The 5 Best Golf Combos in South Africa

Abundant sunshine and diverse landscapes make South Africa a mecca for golf enthusiasts. Travel between its towns and cities and you’ll easily stumble across that comforting sight of a well-manicured green and rolling fairways. It’s easy to get so engrossed in the game that you forget about South Africa’s other “game” – your first lion sighting can be as thrilling as a hole in one. “We always tell golfers not to forget about the other aspects of their journey to South Africa – the wildlife, landscapes and landmarks that make this country so memorable,” says SW Africa MD Henk Graaff.

SW Africa has compiled a list of five best combo experiences that deliver the best of both – golf and a little something extra to hit the sweet spot.

1.Golf and Winelands Combo

The 5 Best Golf Combos in South Africa

This nine-day combo is set in South Africa’s Western Cape and offers the best sights the Mother City has to offer. Visit some of the well-known attractions such as the V & A Waterfront, Table Mountain and Robben Island, before venturing to the Cape Point and visiting the penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach. This combo will have you teeing off at four courses including Stellenbosch GC, as you dabble in the region’s best wine estates against the backdrop of stunning views.

Who will love it? Golfers who have a passion for excellent wine.

The best course you will play? Royal Cape GC, South Africa’s oldest golf course, dating back to 1885.

The highlight? Fresh, local cuisine and ample wine tastings.

2.Golf and Garden Route ComboThe 5 Best Golf Combos in South AfricaHeading out from Cape Town, this combo takes you and your clubs out along the coastline of the Western Cape. Four excellent courses await you on this nine-day adventure, incorporating some time to relax on some of the most gorgeous beaches. Nature lovers will delight in Knysna Elephant Park, Birds of Eden, and a leisurely boat cruise on the Knysna Lagoon at sunset.

Who will love it? Relaxed golfers with a love of nature and the ocean.

 

The best course you will play? Pezula GC, with its ocean and lagoon views and fresh sea breeze.

The highlight? Meeting the orphaned elephants of Knysna Elephant Park.

3.Golf and Kruger Safari Combo

The 5 Best Golf Combos in South Africa

Spend seven days out in the South African wilderness. This combo will really hit the spot for those looking to enjoy some excellent golfing at some of the most prestigious courses, with some great opportunities for game viewing. With over 500 bird species found in the Kruger Park, you will have an excellent audience to cheer you on as you tee off from courses like Leopard Creek, Skukuza, Hans Merensky and Sabi River Sun GC, with its unique yet challenging water obstacles.

Who will love it? Golfers looking for the thrill of big game sightings.

The best course you will play?: Skukuza GC, an unfenced course where common sightings on the green include hippo, impala, nyala, warthog, zebra and baboons.

The highlight? Seeing the Big 5.

4.Golf and the City of Durban Combo The 5 Best Golf Combos in South Africa

With its warmer waters and moderate winters, Durban is an ideal beach city destination. This 10-day experience offers plenty of time to soak up the sun and explore some of the city’s best attractions, such as uShaka Marine World, Moses Mabhida Stadium, Suncoast Casino, and the Botanical Gardens. As you head up the Wild Coast to Ballito, you will find your happy place at the Tom Weiskopf-designed Zimbali GC, and the Prince’s Grant GC.

Who will love it? Golfers who double-up as sun worshippers.

The best course you will play? Durban Country Club, with its signature third hole, often voted the best in the world.

The Highlight? The spicy hit of your first local ‘bunny chow’.

5.Golf and Jozi Combo

The 5 Best Golf Combos in South Africa

If you have four days to spare while you are in the city of Johannesburg, this combo might be just the right one for you. Great if you’re short on time. Even better if you’re keen for some top-notch golfing. From the Royal Johannesburg and Kensington GC, to the Glendower GC, with an added dash of culture and history in between. Besides a romp at Gold Reef City (located on an old gold mine), you can take the time to learn about the township of Soweto and visit the Apartheid Museum on a guided tour.

Who will love it? Golfers who find themselves heading into, or out of Johannesburg.

The best course you will play? Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club, Johannesburg’s oldest golf course, dating back to 1889.

The Highlight? The lively atmosphere of Soweto.