Cape Town’s flower season is short lived, so don’t be a late bloomer and be sure to catch all the colours of the wild with a Cape Town spring safari. From the start of September to the end of November, spring shows off its magical appeal as the best time to go on safari in South Africa. And, this year, we’ve made your bucket-list wildlife and wild flower plans even better! With seven different day trip tours to choose from, and overnight spring safari deals available until the end of October, you can now see Africa’s Big Five while enjoying the stunning springtime transformation of the Western Cape, all in one trip!
A “Big Five” Cape Town Spring Safari close to the City
If you’re looking for a safari experience with a splash of floral magic, spring at Aquila is unbeatable. Aquila Private Game Reserve is one of the only game reserves close to Cape Town where visitors can see the Big Five (lion, cape leopard, elephant, rhino and cape buffalo).
Guests at Aquila Safaris will also have the chance to sight hippos, giraffe, eland, springbok, wildebeest, black-backed jackals, caracal, meerkats, zebra, baboons, and ostriches, just to name a few. Migratory birds also make their return each spring, flying from parts of Europe and Asia to nest in Southern Africa.
Located under 2 hours from the city, Aquila’s safari lodge is a luxurious and immersive wildlife experience for overnight stays, and makes for a fantastic day trip too. As many local South Africans will tell you, there’s no better time than spring (September to November) to witness the true magic of a Cape Town Big Five safari at Aquila.
Wildlife and Wildflowers
Cape Town truly comes to life in the Spring, and Aquila Private Game Reserve is no exception.Not only is it the ideal season to explore Aquila’s 10,000-hectare Karoo wildlife reserve, but the winter rains have replenished the watering holes and transformed the landscape with vibrant wildflowers and new growth — which means the animals are all out and about, enjoying the abundance of spring.
Known for Table Mountain and the famous Cape Winelands, the Western Cape is home to one of the world’s most unique and diverse natural biomes — Fynbos (Afrikaans for “fine” or “thin bush”). From fynbos flowers blooming along the coastlines to the colourful wildflowers covering the land, visitors travel from near and far to witness the stunning annual blossom up close.
Celebrating New Life at Aquila
Spring doesn’t just bring flowers; it’s also baby season at Aquila! With the warmer weather comes the arrival of newborn animals, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see young members of the Big Five herds. From baby buffalo wobbling alongside their mothers to young elephants playing in the sun, spring adds a heartwarming layer to the safari experience. Aquila’s commitment to conservation means every new birth is a victory, contributing to the health and future of these species.
Visiting Aquila in the Spring (September to November)
There’s so many reasons why you should visit Aquila in the spring. While Aquila is known for its conservation efforts and iconic wildlife, it’s hard to ignore the natural beauty surrounding the reserve in spring. From early August through to the end of November, the Western Cape transforms into a floral masterpiece, with carpets of wildflowers providing a stunning backdrop for your Big Five safari experience. It’s the perfect time to combine wildlife and floral sightseeing.
Although Aquila isn’t located in the traditional West Coast flower hotspots, the reserve still comes alive with the bright yellows, oranges, and purples of indigenous wildflowers — creating a picture that could rival any Monet painting.
When to Visit for Flower Season
To make the most of both the Big Five and the wildflower season, timing is key. Cape Town’s flower season usually peaks between mid-August and mid-September, but this can vary depending on rainfall. Plan your visit during this window to enjoy the reserve’s lush, green landscape adorned with colourful wildflowers. Be sure to pack your camera—flower season in the Cape is short-lived, and every moment counts.
For the best views, aim for a sunny day. Flowers bloom fully under direct sunlight, typically between 10.30am and 3.30pm, so schedule your game drive around these hours to catch the flowers at their brightest.
What to Expect on a Cape Town Spring Safari
Spring is one of the best times to visit Aquila, as the weather strikes a perfect balance—not too hot, not too cold. With mild daytime temperatures ranging from 18ºC to 25ºC (64ºF to 77ºF), you can comfortably enjoy all that the reserve has to offer.
During the spring season, Aquila offers an exciting variety of safari options for every schedule and preference. Early morning safaris are perfect for watching the animals wake up, while the sunset game drives capture the golden light as the sun sets behind the Karoo mountains, creating stunning photo opportunities.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the horseback or quad bike safari tours. These experiences let you explore the reserve from a fresh and immersive perspective, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the African bush as you connect with the natural world around you.
Relax at the Tranquila Spa for the Ultimate Springtime Escape
Aquila isn’t just about wildlife—it’s also a place to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy luxurious African spa treatments. After a day out in the reserve, guests can unwind at Tranquila Spa, one of Cape Town’s top-rated spa retreats. With a heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a range of treatments using local plants and African herbs, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and recharged.
Spa day passes are available at an additional cost, per person, or with the purchase of a spa treatment at a minimum value. If you’re staying in one of Aquila’s Premier Cottages, or staying longer than two nights, you’ll enjoy free access to this serene sanctuary.
What to Pack for a Spring Safari
Packing for a spring safari at Aquila means being prepared for Cape Town’s ever-changing weather. Always check the weather forecast prior to your trip and remember, layers are your friend! Bring light clothing for the warm afternoons and something cosy for the cooler early mornings and evenings. A light, windproof jacket is ideal for open-top safari vehicles, which are more exposed to the elements.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for those midday flower-viewing moments when the sun is at its peak. A pair of binoculars is also a must for spotting wildlife and birds, and a camera will ensure you capture all your favourite sightings.
Ready for Spring at Aquila?
Spring at Aquila Private Game Reserve is about more than just seeing the Big Five—it’s about celebrating the beauty and natural biodiversity of the Western Cape. From the vibrant wildflowers surrounding the reserve to the newborn animals taking their first steps, spring in South Africa is a season of renewal, great weather, and incredible wildlife sightings. Whether you’re looking for a day trip safari or an overnight game reserve getaway, if you’re visiting Cape Town from September to November, Aquila is not to be missed.
