Cape Town in 1 Day for Couples - Open 4x4 guided game drive searching for the Big Five
In Collaboration with Bella private tours and safari. Updated on February 2, 2026.
A private, full-day romantic safari and wine experience: hotel pickup in Cape Town, guided open-vehicle game drive at Aquila Private Game Reserve with buffet lunch, then a relaxed visit to Fairview Wine & Cheese (optional tasting). Return to Cape Town with an optional rooftop-sunset suggestion to end the day.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Bella private tours and safari, inspired by the tour Cape Town: Aquila Reserve safari with lunch & wine tasting. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Open 4x4 guided game drive searching for the Big Five
- Buffet lunch on the reserve's hilltop restaurant with panoramic views
- Visit Fairview Wine & Cheese: optional cheese + wine tasting and the Goat Tower
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cape Town (comfortable, air-conditioned transport)
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day private safari & wine tasting designed for couples — early morning pickup in Cape Town, game drive at Aquila Private Game Reserve, buffet lunch, Fairview visit, then return to Cape Town with an optional romantic rooftop sunset.
Meet your guide & board (Hotel pickup) — Bree Street, Cape Town
Meet at your arranged Cape Town pickup point on Bree Street (driver will confirm exact building/door). Quick boarding, vehicle and guide introductions before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm the exact meeting spot and mobile number with your operator the night before — Bree Street can be busy; the driver typically waits at the address you provided.
- Dress in light layers for the morning and have a small daypack with sunscreen, hat and sunglasses — the vehicle is air-conditioned but mornings can be cool.
- Keep cameras and passports handy in a small bag; leave large valuables locked in your hotel safe to travel light during the safari.
Transfer: Cape Town → Aquila Private Game Reserve (scenic drive)
Relax in an air-conditioned vehicle for the drive (~2 hours) east toward the Karoo-edge reserve. Light commentary from your guide during transit and short comfort stops as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the side of the vehicle that faces the mountains for better photo opportunities during the drive (ask the driver if unsure).
- Bring motion-sickness remedies if you or your partner are sensitive — the roads are good but the drive is long.
- Use this quiet time to set phones to low-power and enjoy the scenery together — guides often share local stories about the route and farmlands en route to Aquila.
Arrival at Aquila — Welcome drink & light breakfast
Arrive at the reserve, stretch your legs and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and a light buffet breakfast at the lodge before the game drive.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a table with a view — the lodge terrace faces open plains and makes for a peaceful, intimate start to the morning.
- Layered clothing works best: the lodge can be cool in spring mornings but warms quickly once the sun rises.
- If you prefer a quieter breakfast spot, request a table slightly away from the main arrival area — great for a private moment with your partner.
Open 4x4 guided game drive — Aquila private safari
Board an open-top 4x4 for a guided 2–3 hour game drive. Your experienced guide will search for the Big Five and other wildlife while sharing insights about the reserve and bush ecology.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit where you can both see ahead — the front seats give the best unobstructed views for photos and shared moments.
- Bring a telephoto lens or use a 70–200mm equivalent on your camera/phone for intimate animal portraits; keep your voice low to preserve the experience.
- Carry a small blanket or shawl for early-morning chills and coordinate with your partner for alternating photo duties so you both appear in a few images together.
Buffet lunch at the hilltop restaurant — Aquila
Return to the lodge for a bountiful buffet lunch served at the reserve's hilltop restaurant — panoramic views of the reserve make the meal especially scenic.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table on the terrace for uninterrupted views — perfect for a quiet toast after your safari sightings.
- Try local specialities and ask staff for wine pairing suggestions — a glass of South African Chenin Blanc or Shiraz complements many dishes.
- If you want a quieter dining experience, ask to be seated slightly earlier or later than the main group seating time (guides can arrange this when possible).
Transfer: Aquila → Fairview Wine & Cheese (Paarl)
Drive from Aquila to Fairview in Paarl for a relaxed afternoon among vineyards and artisan cheeses. The route moves back toward the Cape Winelands.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a small jacket for the drive — Paarl can be breezier in spring afternoons than the reserve.
- If you love slow travel, request a short vineyard stop en route (subject to time) to stretch your legs and take couple photos among vines.
- Keep small change handy for restroom or deli purchases at roadside stops — helpful if you want something local along the way.
Fairview Wine & Cheese — Optional cheese and wine tasting, deli & Goat Tower visit
Stroll Fairview's farm-style marketplace and Mediterranean restaurant. Join an optional cheese-and-wine tasting, visit the Goat Tower and browse artisanal products — a relaxed, romantic stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the cheese & wine tasting in advance if you want a guided tasting experience — it’s a lovely, intimate activity for couples (the tour is often R95 per person if not included).
- Time your visit for a leisurely stroll — the Goat Tower area is perfect for photos together; arrive early in your slot to avoid crowds.
- Pick up a small cheese or artisan souvenir from the deli as a tasty memento; staff can slice cheese to take home if you ask and pack it for travel.
Return transfer: Fairview → Cape Town (drop-off)
Comfortable drive back to Cape Town with hotel drop-off. Use this time to relax and reflect on the day — a good window for a quick rest before an optional evening.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want a short detour on return (e.g., quick viewpoint or a photo stop), let your guide know — they can usually accommodate small requests time-permitting.
- Consider a quick freshen-up at your hotel before heading out for the evening; most couples prefer a short rest after a full day before dinner.
- Keep your camera batteries charged and shared photos backed up to cloud or phone so you can immediately relive favorite moments together.
Optional romantic rooftop sunset — The Silo Hotel (V&A Waterfront)
If you choose to extend the day, consider a rooftop cocktail or light supper at The Silo Hotel's rooftop/bar area to watch the Cape Town sunset together (reservation recommended).
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table in advance for sunset seating (The Silo is popular); request a spot with western-facing views for the best golden-hour light.
- Order a South African Cap Classique (local sparkling wine) to mark the day — it’s a special moment that feels very 'local and romantic'.
- Dress smart-casual and bring a light wrap — evenings on the waterfront can be cool and breezy even in spring.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Meal, Experience, Nightlife |
