Aquila’s Deluxe Cottages represent the best accommodation on offer in the reserve. Recently renovated, and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountainside, these exclusive retreats sleep two guests and sit apart from the main lodge, offering uninterrupted views of the watering hole where the Big Five gather throughout the day.

The standout feature is the free-standing indoor bath positioned perfectly to frame the incredible reserve views The spacious corner shower, his-and-hers sinks, plush bathrobes and slippers, and thoughtful touches like hand and body lotion all add to the sense of occasion. An indoor fireplace creates warmth and ambiance for cooler Karoo evenings, whilst air conditioning ensures comfort year-round. Twin beds can be configured as a double, and practical amenities include tea and coffee making facilities, a mini-fridge, and an in-room safe.

Step outside onto your private wooden patio and you’ll discover your own outdoor hot tub, the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the reserve with a glass of complimentary house wine in hand.

Swimming Pool

• Take a refreshing dip in the large swimming pool after a morning tracking wildlife across the reserve
• The spacious surrounding deck is perfect for lounging with a good book or simply soaking up the Karoo sunshine
• An ideal spot to cool off and swap safari stories with fellow guests following a dusty game drive

Spa

• Treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering at the on-site spa
• Choose from a range of revitalising treatments and therapies designed to soothe tired muscles after your adventures
• Local charges apply – booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time slot

Dining

• Enjoy hearty buffet-style meals served three times daily in the main restaurant
• Fuel up with a generous breakfast spread before your morning game drive, refuel at lunch, and unwind over dinner
• Dine with spectacular views across the hills beyond, the perfect backdrop to share the day’s wildlife sightings with fellow travellers

Safari Game Drives

Daily game drives are the highlight of any stay at Aquila Game Reserve, and as a deluxe cottage guest, you’ll enjoy the ultimate safari experience with access to your own private vehicle and expert guide who’ll share their extensive knowledge of the wildlife and terrain.

Game drives are available twice daily; an early morning excursion to catch the animals at their most active in the soft dawn light, followed by an afternoon drive as the heat of the day subsides and wildlife emerges once more.

The privacy of your own vehicle means you can set the pace, linger longer at sightings that captivate you, and enjoy a more intimate, personalised experience of the reserve. Whilst night drives aren’t available at Aquila, the reserve does offer guided stargazing experiences during the evenings, allowing you to discover the wonders of the Karoo’s famously clear night skies.

Each drive promises something different, whether it’s tracking the Big Five, spotting rare birds, or simply soaking up the dramatic beauty of this unique corner of the Western Cape, all from the comfort of your exclusive safari vehicle.

Fancy seeing the reserve from a different vantage point? Deluxe cottage guests can swap one of their scheduled private game drives for a horseback safari and explore Aquila’s sprawling 10,000-hectare Karoo landscape on horseback.

Running daily in the morning and afternoon (subject to availability and weather conditions), these guided rides offer a wonderfully intimate way to experience the African bush.

Don’t worry if you’ve never been in the saddle before, as no prior experience is required. Two qualified game rangers will accompany you throughout, ensuring you’re safe, comfortable, and making the most of every moment.

There’s something special about encountering wildlife at this gentler pace, moving quietly through their natural habitat with only the sound of hoofbeats and birdsong for company.

Looking for a bit more excitement? Deluxe cottage guests can swap one of their private game drives for a quadbike safari and tackle Aquila’s rugged 10,000-hectare reserve with added adrenaline.

These high-energy excursions run daily in the morning and afternoon (subject to availability and weather conditions), letting you power through the dramatic Karoo terrain whilst still getting up close to the resident wildlife. It’s safari with a serious dose of adventure.

Never ridden a quadbike? No problem. Prior experience isn’t necessary, and two qualified game rangers will be with you every step of the way to ensure you’re safe, confident, and having the time of your life.