Aquila Safari Experience Full Day Tour from Cape Town
Active
9h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience an unforgettable Big 5 safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve, one of the closest and most accessible wildlife reserves to Cape Town. Set in the scenic Karoo landscape near Touws River, Aquila offers a true African safari experience without the need for long-distance travel.
Join a guided open-vehicle game drive led by experienced rangers as you search for the iconic Big Five—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard—along with giraffes, hippos, zebras, and a variety of antelope species. Learn about wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and the Western Cape's unique ecosystems.
This experience is ideal for first-time safari visitors, families, and travelers with limited time, combining wildlife viewing, breathtaking scenery, and expert guiding in one rewarding day. With excellent facilities, ethical conservation practices, and a high chance of wildlife sightings, Aquila delivers a memorable safari adventure near Cape Town.
Available options
Aquila Safari Experience Full Day Tour from Cape Town
Pickup included
What's included
Private Tour Guide English / French
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
If you’ve always dreamed of experiencing Africa’s iconic wildlife on a classic safari, this tour is perfect for you. Travel just a couple of hours from Cape Town to a private game reserve, where you’ll search for the legendary Big 5—elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a comfortable scenic drive of approximately two hours before arriving at this spectacular destination, where your unforgettable experience begins.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve is a historic and scenic landmark overlooking the town of Paarl in the Western Cape.
The mountain is famous for its massive granite rocks, formed over millions of years, making it one of the largest granite outcrops in the world. Long before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Khoisan people, who used the mountain for shelter, grazing, and spiritual purposes.
In 1657, early settlers named the mountain “Paarl,” meaning “Pearl,” after seeing the granite rocks shining like pearls after rain. Over time, the mountain became an important landmark for travelers and farmers in the region.
Today, the reserve protects rich fynbos vegetation, birdlife, and wildlife, while offering panoramic views of the Cape Winelands. It is a peaceful stop for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying nature on the way through Paarl.
3
After a convenient pickup from your centrally located Cape Town hotel, relax in an air-conditioned vehicle as you travel through scenic landscapes toward the southern Karoo and the private Aquila Game Reserve.
Upon arrival, meet your experienced guide and professional game ranger before climbing aboard an open-air safari vehicle for an authentic African game drive. As the safari begins, your ranger shares fascinating insights about the reserve and the legendary Big Five. Keep your camera ready as you search for elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, leopards, hippos, and a variety of other wildlife.
The drive also passes through a beautiful wetland area, home to an impressive array of birdlife, including the majestic Verreaux’s black eagle.
After your safari adventure, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at the reserve. Later, rejoin your guide for a comfortable return journey to Cape Town, arriving back at your hotel in the late afternoon with unforgettable safari memories.
4
As we head back to your hotel, we hope you thoroughly enjoyed the Big Five tour and created wonderful memories along the way. Upon arrival, we will have a brief 15 minutes to say goodbye and wish you safe onward travels.
Two hours driving back, allowing you to relax and reflect on your unforgettable experience.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Game Drive
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please walk to the mall and stop at the pickup designated point.
About Cape Town
Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.
Top Attractions
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
Nature
2-4 hours
Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining
Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Cape Malay Curry
A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Biltong
A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Shark cage diving
Surfing
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans
- Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transport services
Getting there
By air
- Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Cape Town Station
By bus
Cape Town Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cape Town City Centre
Camps Bay
Bo-Kaap
Day trips
Stellenbosch
50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.
Hermanus
120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
Festivals
Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual)
Cape Town Carnival • January (annual)
Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
- Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
- Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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