Aquila Game Reserve Safari Day Trip from Cape Town with Meals

Summary

Wildlife Safari & Wine Tasting Adventure Near Cape Town

If you want real wildlife close to Cape Town plus great food and local wines along scenic routes, this day trip covers it all without any stress or planning on your part.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we left Cape Town was the way the morning light hit the vineyards—soft, golden, almost syrupy. Our driver kept up a steady stream of stories about Stellenbosch and its university crowd, which you could spot by the little coffee shops and student bikes everywhere. We passed rows of citrus trees and fynbos that looked almost silver in the early sun. You can’t help but roll down your window for that fresh, earthy smell mixed with a hint of wildflowers.

Paarl came up next, with its huge granite rock just sitting there like it’s been waiting for centuries. Our guide pointed out Nederburg Wine Estate as we drove by—apparently, they started the whole wine auction thing here. There’s something about seeing so many wineries in one stretch that makes you want to come back just for a tasting weekend.

We zipped through the Huguenot Tunnel (it’s longer than you’d expect), then out into Worcester where the air felt drier and you could spot cricket players practicing on a pitch right by the road. The town itself is small but lively; I caught a whiff of something sweet—maybe from one of those bakeries near the porcelain shops.

By late morning, we rolled into Aquila Game Reserve. They greeted us with a glass of local wine—nice touch after the drive—and registration was quick. Breakfast was buffet style: eggs, pastries, fruit, even some biltong if you’re feeling adventurous. Then it was time for the main event—the game drive.

Our ranger, Sipho, knew every inch of this place. He slowed down when he spotted fresh tracks in the dust or pointed out giraffes blending into acacia trees. We stopped more than once for photos—sometimes you hear nothing but birds and your own heartbeat while waiting for an elephant to step out from behind a bush. There’s a break halfway through where you can stretch your legs and sip another glass of wine (or just water if it’s hot). The whole drive took about three hours but honestly felt shorter because there was always something new to see.

Lunch back at the lodge was another buffet—lots of choices, including veggie options—and after that some folks jumped in the pool while others lounged under umbrellas watching weaver birds flit around. On our way back to Cape Town, we squeezed in one last wine tasting at a local estate before being dropped off at our hotels tired but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic Drive and Safari at Aquila

• Drive through Stellenbosch wine region
• Pass by Paarl wine region and landmarks
• Pass by Franschhoek gourmet town
• Drive through Du Toitskloof mountain tunnel
• Pass by Worcester wine region
• Pass by Rawsonville town and Hex Valley
• Safari drive at Aquila Game Reserve with breaks
• Buffet breakfast and lunch at Aquila
• Optional swim at Aquila pool
• Return to Cape Town with wine tasting stop

Top questions

Is this safari suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids are welcome and there are infant seats available if needed. The game drive is safe for families.

How long is the drive from Cape Town to Aquila?

It takes about two hours each way depending on traffic and stops along scenic routes.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?

No need—breakfast and lunch are both included as buffets, plus bottled water and welcome drinks are provided.

Will I definitely see animals on this safari?

The rangers are experienced at tracking wildlife so sightings are very likely, though nature can be unpredictable!

What’s included

Your hotel pickup and drop-off are covered. Expect comfy van transport with AC, bottled water on board, buffet breakfast and lunch at Aquila Game Reserve (with vegetarian options), plus a welcome drink on arrival. The guided game drive lasts up to three hours with plenty of photo stops—and there’s even time for a dip in the pool or a final wine tasting before heading home.