A safari vehicle travelling through the landscape at Aquila.
Spring has arrived, and the Karoo is coming to life. It’s the perfect season to escape the city and discover the Big 5 safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, whether for a day trip or an overnight stay. Located just under two hours from Cape Town, this family-friendly reserve spans 10,000 hectares and is home to the legendary Big 5 — elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard, alongside a variety of other wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, springbok, wildebeest, and more.
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Choose Your Safari
Aquila offers a range of safari experiences, from standard 4×4 game drives to horseback safaris, where the rhythm of hooves blends with nature. Adventure-seekers can opt for a quad bike safari experience to explore the reserve in a different way.
Guests watch a hippo on safari at Aquila.
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Time Out for the Family
Aquila is perfect for families, welcoming guests of all ages. Kids can enjoy the dedicated play area with mini-golf, giant chess, and child care. Young adventurers can join the Junior Ranger Programme, an interactive experience that includes tracking animal spoor, identifying native trees, and learning the importance of conservation. It’s a fun and memorable way to explore the wild.
Dining is a highlight, featuring local dishes and traditional South African desserts served in spacious, welcoming dining areas. After a day of safari adventure, guests can unwind at Aquila’s world-class amenities, including a 35-meter pool perfect for a refreshing dip or poolside cocktails. The Tranquila Spa offers luxurious African-inspired treatments to soothe both body and mind, with indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, steam room, and ten treatment rooms for a truly indulgent retreat.
Stay for the Karoo Night
Guests can choose between rustic bush-style cottages with outdoor rock showers or contemporary lodges with expansive views of the reserve. Overnight visitors can also relax in the private mezzanine-level bar and lounge, enjoying magnificent sunset views over the Karoo landscape.
As night falls, the fire pit comes alive beneath the Karoo stars. Guests gather to share stories, laughter, and photos from their safari adventures. Guided by an expert, the night sky reveals constellations, planets, and the sweeping arc of the Milky Way, an unforgettable reminder of the Karoo’s pure, unspoiled wilderness.
A road through the Karoo landscape at Aquila.
A game-viewing vehicle in Aquila’s mountain landscape.
Plan Your Aquila Escape
Take time to explore Aquila’s award-winning Eco Synergy project, with daily tours showcasing sustainable initiatives and community projects that protect the wild while uplifting the local community.
If you want to experience a Big 5 safari close to Cape Town, a visit to Aquila is the perfect spring escape. For bookings and inquiries, reach out to res@aquilasafari.com or call 021 430 7260.
Confirm activity availability, age restrictions and package inclusions directly before booking. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
#HelloRecommends: Choose an overnight stay if you want time for a game drive and a relaxed evening beneath the Karoo sky.
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