Why South Africa & Kenya Offer the Perfect “Bucket List” Golf & Safari Combo for Americans
For many American golfers, the idea of an African golf safari is a tantalising “bucket list” dream. The continent is vast, the options seemingly endless, and the thought of planning such an adventure can feel both exciting and a little daunting. If you’re looking for an itinerary that delivers an unforgettable taste of Africa’s best – world-class golf, iconic wildlife, stunning scenery, and rich culture – without trying to conquer the entire continent in one go, then allow me, Scott Edkins, of Ascot Tours, to propose the perfect pairing: a South Africa and Kenya Golf & Safari Combo.
These two powerhouse nations, each a giant in its own right when it comes to tourism, offer a complementary blend of experiences that will satisfy the most discerning golfer and adventurous spirit. It’s a journey that takes you from the sophisticated fairways of South Africa, reminiscent perhaps of the meticulous standards you’d expect from a Masters week, to the wild heart of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, the birthplace of safari.
South Africa: A World in One Country, A Golfer’s Paradise
South Africa genuinely embodies the phrase “A World in One Country”. For the American golf traveler, it offers a remarkable diversity of experiences and some of the finest golf courses on the planet.
- Imagine playing golf at Leopard Creek Country Club, with Kruger National Park as your neighbor and wildlife as your gallery. Picture yourself navigating the three championship courses at Fancourt Estate on the stunning Garden Route, including the #1 ranked The Links. Envision dramatic clifftop rounds at Pinnacle Point or sophisticated parkland challenges in the Cape Winelands like Pearl Valley or Steenberg. The quality and variety of golf in South Africa are simply world-class.
- The experiences are just as diverse. Thrilling Big Five safaris in the Greater Kruger area; the cosmopolitan allure and natural beauty of Cape Town (Table Mountain, Cape Point); the gourmet delights and historic vineyards of the Cape and the breathtaking coastal scenery of the Garden Route.
- South Africa boasts a highly developed tourism infrastructure, with excellent internal flight connectivity, luxury accommodations ranging from grand hotels to exclusive safari lodges, and a standard of service that is consistently high. For an American traveler, it offers a comfortable and sophisticated entry to the African experience.
Kenya: The Soul of Safari, A Legacy of Golf
A relatively short flight north takes you to Kenya, a land synonymous with the classic African safari and home to a surprisingly rich golfing heritage.
- While perhaps not as globally renowned for its golf as South Africa, Kenya offers some truly special and historic courses. Play a round at Karen Country Club or Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi, both steeped in colonial history and offering challenging, mature layouts. For sheer scenic beauty, the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort, with its panoramic views, is unforgettable.
- Kenya is home to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. A fly-in safari here is a quintessential African experience. Witnessing the vast plains teeming with wildlife, including the possibility of the Great Wildebeest Migration (typically July-October), is something that will stay with you forever. Encounters with the Maasai people offer a glimpse into a rich and ancient culture.
- Kenya exudes a warm, welcoming spirit. The hospitality is genuine, and the safari experiences are deeply authentic, connecting you to the heart of East Africa.
Why South Africa & Kenya Together?
Combining South Africa and Kenya into one seamless golf safari offers a remarkable “best of both worlds” scenario. You get the polished sophistication and diverse golfing landscapes of South Africa, perfectly complemented by the historic charm of Kenyan golf and the raw, untamed beauty of its flagship wildlife reserves. Direct flights connect major hubs in South Africa (like Johannesburg or Cape Town) with Nairobi, making the transition between the two countries smooth and efficient. This combination provides a rich and varied introduction to the continent. You’ll experience different cultures, landscapes, wildlife, and golfing styles, giving you a broad yet in-depth appreciation of what makes an African golf safari so special. For a first-time African golf adventurer, focusing on these two countries offers a comprehensive and deeply satisfying experience without feeling overwhelming.
Ascot Tours: Your Expert Guide to a Seamless Two-Nation Adventure
Naturally, planning a multi-country trip of this nature requires expert coordination. We design a logical flow, balancing your time on the fairways with unforgettable safari and cultural experiences in both countries. We handle all inter-country and internal flights, visa considerations (where applicable), luxury accommodations, private transfers, preferential tee times, and all safari arrangements. Our on-the-ground knowledge in both South Africa and Kenya ensures you access the best guides, lodges, and hidden gems. From your initial inquiry to your return home, we provide dedicated support, tailoring every aspect of the trip to your preferences.
A South Africa and Kenya golf safari is more than just ticking off two countries; it’s about weaving together two extraordinary narratives into one grand, unforgettable adventure. It’s an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of golf alongside the soul-stirring majesty of the African wilderness. This journey surpasses expectations, leaving you with a wealth of memories and a yearning to return. Ready to go on your Masters-to-Mara adventure? Contact Ascot Tours at scott@ascottours.co.za, and let’s start planning your ultimate South African and Kenyan Golf & Safari Combo.
15-Day South Africa and Kenya Golf Safari: This tour begins at Fancourt Estate in George, continues through selected courses in Cape Town, and concludes in Kenya with rounds played at top Nairobi golf clubs. The itinerary includes a safari experience in the Maasai Mara.
By Scott Edkins, Ascot Tours