Aquila Private Game Reserve Big-5 Safari & Lunch

Highlights

• Savor a delicious buffet lunch at the reserve's restaurant facilities
• Enjoy a guided game drive with experienced rangers in the Karoo
• Choose from a variety of travel options to suit your preferences
• Relax on a scenic drive through rolling vineyards and Karoo plains
• Benefit from a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and assistance if needed

Description

A responsible and sustainable travel experience to Aquila Private Game Reserve begins with a mindful journey from Cape Town into the heart of the Karoo, where every step of your visit contributes to ethical wildlife tourism and conservation. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with refreshing drinks before enjoying a locally sourced buffet lunch in the lodge’s dining area, designed to showcase traditional South African flavours while supporting regional producers. After lunch, experienced rangers lead you on a guided safari game drive across the reserve’s 10,000-hectare conservancy, observing the Big 5 and other native wildlife in ways that prioritize minimal disturbance. Guests remain in secure vehicles, there’s no touching or feeding of animals, and sightings depend on the animals’ own natural movements rather than staged encounters. Aquila’s approach aligns with established conservation practice: free-roaming wildlife for which feeding and handling are prohibited, and ranger expertise, not artificial stimuli, is used to locate species, helping maintain the animals’ natural behaviours and wellbeing. Beyond the game drive itself, your visit supports ongoing eco-education and wildlife protection efforts at the reserve’s Animal Rescue Centre and anti-poaching initiatives, which are funded in part by tourism revenue and geared toward habitat restoration and species care in partnership with conservation authorities. This means your day is not only a chance to see iconic African wildlife but also to contribute to sustainable stewardship of the landscape and its inhabitants, a travel experience rooted in respect for ecosystems, community involvement, and ethical wildlife observation

Includes

Organized shuttle or shared transfer from central Cape Town accommodations Enjoy light snacks en route and a cold bottle of water made from sustainably sourced products, so you stay refreshed on the drive to and from the reserve A midday buffet lunch featuring a variety of dishes, often with options for different dietary needs, is served at the reserve’s restaurant facilities A 2–3-hour traditional safari in an open vehicle with an experienced ranger/field guide takes you across the reserve to spot wildlife, including the Big 5 and other species. The day is structured around your pickup time and interests — from travel logistics to game drives and leisure time — with flexibility for comfort breaks or extra photo stops along the way. Time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and use selected facilities after your drive

Excludes

Drinks like soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or specialty coffees aren’t automatically included unless specifically added Tips for guides, drivers, or staff are not included and are discretionary Spa access, wildlife photography sessions, or private guided walks beyond the standard game drive are usually extra Souvenirs, additional snacks, and any items from the reserve’s gift shop are available for an extra charge.

Important Information

• Children are welcome, but younger guests must be supervised at all times during the safari experience Bring your camera, some cash or card for optional drinks, souvenirs, or gratuities, and any personal essentials you may need for the day. The reserve is malaria-free. Please inform your operator in advance of any mobility requirements, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions so arrangements can be made Aquila is home to the Big 5 and other wildlife, but sightings are never guaranteed as animals roam freely in their natural habitat. All viewing takes place from designated safari vehicles under the guidance of professional rangers Comfortable clothing and closed walking shoes are recommended. Bring a light jacket in winter and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) in summer, as weather in the Karoo can change quickly.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund