The Western Cape may be famous for its rugged coastlines, vineyards, and iconic Table Mountain, but it’s also home to some of South Africa’s most beautiful game reserves. While it doesn’t offer the Big Five on the same scale as Kruger, the region is perfect for those who want a mix of wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and a more intimate safari experience.
Whether you’re after a luxurious safari lodge, a family-friendly getaway, or a conservation-focused adventure, here are some of the top game reserves in the Western Cape.
1. Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa
Distance from Cape Town: 175 km | 109 mi (~2 hours)
Wildlife Highlights: Big Five, hippos, giraffes and zebras
Best For: Day trips and first-time safari experiences
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of safari life, Aquila is the perfect choice. Just two hours from Cape Town, this 10,000-hectare reserve offers Big Five game drives, horseback safaris, and even quad biking through the bush.
Aquila Private Game Reserve is a great introduction to wildlife viewing, especially for those new to safaris. And the best part? There are no minimum age restrictions for traditional vehicle safari tours, so the whole family can join in on the adventure.
Beyond game viewing, Aquila has a strong conservation focus, with rehabilitation programmes for rescued animals and an internationally acclaimed eco-synergy centre dedicated to the upliftment and restoration of the Karoo.
2. Inverdoorn Game Reserve
Distance from Cape Town: 195 km | 121 mi (~2.5 hours)
Wildlife Highlights: Big Five, Cheetahs, Oryx, Cape fox
Best For: Conservation-focused travellers and relaxing stays
Located in the Ceres Karoo, Inverdoorn is a great option for those looking for a boutique and immersive safari experience. The reserve is particularly well-known for its cheetah conservation programme, allowing visitors to learn about these endangered predators and witness the famous ‘cheetah run’, which forms a vital part of the cheetah rehabilitation.
Beyond cheetahs, you’ll find rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and plenty of smaller wildlife roaming the semi-arid landscape. Best for overnight stays, the reserve offers a mix of luxury chalets and premier safari suites.
3. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Distance from Cape Town: 270 km | 168 mi (~3.5 hours)
Wildlife Highlights: lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs
Best For: Luxury safaris and extended getaways
Sanbona is one of the largest private game reserves in the Western Cape, stretching over 58,000 hectares in the Little Karoo. It’s perhaps best known for its white lions, as well as elephants, rhinos, and cheetahs.
With stunning landscapes and a strong focus on conservation, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers a more exclusive safari experience, but at a premium price. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, boat safaris, and visits to ancient rock art sites.
4. Gondwana Game Reserve
Distance from Cape Town: 380 km | 236 mi (~4.5 hours)
Wildlife Highlights: Big Five, hippos, Cape mountain zebra
Best For: Family-friendly safaris and eco-conscious travellers
Set against the fynbos-covered hills near Mossel Bay, Gondwana is the only Big Five reserve along the Garden Route. The 11,000-hectare reserve combines traditional game viewing with a focus on sustainability.
The lodges are family-friendly, and activities like guided bush walks allow you to appreciate the region’s rich biodiversity beyond the big five game.
5. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Distance from Cape Town: 400 km | 249 mi (~4.5 hours)
Wildlife Highlights: Lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos
Best For: Luxury escapes and unique safari activities
Botlierskop offers a luxury safari experience in a stunning setting between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean.
You’ll find a mix of traditional game drives and alternative safari activities, including horseback safaris, guided walks, and spa treatments with a view of the bush. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation.
Why Choose a Western Cape Safari?
When you think of a safari, the Western Cape might not be the first destination that springs to mind. But if you’re after a unique experience that blends wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and easy accessibility, this region delivers in spades. Whether you’re seeking a luxury getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a quick Big Five sighting, the Western Cape has a game reserve to suit your style.
Malaria-Free Safaris
Unlike some other safari destinations in Africa, the Western Cape is completely malaria-free. While Cape Town has its fair share of mosquitoes, there’s no need for anti-malaria medication, making it a stress-free choice for families with young children and travellers who prefer to skip the extra precautions.
Diverse Landscapes & Wildlife
The Western Cape is known for its rich biodiversity and striking landscapes. From the fynbos-covered hillsides of the Cape Floristic Region to the rugged beauty of the Karoo, the scenery is as much a highlight as the wildlife. While you’ll find iconic African animals in the region’s game reserves, the Western Cape is also home to unique species that thrive in its diverse ecosystems, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your safari experience.
Easily Accessible from Cape Town
One of the biggest perks of a Western Cape safari is convenience. Many reserves are just a short drive from Cape Town or along the scenic Garden Route, making them perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape. Pair your safari with a visit to the city’s famous beaches, the Cape Winelands, or the iconic Table Mountain for an unforgettable South African adventure—all without the long-haul travel often required for other safari destinations.
