Location: South Africa » Western Cape » Cape Peninsula » Northern Suburbs » Cape TownAquila Private Game ReserveAquila Private Game Reserve Hotel / Lodge accommodation in Bloubergstrand Western CapeDescriptionCape Town's very own four-star Aquila Private Game Reserve, a leisurely two-hour drive on the N1 from the Mother City, has been hailed as the prefect getaway, ranked alongside Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch, Robben Island and Cape Point as a major Cape destination.
With the re-introduction of rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo, the reserve is also the closest Big Game have come to Cape Town in 250 years. Other residents include Giraffes, large herds of Zebra, Black & Blue Wildebeest, Red Hartebeest, Warthog, Eland, Springbok, Blesbok, Ostriches, Gemsbok, Hippos, Crocodiles & other indigenous game.
Guests can interact with the lion cubs (under strict supervision)- a highlight of one?s visit. Aquila?s huge natural wetland is also home to a wide array of bird species. Since the 4-star Aquila Private Game Reserve was founded, its ethos and that of our team of dedicated staff, has always been to educate guests on the importance of wildlife conservation, how it affects us all and what we as individuals can do to protect it and indeed the environment.
Aquila is not yet another luxury game reserve and lodge, its primary purpose is to offer an educational experience to all who visit in the hope that knowledge will enrich our understanding of the importance of living in harmony with Mother Nature.
Over the years, Aquila Private Game Reserve has gone to massive efforts and expense to source and re-introduce wildlife into the Cape region so that local residents and visitors alike can benefit from same and we are therefore proud to offer our visitors an opportunity to experience a Big 5 safari.
In another of our conservation efforts, we currently offer our visitors a complimentary educational introduction to our cheetahs, highlighting the plight of the free ranging cheetah and their critically diminishing numbers. It is important to note that our cheetahs were captive bred and not ‘born free’ nor do they form part of Aquila’s game drive and the experience is strictly controlled and in the interest of cheetah survival worldwide. Guests however are not allowed to directly interact with the cheetahs but are given a comprehensive talk on the plight of these beautiful cats.   
AttractionsActivities on the Reserve
Game Drives
Morning and evening game drives with qualified field rangers in open 4x4 vehicles. Game drives range between two and three hours with sparkling wine, grape juice, water and snacks such as biltong, “droewors”, nuts and dried fruits served at various lookout points. There will only be snacks on the 16h00 game drive, but drinks on all the others.
Horse-back Safari
One of the best ways to see the animals on the Reserve is from horseback. You are accepted by the animals as one of their own and are able to get closer to most game on the Reserve. No experience is required. Minimum age requirement is 16 yrs old.
There is a maximum of 9 people per safari, they are guided by one of our rangers. Duration: 2 hours
Quad bike Safari
Minimum age requirement is 16 yrs old. There is a maximum of 10 people per safari guided by two rangers. 1 client per vehicle. Duration: 2 hours
Activities in close proximity to Aquila
The little Karoo enjoys sunshine most of the year. Summers are dry and warm, winters are dry and crisp. The prevailing weather lends itself to long walks, hiking, cycling and other sports activities.
Matjiesfontein Village
This historic village has a rich background, dating back to its roots in the late nineteenth century. From its ties with the Boer War, to the pioneering spirit engendered by its founder, James Logan, it is steeped in the history of an era, the echoes of which still reverberate through the streets and buildings. A double-decker London Bus makes a daily tour of the Matjiesfontein Village.
Karoo National Park
Large herds of antelope and abundant bird life. The Park offers a Fossil Trail, which has wide walkways for wheel chairs and Braille board inscriptions for the convenience of the blind and taped commentary is available for disabled visitors who have their own cassette players. Gondwanaland is explained, and along this 400m route, there are superb examples of fossilised mudstone, silified trees and a wide variety of fossils, most of which have been found in the Beaufort Series of rock formations.
4x4 Mountain trails
There are many mountain trails in the Karoo and Breede river area. The most popular one and also nearest to Aquila is Leeuwenboschfontein with route distance of 18 km (4-5 hours). Maximum of 20 vehicles allowed.
Golf
De Doorns offers a 9 hole course. With 18 hole courses at both Ceres and Worcester.
Trout Fishing and Cherry Picking can also be arranged from the Reserve.   
Accolades | :Tourism Council of SA Star Grading |
TGCSA Star GradingFacilities Restaurant
Built from natural materials found on the reserve such as rocks, river pebbles, reeds, wood and thatch to blend with the surrounding environment, this spacious, high ceilinged, African character building with large fireplaces is the perfect setting for the superb buffet meals served. Meals are prepared by an internationally acclaimed chef and traditional meals are offered as well as the standard fare. Catering for special dietary requirements is provided. The restaurant can seat up to approximately 300 people.
Pool Bar
Situated off the swimming pool and next to the restaurant this “African” styled bar seats approximately 20 guests overlooking the pool area Main Swimming Pool
This new saltwater pool has a length of 35 meters and with rock finishes is made good use of in the summer months. Children's Adventure Area Kids go Wild in a large securly fenced area that ensures complete safety and total peace of mind to their families. Children have access to a wide range of activites that provide not only hours of fun but also educate our young visitors on wildlife, conservation, the ecology and how to look after our world and the beautiful creatures that inhabit it. Boma
Restaurant Boma – Outdoor dropped open air Boma, situated outside the Restaurant and can seat 64 guests.
Curio Shop
The well stocked curio shop is situated at the reception area and offers various African souvenirs for sale, as well as some locally manufactured goods. It also offers various “Aquila” branded apparel and gifts.
DirectionsDrive along the N1, turn left at the R46 to Ceres just before reaching Touws River. Aquila Private Game Reserve is on the right hand side of the road.  
|
Aquila Private Game Reserve
021 422 5556
021 422 5556