Aquila Private Game Reserve
Aquila Private Game Reserve offers Big 5 safaris, luxury accommodation and incredible spa facilities. It’s situated ±2 hours from Cape Town (in the small Karoo), making it super convenient for those in Cape Town wanting to experience a Big 5 safari (without traveling too far).
The main reason why I visit game reserves is to capture wildlife, but whenever I visit Aquila I get so much more out of it than wildlife content. I leave feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, and really high on life!
Tranquila Spa
For starters, I get to visit their Tranquila spa, making it the perfect balance between being in the bush and experiencing a luxury spa. I would recommend visiting the spa in the evenings, as it’s the best way for to relax and unwind after going on game drives during the day. I would opt for the back, neck & head massage, followed by a dip in the heated indoor pool, and a few minutes in the sauna. Pure bliss.
Quad Bike and Horseback Safari
It all sounds amazing so far, right? Well, it gets better. What makes Aquila even more unique is their quad bike and horseback safaris (in addition to the usual open vehicle safaris). I cannot begin to explain the thrill of being out in the open, surrounded by wildlife, with nothing but your quad bike and/or horse (& of course a trusted guide). Personally, I LOVE the quad bike safari, simply because quad bikes are fun haha! (especially on a dirt road)
My Recommendation
All-in-all, Aquila Private Game Reserve is an amazing place to experience an African safari. I’d especially recommend it to tourists visiting Cape Town that don’t want to fly up to the Kruger National Park for a safari (which is also really incredible by the way), and who also enjoy a bit of luxury travel combined with spontaneous adventure.
If you’ve read this far, thank you so much. I hope I’ve added value in some way. Please also feel free to watch my video below that was taken at Aquila, so you can get a better glimpse at what I’m talking about.
Follow me on Instagram to see more of my adventures: @melissabrownza
Aquila Private Game Reserve