South Africa golf holiday FAQs

A diverse and breathtaking destination at the tip of Africa, South Africa is world-famous not only for its safaris and wine regions but also for its spectacular golf. From the championship fairways to dramatic coastal views, golfers are treated to world-class courses in stunning natural settings.

With luxury resorts, vibrant cities like Cape Town, and the chance to combine golf with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, a South Africa golf holiday truly has it all.

Check out some of our top tips and FAQs for a South Africa golf trip to make your next holiday as smooth and unforgettable as possible!

There are over 450 golf courses in South Africa, which makes it the country in Africa to have the most courses.

Some of our favourite golf courses in South Africa include:

• The Links, Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate – South Africa’s No.1 course, a Gary Player masterpiece and former Presidents Cup host.
• Leopard Creek Country Club – A stunning Kruger-edge layout where fairways meet safari, and wildlife often roams nearby.
• St Francis Links – A Jack Nicklaus design blending coastal views with true links-style challenge.
• Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Pearl Valley – Championship golf in the Cape Winelands, renowned for pristine conditioning and water hazards.
• Montagu Course, Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate – A parkland gem at Fancourt, combining lush fairways and a classic design loved by members and guests alike.

See our article on the best golf courses in South Africa for more information.

The Links Course at Fancourt is widely regarded as the best golf course in South Africa. Designed by Gary Player and often described as his greatest architectural achievement, it was transformed from a former airfield into a dramatic, dune-inspired landscape reminiscent of Scotland and Ireland’s classic links.

With firm, fast-running fairways, revetted bunkers, and creative green complexes, The Links provides a challenging yet rewarding test for every golfer. Surrounded by the breathtaking Outeniqua Mountains and maintained to immaculate standards, it is a true bucket-list experience.

South Africa offers a plethora of beautiful four and five-star stay-and-play resorts with golf, bars, restaurants, spa facilities and more, all under one roof.

• Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate – South Africa’s premier golf resort, home to three world-class courses, including The Links, alongside luxury accommodation and spa facilities.
• Pezula Nature Hotel & Spa – Perched above Knysna’s coastline, combining dramatic golf with breathtaking ocean and lagoon views.
• Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa – A five-star retreat near Hermanus, renowned for its award-winning course set beside the Bot River Lagoon.
• Simola Golf & Country Estate – A Jack Nicklaus Signature design nestled in the Knysna hills, paired with stylish suites and serene surroundings.

See our article on the best golf resorts in South Africa for more information.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are usually the best destinations for a golf holiday. However, we’d also strongly recommend visiting the Garden Route or Durban, which has some amazing golf courses.

For those seeking a more curated adventure, our South Africa golf tour experiences combine championship golf with culture, wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes:

• Rovos Rail Golf Collage – A luxury rail journey through South Africa, with golf at championship venues and iconic safari experiences.
• Cape Town & Winelands Golf Tour – Play premium courses while exploring Cape Town’s sights and the famous Stellenbosch wine region.
• Western Cape Golf & Safari – Combine coastal golf with safari game drives for the ultimate South African escape.
• Cape Triangle Golf Tour – Experience the highlights of Cape Town, the Winelands, and the Garden Route, all in one trip.
• Garden Route Tour – Follow South Africa’s most famous coastal road while playing courses like Fancourt, Pinnacle Point, and Pezula.

The optimal time for golf is between September and April, as there is minimal rainfall and warm weather during these months due to its location in the southern hemisphere.

Top tip: If you are considering a Winter golf holiday, South Africa is an excellent option!

Yes, courses across the country are open all year. Conditions are excellent during the main season (Sept–Apr), but many destinations such as Sun City and Durban offer playable golf even in the South African winter.

Golfbreaks offers a plethora of golf packages to South Africa to cater for all budgets and requirements; however, prices can vary depending on the chosen season, duration, board basis, and group size.

South Africa packages start from £1,055 per person based on 7 nights of bed & breakfast, and 4 rounds of golf.

Absolutely, who wouldn't want to go on a golf & safari holiday while in South Africa? Combine rounds at courses like Leopard Creek or Arabella Golf Course with game drives to see the Big Five.

Flights from London to Cape Town or Johannesburg take around 11–12 hours direct.

The main international gateways are Cape Town International Airport (for Garden Route, Winelands and Cape Town golf) and Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport (for Sun City, Kruger and Rovos Rail). George Airport also connects domestically for easy access to Fancourt and the Garden Route.

Offering world-class courses and stunning scenery, South Africa is a top golf destination. Wherever you play, you'll encounter breathtaking landscapes, from deserts to mountains, with courses featuring picturesque backdrops.

South Africa also provides excellent value, combining affordable luxury with ideal golf conditions year-round. The mild climate and scenic settings make it perfect for golfers of all skill levels. With added attractions like safaris and vineyards, South Africa offers an unforgettable golf getaway.

The oldest golf course in South Africa is Royal Cape Golf Club, established in 1885. Located in Cape Town, it features a stunning 18-hole, par 72 parkland course with USGA-standard greens and breathtaking views of Table Mountain, offering a historic and challenging golf experience.

UK, EU and US passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest travel advice before departure.

One of South Africa's most famous golf courses is the Gary Player Country Club at Sun City. Renowned for hosting the prestigious Nedbank Golf Challenge, previously known as the Million Dollar Golf Challenge, it features a challenging layout and world-class facilities. The Nedbank Golf Challenge brings top golfers to compete for one of the largest prizes in golf.

Yes, South Africa hosts several professional golf events, including the prestigious Nedbank Golf Challenge at Gary Player Country Club and multiple tournaments on the DP World Tour, such as the South African Open. These events attract top international and local golfers, showcasing South Africa's world-class courses.

The Rovos Rail Golf Safari is a luxury train journey through South Africa, combining five-star accommodation and dining with rounds at the country’s top courses, including Fancourt, and Leopard Creek. It’s one of the most unique and indulgent ways to experience golf in South Africa.

The South African golf course famously known for its helicopter ride is the Legend Golf & Safari Resort in Limpopo Province. This unique feature is associated with their Extreme 19th hole, a par three that's recognized as one of the highest and longest in the world.

To reach the tee box, perched atop Hangklip Mountain, golfers take a thrilling helicopter ride. This adds an element of adventure and exclusivity to the golf experience.