Cape Town is an amazing travel destination for anyone seeking the ultimate city escape, beach holiday or African safari adventure. From the local sights at the V&A Waterfront, stunning coastlines, incredible views from Table Mountain and penguins at Boulders Beach, to the internationally renowned Cape Winelands, fine-dining restaurants and eclectic art scene, the Mother City truly has it all — including the best Cape Town safari, located less than 2 hours from the city centre.
Did you know that Cape Town has Big 5 safari game reserves where you can see Africa’s iconic big 5 animals (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard) and native wildlife up-close and in person? The best safari destinations near Cape Town are Aquila, Inverdoorn and Kuganha, offering spectacular sightings and luxurious overnight safari tours. And, as the top rated and closest Big 5 game reserve to Cape Town that offers day trip safaris, both full-day and half-day safari tours, Aquila deserves its recognitions as “The Best Cape Town Safari”.
The Best Cape Town Safari: Aquila Game Reserve
Aquila is the closest game reserve to Cape Town, and the most affordable, so it’s no surprise that it’s the most popular choice for local and international travellers. Malaria-free and family-friendly (kids of all ages are welcome to join on safari tours), it’s a great choice for the whole family. Did you know that children under the age of 12 pay half price? And, if your child is younger than 3 (ages 0 to 3), their stay is completely free of charge. Subject to Aquila’s terms and conditions, it’s important to note that children must be accompanied by an adult or legal adult.
Aquila’s child-friendly facilities and activities include:
- Junior Ranger Programme
- Outdoor Play Area
- Indoor Entertainment Area
- Big 5 Safari Game Drives
- Mini Golf and Adventure Zone
Travellers and families always ask if there are budget friendly safaris in Cape Town, and the answer is yes — if you know where to look and what time of the year to go. Aquila Winter Specials and discounted children’s rates means the whole family can enjoy a fun and exciting wildlife experience close to the city. With day trips starting from only R995 per person, and return transport available from Cape Town to the reserve and back, going on a safari to Aquila can be both budget-friendly and accessible for everyone.
More Than Just A Big 5 Safari
Aquila is more than just a big 5 safari destination, it’s an experience in African luxury hospitality and service excellence. Winner of the continent award for the best private game reserve in Africa for 2023, Aquila’s main safari lodge boasts world-class facilities and luxurious amenities, including:
- Tranquila Spa (complete with a sauna, steam room, and heated pool)
- Upstairs viewing deck and mezzanine-bar area
- Infinity pool overlooking the reserve
- Poolside Wet Bar and expansive Pool Deck Area
- Lodge Restaurant and Day Visitors Centre
- Spacious grass lawns overlooking views of the the reserve
Book your overnight safari accommodation or choose your day trip safari tour, offering traditional 4×4 big 5 game drives, welcome drinks, and buffet-style meals at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa — the best Cape Town safari destination.
How Much Does a Big 5 Safari at Aquila Cost?
Aquila Game Reserve is the only Big 5 safari destination near Cape Town that allows day visitors, and is considered an affordable safari destination in South Africa. With seven different day trip safari packages to choose from, the rates and packages are broken down accordingly (with transport and beverages excluded from the costs):
A Traditional Big 5 safari (full-day) costs about R2195 / US$ 118 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). The full day itinerary starts from 9h00 to and ends around 16h30. The package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a buffet-style breakfast and lunch, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.
An Afternoon safari (half-day) costs about R1690 / US$ 90 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 12h00 and ends around 16h30. The Afternoon packages includes The package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a buffet-style lunch, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.
An Early Morning safari (half-day) costs about R1,440 / US$ 77 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 07h00 and ends around 12h00. The early morning package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, a continental breakfast, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.
A Sunset Safari (half-day) costs about R995 / US$ 53 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price). This half-day itinerary starts from 15h00 and ends around 19h00. The sunset tour package also includes welcome drinks upon arrival, snacks and refreshments, and a 2 to 3 hour guided vehicle safari.
Book A Big 5 Cape Town Safari to Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa
Getting to Aquila Private Game Reserve doesn’t have to be complicated. Forget the rental car and forget choosing the designated ‘sober driver’, because Day Trip transfers between Cape Town’s city centre and Aquila Private Game Reserve can be arranged at an additional cost, priced per guest. Standard shuttle transfers (return trip) cost around R995 / US$ 53 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price), on top of the day trip package price. Transport is not offered for Early Morning and Sunset Safaris.
Get the most out of your best cape town safari experience and book an overnight big 5 safari and spa at Aquila. Overnight transfers between Cape Town’s city centre and Aquila Private Game Reserve can be arranged at an additional cost, per guest. Standard shuttle transfers (return trip) cost around R1550 / US$ 83 per adult (kids 12 and under pay half price), on top of the overnight accommodation rate.
Accommodation at Aquila is an immersive and luxurious experience in South African safari luxury. With overnight safari packages to suit every travel group size and budget preference, fall asleep under the wild Karoo stars in comfortable standard lodge rooms, spacious family lodge suites, charming Karoo cottages, or indulge in an exclusive stay at one of Aquila’s premier cottages, which range in price from R2300 / US$ 124 per person sharing to R4490 / US$ 242 per person sharing.
The lodge facilities at Aquila will keep you entertained and relaxed between your two big 5 safari drives. Visit Tranquila Spa, enjoy the reserve’s two swimming pools, restaurant, mezzanine bar-and-lounge area, gift shop, and two children’s play areas. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available throughout the accommodation and main lodge areas. All Aquila’s Overnight Safari rates and packages include:
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- 2x Guided Safari Game Drives
- Welcome Drinks upon arrival
Please note: Costs are given as a guideline and are subject to change. For up-to-date information, specials and prices, please contact our helpful reservations staff or make a booking online.
