Aquila Safari

Aquila Private Game Reserve is a malaria-free conservation reserve located in the Southern Karoo, close to Touws River. It offers the closest authentic Big Five day-trip safari experience to Cape Town, allowing visitors to observe lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard in a natural Karoo landscape.

Why visit Aquila Game Reserve?

Aquila provides a structured, accessible safari option for travelers with limited time who cannot visit larger national parks. Sourced guides and custom open-air vehicles ensure informative and safe wildlife viewing within a comfortable drive from the city center.

What to see and do

• Guided Big Five game drives: Take a 2-hour wildlife viewing drive led by experienced rangers in open-top 4×4 vehicles.
• See the Big Five: View African elephants, lions, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards roaming the Karoo plains.
• Horseback or quad-bike safaris: Experience the reserve trails on horse or quad bike for an active alternative to traditional vehicles.
• Enjoy lodge amenities: Benefit from included buffet lunches at the lodge restaurant and access to the large swimming pool.
• Visit the Karoo night sky: Overnight guests can participate in stargazing and night-time game drives.

How long should you allow?

Allow 6 to 10 hours for the entire experience, including the 2-hour drive each way along the N1 highway from Cape Town. The safari game drive itself lasts 2 to 3 hours.

Weather and timing

Morning and late afternoon game drives are best, as animals are more active during cooler hours. The Karoo experience is semi-arid; summer temperatures can be very hot, while winter mornings require warm windproof layers.

Build it into a Karoo route

Combine an Aquila day trip with a drive through the scenic Hex River Valley, or stop in the historic farming town of Worcester on your return journey to Cape Town.

Planning notes

• Pre-book day packages and hotel transfers online in advance, as group seats fill quickly.
• Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a warm windproof jacket for the open-air vehicle.
• The reserve is malaria-free, making it suitable for families traveling with young children.

Sources and further reading

• Aquila Private Game Reserve Official Site
• Cape Town Tourism Safari Guide
• Visitor Discussion on Aquila Safari Day Trips
• Featured image: Wikimedia Commons, public domain