Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is thrilled to announce it has been awarded the prestigious Skål International Conservation and Sustainability Tourism Award for the second time, following its initial win in 2020.
This year’s award was presented at the Skål International Congress 2024 in Izmir, Turkey, recognising Aquila’s remarkable commitment to sustainable tourism over the past 25 years.
Aquila’s Animal Rescue Centre and Eco-Synergy Systems
Aquila’s conservation initiatives are led by its Animal Rescue Centre (ARC), a sanctuary for vulnerable and injured wildlife, including those affected by habitat loss and wildlife poaching.
One of its most celebrated projects, the Saving Private Rhino (SPR) non-profit organisation, has earned global acclaim for its success in providing free anti-poaching training to vulnerable game reserves and protecting endangered, privately-owned rhinos from poaching.
Through ARC, Aquila not only helps save South Africa’s iconic wild animals but also offers visitors a powerful look into the realities of wildlife rehabilitation and the hard work that goes into maintaining and protecting a Big 5 game reserve. Each guest has the unique opportunity to see Aquila’s dedicated rescue work up close, making a lasting impact on their understanding of conservation.
Sustainable Wildlife Tourism in South Africa: Setting New Standards
Aquila’s Eco Synergy Systems lead the way in environmentally conscious tourism by integrating solar energy, water recycling, and waste-to-energy solutions into daily operations. This approach minimises Aquila’s environmental impact while ensuring a luxury experience for guests that doesn’t compromise sustainability.
These systems are part of Aquila’s commitment to minimising its carbon footprint and proving that tourism can be both eco-friendly and exceptional.
Empowering Touws River: Creating Jobs and Opportunities for Local Communities
Aquila’s impact reaches beyond conservation to make a real difference in South Africa. Touws River, a nearby former railway town hit hard by unemployment when railway services closed, leaving about 97% of residents without work.
Over the past 25 years, Aquila has played a transformative role in Touws River, creating employment opportunities, upskilling locals, and supporting entrepreneurs. This community-based tourism approach has revitalised the town, setting an inspiring example for sustainable development and tourism worldwide.
Recognition for Aquila’s Sustainability Efforts at Skål International Congress 2024
The 2024 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards saw 56 entries from 20 countries across eight categories, celebrating tourism leaders making tangible environmental and social impacts. Aquila’s award was decided by an esteemed panel, including:
- Ion Vilcu – Director for Affiliate Members, UN Tourism
- Patricio Azcárate Díaz – General Secretary, Responsible Tourism Institute
- Paloma Zapata – CEO, Sustainable Travel International
Each entry was evaluated on leadership in sustainability, environmental impact, and positive contributions to local communities.
