Picture a swing facing the Indian Ocean, a green bordered by acacias where impalas graze, or a course sculpted into the Cape winelands. Golf in South Africa is not just a sport: it’s an experience in its own right, a rare balance of elegance, nature and adventure.
With over 500 courses, year-round sunny weather and refined hospitality, South Africa stands as one of the world’s finest golf destinations — and undoubtedly the most inspiring on the African continent.
Golf in South Africa, a tradition of excellence
A prestigious heritage
The country’s first club, the Royal Cape Golf Club, opened in 1885 — two years before golf was introduced to the United States. The South African Open, established in 1893, is the second oldest national tournament in the world after the British Open.
Birthplace of legends like Gary Player, Ernie Els and Louis Oosthuizen, the country still celebrates their heritage today. Many exceptional courses have been designed by these masters, combining technique, aesthetics and respect for the landscape.
When golf meets the spirit of travel
What makes golf in South Africa unique is this alchemy between sport and exploration. Here you play at the foot of mountains, among the vines or just metres from a game reserve. A golf holiday becomes a sensory, high-end journey, often combined with a safari or an escape along the Garden Route.
Golf and safari: the exceptional courses of the Kruger
Leopard Creek Country Club – the legend signed by Gary Player
Designed by Gary Player, this course overlooks the Crocodile River, facing Kruger National Park. From the green, you can sometimes spot hippos and elephants below — a unique and unforgettable experience.
An ideal stop to extend a Kruger safari trip, combining exceptional golf with wild immersion.
Skukuza Golf Club – the thrill of wild golf
Nestled in the heart of the Kruger, this 9-hole course founded in 1972 offers an authentic atmosphere. Here, you sometimes share the fairway with zebras or curious monkeys, and crocodiles prefer the water hazards… a unique setting for bush golf as unpredictable as it is fascinating.
Legend Golf & Safari Resort – the vertigo experience
In Limpopo, this monumental course houses the famous 19th hole, accessible only by helicopter. The shot is played from a 400-metre cliff, towards a green shaped like the African continent: a perfect symbol of the bold spirit of South African golf.
The finest golf courses in and around Cape Town
Royal Cape Golf Club – historic nobility
The oldest club in the country, with its spectacular views of Table Mountain, remains a must for any golfer passionate about history and tradition.
Arabella Golf Estate – the coastal elegance of Hermanus
In Hermanus, a prime whale-watching destination, the course designed by Peter Matkovich stretches between lakes, dunes and ocean. A technical challenge, enhanced by a soothing natural setting.
Steenberg and De Zalze – among vines and refinement
In the heart of the Constantia vineyards, Steenberg Golf Club combines golf and wine tasting: a typically South African art of living. Nearby, De Zalze Golf Club, surrounded by vines and ponds, charms with its peaceful beauty and perfect balance between sport and gastronomy.
The Garden Route, a golfer’s paradise
The Garden Route is a concentration of sublime landscapes, from mountains to lagoons and coastal forests. It’s also the birthplace of South Africa’s most prestigious courses.
Pezula Championship Golf Course
Overlooking the Indian Ocean, this spectacular course was voted the most beautiful golf course in South Africa upon opening. Every hole offers a breathtaking view: it’s an experience that is both technical and contemplative.
Fancourt Hotel & Country Club Estate
An icon of luxury golf, Fancourt houses three courses designed by Gary Player, including the famous The Links, host of the 2003 Presidents Cup. The 5-star resort combines guaranteed green fees, spa, gastronomy and sumptuous accommodation: an art of travel where everything is thought out to the finest detail.
Extend the experience with a Garden Route itinerary to savour beaches, coastal panoramas and exceptional golfing stops.
Johannesburg and Gauteng: urban excellence
Around Johannesburg, several renowned clubs welcome discerning golfers:
- Glendower Golf Club, known for its international tournaments.
- The River Club, elegant and exclusive, appreciated by business travellers.
An ideal stop to conclude your golf trip to South Africa with a cosmopolitan touch.
A tailor-made golf holiday with South African Travellers
Every golf trip is a different story. Some dream of a circuit combining golf and safari in the Kruger, others of a romantic stay in Cape Town or an exploration along the Garden Route.
With South African Travellers, every course becomes an exceptional stopover. Our travel designers book the best green fees for you, select luxury accommodation near the courses, and create tailor-made itineraries where sport and relaxation combine harmoniously.
Request a quote today and let yourself be inspired by the elegance of African golf.
To go further
- Discover our family circuits on the Garden Route.
- Dive into the Cape Winelands guide to combine wine, terroir and landscapes with your golf trip.
