Only a scenic two hour drive from Cape Town, over impressive Du Toits Kloof Pass, past Worchester and through the picturesque Hex River Valley, life might seem as it was hundreds of years ago here in the Cape.

Aquila Private Game Reserve is situated along the Karoo Mountains in a unique Renosterveld and Mountain Fynbos landscape with the countryside a kaleidoscope of breathtaking colours in different ranges of orange, green, brown and gold.

This malaria free four star private game lodge is the only authentic Big 5 game reserve in the Cape. Chances are good that you will see many of the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino.

Aquila is approximately 4500 ha in size and rich in Boer war and Khoi San history – you will see old artifacts in the library that might interest you, as well as rock painting sights on the reserve dating back to more than 200 000 years ago!

Many famous people have stayed over at Aquila Private Game Reserve, including Margaret Thatcher, Luke Perry, Tyra Banks and Kerry McGregor. If possible, take the overnight safari, recommended for a special experience.

The luxury cottages are cosy, have outside showers, sleeps two people, and situated close to the river (watch out for buffalo at night outside). The luxury family rooms are spacious, with a touch of contemporary African design and have either 2 or 3 bedrooms.

The premier chalets are (even) more romantic. Situated on the slopes of the hills overlooking the reserve they have ‘waking up in nature’ feel. All the chalets have private outside showers and rose petaled triangle bath tubs and the honeymoon suite has a Jacuzzi..

There is nothing better than starting your day watching the sunrise over the breathtaking landscape, a shower outside and coffee later in the bush with giraffes in the background.

The restaurant at the lodge (built from natural materials, also found on the reserve, like rocks, thatch and wood) offers sumptuous buffet breakfasts, luncheons and dinners, scheduled at specific times to fit in with all activities taking place on the lodge. While having breakfast and lunch inside you might notice Muisvoëls and Swallows flying around.

Enjoy your meal outside and catch a glimpse of the crocodiles and other game, enjoying the view of the mountains. When the wind is right, a fire is made outside , which adds a wonderful atmosphere to your dining experience in the evening.

Give our regards to staff at the reserve, mostly employed from the nearby Touwsriver (with 93% unemployment) - they do make a difference!

For bookings or more information visit www.aquilasafari.com or book with CapeTownMagazine.com online or on our bookings number when in Cape Town: +27 078 686 7505.

Molo Says: “There are many unique activities that will warm the heart of any nature enthusiast, including quad bike safaris, horse-back safaris and game drives. Try and stay overnight or just spend the day. Read our overview of the prices of the different safaris at the reserve.”