Aquila Private Game Reserve | South Africa | Wild Safari Guide (2025)

Aquila Private Game Reserve boasts an excellent location just two hours from Cape Town, South Africa, making it a convenient weekend or week-long safari destination. The Private Game Reserve is nestled at the foot of the Karoo Mountains and spans over 11,000 acres. Surrounded by a sublime landscape, Aquila is home to a kaleidoscope of fauna and flora, including Mountain Fynbos and Renosterveld, and boasts a rich cultural history.

Just outside of the small railway town of Touws River, near Ceres, the Private Game Reserve offers exclusivity and a wildlife experience like none other. Renowned for its Big 5 safari experiences, five-star facilities, and world-class accommodation options, safari-goers will enjoy all the comforts of home and more, while reconnecting with the great outdoors of South Africa. Local attractions and experiences include guided game drives, horseback safaris, and fly-in safaris.

Cape Town International Airport is approximately 170 kilometres from Aquila Private Game Reserve, and for those looking to self-drive, it is an easy and scenic two-hour drive. Additionally, the Game Reserve can arrange standard, private, or luxury transfers for safari-goers, as well as fly-in options by light aircraft or helicopter.

• Cape Buffalo
• Elephant
• Guided Game Drive
• Horseback Riding
• Leopard
• Lion
• Rhino

Aquila Private Game Reserve is nestled in a beautiful valley along the Karoo Mountains, which sets the stage for an incredible Big 5 wildlife experience. Safari-goers will likely spot elephants, lions, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards, as well as various antelope species—all of which roam freely on the Reserve.

Additionally, Aquila acquired a piece of land across the road from the Reserve, which is home to Aquila Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre (ARC)—recognized by the Campaign Against Canning Industry. The Conservation Center was established for the rehabilitation of rescued, abused, and captivity-bred animals that can never be released into the wild. Since its establishment, the ARC has been able to successfully rehabilitate and release three mountain leopards, owls, numerous lynx, and porcupines onto the Aquila Game Reserve.

Aquila Private Game Reserve is ideal throughout the year. However, the spring season brings about a kaleidoscope of colours that provide an unsurpassed insight into the surrounding wilderness. For ideal weather, the best times to visit Aquila Private Game Reserve is between April and May and from September to December. January and February are considered the hottest months of the year.

Home to the Big 5, Aquila Private Game Reserve is one of the best safari destinations for those wanting to escape the urban chaos and get back in touch with nature. The Game Reserve spans over 11,000 acres and home to elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos, among other wildlife species. Safari-goers opting for a weekend getaway here can book a variety of experiences. From traditional guided game drives to exploring the Reserve on horseback or by quad bike, there is something here for everyone.

For those looking to take a break from the wildlife experience, Aquila offers a whole host of on-site facilities and amenities. Visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy a cocktail around the swimming pool, book a luxurious spa experience, or sweat it out in the spa’s sauna and steam room.

The accommodation options at Aquila Private Game Reserve range from standard lodge rooms to premier lodge suites, as well as stunning wilderness cottages built into the surrounding rock faces. The lodge and self-catering accommodation offer modern amenities and facilities that will make any discerning guest will feel right at home. On-site facilities include a restaurant, a spa, a swimming pool, a wet bar, a conference center, and a children’s entertainment area. Meals are usually included in the rates. However, guests should check upon booking the accommodation.

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at contact@wildsafariguide.com