My life has been fueled by two distinct passions: the strategic, meditative challenge of golf and the raw, untamed, soul-stirring allure of the African wilderness. Many might see these as disparate worlds, one played out on perfect greens, the other in the vast, unpredictable theatre of the bush. However, for me and the numerous clients I’ve had the honor of guiding through Ascot Tours, the merging of these two worlds creates an utterly captivating experience – this is my driving force. I often get asked what makes an African golf safari so special. I enjoy responding to this question as it resonates deeply with our core values. It’s not just about ticking off world-class courses or spotting the “Big Five.” It’s about the profound, almost spiritual connection that occurs when these two seemingly different pursuits intertwine.
The Call of the Wild, The Discipline of the Green
Think about it: the immense stillness of the African bush at dawn, broken only by the chorus of unseen birds or the distant cough of a leopard. There’s a primal energy here, a sense of timelessness. Then, step onto a beautifully designed fairway, perhaps with a herd of impala grazing nonchalantly nearby, or the silhouette of an acacia against a dramatic skyline. The focus required for a good golf shot, the mental discipline, takes on a new dimension in such a setting. The usual golfing frustrations seem to melt away, replaced by a sense of awe and gratitude.
I’ve had the privilege of playing some of the world’s most renowned courses, but there’s a unique thrill to teeing off at Leopard Creek with the Crocodile River—and Kruger National Park—as your boundaries. There’s an added layer of excitement at Hans Merensky where a giraffe might amble across your line of sight, or the profound peace of playing a course like the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort in Kenya, with views that stretch to eternity. These aren’t just rounds of golf; they are experiences that engage all your senses.
More Than Just a Vacation, It’s a Transformation
What I’ve witnessed time and again is that an African golf safari does something profound to people. It strips away the everyday and reconnects them with something essential. The quiet conversations on a game drive, sharing the thrill of a rare sighting; the camaraderie on the course, battling a challenging hole together; and the evenings spent under a canopy of stars, recounting the day’s adventures – these moments forge bonds and create memories that last a lifetime.
It’s the contrast that captivates: the meticulous precision of a well-struck iron shot against the backdrop of an ancient, untamed landscape. It’s the luxury of a beautifully appointed safari lodge after a day spent tracking wildlife, followed by the refined elegance of a clubhouse overlooking the 18th green. I find this combination of rugged adventure and sophisticated leisure to be unbeatable.
Sharing the Passion
This deep-seated passion is the driving force behind Ascot Tours. We don’t just sell tours; we craft experiences. We pour our intimate knowledge of Africa—their lodges, their parks, their hidden gems, and, of course, their premier golf courses— into every itinerary. We want you to feel the same excitement and awe I felt back then.
We believe that a golf safari in Africa should be seamless, luxurious, and deeply personal. It’s about understanding your specific desires, whether it’s conquering a particular set of championship courses, seeking specific wildlife, or simply finding a unique way to celebrate a special occasion. So, when people ask me, “Why golf in Africa?” My answer is simple. It’s because it offers a journey unlike any other. It challenges your game, ignites your senses, and touches your soul. It’s the perfect blend of adrenaline and serenity, of refined skill and wild beauty. It’s an experience that, once tasted, you’ll never forget.
And that, quite simply, is my ‘why’.
If you’re ready to discover your own ‘why’ on an unforgettable African Golf Safari, I invite you to connect with us at Ascot Tours: scott@ascottours.co.za. Let’s share the adventure.
By Scott Edkins, Ascot Tours