For the golfers looking to combine the thrill of the game with the excitement of safari, Kruger Park golf courses offer this exact experience. Below, we’ve listed the ten most popular golf courses near Kruger National Park, detailing their number of holes, PAR, facilities, and signature holes, along with a tip of the cap to their designers.
Leopard Creek Country Club
Leading the pack, Leopard Creek Country Club is an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Gary Player. It features a clubhouse, restaurant, and practice range. Its signature 13th hole, a stunning par-5, challenges golfers with the Crocodile River lurking on the right. Leopard Creek Country Club is located near the Malelane Gate. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the gate, and being conveniently close, you’ll be at the course before you can say “tee time!”
Sabi River Sun Golf Course
Sabi River Sun Golf Course is another favorite, offering 18 holes with a par of 71, designed by Peter Matkovich. Known for its double dogleg 4th hole, this course boasts a pro shop, driving range, and even tennis courts. Sabi River Sun Golf Course is situated in Hazyview, which is around a 10-minute drive from the Phabeni Gate, and it’s practically a stone’s throw away—perfect for a quick round!
Skukuza Golf Course
Skukuza Golf Course, with its nine holes and par-72 layout, might surprise you with hippos around the 5th hole, adding an unpredictable twist to your game. Skukuza Golf Course is within the park itself, near the Skukuza Rest Camp. From the Paul Kruger Gate, it takes about 15 minutes to reach the course. Play a round and still have time for a safari.
Hans Merensky Golf Course
The Hans Merensky Golf Course, designed by Bob Grimsdell, is an 18-hole, par-72 course that includes lodging facilities—perfect for those wanting to stay close to the greens. Known for its 6th hole, a par-3 over a pond, this course is both scenic and challenging. Hans Merensky Golf Course is located in Phalaborwa, just a 10-minute drive from the Phalaborwa Gate. You’ll be hitting the greens almost as soon as you enter the park.
White River Country Club
White River Country Club, another Gary Player design, offers 18 holes at a par of 71, including a tricky dogleg left at the 7th hole. The club has ample facilities such as a restaurant, pro shop, and tennis courts. White River Country Club is in White River, about a 30-minute drive from the Numbi Gate. Perfect for those who enjoy a scenic drive before hitting the links.
Nelspruit Golf Club | Mbombela Golf Club
The Nelspruit Golf Club, also designed by Bob Grimsdell, offers 18 holes with a par of 71 and a particularly challenging 4th hole that demands precision. Nelspruit Golf Club is in the town of Nelspruit, approximately a 45-minute drive from the Malelane Gate. Just enough time to mentally prepare for that challenging 4th hole!
Sabie Country Club
Sabie Country Club’s nine holes, rating a par-72, feature the picturesque par-5 3rd hole with views of the Sabie River. Sabie Country Club is located in Sabie, about a 60-minute drive from the Phabeni Gate. A bit farther out, but the beautiful views and peaceful setting make it worth the trip.
Komatipoort Golf Club | Kambaku Golf Course
Komatipoort Golf Club provides a 9-hole, par-73 layout, known for its reachable par-4 2nd hole. Komatipoort Golf Club is situated in Komatipoort, roughly a 15-minute drive from the Crocodile Bridge Gate. You’ll be swinging your clubs in no time!
Playing on Kruger Park golf courses combines the charm of the fairway with the thrill of the wild. Whether it’s navigating the Crocodile River at Leopard Creek or enjoying a scenic drive at Sabie, there’s a course to suit every level of golfer. For more information or to book a golf holiday, swing by and chat with us.
