Aquila Private Game Reserve - Day Trip Safari

aquila safari day trip

  • See all photos

aquila safari day trip

Cape Town Best Of Aquila Safari Full Day Tour with transport

aquila safari day trip

Cape Town Afternoon Safari with transport and lunch

aquila safari day trip

Safari (Groups) All inclusive

aquila safari day trip

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Timothy M

AQUILA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE - DAY TRIP SAFARI (Cape Town Central) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Aquila Safari Logo

Best Cape Town Safari: Big 5 Game Reserve close to Cape Town, South Africa

  • May 3, 2024

Cape Town is an amazing travel destination for anyone seeking the ultimate city escape, beach holiday or African safari adventure. From the local sights at the V&A Waterfront, stunning coastlines, incredible views from Table Mountain and penguins at Boulders Beach, to the internationally renowned Cape Winelands, fine-dining restaurants and eclectic art scene, the Mother City truly has it all — including the best Cape Town safari, located less than 2 hours from the city centre.

Did you know that Cape Town has Big 5 safari game reserves where you can see Africa’s iconic big 5 animals (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard) and native wildlife up-close and in person? The best safari destinations near Cape Town are Aquila, Inverdoorn and Kuganha, offering spectacular sightings and luxurious overnight safari tours. And, as the top rated and closest Big 5 game reserve to Cape Town that offers day trip safaris, both full-day and half-day safari tours, Aquila deserves its recognitions as “The Best Cape Town Safari”.

a lion and lioness lying down together at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa: Learn more with our Aquila's faq

The Best Cape Town Safari: Aquila Game Reserve

Aquila is the closest game reserve to Cape Town, and the most affordable, so it’s no surprise that it’s the most popular choice for local and international travellers. Malaria-free and family-friendly (kids of all ages are welcome to join on safari tours), it’s a great choice for the whole family. Did you know that children under the age of 12 pay half price? And, if your child is younger than 3 (ages 0 to 3), their stay is completely free of charge. Subject to Aquila’s terms and conditions , it’s important to note that children must be accompanied by an adult or legal adult.

Aquila’s child-friendly facilities and activities include:

  • Junior Ranger Programme
  • Outdoor Play Area
  • Indoor Entertainment Area
  • Big 5 Safari Game Drives
  • Mini Golf and Adventure Zone

Travellers and families always ask if there are budget friendly safaris in Cape Town, and the answer is yes — if you know where to look and what time of the year to go. Aquila Winter Specials and discounted children’s rates means the whole family can enjoy a fun and exciting wildlife experience close to the city. With day trips starting from only R995 per person, and return transport available from Cape Town to the reserve and back, going on a safari to Aquila can be both budget-friendly and accessible for everyone.

Image showing woman looking at African elephants at Aquila Big 5 Safaris on her Cape Town Holiday and Visit South Africa: View more with our Guest Gallery

More Than Just A Big 5 Safari

Aquila is more than just a big 5 safari destination, it’s an experience in African luxury hospitality and service excellence. Winner of the continent award for the best private game reserve in Africa for 2023, Aquila’s main safari lodge boasts world-class facilities and luxurious amenities, including:

  • Tranquila Spa (complete with a sauna, steam room, and heated pool)
  • Upstairs viewing deck and mezzanine-bar area
  • Infinity pool overlooking the reserve
  • Poolside Wet Bar and expansive Pool Deck Area
  • Lodge Restaurant and Day Visitors Centre
  • Spacious grass lawns overlooking views of the the reserve

Book your overnight safari accommodation or choose your day trip safari tour , offering traditional 4×4 big 5 game drives, welcome drinks, and buffet-style meals at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa — the best Cape Town safari destination.

two women enjoying cocktails at Aquila's infinity pool wet bar — the best Cape Town safari experience

How Much Does a Big 5 Safari at Aquila Cost?

Aquila Game Reserve is the only Big 5 safari destination near Cape Town that allows day visitors, and is considered an affordable safari destination in South Africa. With seven different day trip safari packages to choose from, the rates and packages are broken down accordingly (with transport and beverages excluded from the costs):

A Traditional Big 5 safari (full-day) costs about R2195 / US$ 118 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). The full day itinerary starts from 9h00 to and ends around 16h30. The package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a buffet-style breakfast and lunch, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.

An Afternoon safari (half-day) costs about R1690 / US$ 90 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 12h00 and ends around 16h30. The Afternoon packages includes The package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a buffet-style lunch, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.

An Early Morning safari (half-day) costs about R1,440 / US$ 77 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 07h00 and ends around 12h00. The early morning package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a continental breakfast, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.

A Sunset Safari (half-day) costs about R995 / US$ 53 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 15h00 and ends around 19h00. The sunset tour package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, snacks and refreshments, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.

premier lodge room with balcony view over the reserve at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa: the best Cape Town safari and Big 5 destination

Book A Big 5 Cape Town Safari to Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa

Getting to Aquila Private Game Reserve doesn’t have to be complicated. Forget the rental car and forget choosing the designated ‘sober driver’, because Day Trip transfers between Cape Town’s city centre and Aquila Private Game Reserve can be arranged at an additional cost, priced per guest. Standard shuttle transfers (return trip) cost around R995 / US$ 53 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price), on top of the day trip package price. Transport is not offered for Early Morning and Sunset Safaris.

Get the most out of your best cape town safari experience and book an overnight big 5 safari and spa at Aquila. Overnight transfers between Cape Town’s city centre and Aquila Private Game Reserve can be arranged at an additional cost, per guest. Standard shuttle transfers (return trip) cost around R1550 / US$ 83 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price), on top of the overnight accommodation rate.

Accommodation at Aquila is an immersive and luxurious experience in South African safari luxury. With overnight safari packages to suit every travel group size and budget preference, fall asleep under the wild Karoo stars in comfortable standard lodge rooms , spacious family lodge suites , charming Karoo cottages , or indulge in an exclusive stay at one of Aquila’s premier cottages , which range in price from R2300 / US$ 124 per person sharing to R4490 / US$ 242 per person sharing.

The lodge facilities at Aquila will keep you entertained and relaxed between your two big 5 safari drives. Visit Tranquila Spa , enjoy the reserve’s two swimming pools, restaurant, mezzanine bar-and-lounge area, gift shop, and two children’s play areas. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available throughout the accommodation and main lodge areas. All Aquila’s Overnight Safari rates and packages include:

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2x Guided Safari Game Drives
  • Welcome Drinks upon arrival

Please note: Costs are given as a guideline and are subject to change. For up-to-date information, specials and prices, please contact our helpful reservations staff or make a booking online .

aquila safari day trip

Luxury Inspired By Nature

Overnight safari accommodation, cape town day trip safaris.

aquila safari day trip

Why May is the Secret Season for Travel in Cape Town

aquila safari day trip

Luxury and Rejuvenation Inspired by Nature

Image showing woman looking at African elephants at Aquila Big 5 Safaris on her Cape Town Holiday and Visit South Africa: View more with our Guest Gallery

Why Visit South Africa? Wine, Beach and Safari Holiday in Cape Town

aquila safari day trip

Here’s Your Sneak Peek of a Cape Town Winter Safari

Related posts.

As South Africa prepares to shed its summer days, Cape Town’s secret travel season, May, emerges — the month for locals to explore the city and go on adventures. While the summer months attract travellers

Returning to the tranquility of nature is the secret to wellness and rejuvenation in 2024. It’s an incredible experience, surrounding oneself with the beauty of South Africa’s wilderness. Aquila’s private safari lodge sits on a

Visit South Africa, Cape Town, for the ultimate beach, wine and Big 5 safari holiday. From serving the best views on top of Table Mountain to putting the ‘wild’ in wildlife adventures, Africa’s Mother City

DAY TRIP SAFARIS

Half day trips.

  • Early Morning Safari
  • Afternoon Safari
  • Sunset Safari

FULL DAY TRIPS

  • Traditional Safari
  • Quadbike Safari
  • Horseback Safari
  • Combo Safari
  • Standard transport
  • Fly-in options

ACCOMMODATION

  • Standard Lodges
  • Family Lodges
  • Premier Lodges
  • Karoo Cottages
  • Family Luxury Cottages
  • Premier Luxury Cottages

CONTACT DETAILS

  • 021 430 7260
  • [email protected]
  • Donate to ARC
  • Latest News
  • Reservations
  • Transport Options
  • Map & Directions

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

  • Aquila Children's Policy
  • Conditions of Visit
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Terms and Conditions for Specials
  • Privacy Policy

aquila safari day trip

Copyright© Aquila Collection. Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is part of the Aquila Collection.

aquila-gold-web

Aquila Big 5 Safari Day Trips

Big 5 safari day trips.

Experience the thrill and excitement of seeing the big 5 at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, just under 2 hours from Cape Town. We offer both half day and full day safari experiences.

aquila safari day trip

Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is a four star family friendly safari destination just 2 hours’ drive from Cape Town. The 10 000 hectare conservancy is situated between the Langeberg and the Outeniqua Mountains in the Western Cape, South Africa, and home to the majestic Big 5 legends: elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, and rhino.

Early Morning Safari

Afternoon safari, sunset safari, half day big 5 safaris.

Our half day safaris include either an early morning, afternoon, or sunset big 5 safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa.

  • Traditional 4x4

full day big 5 safaris

Our full day big 5 safaris include either the traditional 4x4 vehicle, horse back, quad bike or a combination of the above at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa.

Half Day Big 5 Safaris

Early morning, afternoon or sunset safari options.

Full Day Big 5 Safaris

Traditional 4x4, Horse Back, Quad Bike or a combination of each. Transport to the reserve and back is available.

Traditional

aquila safari day trip

Aquila Big 5 Safari Day Trips is proudly powered by WordPress

Aquila Private Game Reserve - Day Trip Safari

aquila safari day trip

  • See all photos

aquila safari day trip

Cape Town Best Of Aquila Safari Full Day Tour with transport

aquila safari day trip

Cape Town Afternoon Safari with transport and lunch

aquila safari day trip

Safari (Groups) All inclusive

aquila safari day trip

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Mehdi2

Aquila Private Game Reserve - Day Trip Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

aquila safari day trip

  • Destinations

></center></p><ul><li>Enquiry Now</li></ul><h2>Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip</h2><ul><li>Aquila Private Game Reserve</li></ul><p>For an Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip, you need to drive 2-hours from Cape Town. Along the way, you will get to witness the ever-changing scenery of Paarl, Du Toitskloof Pass, Worcester, and De Doorns. On this Aquila Game Reserve Wildlife Safari , you will encounter the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) along with cheetah, giraffe, hippo, zebra, and many more.</p><p>On your Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip, you will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will share exciting inside stories & facts about your surroundings: easily rousing the wild side in you.</p><p>The Aquila Private Game Reserve Day Trip Safari includes a continental breakfast or lunch and cool-off dips at one of the two breathtaking swimming pools. All safaris are done in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle.</p><p>A Quad Bike Safari Day tour involves roughing it within the 10,000-hectare conservancy of Aquila Private Game Reserve at additional costs (to be pre-booked).</p><p><center><img style=

Private Tour

Internal flight, start from $500, trip schedule.

Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip

On arrival, you will either have breakfast or lunch, depending on the time of arrival from your hotel. For an early morning Aquila Big 5 Safari you depart from the hotel at 06h00 and arrive at Aquila at 08h00 (subject to change). The afternoon Game drive departs from the hotel at 10h00 and arrives at Aquila at 12h00.

There is an option of a morning, afternoon, or full-day wildlife safari on your Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip , please mention this in the comments section when making your booking.

The Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip Prices include breakfast or lunch or both on a full day as well as the 2-hour Game Drive fees (excluding drinks).

Popular Spots

Safari packages.

We offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences, consisting of National Parks, game reserves, conservation areas and private concessions.

  • Explore More

Under The African Skies In Tanzania

Best of cape town tour, wildlife safari day tour, full day private cape peninsula tour, tailor made tour, customize your trip... your tour... |.

To start planning your tour with us, you can create an itinerary from scratch, or modify one of our suggested itineraries. Whether your trip is a few days’ or a few weeks’ long, local travel experts will craft a unique itinerary, fully tailored to your wishes. Want to visit the beautiful destination, or start an adventure to reach to the top? They will will make it happen.

Our Accommodations

South Africa accommodation includes everything from five-star hotels and luxury private villas to family-friendly safari lodges and comfortable guest houses.

Signature Lux Hotel

The cresta grande hotel, the rockefeller hotel, the commodore hotel.

This will close in 0 seconds

ENQUIRE NOW

Country Code :

Phone Number:

Travel Date:

Number Of People:

IMAGES

  1. Big 5 Aquila Safari Tour

    aquila safari day trip

  2. Big 5 Cape Town Safari: Aquila Game Reserve Day Tour

    aquila safari day trip

  3. Cape Town , Aquila Safari Game Reserve Overnight Tour

    aquila safari day trip

  4. AQUILA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

    aquila safari day trip

  5. 3-day tour of Aquila Safari, Cape Peninsula and wine tasting from Cape

    aquila safari day trip

  6. Aquila Safari Full Day Tour from Cape Town

    aquila safari day trip

COMMENTS

  1. AQUILA

    A Cape Town safari day trip on horseback is a unique and adventurous way to experience the wonders of a South African safari in the middle of a 10 000 hectare Karoo game reserve. No prior horse riding experience is necessary for the horseback safari tour. ... Transport to Aquila: Day Trips: Standard transport is R995.00 per adult (Valid Nov ...

  2. AQUILA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

    For more information and bookings, choose your preferred Cape Town Safari Day Trip. All half day safaris include a traditional safari experience, welcome drinks, and meals. Children, age 3 and under, are free of charge with accompanying adult. Children, age 4 to 11, pay 50% of adult rate. Children, age 12 and older, pay full rates.

  3. Aquila

    Fly-in Itinerary. Guests have an option of choosing to fly either via helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft. 45-60 minute flight over the Hex River Mountains and vineyards to Aquila. Welcome drinks served on arrival. Continental breakfast. 2 - 3 hour Big 5 game drive. South African style served buffet lunch. Return flight to Cape Town.

  4. Aquila Private Game Reserve

    1. Full-day Tours. 6+ hours. Aquila Game Reserve, the closest game reserve to Cape Town offers a unique opportunity to view the BIG 5 and other herding…. from. $248. per adult. Reserve. Cape Town Afternoon Safari with transport and lunch.

  5. Aquila Rates

    Aquila's rates are displayed per person sharing on each overnight option as well as big 5 safari activity. ... COMBO FULL DAY SAFARI. Aquila Cottages. Overnight Safaris Include: note: transport and beverages are excluded. ... Big 5 Safari Day Trips. Book Now. Quad Bike Safari. Book Your Stay. Horseback Safari. Book Your Stay.

  6. Day Visitor Centre

    Big Five Safari, Close To Cape Town. As one of Cape Town's top rated day tour experiences, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is home to South Africa's Big Five animals: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos and leopards. At the reserve, day trip safari guests will also have the opportunity to see zebra, hippos, giraffe, ostrich, eland, caracal ...

  7. Cape Town Safari Day Trips

    Cape Town, 20 November 2023. It's time to explore Cape Town's top rated safari adventure to see Africa's Big Five animals: lion, elephant, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo. Conveniently located less than 2 hours from the city, day trip safari guests at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa are treated to a real South African wildlife ...

  8. Aquila's Day Trip Safari FAQ

    Aquila's Big 5 Day Trip Safari FAQ. Everything you need to know before you go! From what to expect on arrival to what to wear on safari, Aquila's Day Trip Safari FAQ (frequently asked questions) will help you plan your day trip from Cape Town, as well as answer all your questions about our half day and full day big 5 safari packages.

  9. Aquila Game Reserve Safari with Park Fees, Transport & Lunch

    Cape Town Shore Excursion: Aquila Safari Day Trip from Cape Town. 2. Full-day Tours. from . $158.42. per adult (price varies by group size) 3 Day Garden Route's Best Highlights with Safari from Cape Town. 111. 4WD Tours. from . $343.10. per adult (price varies by group size) Big-Five Safari + Breede River Valley Guided Day Trip . 241.

  10. Aquila Private Game Reserve

    Situated just under two hours' drive from the city, this pristine reserve offers an extraordinary opportunity to embark on a day trip safari like no other. Aquila is not just a safari; it's an immersive journey into the wild side of Africa, where you can witness the majestic Big Five surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

  11. 2024 Aquila Day Safari

    Stop: 9 hours - Admission included. Day Trip to Aquila Safari & Spa Safari tour Arrive at the reserve at 11h,30 welcome drink, then the 2 to 3 hour safari. The safari is led by an experienced guide who will share exciting inside stories: facts about your surroundings, easily rousng your inner wild side. Followed by lunch and time to return by ...

  12. Aquila Game Reserve Safari with Park Fees, Transport & Lunch

    Just a two hour drive from Cape Town, Secure your chance to see South Africa's acclaimed wildlife (Big5) on an all Inclusive small group 1 Day safari tour at Award winning Aquila Safari Game Reserve, a Big5 Malaria Free. The Game Reserve remote location makes it an intimidating trip on your own, but by booking our small group tour that includes transportation from Cape Town & Park Fees ...

  13. The Best Cape Town Safari

    With seven different day trip safari packages to choose from, the rates and packages are broken down accordingly (with transport and beverages excluded from the costs): A Traditional Big 5 safari (full-day) costs about R2195 / US$ 118 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). The full day itinerary starts from 9h00 to and ends around 16h30.

  14. From Cape Town: Aquila Game Reserve Safari Tour with Lunch

    Embark on an African wildlife adventure at Aquila Game Reserve from Cape Town. Experience an unforgettable 3-hour game drive with a welcome drink and lunch. Look for lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards and more in an open vehicle. Witness charming towns and the breathtaking Cape Winelands landscapes. Enjoy an all-inclusive day trip from ...

  15. Aquila Big 5 Safari Day Trips

    Big 5 Safari Day Trips Experience the thrill and excitement of seeing the big 5 at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, just under 2 hours from Cape Town. We offer both half day and full day safari experiences.

  16. Aquila Day Safari

    Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip with Shared Transfers from Cape Town. 10. from $81.34. Cape Town, Western Cape. 2 Day South African Wildlife of the Western Cape and 4x4 Safari. 150. from $268.43. Price varies by group size. Cape Town, Western Cape.

  17. Aquila Private Nature Reserve, Cape Town

    2. From Cape Town: Aquila Game Reserve Safari Tour with Lunch. Explore Aquila Game Reserve in an open safari vehicle on an amazing day tour from Cape Town. Go in search of South Africa's Big 5 animals, and enjoy a buffet lunch catering to all tastes. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, there is nothing for you to do except enjoy your ...

  18. Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip

    The Aquila Game Reserve - A Glimpse into African Wilderness. Nestled in the picturesque Klein Karoo Region, the Aquila Game Reserve spans over 10,000 hectares. It offers a true safari experience without the need for an extended South African Trip. As you enter this pristine wilderness, be ready to encounter the Big Five-lions, elephants ...

  19. Cape Town Shore Excursion: Aquila Safari Day Trip from Cape Town

    Cape Town Shore Excursion: Aquila Safari Day Trip from Cape Town. By Springbok Atlas Day Tours. 2 reviews. See all photos. About. from. $160.71. per adult (price varies by group size) Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay later Free cancellation.

  20. Cape Town Shore Excursion: Aquila Safari Day Trip from Cape Town

    Make sure you have a 'wild' time while stopping in Cape Town thanks to this 12-hour safari-themed shore excursion to Aquila Private Game Reserve. Scout for Africa's 'Big Five' animals plus more than 170 species of birds as you travel aboard an open vehicle amidst this 24,000-acre (10,000-hectare) wildlife park. An included buffet lunch helps keep you hungry for more adventure.

  21. Aquila Private Game Reserve

    Situated just under two hours' drive from the city, this pristine reserve offers an extraordinary opportunity to embark on a day trip safari like no other. Aquila is not just a safari; it's an immersive journey into the wild side of Africa, where you can witness the majestic Big Five surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

  22. Aquila Game Reserve Day Trip

    The Aquila Private Game Reserve Day Trip Safari includes a continental breakfast or lunch and cool-off dips at one of the two breathtaking swimming pools. All safaris are done in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle. A Quad Bike Safari Day tour involves roughing it within the 10,000-hectare conservancy of Aquila Private Game Reserve at additional costs ...

  23. Full-Day Safari Aquila Game Reserve from Cape Town

    Cape Town Shore Excursion: Aquila Safari Day Trip from Cape Town. 1. Full-day Tours. from . R 2 895,00. per adult (price varies by group size) Visit African Big 5 Safari Aquila Game Reserve from Cape Town - full Day. 3. Full-day Tours. from . R 5 600,00. per adult. Aquila Game Reserve Safari with Park Fees, Transport & Lunch. 4. 4WD Tours.

  24. Best Safari from Cape Town

    How Long Is An Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari? Aquila Game Reserve offers half-day, full-day, and overnight packages. A half-day trip ranges from 4 to 4 1/2 hours and includes welcome drinks, a snack or meal (depending on the time of your booking), and one 2-3 hour game drive.