Aquila Private Game Reserve

Aquila Private Game Reserve is great option for a safari experience close to Cape Town. We stayed here on our return to Cape Town from the Garden Route as Kruger and Eastern Cape were further than we wanted to travel.

One night was a good amount of time to still feel like we got to experience a Big 5 safari, but two nights would have allowed a little more downtime at the lodge. I would recommend staying in one of the Cottages, as they are more spacious and private, with additional features like a fireplace and outdoor shower. The lodge’s décor is rustic-luxe, with African motifs and warm tones.

The activities and drives were great! We had an evening and morning drive included with our one-night stay, which meant we got to see the hippos both in and out of the water! We had the same driver for both, as he knew what you have already seen which was a lovely detail – I also learnt some fun wildlife facts along the way. They have a lovely place you stop on the evening drive for drinks. We also had a Night Sky Experience with a fire in the evening, which was a great way to round off the day.

The food was good - you can try local meats like zebra and ostrich and is all buffet/self-serve. You can also choose to sit inside or outside with a view over the reserve, which was lovely at sunset. I would recommend this lodge as a family friendly safari option, geared toward first time safari-goers wanting a quick and accessible Big 5 experience.