Explore the best Big 5 Aquila Safari Tour and Wine Tasting

Planning a day trip from Cape Town that combines wildlife, good food, and local wine? The Big 5 Aquila Safari Tour and Wine Tasting offers an engaging way to experience South Africa’s wildlife and viticulture without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. We’ve gathered detailed insights from past travelers and expert reviews to give you an honest look at what to expect.

This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning animal sightings, and excellent wine tastings. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and leisure, especially if you’re short on time but craving quality experiences. One thing to consider: the tour’s itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the full-day schedule a bit intense.

This experience fits best for travelers who value well-organized tours, authentic wildlife encounters, and delicious local wines. Whether you’re visiting Cape Town for the first time or returning for a second trip, this package offers a comprehensive snapshot of South Africa’s natural beauty and cultural delights.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: combines a safari, wine tasting, and local cuisine in one day.
• Guided game drive: led by professional guides with vast knowledge of the animals and reserve.
• Comfortable transport: air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off in Cape Town.
• Authentic encounters: open 4×4 safari vehicles provide up-close views of the Big 5.
• Great value: includes buffet meals, wine tasting, and all entrance fees.
• Small group tours: ensure a more personal experience, with reviews highlighting the friendly, informative guides.

A Practical and Authentic Day Out near Cape Town

The Aquila Private Game Reserve sits just a short drive from Cape Town, making it an accessible but immersive wildlife experience. The tour kicks off early, around 07:00 am, with hotel pickups across the city within a 15 km radius. This way, you avoid the hassle of driving yourself and get straight into the adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Hotel Pickup and Departure
Your day begins with a timely collection from your Cape Town hotel, usually between 07:00 and 08:00 am. The vehicle is air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed for small groups, which reviewers say makes the journey more intimate and less rushed.

Stop 2: Fairview Wine and Cheese
The first stop after roughly an hour on the road is at Fairview, a renowned vineyard and goat farm. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local wines along with cheese, often described as a highlight. Guests mention the Mediterranean-style restaurant adds a lovely touch. One reviewer noted, “Paul was very care and the service was excellent,” emphasizing how guides like Paul enhance the experience with local insights.

Stop 3: Aquila Private Game Reserve
Arriving at Aquila, you’re greeted with welcome drinks and a hearty buffet breakfast—an appreciated touch after an early start. The highlight here is the 2-3 hour game drive in open 4×4 safari vehicles, led by experienced guides. Past travelers mention guides like Paul making the drive informative and fun, sharing stories about the wildlife and reserve.

During the game drive, you have opportunities to see a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards—the famed Big 5. Guests frequently comment on how close and personal the sightings are, thanks to the open vehicles and the guides’ expertise. One reviewer enthusiastically noted, “The lions we saw at Aquila were awesome!”

Lunch and Relaxation
Following the game drive, you settle into a buffet lunch that offers hearty, well-prepared dishes. Many reviews highlight the quality and quantity of the food, with guests appreciating the good value for money.

The Final Stop: Wine Tasting Near Cape Town

After lunch, the tour continues to a nearby winery for a tasting session. This part of the experience is often praised for its variety of local wines and the knowledgeable guides who help you understand the nuances of each glass. Reviewers have called the wine tastings “a high light” and appreciated the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife Encounters: The inclusion of a Big 5 safari on a private reserve means you’re in for a chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards in their natural habitat. The open safari vehicles provide unobstructed views, and guides are skilled at locating animals. Several reviews mention their excitement at seeing lions and other wildlife for the first time, with one saying, “Seeing the lions was truly an unforgettable experience.”

Expert Guidance: Guides like Paul are frequently singled out for their professionalism and friendliness. Many reviews praise the way guides share inside stories and answer questions, making the experience more enriching. As one reviewer put it, “Paul is such a cool guy and knows a lot about Cape Town and the animals.”

Quality Food and Wine: The buffet lunch is hearty and satisfying, with an emphasis on local flavors. The wine tasting complements the day perfectly, offering a taste of South Africa’s renowned vineyards. Guests note that the wine selection is plentiful and well-curated, making the stop both educational and enjoyable.

Comfort and Convenience: From hotel pickup to drop-off, the logistics are smooth. The small group size ensures personalized attention and less waiting. The all-inclusive nature, with meals, wine, and entrance fees covered, makes it a good deal for a full-day experience.

Authentic Experience: Reviewers often mention how the guides and staff create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The combination of wildlife, food, and wine offers a well-rounded perspective of local South African culture.

What Could Be Improved?

While the tour generally receives high praise, some travelers might find the schedule tight. The full day is packed with substantial activities, leaving little room for rest or spontaneous exploration. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want additional time at certain stops, this might feel a little rushed.

Plus, alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, so if you’re a wine enthusiast, be prepared to purchase extra drinks during the tasting. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, bad weather could cause cancellations, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if this happens.

Pricing and Value for Money

At approximately $248 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—food, wine, entrance fees, and guided safaris included. Considering the cost of private safaris and wine tastings in Cape Town, it’s quite competitive. Past travelers highlight the good value, especially since all aspects of transportation, meals, and activities are covered.

Many quote enthusiastic reviews about the guides and the quality of the experiences, making it clear that what you pay for is well worth the immersive adventure and expert guidance. The small-group format also enhances the overall value by providing a more personal experience compared to large tour buses.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a safe, guided introduction to South Africa’s wildlife and wine culture. It suits those who enjoy a balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the intimate group sizes and friendly guides make it easy to connect.

However, if you’re after a very relaxed day with lots of downtime, you might find the schedule a bit packed. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting to tick off the Big 5 while sampling some of the region’s best wines without venturing too far from Cape Town.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels within a 15 km radius of Cape Town city center, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The whole experience is approximately 8 hours, starting early in the morning around 7:00 or 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink, a buffet breakfast at Aquila, and a full buffet lunch as part of the package.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the full-day schedule and the physical activity involved. The safari vehicle is open but accessible.

What animals are seen on the safari?
You’ll have opportunities to see the Big 5—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard—as well as other wildlife, guided by experts who know where to look.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled within this window.

Final Thoughts

The Big 5 Aquila Safari Tour with Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded day that balances wildlife, culture, and gastronomy. The knowledgeable guides, especially Paul, make each aspect engaging and memorable. The combination of game drives, delicious meals, and local wines makes it a great value for those looking to experience South Africa’s natural and cultural riches in a single day.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to tick off the Big 5, enjoy a scenic wine tasting, and learn about Cape Town’s wildlife in a comfortable, organized setting. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a hassle-free yet authentic adventure with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and meaningful encounters.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an enriching day outside Cape Town, this trip delivers a good dose of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor—worth every rand.