The 7 Best Golf Courses In South Africa You Can Play Right Now

South Africa stands out as one of the most exotic and exhilarating golf destinations globally. With legends like Gary Player and Ernie Els having their roots here, the Rainbow Nation boasts a level of golf excellence that rivals any country.

From the dramatic landscapes of the Cape to the iconic wildlife of the African continent, and the fine local produce available at every turn, a South African golf safari offers a rich and immersive experience.

Whether you’re captivated by breathtaking scenery or eager to sample world-class cuisine, exploring South Africa’s golf courses promises a memorable adventure that combines top-tier golf with the vibrant essence of the country.

1. Fancourt (Links)

Designed by Gary Player, the Links course is modeled after the great links courses of the UK and Ireland. For being built on flat clay, this course is extremely impressive! The course is set against the backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. The views are stunning, and the natural setting adds to the challenge and beauty of the course.

The Fancourt Links course has received numerous accolades and has hosted several infamous tournaments, including the 2003 President’s Cup. It is frequently listed among the top courses in South Africa and often features in global golf course rankings.

Opened: 2000
Par: 73
Length: 7578 yards
Designers Include: Gary Player (2000)  Brian Lussier  Phil Jacobs (2000)
Difficulty: Slope 149 / Rating 77.8

2. Leopard Creek

Elephants, giraffes, hippos, you name it! When you play Leopard Creek you are bound to see some incredible wildlife. The course is renowned for being in excellent condition with fast greens and well-kept bunkers. Leopard Creek is extremely exclusive with the security level matching Augusta National.

Opened: 1996
Par: 72
Length: 7288 yards
Designers Include: Gary Player (1996)  Phil Jacobs (1996) Greg Letsche (2011)
Difficulty: Slope 110 / Rating 74.0

3. St Francis Links

St Francis Links was designed by the infamous Jack Nicklaus and overlooks the St Francis Bay and Indian Ocean. The course is designed to be enjoyable for all players with four different sets of tees. On windy days, even low-handicappers might find the forward tees to be a wise choice.

Each hole on the course has a distinctive name that often reflects the challenge it presents. For example, the par-3 fourth hole, named Double Vision, features two greens: a lower one that’s used most frequently and a more challenging upper green situated on a dune. Similarly, the eighth hole, called Eye of the Needle, requires a precise tee shot through a narrow gap leading to a tight fairway.

Opened: 2006
Par: 72
Length: 7166 yards
Designers Include: Jack Nicklaus (2006)  Greg Letsche (2006)
Difficulty: Slope 149 / Rating 76.5

4. Fancourt (Montagu)

The Montagu is a genuine links, though some traditionalists might find the water hazards less authentic due to the Sand River that flows through the property. A significant dam on the upper section of the course influences holes 13 to 15, protecting the left side of the 13th hole, which is the shortest of the par 5s.

 Additionally, the striking par-4 18th hole, played from an elevated tee, features another major hazard on the left side of the fairway, creating a daunting challenge for the tee shot.

Opened: 1991
Par:  72
Length: 7342 yards
Designers Include: Gary Player (1991)  David McLay Kidd (2005)  Paul Kimber (2003)
Difficulty: Slope 144 / Rating 75.9

5. Pearl Valley

Designed by renowned architect Jack Nicklaus, Pearl Valley is a premier championship layout and a traditional parkland course. Located just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, Pearl Valley is a fantastic golfing destination that can be enjoyed year-round.

When playing at Pearl Valley, it’s best to arrive early to make the most of the amenities, from the clubhouse to the outstanding practice range.

Opened: 2003
Par: 72
Length: 7192 yards
Designers Include:  Jack Nicklaus (2003)  Greg Letsche (2003)
Difficulty: Slope 150 / Rating 76.3

6. Arabella

The Arabella offers a stunning layout designed by Peter Matkovich that has flourished over the past 25 years, serving as a challenging championship course that frequently hosts Sunshine Tour events while also being enjoyable for high-handicappers. 

The course starts with holes that ascend from the hotel on level ground, then gradually descend back to the stunning finishing holes along the lagoon’s edge, with the land gently sloping towards the water.

Opened: 1999
Par: 72
Length: 6804 yards
Designers Include: Peter Matkovich (1999)  Mark Wiltshire (2013)
Difficulty: Slope 141 / Rating 74.0

7. Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club – East Course

The East course is renowned for its formidable beginning to the back nine, featuring consecutive par fours that exceed 500 yards at the 10th and 11th holes. The 11th hole, in particular, is considered one of the toughest in South Africa. From the tee, the fairway descends and sharply doglegs right, with the approach shot requiring a carry over water to reach a distant green safely.

Opened: 1939
Par: 72
Length: 7656 yards
Designers Include: Robert Grimsdell (1939)  Mark Muller (1998)
Difficulty: Slope 142  / Rating 76.8

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