Copyright© Aquila Collection. Aquila Collection is a portfolio of big 5 safari lodges in and around the Western Cape, South Africa.
Cape Town, September 04, 2023
Aquila Collection is one of the Western Cape’s leading names in the tourism and conservation industry. Their impressive network of luxurious properties and Big 5 game reserves – located in close vicinity of Cape Town’s CBD – proudly highlights their unique journey from humble beginnings in 1999 to today, as one of South Africa’s top partners in the international tourism and travel market.
Following the success of the recent fam trip, aptly named ‘The Ultimate Cape Town Safari Experience’, Aquila Collection is once again putting Cape Town on the global map!
A prominent name in South African Tourism and Cape Town experiences, the Aquila Collection brand was created thanks to the visionary approach of its founder and owner, Searl Derman, in 1999. As a great lover of wildlife and ecology, Searl set himself the goal of restoring Africa’s Big Five (Big 5): elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard to the Western Cape. After some time, he managed to transform a neglected piece of farmland near Touws River into the now highly renowned Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, just two hours from Cape Town. This stunning Karoo wildlife sanctuary offers guests exciting safari day trips and overnight adventures in search of the famous Big Five.
However, Aquila Collection is more than just Aquila Safaris, they’re a collection of luxury villas, unique accommodation facilities, and exciting attractions in close vicinity of Cape Town’s CBD. The collection also places great emphasis on the vibrant culture at the southern tip of Africa. This up-and-coming Cape Town seaside destination perfectly combines the exuberant soul of the Western Cape and the Overberg coastline with the idyllic atmosphere of Africa’s southernmost point.
The property is located in the Tankwa Karoo National Park (approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town) and offers guests secluded cottages, a large selection of nature excursions and personalised service.
This family-friendly, four-star resort, located on over 10,000 hectares of land, offers guests a wide range of attractions: from traditional car trips to adventurous quad trips.
The feature that distinguishes this resort is undoubtedly the proximity of elephants, which often walk around the luxurious tents. Guests also appreciate the rich offer of safari trips in the Tankwa Karoo Reserve.
Please Note: Kuganha is currently closed for renovations*
Aquila Collection’s boasts stunning seaside properties at the tip of Africa, including the exclusive Marlin Manor villa at Cape L’Agulhas, the charming Cape Agulhas Guest House. and the cozy Kob Cottage. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Catch Cook Restaurant and Beach Bar, a picture-perfect spot to grab a drink, sushi, or fresh seafood at the Struisbaai Harbour.
The mission of Aquila Collection goes far beyond luxury and unforgettable experiences. The brand is a reference point for Cape Town’s eco-tourism industry, implementing innovative initiatives for renewable energy sources, social responsibility, wildlife rehabilitation, and nature conservation. Aquila Collection is also strongly committed to creating new jobs in the Western Cape region, improving the skills of local communities while protecting Africa’s rich culture and biodiversity.
Searl Derman’s goal was not only to reintroduce the Big Five animals to the region, but also to create a haven that combines luxury with the principles environmental conservation and community upliftment. Today, Aquila Collection is proud to have fulfilled its founder’s dream and hopes to continue reshaping the Cape’s much-beloved tourism industry for generations to come.
Copyright© Aquila Collection. Aquila Collection is a portfolio of big 5 safari lodges in and around the Western Cape, South Africa.