Booking choice: The Big Five day trip, from $185 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Aquila and Inverdoorn are both in the malaria-free Karoo, so families can skip antimalarials, which is a big reason parents choose them over Kruger.
Age rules vary a lot between tours, so check them before you fall for a listing.
The quick answer
The flagship Big Five day trip takes children from 3 (child rate for ages 3 to 11 when sharing with two paying adults; infants 0 to 2). The all-inclusive Aquila tour has a child band from 4 to 11. The Aquila safari with lunch takes children from 8, and the 2-day Inverdoorn trip from 8. Expect about four hours of driving in total.
Can young children go on an Aquila day safari?
On some tours: the flagship takes children from 3, and infants on request, but other tours set a minimum age of 8.
Check the listing's age bands before booking. Infant seats on the flagship are available if you ask at booking (the cost is not included).
| Tour | Children | From |
|---|---|---|
| Big Five day trip | Child rate 3 to 11; infants 0 to 2 | $185 |
| All-inclusive Aquila safari | Child band 4 to 11 | $305 |
| Aquila safari with lunch | From 8 years only | $234 |
| 2-day Inverdoorn safari | From 8 years | $689 |
Travelling with little ones? Check dates for the Big Five day trip, which takes children from 3.
Check dates for the Big Five day tripHow much do children pay?
Less than adults: the tours above have child rates, and operators list the park charge for children at a reduced rate.
On the flagship, the child rate only applies when a child shares with two paying adults. Aquila's own site lists 50% off for children 4 to 11 on traditional safaris. The exact figure shows at checkout once you add children.
Is the drive too long for kids?
It is about two hours each way, which most children manage with a stop; the flagship breaks it up with a winery stop.
One family on the flagship mentioned that the winery stop had a bakery and a playground that kept the children busy. Bring snacks, water and something to do in the car.
Will children see the animals well?
Yes: the open vehicles stop close to elephants, rhinos and giraffe, and the lions are reliably seen in their section.
One guest who took a 9-year-old said the whole family had a fantastic time, and praised the guide and the pool at the lodge. Pack child-sized binoculars if you have them.
Want lunch and fees sorted for the whole family? This tour includes both, plus a three-hour drive.
Explore the all-inclusive Aquila safariIs a private tour better with kids?
Often yes: you control stops and timing, and there are no other pickups.
The private full-day safari includes lunch and the drive and is bookable for families; it takes children from 2 at a child rate. A private vehicle at the reserve is an extra worth considering if your children need breaks.
Want your own car and driver? Check dates for the private full-day safari.
Check dates for the private full-day safariIs it safe and malaria-free?
Yes: the Karoo reserves are malaria-free, and the drives are in vehicles with trained rangers.
Follow your ranger's briefing on the vehicle. Several listings say the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, and one reviewer joked about the bumpy roads.
What should kids wear and bring?
Warm layers, a hat, sunscreen and snacks; Karoo mornings are cold in winter and afternoons hot in summer.
See what to wear on safari for the full packing list.
What if a day safari is not right for your kids?
For toddlers, a shorter half-day safari booked direct with Aquila cuts the day down; older children who want something wilder may love the Marine Big 5.
The Marine Big 5 trip has child rates from 5 to 11, but the sea can be rough; one family reported seasick children who were well looked after by the crew.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for an Aquila safari?
It depends on the tour: the flagship takes children from 3 and infants on request, while the Aquila safari with lunch takes children from 8.
Do children pay the full park fee?
No. Child rates are lower; check the total at checkout after adding children.
Can babies go on a day safari?
On some tours: the flagship lists an infant band (0 to 2) and infant seats on request. Ask the operator about infants on the open vehicle.
Ready to book
Choose your safari
Most options cancel free up to 24 hours before; check each listing. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Big Five Safari & Breede River Valley Day Trip
- Professional guide and an upmarket vehicle
- Hotel pickup within 10 km of central Cape Town, 8:30 AM start
- Stop at Du Toitskloof Wines and views over the Breede River Valley
Aquila Safari with Buffet Lunch, Fees Included
- Round-trip hotel pickup within 10 km of the city centre, 9 AM start
- Three-hour group safari in an open 4x4 with a guide
- Buffet lunch, welcome drink, bottled water, park fees and taxes
Private Full-Day Aquila Safari
Your own driver, with lunch and the game drive included
