Nchanga Golf Club, located in Chingola, Zambia, is a historic and esteemed golfing destination nestled in the Copperbelt Province. Established in 1936 as a recreational facility for employees of the Konkola Copper Mines, the club has evolved into a premier golfing venue, hosting significant tournaments such as the Northern Rhodesia Championship, first played here in 1947. The course underwent substantial upgrades in 2010 under the guidance of South African golf course architect Mark Wiltshire, who implemented a new irrigation system, reconfigured bunker placements, and enhanced the green surrounds to modernize the playing experience.
The 18-hole championship course is a classic parkland layout, meticulously designed to harmonize with the natural undulating terrain and the meandering Nchanga Stream that traverses the property. While not exceptionally long, the course demands precision, with tree-lined fairways and water hazards that come into play on several holes, challenging golfers to strategize each shot carefully.
Among the notable holes, the par-4 6th stands out, requiring a well-placed tee shot to navigate the narrow fairway flanked by mature trees, followed by an accurate approach to a guarded green. The par-5 7th hole offers a risk-reward scenario, tempting long hitters to reach the green in two shots, but with water hazards and bunkers strategically positioned to penalize errant attempts. The back nine features the par-3 14th hole, where the tee shot must carry over a section of the Nchanga Stream to a well-protected green, testing both distance control and nerve.
Visitors to the area can explore nearby attractions such as the Nchanga Stadium, a venue for local sports events, and the Mokorro Game Ranch and Lodge, offering wildlife experiences and accommodations. Chingola itself provides a glimpse into Zambia’s mining heritage, with opportunities to learn about the region’s economic history and cultural development.