Aquila Private Game Reserve, under a two hour scenic drive via the N1 from Cape Town, is named after the rare and endangered Black Eagle that thrives in the area. Proclaimed a Private Nature Reserve in 1985, this 4 star, Big 5, malaria free, 4, 500 hectare reserve is steeped in Khoi San and Boer War history and boasts 3 pristine biomes of vegetation set in the most magnificent Karoo mountains, valleys, rivers and kloofs.
Aquila has been recognised alongside the major tourist attractions such as Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch and Robben Island as a must-see Cape destination - it is one of the closest Big 5 safari experience to the Mother City with the introduction of elephants as of August 2006.
What to expect at the lodge/reserve
Premier Cottages:
The Premier Cottages are positioned on the hillside to offer privacy and have been built in harmony with the rock which is a principle focal point in the large bathrooms and alfresco showers. They are constructed from wood, stone and thatch and feature fans, air conditioners and fireplaces. Each en-suite bathroom is unique, with twin hand basins, bath and toilet. The cottages offer a wooden deck with panoramic views across the expanse of the reserve.
Luxury Family Units:
These units are semi detached with attention paid to privacy. Units are equipped with mini bars, tea and coffee making facilities and feature indoor fireplaces for that extra bit of warmth and cosiness in the colder months. They are under thatch and feature exterior stone work using raw materials from the area. The large en-suite bathrooms feature corner baths with outdoor showers.
Standard Cottages:
In keeping with the design and the flow of the architecture at Aquila, the Standard Cottages do not compromise the experience nor standard. Each has its own patio, corner bath and outdoor rock shower. Cottages are equipped with mini bars, fans and feature ‘coal' stoves for that extra bit of warmth and cosiness in the colder months.
Bush Cottages:
Situated in the actual veld of the reserve adjacent to the wetlands area. Originally the reserve staff cottages, these have been beautifully restored and are also equipped with mini bars, fans and uninterrupted views of the reserve and it's inhabitants.
Throughout the reserve, where possible, natural materials found on the property such as rocks, river pebbles, reeds, wood and thatch have been used in order to blend with the surrounding environment. This spacious African character building is the perfect setting for the extensive buffet-style meals served.
Originally the homestead, the building has been redesigned into a sumptuous yet intimate colonial style Cigar Bar that offers one the opportunity of enjoying an after dinner night cap in front of the roaring log fire whilst enjoying the quality cigars on offer.
Situated adjacent to the swimming pool and restaurant, the Pool Bar enjoys the same architecture and African design as the restaurant and seats approximately 20 guests while enjoying the convenience of the pool area.
Led by experienced safari guides, this interactive outdoor experience will teach your little explorer about the amazing animals that call Aquila home, as well as the importance of conservation. From learning to track lion spoor and elephant dung, to learning about native trees and the secrets of the reserve, children will have an exciting time finding animals, making new friends and creating memories. Junior Rangers will also get to participate in a variety of other activities, including fire making, animal tracking, animal identification, and tree planting.
quila's traditional vehicle safaris are led by experienced game rangers and field guides, ensuring guests have the best opportunity to see South Africa's iconic Big Five animals and other native wildlife species.
Your safari guide will take you through Aquila's 10 000 hectare wildlife reserve, sharing inside stories and facts about the natural Karoo environment.
Select your check-in and check-out dates to view availability and the rates applicable.
Qty: 20
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: not allowed in this room type
Offering en suite showers, twin size beds that can be converted into a king size bed, and basic room amenities, the standard lodge rooms are designed for budget-conscious travelers and do not overlook the reserve. Conveniently located near the restaurant and mezzanine bar, all lodge accommodation has easy access via stairs or lifts.
Qty: 5
Sleeps: 5 guests (max 4 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
The perfect configuration for families or friends travelling together, our Standard and Premier Family Lodge Rooms are connected by a common passageway. This arrangement creates a private, shared space for families travelling with small children, ensuring safety and tranquility. Experience the convenience of two bathrooms and a shared balcony within the specially designed family lodge suites.
Qty: 20
Sleeps: 4 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
The Premier Lodge offers a spacious and comfortable safari experience with the luxury and convenience of a premium resort. Guests can appreciate magnificent views of the reserve, or relax and enjoy beautiful sunsets from their private balcony or patio. Premier Lodge rooms are equipped with a sleeper couch for leisure time or to accommodate a child for an overnight stay. They also offer en suite bath and shower facilities with reserve views from the bath.
Aquila's Premier Rooms have twin beds that can be converted into a king-size bed. The lodge accommodation is conveniently located near the restaurant and mezzanine bar, accessible by stairs or lift. Parking is available for easy access.
Qty: 1
Sleeps: 3 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
Where rustic elegance meets the Karoo wilderness. Nestled along a dry river bed, the Karoo Cottages offer a standard overnight safari experience with intimate additions like an indoor fireplace, outdoor shower, corner bath, and private patio.
Seamlessly integrated with the reserve, pathways from the main safari lodge and restaurant enhance the Karoo Cottages’ personal touch, providing ease of access to communal services and facilities. Each cottage has twin beds that can easily be transformed into a comfortable king-size bed.
Qty: 1
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: not allowed in this room type
The Premier Cottages offer a rustic overnight safari experience with the units privately positioned on the rocky Karoo hillside. Built in harmony with the natural landscape, the rock formations are a focal point in the large bathrooms and alfresco showers. These luxury cottages also offer a private wooden deck patio with amazing panoramic reserve views for guests to enjoy unforgettable Karoo sunsets.
At check-in, Premier Cottage guests can enjoy a complimentary bottle of house wine and can opt to replace one game drive with one horseback safari.
Qty: 1
Sleeps: 2 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: not allowed in this room type
Situated atop the Karoo's majestic rock formations, with a private wooden patio offering panoramic vistas of Aquila's 10,000 hectare South African wildlife reserve.
The most luxurious accommodation choice available at Aquila, the deluxe cottage is secluded from the main lodge and has exclusive views of the watering hole, so you can watch the Big Five stroll past on those beautiful afternoons or sit back and enjoy incredible sights of the Karoo sunrise and sunset.
Newly renovated and designed in harmony with the surrounding mountainside, the cottage sleeps two guests and features a free-standing indoor bath (with a view), a spacious corner shower, his-and-hers sinks, and a private outdoor hot tub. Your deluxe safari cottage stay is elevated with air conditioning, bath robes and slippers—ensuring you have everything you need to relax and indulge in the natural tranquility.
Qty: 2
Sleeps: 4 guests (max 4 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
Family cottages are a great option for families who want to experience the thrill of Aquila's Big 5 safari without sacrificing on comfort or convenience. These luxury cottages boast a semi-detached layout, with rustic stone and thatch finishes. The spacious patios open onto wide-open spaces, ensuring plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax. Located in close proximity to the main lodge and children’s adventure zone, the cottages offer a sense of privacy and intimacy while making it easy for families to get to and from meals, activities, and exciting game drives.
Aquila’s family cottages are ideal for two adults and two kids sharing.
Qty: 2
Sleeps: 8 guests (max 8 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
Family cottages are a great option for families who want to experience the thrill of Aquila's Big 5 safari without sacrificing on comfort or convenience. These luxury cottages boast a semi-detached layout, with rustic stone and thatch finishes. The spacious patios open onto wide-open spaces, ensuring plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax. Located in close proximity to the main lodge and children’s adventure zone, the cottages offer a sense of privacy and intimacy while making it easy for families to get to and from meals, activities, and exciting game drives.
Two of the family cottages can accommodate 4 adults and 4 kids in a three bedroom configuration.
Qty: 1
Sleeps: 4 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
The Premier Cottages offer a rustic overnight safari experience with the units privately positioned on the rocky Karoo hillside. Built in harmony with the natural landscape, the rock formations are a focal point in the large bathrooms and alfresco showers. These luxury cottages also offer a private wooden deck patio with amazing panoramic reserve views for guests to enjoy unforgettable Karoo sunsets.
Aquila’s family cottages are ideal for two adults and two kids sharing.
Qty: 1
Sleeps: 3 guests (max 2 adults)
Children: are allowed in this room type
Where rustic elegance meets the Karoo wilderness. Nestled along a dry river bed, the Karoo Cottages offer a standard overnight safari experience with intimate additions like an indoor fireplace, outdoor shower, corner bath, and private patio.
Seamlessly integrated with the reserve, pathways from the main safari lodge and restaurant enhance the Karoo Cottages’ personal touch, providing ease of access to communal services and facilities. Each cottage has twin beds that can easily be transformed into a comfortable king-size bed.
FULLY INCLUSIVE RATES INCLUDE:
Luxury Accommodation
2 x Big 5 game drives per day
Lunch, dinner and breakfast
5 Reviews from SA-Venues.com travellers. All reviews are verified.
Verified review
10 out of 10!
January 2024
Fallon M. (Toronto, CA)
Verified review
Fantastic service from the whole team! We had a wonderful weekend.
January 2024
Enrique R. (United Kingdom)
Response timeAquila Private Game Reserve typically responds to requests in 5-10 minutes.
Child policyChildren of all ages are welcome.
Closest airport(s)Cape Town International - 200km
Check-in/-out timesCheck-in from 14h00
Check-out by 10h00
Payment methods accepted by the property American Express, Diners, Mastercard, Visa, EFT or secure online payment via SA-Venues.com
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Find out more about Touws River as a destination
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