See Africa's Big 5 Just 2 Hours from Cape Town
Aquila Big 5 Game Reserve Safari with Lunch
Small Group Tour
Max 14 guests
Private Tour
Own guide & vehicle
Luxury Custom
Tailored to you
You don't need to fly to Kruger to see the Big 5. The award-winning Aquila Private Game Reserve, just two hours from Cape Town, is home to lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard — plus zebra, giraffe, hippo, and over 170 bird species. This all-inclusive day safari includes a thrilling open-vehicle game drive led by expert rangers who track animals through the fynbos-covered hills and lush valleys of the Karoo. After your safari, enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch at the reserve's elegant lodge with panoramic views of the waterhole where wildlife gathers. The reserve is completely malaria-free, making it perfect for families with children. Depart from Cape Town in the early morning, drive through the stunning Hex River Mountains and Du Toitskloof Pass, and return by evening with memories (and photos) to last a lifetime.
Tour Highlights
Interactive Route Map
Click markers to see stop details. Route is approximate and may vary.
Your Day, Stop by Stop
A cinematic journey through Cape Town's most iconic landmarks
Hotel Pickup — Cape Town
Early morning collection from your Cape Town accommodation
Du Toitskloof Pass & Hex River Drive
Scenic mountain drive through vineyards and dramatic passes to the Karoo
Aquila Game Reserve — Safari Drive
Open-vehicle game drive through the reserve tracking the Big 5 with expert rangers
Aquila Lodge — Buffet Lunch
Enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch overlooking the waterhole where elephants and hippos drink
Return Drive to Cape Town
Comfortable return journey through the Winelands to your hotel
What's Included
Inclusions
- Return transfers from Cape Town hotel
- Open-vehicle game drive (2+ hours)
- Gourmet buffet lunch at Aquila Lodge
- Park conservation fees
- Professional ranger/tracker
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Instant confirmation
Exclusions
- Beverages at lunch
- Optional horseback safari upgrade
- Personal expenses & souvenirs
- Gratuities (optional)
Why Book Direct With Us?
Typical conditions · Plan your visit accordingly
Best Time to Go
Early mornings are chilly on the game drive. Bring a warm fleece — animals are most active at dawn.
What to Bring
- Warm fleece/jacket
- Binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Sunscreen & hat
- Comfortable layers
Insider Tips
- Sit on the left side of the vehicle for the best morning light photos
- The reserve has a spa — ask about upgrading to an overnight stay
- Winter months (Jun-Aug) offer the best game viewing as vegetation is thinner
- The waterhole at the lodge is active at dawn and dusk
Meeting Point
Pickup from your Cape Town hotel or guesthouse