About this Experience
Swap the city for roaring lions and towering elephants on Cape Town’s closest Big 5 adventure.
Tour Highlights
Guaranteed Big 5 reserve access | - Priority seating on same vehicle as your group | - Conservation levy included (no surprise fees)
Your Journey
Stop 1
Early pickup
Stop 2
scenic N1 drive with guide commentary
Stop 3
Welcome drink & buffet breakfast on arrival
Stop 4
2‑3 h open‑vehicle game drive with ranger
Stop 5
Karoo buffet lunch
Stop 6
Free time at pool/spa
Stop 7
Return to Cape Town.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Return transport, breakfast, game drive, lunch, ranger, conservation fee, water.
Not Included
- Spa treatments, drinks at bar, gratuities.
Important Information
Seasonal Notes
July–Aug mornings are cold; blankets provided.
Child Policy
Under‑3 free on lap; car seats on request.
Accessibility
Game vehicle step ladder; limited wheelchair access.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if cancelled 72 h ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari is typically a full-day experience lasting 8-10 hours including transport from Cape Town. Half-day options may be available lasting 4-5 hours. Specific timing depends on your pickup location and chosen package.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari includes round-trip transportation from Cape Town hotels, professional guide services, entrance fees, and specified activities. Meals and refreshments inclusion varies by package - check your specific booking for details.
Yes, the Aquila Big 5 Day Safari offers excellent value combining professional guidance, comfortable transport, and unique Cape Town experiences. The convenience of organized tours with local expertise makes it worthwhile for visitors wanting authentic experiences.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari includes hotel pickup from Cape Town city center and Atlantic Seaboard areas. Specific pickup times are confirmed 24 hours before your tour. Alternative meeting points can be arranged for accommodations outside standard pickup zones.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari operates year-round with each season offering unique advantages. Summer (October-March) provides warm weather and longer days, while winter (May-September) offers clearer skies and dramatic landscapes. Cape Town's Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant conditions most days.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari welcomes families with age-appropriate activities for children. Some activities may have minimum age requirements for safety. Child rates are usually available for under 12s. Please inform operators of children's ages when booking.
For the Aquila Big 5 Day Safari, bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing in layers. Carry water and snacks unless meals are included. Don't forget cash for optional purchases and tips.
Book the Aquila Big 5 Day Safari at least 48-72 hours in advance, especially during peak season (October-March). Popular tours can sell out weeks ahead during holidays. Last-minute availability depends on group sizes and season.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari typically offers free cancellation 24-48 hours before the tour date for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur charges. Weather-related cancellations receive full refunds or free rescheduling.
Yes, the Aquila Big 5 Day Safari includes complimentary pickup from most Cape Town city center and Atlantic Seaboard hotels. Pickup typically begins 30-60 minutes before tour start time. Exact pickup time is confirmed the day before your tour.
The Aquila Big 5 Day Safari offers diverse wildlife viewing including lions, elephants, various antelope species, zebras, and numerous bird species. While specific sightings can't be guaranteed, experienced guides maximize your viewing opportunities throughout the day.
Most Aquila Big 5 Day Safari packages include lunch at the reserve lodge. Breakfast and refreshments may also be included depending on your package. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Tour Location
Tour Meeting Point
Central Cape Town hotels
Getting There
Free hotel pickup included
Duration
11 h
Meeting Point
Central Cape Town hotels
Guest Reviews
Aquila Big 5 Day Safari - swapping city for roaring lions was incredible! At R3,400, Cape Town's closest Big 5 adventure delivered beyond expectations. Just 2 hours from the city, we encountered towering elephants, majestic lions, massive rhinos, Cape buffalo, and even spotted a leopard! The 10,000-hectare reserve in the Karoo is well-managed with healthy, happy animals. Our ranger's expertise in tracking and animal behavior was impressive. The 4x4 game vehicle provided excellent viewing and photo opportunities. The traditional South African lunch was delicious. The reserve's rehabilitation center does important conservation work. This malaria-free safari is perfect for families and those with limited time. Absolutely the best value Big 5 experience near Cape Town!
Aquila Safari - from Cape Town city to roaring lions in 2 hours! R3,400 for the closest Big 5 adventure to Cape Town was fantastico! Swapping city stress for towering elephants and majestic wildlife was therapeutic. We saw all Big 5 including a pride of lions with cubs! The Karoo landscape is dramatically beautiful. Our guide's passion for conservation was infectious. The game drive vehicle was comfortable with great visibility. The authentic braai lunch was delicious. Learning about their rescue and rehabilitation programs was inspiring. The malaria-free environment makes it safe for everyone. This is the perfect introduction to African safari without traveling far!