We will be in the area and are wondering which of these two private reserves is the best experience. Which would have MORE of the animals they claim to have?Does anyone have any experience at either to recommend? Thanks!

anybody?

Also have a look at Sanbona.

I have only been to Aquila, and that was back in 2004, but my memory of the place is that there weren't very many animals. Also, I have read an unfavourable review on this forum that described it as a "zoo". Do a search of this forum and you may come up with that review. CR

thanks. That might be the general feeling then about many of the smaller private reserves.

Here is the thread:

http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...-or-aquila.cfm

Just to let everyone know we had to cancel our trip. Our son did go along the route we had planned, but by himself. From other posts I had been recommended to take alook at Schotia Game Reserve near Port Elizabeth.

He stayed there for two nights and thorughly enjoyed himself and the several game drives he went on with his guide. He also visited the combination Addo Elephant Park while there.

Thanks for all the suggestions. We hope to use them one day ourselves!