ULTIMATE CAPE TOWN SAFARI EXPERIENCE FAM TRIP FOR UK AND IRELAND MARKET

This experience was in partnership with KLM and Red Elephant Reps and highlights the Western Cape’s bucket-list wildlife excursions.

Aquila Collection, a leading name in South African safari experiences, proudly announces the successful completion of its latest edition of its pioneering Ultimate Cape Town Safari Experience fam trip, this time focusing on the UK and Ireland market. In partnership with KLM and Red Elephant Reps, the trip showcased the Western Cape’s unparalleled wildlife, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes—all accessible via a single airport entry and exit.

The five-night adventure was meticulously designed to highlight Aquila Collection as an anchor tenant in the Western Cape, emphasising the ease and appeal of one-airport-use itineraries. Delegates were guided through stunning landscapes, featuring bucket-list safaris and wildlife excursions at Aquila Private Game Reserve and Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve, as well as visits to the renowned vineyards of Stellenbosch and the lush, cool-climate beauty of the Elgin Valley.

“Hosting our UK and Ireland partners has been an incredible opportunity to showcase the diverse experiences that the Western Cape and Aquila Collection has to offer,” said Johan van Schalkwyk, Commercial Officer at Aquila Collection. “Our goal is to change the perception that a holiday in the Western Cape is just a one-stop affair. We want to inspire long-haul visitors to see Cape Town as a gateway to a multitude of adventures, all within close proximity.“

Despite a Level 6 weather warning during the fam trip week, the spirit of adventure remained unshaken. Delegates experienced an exhilarating quad bike ride and safari game drive at Aquila Private Game Reserve, complemented by South African wine and gin and tonic. At Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve, an unexpected out-of-the-ordinary river turned the game drive into an unforgettable experience, culminating in breathtaking views of the Milky Way at night.

The journey continued with a sunrise game drive, where guests spotted baby giraffes, newly born buffalo, young rhinos, and nearly a hundred ostrich chicks against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains. “This pre-spring safari delight truly set the stage for showcasing the unique experiences of the Aquila Collection,” added van Schalkwyk.

Transitioning from wildlife to wine, the group visited Stellenbosch, indulging in traditional South African dishes—like the “braai broodjie”—paired with local wines. An adventurous downhill Scootours experience provided stunning views of the winelands, adding a unique twist to exploring the landscape.

Culinary experiences were a highlight, including a modern take on heritage flavours at Eike, a restaurant by celebrity South African chef Bertus Basson. “Sharing stories unlocked by the authentic tastes of local cuisine was a memorable way to immerse our guests in our culture,” noted van Schalkwyk. “It’s experiences like these that truly inspire our guests to promote Cape Town as a top travel destination.”

The itinerary also included a day in the Elgin Valley, filled with wines, cheeses, ciders, and the warmth of friendship. A playful “battle of the pies” showcased regional specialties, adding a dash of fun to the journey. “Our UK friends thought they had the best pies back home, so we couldn’t resist a taste test. In the end, the taste of the Cape undoubtedly won the day,” van Schalkwyk remarked with a smile.

Concluding in the heart of Cape Town, the delegates enjoyed a gala dinner at Salon in Woodstock, celebrating the flavours and vibrancy of the Mother City. The trip emphasised that with comfortable and easy access via KLM flights from Europe, the Western Cape is an ideal destination for UK and Ireland travellers seeking a diverse and enriching experience.

“Aquila Collection is committed to promoting the Western Cape as a bucket-list destination,” said van Schalkwyk. “Our latest partnership with KLM has been instrumental in making this fam trip a success. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors from the UK and Ireland to explore the natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences that await just outside of Cape Town.“