Cape Town: Aquila Big Five Safari with Transfers

If you’re craving a safari experience but don’t want to venture too far from Cape Town, the Aquila Big Five Safari offers a practical and rewarding option. This full-day tour combines the thrill of spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos with the comfort of private transfers and well-organized meals. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this outing appealing—and where it might not hit all the high notes.

What we love about this experience:

• Close proximity to Cape Town ensuring minimal travel time for maximum safari time.
• Inclusive meals that let you focus on the wildlife without worrying about food logistics.
• Options for flexible schedules with different safari times, including sunrise, full day, afternoon, and sunset options.
• The chance to combine the safari with a wine tasting — a true South African treat.

On the flip side, it’s worth considering that pricing varies depending on the chosen safari time, and some options might be more suited for travelers with specific interests or time constraints.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive safari experience without the hassle of planning, particularly if they’re keen to combine wildlife spotting with local wine tasting or just want a smooth, guided day out from Cape Town.

Key Points

• Convenient Location: Close to Cape Town, reducing travel time.
• Flexible Options: Multiple safari times cater to different preferences.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfast and lunch included for full-day options.
• Wildlife Encounters: Big Five sightings are the highlight.
• Optional Wine Tasting: Adds a relaxed, cultural touch.
• Suitable for Most: Not ideal for children under 5 or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

How the Tour Runs and What to Expect

Starting with hotel pickups around 10:30 am or 13:30, depending on your chosen safari time, the journey to the Aquila Game Reserve is smooth, usually via private transfer. The convenience of door-to-door service is a big plus, especially in a city where logistics can get tricky.

Once at the reserve, guests are welcomed with refreshing bottled water and drinks, setting a relaxed tone. For those on the full-day or morning safaris, breakfast is served before the game drive kicks off. It’s a hearty start—think continental fare with local touches—giving you enough fuel for the hours ahead.

The Game Drive: Spotting the Big Five and Beyond

Climbing into a comfortable 4×4, you’ll be guided by a professional ranger with in-depth knowledge of the reserve’s wildlife. Reviews mention that the guides are friendly and eager to share their expertise, often adding interesting anecdotes about the animals.

The Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos—are the main draw. Guests have found that luck and timing influence how many animals they see, but the chance of spotting at least some of these iconic creatures is high. Some reviewers highlighted the opportunity to get surprisingly close to the animals, which adds to the thrill.

Meals and Relaxation

After the game drive, guests return to the lodge for lunch, which is included for those on full-day and afternoon safaris. The food is described as tasty and wholesome, often with options that cater to various dietary needs. For sunset safari visitors, snacks are available, but no lunch is included—so plan accordingly if you prefer a more substantial meal.

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The Optional Wine Tasting

One of the unique features is the chance to sample local wines on the way back. The preferred wineries—like Fairview or Nederburg—are known for great selections, especially their wine and cheese pairings. Guests who opt for this say it’s a nice way to unwind and reflect on the day amid scenic vineyard views.

Timing, Pricing, and Different Options

• The Morning Safari is priced at R1590, suitable for early risers. It includes breakfast and a shorter game drive.
• The Full-day Safari at R2390 offers the most comprehensive experience with breakfast, lunch, and ample game viewing time.
• The Afternoon Safari costs R1890, includes lunch but skips breakfast, tailored for those who prefer a later start.
• The Sunset Safari (R1090) offers a shorter, more relaxed encounter with animals during the cooler hours, with snacks instead of a full meal.

Pricing is reasonable, especially considering the included meals and transfers, which often add significant value. The full-day option provides the most bang for your buck, especially if wildlife viewing is your top priority.

What Travelers Say

Guests consistently praise the comfortable transport and professional guides, noting that the ride to the reserve is smooth and stress-free. Many mention that the animal sightings exceeded expectations—you might find yourself seeing lions lounging or elephants bathing, just like in the movies.

A reviewer commented on the delicious breakfast and lunch, emphasizing that the food was more than just functional—it was enjoyable and satisfying. Others appreciated the flexibility of choosing your safari time, making it easier to fit into various schedules.

Some reviews mention that the safari can be busy, especially during peak seasons, so early booking is recommended. Others highlighted that while the Big Five sightings are likely, wildlife encounters depend on luck and the animals’ mood.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Tips

The private transfer service ensures a comfortable start and end to your day. Expect a small group for a more intimate experience, which is often preferred for wildlife safaris.

Timing is flexible with options starting from early morning to late afternoon, allowing you to customize according to your plans. If combining with wine tasting, be prepared for an earlier pickup, possibly around 8 am.

What to bring: a hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes—be ready for sun exposure and outdoor activities. Since smoking isn’t allowed, plan accordingly.

Availability: The tour is available in multiple languages, including English and French, enhancing accessibility for international travelers.

Cancellation policy is accommodating—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Aquila Big Five Safari from Cape Town offers an immersive wildlife experience without the need to travel far. For those who want a full day of game viewing combined with good food and optional wine tasting, this tour hits the right notes. The private transfers and guided drives make for a seamless experience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local logistics.

It’s particularly suited for travelers with a modest time window but a strong desire to see Africa’s iconic animals up close. Families (over age 5) and those who appreciate comfort and convenience will find this tour a worthy addition to their Cape Town itinerary.

While it’s not a luxury safari, it strikes a balance between affordability and authenticity, making it a smart choice for first-timers and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts alike.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Bottled water, welcome drinks, breakfast (for morning and full-day safaris), and lunch (for full-day and afternoon safaris). Transfers are private and hotel pickup is included.

Can I join just the sunset safari?
Yes, the sunset safari is available for R1090 per person, with pickup around 13:30, and snacks provided instead of lunch.

Is there an option for wine tasting?
Yes, there’s an optional wine tasting at a winery on the way back, often at Fairview, Marianne, or Nederburg, depending on time.

How many animals will I see?
While sightings depend on luck, the chance to see the Big Five is high. Many guests report seeing lions, elephants, and rhinos during their drives.

What should I bring?
A hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable outdoor clothes. Remember, smoking is not allowed on the reserve.

Are children allowed?
Not suitable for children under 5 years, and the tour is generally geared toward older children and adults.

What is the price for children?
Kids pay half the adult rate for most safaris, but check specific options for full details.

How long does the tour last?
Full-day safaris generally last around 8 hours, including transfers, meals, and game drives.

Is this a small group experience?
Typically, yes. The private transfer and guided game drives tend to keep groups smaller, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility in your travel plans.

To sum it up, the Cape Town Aquila Big Five Safari with transfers offers an excellent way to experience Africa’s wildlife close to the city. It’s a smart pick for those who want good value, reliable logistics, and the chance to tick the Big Five off their bucket list—all without the hassle of long travel times. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable day in nature, this tour provides a balanced, enjoyable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: