You do not need to fly to the bushveld to see African wildlife. From Somerset West you can join a safari-style drive at Vergelegen within minutes, and reach Big 5 reserves in the Western Cape in roughly two hours. The Western Cape is not a malaria area, and Inverdoorn, for example, advertises itself as malaria-free. Here are the safaris we would suggest to our guests, and how to choose between them.
Vergelegen: a safari-style drive on our doorstep
The quickest safari is right here in Somerset West. The environmental tour at Vergelegen travels through the estate's arboretum and biodiversity nature reserve, and it showcases around 20 years of rehabilitation work. You may see Nguni cattle, bontebok, Rau quagga and eland, along with smaller animals and birds. Cape Town Tourism describes it as a safari-style trip. Bookings are made through Vergelegen, so contact the estate ahead of time. Pair it with lunch and a garden walk, and read more in our guide to the best wine estates in Somerset West.
Waterford: a wine drive safari
Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch offers a Wine Drive Safari, a relaxed tasting of several wines in different settings around the estate that lasts three hours or more. It is more about wine and views than wildlife, but it is a fun way to enjoy a safari-style outing without a long drive. Advance booking is essential, and the estate suggests arriving hungry and leaving plenty of time.
Aquila Private Game Reserve: the closest Big 5
Aquila was founded in 1999 and describes itself as the first official Big 5 reserve close to Cape Town. It is home to lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, and its website says it is just under two hours from Cape Town, so allow a little longer from Somerset West. Aquila currently lists half-day safaris (early morning, afternoon and sunset), full-day options including traditional, quad bike and horseback safaris, and overnight stays. For a first Big 5 experience with a base at Villa Helderberg, an early-morning or full-day trip is the easiest choice.
Inverdoorn: an overnight in the Tankwa Karoo
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve covers 10,000 hectares of the Tankwa Karoo, less than 2.5 hours from Cape Town. It lists lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo, and offers guided safari drives, cheetah conservation experiences and birdwatching. Its website focuses on overnight stays, so this is the one to choose if you want a night under Karoo stars rather than a day trip.
Buffelsfontein: a smaller reserve on the West Coast
Buffelsfontein Game and Nature Reserve is a family-owned reserve of about 1,600 hectares, roughly an hour from Cape Town according to its website. Wildlife includes lion, buffalo, white rhino and giraffe, and it offers guided game drives, a restaurant and accommodation. It is a good option if you want a shorter drive and do not need the full Big 5, and reviewers describe it as rustic and close to nature.
Marine and bird safaris
Not every wildlife highlight is on four legs. Southern right whales visit Hermanus from around June until early December, penguins live on Boulders Beach in Simon's Town, and West Coast National Park is a paradise for birders, with more than 250 species recorded each year. Our guides to the top 10 things to do in Cape Town and the top 10 things to do in the Western Cape cover them in more detail.
Plan your safari day
Book ahead, ask about departure times and pick-up options, and check the reserve's own website for current activities and hours. Bring layers, sunscreen, a hat and a camera. Guests at Villa Helderberg can ask us about day trips, and you can browse our activities for more ideas.
Which safari is right for you?
If you are short on time, choose Vergelegen or Waterford. If you want to see the Big 5 in a single day, Aquila is the closest option. If you would like a night in the Karoo, look at Inverdoorn, and if you prefer a shorter drive, consider Buffelsfontein. Travelling with children? See our guide to things to do with kids in Somerset West, and check each reserve's age policy before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see the Big 5 near Somerset West?
Yes. Aquila and Inverdoorn both list lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, and both are within roughly two to two and a half hours of Cape Town.
Do I need malaria tablets?
The Western Cape is not a malaria area, and Inverdoorn describes itself as malaria-free. If you plan to visit other parts of southern Africa, check with a doctor or travel clinic.
What is the best time for a safari in the Western Cape?
Reserves operate all year, and early mornings and evenings are usually best for seeing animals, especially in hot weather. Ask your chosen reserve about the season you are visiting.