My Ultimate Pan-African Golf & Safari Expedition
For the traveler who dreams big and seeks not just a vacation but a transformative journey, there exists an adventure that combines the pinnacle of golf excellence with the most iconic wildlife experiences and breathtaking natural wonders our planet has to offer. I’m talking about the ultimate pan-African golf and wildlife expedition, a custom designed odyssey across different nations designed to etch itself into your memory as the undisputed trip of a lifetime.
At Ascot Tours, crafting such ambitious, multi-faceted itineraries is our passion and our expertise. It requires intimate knowledge of the continent, seamless logistical mastery, and access to the most exclusive experiences. So, allow me to sketch out what this “grand slam” African adventure could look like, a journey that will take you from the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town to the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls, the historic fairways of Nairobi, the sweeping plains of the Maasai Mara, the emerald jungles of Uganda, and finally, the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria.
Leg 1: Cape Town & The Winelands, South Africa
Our expedition begins in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Beyond golf, immerse yourself in the Cape’s magic. Ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views, explore the dramatic coastline of Cape Point, take a poignant ferry to Robben Island, and indulge in private, curated wine tastings at prestigious estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, paired with gourmet cuisine.
Golf: We’ll secure tee times at some of the Cape’s finest: Steenberg Golf Club: Nestled in a historic wine estate, offering stunning views and a challenging parkland layout. Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course: A championship course consistently ranked among South Africa’s best, known for its pristine conditioning and dramatic mountain backdrop in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley. Erinvale Golf Club (Optional): A Gary Player design in Somerset West, offering another superb Winelands golfing experience.
Accommodation: Expect nothing less than five-star luxury, perhaps at a renowned hotel with ocean views like Ellerman House, or a sophisticated winelands estate.
Leg 2: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Next, a short flight takes us to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Witness the sheer power of Victoria Falls with expert guided tours from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian perspectives. Enjoy a classic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, spotting hippos and crocodiles. For the adventurous, a helicopter “Flight of Angels” offers an unparalleled aerial view. We can also arrange a day trip or overnight excursion to Botswana’s nearby Chobe National Park, famed for its massive elephant herds.
Golf: A unique round awaits at Elephant Hills Resort in Zimbabwe. This Gary Player design winds through natural bush, and it’s not uncommon to share the fairways with warthogs, impala, and even the occasional elephant passing by.
Accommodation: Iconic colonial-era hotels like The Victoria Falls Hotel or luxury lodges on the banks of the Zambezi.
Leg 3: Nairobi & The Maasai Mara, Kenya
We journey east to the heart of safari country and Kenya’s rich golfing heritage. Fly from Nairobi into the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. Here, you’ll spend several days in a luxury tented camp or lodge, embarking on morning and afternoon game drives to witness the incredible wildlife, including the possibility of the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal, typically July-October). A visit to the Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (elephant orphanage) in Nairobi adds a heartwarming touch.
Golf: Experience Nairobi’s historic golfing scene: Karen Country Club: A beautiful, challenging course with a rich history, often host to international tournaments. Muthaiga Golf Club (Optional): Another venerable Nairobi club with a championship layout.
Accommodation: Elegant boutique hotels in Nairobi and top-tier, exclusive safari camps in the Maasai Mara.
Leg 4: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Prepare for one of Africa’s most profound wildlife experiences. A charter flight takes us to the emerald depths of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to roughly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Accompanied by expert trackers and guides, you will embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek, spending a magical hour in the presence of these gentle giants. This is an intimate, challenging, and deeply moving experience.
Accommodation: Luxurious eco-lodges nestled on the edge of the forest, offering comfort and stunning views.
Leg 5: Entebbe & Lake Victoria, Uganda
Our grand expedition concludes with a relaxed golfing finale on the shores of Africa’s largest lake. Relax by the lake, perhaps visit the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary (a short boat ride away), or simply reflect on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken.
Golf: Enjoy a round at Entebbe Golf Club, the oldest golf course in East Africa. Its charming layout runs along the shores of Lake Victoria, offering a peaceful and scenic end to your golfing adventures.
Accommodation: Comfortable, well-appointed hotels near the lake and airport for ease of departure.
The Ascot Tours Promise
An itinerary of this magnitude and complexity demands flawless execution. This is where Ascot Tours excels. We manage: All Inter-Africa Travel often involves a combination of scheduled flights and private air charters to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort, especially when accessing remote areas like Bwindi. Securing the best rooms, suites, or private villas at each carefully selected property. Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable and personable local guides who will enrich your experiences. From visa assistance (where applicable) and airport meet-and-greets to seamless transfers, tee time reservations, safari activity bookings, and special requests, every detail is handled. Our team is always on hand to ensure your journey is smooth and worry-free.
This Pan-African Golf & Wildlife Expedition is more than a trip; it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony of Africa’s finest offerings. It’s designed for the American traveler who seeks the extraordinary, who understands that true luxury lies in unique experiences and flawless service, and who is ready to create a tapestry of memories that will last far beyond the final piece. If this “Once-in-a-Lifetime” vision resonates with your adventurous spirit, contact Ascot Tours at scott@ascottours.co.za. Let’s begin the conversation and tailor this ultimate African dream to your precise desires.
By Scott Edkins, Ascot Tours