Aquila Game Reserve Safari with wine tasting, Transport & Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a chance to see the iconic African wildlife without leaving the Cape Town area, the Aquila Game Reserve Safari offers a compelling option. This full-day tour combines the thrill of spotting the Big 5 with the pleasures of wine tasting, topped by a relaxed, all-in-one experience that appeals to both nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.

What we love about this tour is its balance of adventure and comfort: the knowledgeable guides, the stunning landscape, and the delicious local food and wine. It’s also a flexible experience, with transport included to make the day hassle-free. However, a noteworthy consideration is that the entrance fee to the reserve isn’t included in the tour price, so planning for that extra expense—around R1890 per person—is necessary.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that offers wildlife, scenery, and some of South Africa’s renowned wine culture—perfect if you’re short on time but craving an authentic taste of the region.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Potential to see all Big 5 animals with a skilled, informative ranger.
• Wine & Cheese: Curated tasting at Fairview wine estate with premium wines and artisanal cheeses.
• Convenient Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off within Cape Town’s vicinity.
• Flexible & Value-Driven: Combination of activities at a reasonable price, with options for group discounts.
• Extra Costs: The reserve entrance fee is paid separately, so budgeting ahead is wise.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on local flavors, scenic landscapes, and genuine wildlife sightings.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Cape Town Pickup & Vineyard Stop

Starting early around 8:00 AM, the tour begins with a hotel pickup within a 15 km radius of the city center. This service saves the hassle of navigating public transport or organizing individual transfers. The first stop is at Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate, about a 30-minute ride from the city. Here, visitors get to sample up to five premium South African wines, carefully paired with local cheeses.

This part of the day is a delightful way to set the tone—expect a relaxed, farm-style atmosphere with a focus on sustainable, artisanal produce. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the region’s wine-making traditions from friendly staff who are eager to share their expertise. One reviewer appreciated the tasting, noting that the estate’s micro-business approach and focus on quality really shine through.

Main Event: Aquila Game Reserve

The highlight of the day is the game drive at Aquila, though it’s important to remember that the entrance ticket (~R1890) isn’t included in the tour price. Guests are advised to pay this fee directly at the reserve on the morning of the drive, or via a link the operator provides. This transparency is a plus for travelers who want to plan their budget upfront.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink before heading out for a 3-hour game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle. Guided by a knowledgeable ranger—who in some reviews was praised for their friendliness and expertise—you’ll venture into the reserve’s diverse landscape in search of the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo. Many reported close wildlife encounters, with some animals coming quite near to the vehicle, allowing for excellent photo opportunities.

Reviewers like Kiel_H note that the guide was very informative and that the wildlife sightings were spectacular. The park itself boasts stunning vistas, making the drive not just about animals but also about appreciating the natural beauty of South Africa’s landscape.

Lunch & Wildlife Wrap-up

After the game drive, the group is treated to a buffet lunch at the lodge. The meal caters to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, with a variety of local and international dishes. Drinks including alcohol are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

Following lunch, the group returns to Cape Town, often around 5:30 PM, after an exciting but relaxed day of wildlife viewing, wine tasting, and scenic drives. Some reviews mention that the timing is well-paced, with just enough activity before returning to the city.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers, which is a real plus in South Africa’s warm climate. The pickup and drop-off service makes the day stress-free and efficient—no need to worry about navigation or combining multiple bookings. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, although it’s a private tour, so your party will be the only ones participating.

Price & Value Analysis

At $158.96 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It includes professional transportation, wine tasting, buffet lunch, and all taxes and fees—except the reserve entry fee. The cost of the reserve ticket (~R1890) is a significant extra expense, but considering the high-quality wildlife experience, it’s a fair price. Several reviewers felt the guides and park staff made the experience worthwhile, emphasizing the value of knowledgeable commentary and close wildlife encounters.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the extra fee for the reserve entrance. Some travelers might prefer the total package price to include this, but transparency is appreciated. Plus, the timing means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day—early start, lots of activity, and a late return. For some, this might be tiring, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One review described the reserve as a “beautiful game reserve,” with sightings of zebras, giraffes, hippos, elephants, and lions. The reviewer appreciated how close the animals came to the vehicle, allowing for stunning photos.

Another mentioned a disappointing experience when the entrance fee was not included in the initial booking, which they felt was not clearly disclosed. This highlights the importance of confirming extra costs beforehand.

Generally, travelers agree that the guides are knowledgeable and that the scenery and wildlife make the safari worthwhile. Many highlighted excellent buffet lunches with diverse options, and a few noted that the wine tasting at Fairview was a charming prelude to the main event.

Practical Tips for Your Day Trip

• Book early: The tour is popular and often booked about 56 days in advance.
• Bring cash or card for the reserve entrance fee, if paying on the day.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for both a drive and a farm environment—layers are best.
• Bring your camera and binoculars for wildlife sightings.
• Stay hydrated: Water is included, but extra drinks are up to you.
• Allow enough time for the full experience, including travel and breaks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts looking for a straightforward way to see Africa’s Big 5 near Cape Town. It’s also perfect for wine lovers who enjoy pairing their wildlife safari with a premium wine tasting. The experience suits those who appreciate good value—combining multiple attractions in one day—and are comfortable with a full-day itinerary.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day will find this tour offers a great balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural flavor. However, if you’re seeking an all-inclusive experience with no hidden costs, be prepared for the reserve fee.

FAQs

Is the entrance fee to the Aquila reserve included?
No, the entrance ticket (~R1890) is paid directly at the reserve either on the day or through a provided link. This cost is separate from the tour price.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive lasts approximately 3 hours, during which you’ll venture into the reserve in an open safari vehicle with a ranger.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, wine tasting at Fairview, a buffet lunch, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes (except the reserve entrance fee).

Can I see the Big 5 on this tour?
Yes, the reserve is home to all Big 5 animals, and many guests report successful sightings, often quite close to the vehicle.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, the buffet lunch caters to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. It’s also wise to carry some cash or card for the reserve fee and additional drinks.

How do I pay for the reserve entrance fee?
You can pay directly at the reserve on the morning of the safari or via the link shared by the tour operator prior to your visit.

Final Thoughts

The Aquila Game Reserve Safari offers a well-rounded day of wildlife viewing, cultural indulgence with wine tasting, and convenient travel logistics. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines authentic African wildlife with the pleasures of local wine and food. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a value-packed adventure that balances scenic nature, exciting animal sightings, and a taste of the Cape’s renowned wine culture.

While the extra cost for the reserve entrance can seem steep, many reviews attest that the sightings and guides make it worthwhile. With comfortable transport, a knowledgeable guide, and a variety of experiences packed into one day, this tour delivers both fun and value—perfect for those looking to make the most of their time near Cape Town.

Disclaimer: Always confirm the latest prices and availability before booking, as fees and schedules can change.