The number of visitors who include golfing in South Africa as part of their vacation itineraries has steadily increased due not only to the game's popularity and the popularity of the country itself, but also to the 500 courses available throughout the region.

South Africa golf courses are concentrated in most large cities, and some smaller courses are located in out-of-the-way but easily accessible locations. Courses are found in the Western Cape area through to the Limpopo Province, providing vacationers with plenty of courses to choose from in all areas of South Africa.

The weather in South Africa is ideal for golfing. with sun-filled days and cool nights. For the most part, the courses are of good quality, well maintained, and have reasonable greens fees. Golfing in South Africa is a popular sport and is often included as part of vacation packages at resorts, such as those at Kruger National Park, or as a touring package aboard a Rovos Rails coach.

South Africa Map

To experience golf in South Africa in the wild, there are possibilities to play within numerous national parks and game reserves. At Kruger National Park's Skukuza Golf Course, golfers are warned ahead of time that dangerous animals might be present, as the course itself is set within the African bush among the resident lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and hippos—which have free reign of the greens.

Travelers interested in both golf and the native animals will likely find this type of course to be perfect, and other South Africa golf courses where sharing the tee with wildlife is part of the game are found at Mabalingwe Country Club in the Limpopo Province and Kirkman's Kamp in Mpumalanga. Vacationers can also play golf in South Africa among the inhabitants of Zululand at Prince's Grant Golf and Country Estate. Golfers play the course in an exotic setting of wildlife, monkeys, and birds. Located near Durban, the club is smaller and not as crowded as many others, and it ranks in the top level of South Africa golf courses.

Rovos Rail offers nine-day package tours for golfing in South Africa, beginning in Pretoria with stops along the way to play at the Hans Merensky estate, Swazi Golf Club, Durban Beach Club, and the Champagne Sports Resort. Sightseeing, stopping at local attractions, and a visit to the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve are part of this golfing tour. While traveling at a leisurely pace along the train's route, you will enjoy the scenery and fine dining while staying in a luxurious turn-of-the-century coach.

A scenic and less expensive South Africa golf course is Goose Valley, which is located along the Garden Route in the Western Cape area. Designed by Gary Player, the lush course sits just off the coastline and provides spectacular views of the ocean and nearby mountains. Also in the Western Cape area, the De Zalze Golf Club offers the best of both worlds when it comes to South Africa golf. The club is located on the De Zalze Winelands Golf Estate in the heart of the winelands—perfect for travelers who want to make both wine tours and golf part of their vacation.

Although golf in South Africa is a popular sport among vacationers, there are opportunities to add depth to the experience. At Soweto Golf Club, located near Johannesburg, not only will you play South Africa golf, but you will also have the opportunity to learn about the history of the largest settlement in Africa and a site of many significant events in the twentieth century. Ultimately, no matter where you play, golf in South Africa offers an unrivaled experience to connect with the country, whether through its history, wildlife, or natural setting.