Experience a world-class golf vacation in sun-drenched exotic destinations
Golf across Africa and the Indian Ocean is rapidly emerging, with South Africa at the forefront of this exciting growth. The country has firmly established itself as a premier golfing destination, thanks to its world-class course designs, breathtaking landscapes, and consistently superb playing conditions. From dramatic coastal layouts to championship parkland courses framed by mountains and vineyards, South Africa offers a golfing experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Why book a golf vacation to Africa & the Indian Ocean?
- A true golfing adventure in a next generation destination
- Incredible course designs in immaculate conditions
- Play exotic landscapes in a wonderful climate
- Beachfront golf resorts to picture-perfect boutique hotels
- Combine golf with unforgettable wildlife and cultural experiences
- Year-round sunshine and world-class hospitality
Popular golf vacations in Africa & the Indian Ocean
There is nowhere like it
The Africa & Indian Ocean region is emerging as one of golf’s most exciting destinations, with South Africa firmly at the forefront. Offering world-class layouts, spectacular scenery, and a superb year-round climate, the country has quickly established itself as the jewel of the region’s golfing scene.
South Africa is home to an impressive collection of championship-standard courses, each maintained to immaculate condition. Among the highlights is the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Pearl Valley, regarded as one of the finest in the country. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cape Winelands, this masterpiece blends strategic design with breathtaking natural beauty, delivering a test that excites players of every level.
What makes golf in Africa so unique is the diversity of its landscapes. From vineyard-lined fairways to mountainous backdrops and rugged coastlines, each course offers a fresh and distinctive challenge. For golfers well-traveled in Europe, where designs can sometimes feel familiar, Africa provides a refreshing sense of originality and adventure.
With its combination of spectacular golf, unforgettable settings, and warm hospitality, South Africa has truly become the crown jewel of golf in Africa & the Indian Ocean, and an essential destination for those seeking a unique and memorable golfing journey.
Play the best courses on a golf vacation in Africa & the Indian Ocean
From the exotic scenery to the year-round sunshine, a golf vacation to Africa is an experience like no other. This part of the world is quickly becoming one of golf’s most exciting destinations, offering travellers the chance to combine world-class courses with unforgettable landscapes, vibrant cultures, and some of the finest hospitality anywhere. Whether it’s beachfront resorts, wine country retreats, or luxury lodges, you’ll find accommodation and playing experiences to suit every style and budget.
South Africa – The Jewel of the Region
Among all destinations in the region, South Africa stands out as the crown jewel for golf. With its dramatic coastlines, lush winelands, and diverse terrain, the country offers an unmatched variety of courses - many of which are recognised among the best in the world.
Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate - Often considered the pinnacle of South African golf, Fancourt boasts multiple championship courses, including The Links, a past host of the Presidents Cup. Immaculately maintained and consistently ranked among the world’s best, it’s a must-play for any visiting golfer.
Leopard Creek - Bordering Kruger National Park, this course is as spectacular as it is challenging. Designed by Gary Player, it delivers championship golf alongside breathtaking wildlife views, creating an unforgettable bucket-list experience.
Pearl Valley - A Jack Nicklaus Signature Course set in the Cape Winelands, Pearl Valley is famous for its pristine conditioning, strategic bunkering, and stunning mountain backdrop. Widely regarded as one of the best courses in South Africa.
Royal Cape Town - The country’s oldest golf club and steeped in history, Royal Cape offers a classic parkland layout with Table Mountain ever-present in the background. A truly authentic South African golfing experience.
Steenberg – Nestled in Constantia’s vineyards, Steenberg blends scenic beauty with playability. Its rolling fairways and natural wetlands create a course that is both enjoyable and picturesque, with a boutique luxury feel.
De Zalze - Located in Stellenbosch, this course combines vineyard views with a layout that challenges every part of your game. Known for its warm hospitality and welcoming clubhouse, it’s a favourite among both locals and visitors.
Travel tips
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Best Time to Visit: October-March offers the best golfing weather; spring and autumn are also ideal with fewer crowds.
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Flight Times from US: New York to Johannesburg is around 14-15 hours nonstop; West Coast flights take 20-22 hours with a connection.
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Travel Essentials: No visa needed for US stays up to 90 days; car hire recommended (drive on the left); currency is the Rand (ZAR).
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Why Go: South Africa pairs world-class golf with safaris, wine regions, and vibrant culture for a truly unique experience.
Seaside resorts to wine estates
Golf in Africa is about more than just the courses - it’s also about the unforgettable places you stay. From luxury golf resorts to boutique hotels and safari lodges, the region offers world-class accommodation that perfectly complements your time on the fairways.
Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate - Widely regarded as South Africa’s premier golf resort, Fancourt combines three championship courses with five-star accommodation, a top-class spa, and warm hospitality. It’s a complete golfing destination where you can stay, play, and relax in style.
Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa - Overlooking the Bot River Lagoon, Arabella offers elegant accommodation alongside one of South Africa’s top-ranked golf courses. The hotel’s spa and wellness facilities make it the ideal retreat for both golfers and non-golfers.
Queen Victoria Hotel - Situated at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, this boutique five-star hotel blends sophistication with convenience. Its central location allows easy access to Cape Town’s courses, restaurants, and cultural highlights.
Jock Safari Lodge - Kruger Park - For a once-in-a-lifetime combination of golf and safari, Jock Safari Lodge places you in the heart of Kruger National Park. Luxurious suites and the chance to spot the Big Five make it a unique extension to any golf trip.
Lanzerac Wine Estate - Nestled in the Stellenbosch Winelands, Lanzerac is an iconic Cape Dutch estate offering luxury rooms, fine dining, and award-winning wines. It’s the perfect base for golfers exploring nearby courses like De Zalze, Steenberg, and Pearl Valley.
Together, these properties showcase the best of South Africa’s hospitality - whether you’re after a golf resort, city boutique, vineyard escape, or safari adventure, you’ll find accommodation to make your golf vacation truly unforgettable.
Exploring off the course
Golf may be the highlight of your trip, but in Africa the experiences don’t end when you step off the fairway. From wildlife safaris and world-class wine estates to vibrant cities and breathtaking natural wonders, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting beyond the course.
Wine & Culinary Experiences
South Africa’s Cape Winelands are a must-visit, with Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offering world-class wine estates, gourmet dining, and breathtaking scenery. Pair a round of golf with a vineyard tour and enjoy some of the finest food and wine the country has to offer.
Safari Adventures
No trip to Africa is complete without a safari. Just a short flight from major cities, Kruger National Park and private reserves like Sabi Sands let you witness the Big Five in their natural habitat - an unforgettable complement to a golf vacation.
Cape Town & The Garden Route
Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, from the bustling V&A Waterfront to the iconic Table Mountain. Drive the spectacular Garden Route for whale watching, hiking, and coastal beauty that rivals any golf destination in the world.
Culture & History
Off the course, Africa offers a rich cultural journey. Visit Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore Cape Town’s lively markets, museums, and galleries that bring the country’s diverse history and traditions to life.
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- ValueGuaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.
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