Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa

The location was ideal. Very well maintained

It was under renovation. Noisy and busy. Contractor and staff were around with their drilling equipments. The strong wind made it worst

Beautiful setting that’s conveniently located not too far from Cape Town. Our premium room was spacious with an extremely comfortable king-size bed, offering lovely views of the farm and dam. We were even lucky enough to spot quite a few animals right from our balcony! ​The game drives were a highlight - our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining. We were thrilled to see four of the Big 5 (missing only the leopard) and captured some fantastic photos. ​The buffet selection for lunch, dinner, and breakfast was great - delicious, high quality, and with plenty of variety. The bar staff at the pool were also very friendly and provided excellent service. ​Reception was welcoming and efficient, and the restaurant staff were attentive and lovely throughout our stay.

Unfortunately, overall, our stay felt like a mass-tourist resort rather than an authentic African game farm, which was disappointing given the high price point. ​The rooms are not soundproof. You can clearly hear neighbors in the hallway or adjacent rooms. Our sofa was stained, worn, and tired - definitely in need of an upgrade for what we paid. ​The bathroom could have been cleaner. ​During the day, day visitors and buses of noisy school children filled the pool and lounge areas across from the accommodation while waiting for game drives. Loud music was blaring across the property from the pool - again, not what we expected for a wilderness experience (though perhaps we should have researched this more thoroughly). ​Stargazing was canceled due to cloud cover, which is understandable and out of anyone’s control. However, the guide simply said, "Sorry, it's canceled," and walked off. It would have been great if they had engaged the group with a campfire story or shared some insights about the local environment instead. ​We paid extra for the spa since it wasn't included in our package. While the cold plunge pool was under repair (requiring us to go outside without any offer of a reduced rate), the biggest issues were staff attitude and guest policy. The spa staff made us feel like an inconvenience. Furthermore and by far the worst, tour bus drivers were using the spa - lying on the loungers by the heated pool, talking loudly, drinking guest beverages, and staring at us in the pool. A paid spa facility should be restricted to paying guests to ensure a comfortable environment. ​In summary the resort was adequate for basic needs and seeing the wildlife, but it fell far short of our expectations relative to the high price charged.

Beautiful setting. Clean. Staff excellent. Food great.

When all the building work is completed it will be heavenly. I understand it needs doing to grow but at no point was it ever mentioned or acknowledged. The rooms themselves had work done in them whilst staying in them 😂

We were initially a little hesitant about Aquila after reading some mixed reviews, but we were pleasantly surprised and had a wonderful stay! The location and accommodation was beautiful, the buffet food was delicious, and the highlight, of course- the safari drives which were incredible. We got to see most of the Big Five up close, making it such a memorable experience. The staff were very friendly, and we also loved the spa — our African Wood Massage and facial were fantastic, with excellent therapists. Overall, a wonderful stay that exceeded our expectations. We’d definitely recommend Aquila private game reserve for a convenient safari close to Cape Town.