Where to go on a South African golfing safari

Imagine playing a game of golf on a world-class golf course, teeing up for your next ball while looking out over a Big 5 game reserve. There’s a herd of giraffes in the distance, and earlier you spotted elephants drinking from a waterhole. This is what you can expect on a typical golf safari in South Africa. The combination of both a safari and golfing is any golfers dream. While the country is home to many five-star courses, I’ve selected some of the best on offer. Pack your gear and get ready to come to South Africa on an unforgettable golfing getaway! Leopard Creek, Kruger National Park The Leopard Creek golf course borders the renowned Kruger National Park, and hippo, antelope, buffalo and elephant are frequently spotted on the course. The best hole on the course is the 13th hole, situated on the river with views over Kruger National Park. After a round of golf, you can retreat to the clubhouse, where you can enjoy a cocktail from the bar or a delicious meal from the kitchen. The facilities include a Pro Shop, changing rooms, individual lockers, and covered parking for golf carts. You can stay at a number of luxury lodges in Kruger and the surrounding area. Legend Golf and Safari Resort World-class accommodation and golf courses await you at Legend Golf and Safari Resort. The resort boasts an 18-hole Signature Golf Course, a 10-hole Tribute Course, and the renowned Extreme 19th – a hole set in the Hanglip Mountain, accessible only by helicopter! While it’s a paradise for golfers, it is also a magnificent destination for a safari getaway or a business trip. You’ll enjoy luxury accommodation during your stay and activities like game drives and hot air balloon safaris. At the end of each day, you can retire to the Signature Clubhouse, where you’ll find a health gym, changing rooms, pro shop, splash pool and sky bar. Skukuza Golf Course Situated in Kruger National Park and bordering Skukuza Rest Camp is where you’ll find Skukuza Golf Course. The golf course is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary where the Big 5 roam, and where exquisite birds and animals can be seen. The 9-hole course is unfenced, which means you’ll see an abundance of animals on the green, including hippo, impala, warthog and baboons. The Skukuza Golf Club has everything you need, including caddies, motorised golf carts and pull carts. After a successful game of golf, you can enjoy a refreshing drink from the club’s bar. Hans Merensky Hotel and Spa The Hans Merensky Hotel is a four-star resort and a haven for golfers. The resort’s award-winning 18-hole, par 72 Championship golf course was designed by well-known golf architect, Bob Grimsdell. Located near Kruger National Park’s Phalaborwa Gate, the course is home to a plethora of wild animals; elephant, buffalo, hyena, lion, hippos, warthogs, monkeys, giraffe and antelope regularly visit the golf course. The golfing experience at Hans Merensky Hotel includes luxury accommodation, comprised of hotel rooms and self-catering units. After a day of golf, you can quench your thirst and satisfy your appetite at the Leadwood restaurant, which features an a la carte menu and a buffet. Kruger Park Lodge Golf Course Set on the banks of the Sabie River, Kruger Park Lodge boasts a pristine Gary Player-designed golf course. With nine holes and 18 tees, the golf course is an African paradise home to an abundance of wildlife and beautiful water features. If you’re looking for an easy-going game of golf with beautiful views, Kruger Park Lodge Golf Course is the perfect destination. Your golfing experience comprises accommodation in luxury chalets, and activities like nature walks or a dip in one of the three swimming pools. The lodge has everything you need for a relaxing holiday, on and off the green. Colin Dilland is Owner and Managing Director of East Cape Tours and Safaris. East Cape Tours is a South African based travel company offering bespoke tailor-made trips across Southern Africa. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.