a toilet, bathtub, and outdoor shower. The honeymoon suite boats a Jacuzzi.Each unit opens up onto a private patio, which is perfect for frosty cocktails on hot summer nights. On colder evenings, most guests curl up on the plush furniture, in front of the chalet log fire.Premier safari lodge accommodation is hopelessly charming – a bush pleasure rarity. Standard Karoo CottagesAccommodation is also a collection of semi detached units. Chalets have thatch roofs and feature exterior stone work.Each unit is a unique contemporary African design.In keeping with the design and flow of the architecture at Aquila, the Standard Cottages do not compromise the experience or the standard.Each has its own patio, corner bath and outdoor rock shower.Cottages are equipped with mini bars, air-conditioning, fans and feature ‘coal’ stoves for the extra bit of warmth and cosiness in winter months.

Is there Wi-Fi or internet connection?

Yes, Wi-Fi and wireless internet access are available throughout the lodge areas and in guest rooms.

Is breakfast included in the price?

Breakfast is included in the price, depending on whether you’re a day visitor, afternoon or sunset safari guest, or an overnight guest. We have various packages which include offerings and a basic itinerary which can be viewed on https://aquilasafari.com/rates

What is offered at breakfast?

The buffet breakfast includes a selection of croissants, breads (even gluten free), continental breakfast offerings, charcuterie, cheese, eggs and hot breakfast offerings.

What time is breakfast served?

Breakfast is served from 7am to 10am, every day.

Is room service available?

No room service is offered at Aquila.

Do you have smoking and non-smoking rooms?

All rooms are strictly non-smoking. Smoke will trigger a smoke alarm across the property.

Do the bathrooms have baths or showers?

All rooms except for Standard Lodge Rooms have baths and showers. Standard Lodge Rooms only have showers.

How many bars does Aquila have?

Aquila has three bars. The first bar is an outdoor bar by the pool, the second bar is in the Day Visitor’s Dining Room and Bar, and the third bar is above the overnight guest’s restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions