Aquila Private Game Reserve is a premier wildlife safari destination located just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, South Africa. Set within a 10,000-hectare conservation area, it offers visitors the chance to experience the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) in their natural habitat. Aquila is named after the endangered black or Verreaux’s eagle that soars above its dramatic landscapes, which include mountains, valleys, and semi-arid plains.
The reserve is known for its commitment to conservation and eco-tourism, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a luxurious escape for guests. Visitors can enjoy a variety of safari experiences, including traditional game drives, horseback safaris, and quad bike adventures, all guided by knowledgeable rangers. Aquila also plays a crucial role in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, contributing to the protection of endangered species.
Aquila’s luxurious accommodations range from safari lodges to modern chalets, blending comfort with the wilderness experience. On-site amenities include a spa, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a stunning outdoor pool that overlooks the reserve. Guests can unwind in serene surroundings while enjoying breathtaking views of the natural landscape and its wildlife.
Whether you are seeking a thrilling safari adventure or a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature, Aquila Private Game Reserve offers an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Aquila Safari Lodge is a 4 star establishment in the Southern Karoo (Western Cape). The reserve is 7500 hectare conservancy in the southern Karoo, join an experienced game ranger who will assist you in finding the big 5 – elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino and other animals such as girrafe, eland, bontebok and indigenous birds.
Since the 4-star Game Reserve was founded, its ethos has always been to educate guests on the importance of wildlife conservation, how it affects us all and what we as individuals can do to protect it and indeed the environment. The Game reserve is not yet another luxury game reserve and lodge, its primary purpose is to offer an educational experience to all who visit in the hope that knowledge will enrich our understanding of the importance of living in harmony with Mother Nature.
Over the years, the Aquila Private Game Reserve has gone to massive efforts and expense to source and re-introduce wildlife into the Cape region so that local residents and visitors alike can benefit from same, and we are therefore proud to offer our visitors an opportunity to experience a Big five game drive and safari in Cape Town.
All safaris are in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle, and is lead by an experienced guide, who will share inside-story facts about your surroundings.
Game and wildlife you might see on the game drive at Aquila
The big five – Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Leopard, Rhino as well as Cheetah, Zebra, Giraffe, Springbok, Oryx, Hippo, Crocodile, Wildebeest, Eland
In another of Aquila’s conservation efforts, they currently offer visitors a complimentary educational introduction to cheetahs, highlighting the plight of the free ranging cheetah and their critically diminishing numbers.
It is important to note that the cheetahs were bred in captivity and not ‘born free’ nor do they form part of the game drive with the experience being strictly controlled and in the interest of cheetah survival worldwide. Guests however are not allowed to directly interact with the cheetahs but are given a comprehensive talk on the plight of these beautiful cats.
Highlights:
Depart: ± 07h00 to 08h00
Return: ± 17h30
