For any traveler, an African golf safari is about the whole experience, and the quality of lodging is key. At Ascot Tours, we understand that where you lay your head after a challenging round or an exhilarating game drive profoundly impacts your overall enjoyment. That’s why we meticulously handpick our partner properties, focusing on those that offer not just comfort, but true luxury, exceptional service, and unique character. Allow me to share a glimpse of some of Africa’s most luxurious golf resorts and safari lodges—the kinds of places that elevate your game and your entire journey, turning a great trip into an unforgettable one.
Defining Luxury in the African Context
Luxury in Africa isn’t always about gold taps and crystal chandeliers (though you can find those too!). More often, it’s about: Private villas, secluded suites, and vast wilderness areas where you feel like you have the continent to yourself. Attentive, intuitive, and genuinely warm hospitality that anticipates your needs. Properties that reflect their unique surroundings, whether through design, cuisine, or curated experiences. Prime locations offering the best views, direct access to golf courses, or privileged entry into wildlife reserves. Culinary excellence that showcases local flavors and international sophistication.
My Handpicked Havens for the Luxury Golf Safari
While this list is by no means exhaustive (our portfolio is extensive and ever-evolving!), here are some examples that exemplify the luxury Ascot Tours champions:
South Africa
Fancourt Estate (Garden Route)
Home to The Links (No. 1 in SA), Montagu and Outeniqua, and offers a range of superb accommodation from classic hotel rooms to private manor house suites. Impeccable service, multiple award-winning restaurants, a world-class spa, and a generally sophisticated, country club atmosphere. It’s a true golfer’s paradise with five-star everything.
The Palace of the Lost City (Sun City)
Access to the Gary Player Country Club and The Lost City Golf Course. An architectural marvel, offering opulent suites, grand public spaces, fine dining, and a distinct sense of fantasy and escape. It offers lavish comfort and an unparalleled resort experience.
Singita Lodges (Greater Kruger)
While primarily safari lodges, properties like Singita Boulders or Ebony offer unparalleled luxury in the heart of prime leopard country, within reach of courses like Leopard Creek (with bespoke arrangements). World-renowned for their exquisite design, exceptional guiding, gourmet cuisine, extensive wine cellars, and a level of service that is simply extraordinary. Expect private plunge pools, dedicated butlers, and an atmosphere of understated elegance.
Ellerman House (Cape Town)
An exclusive boutique hotel offering arguably the best views in Cape Town, overlooking Bantry Bay. Unrivalled art collection, incredible wine gallery, discreet service, and individually styled rooms and villas. It’s the epitome of sophisticated, private luxury, perfect as a base for playing nearby courses like Royal Cape or Steenberg, and exploring the Winelands.
East Africa (Kenya & Tanzania)
Hemingways Nairobi (Kenya)
Close to Karen Country Club and other Nairobi courses. A five-star boutique hotel offering spacious suites with private butlers. Elegant plantation-style architecture, fine dining, and a tranquil atmosphere, providing a sophisticated urban sanctuary.
Segera Retreat (Kenya)
While not a golf resort, it offers unparalleled luxury safari experiences in a stunning private conservancy. For the ultimate bespoke trip, helicopter transfers to nearby courses like the Great Rift Valley Lodge can be arranged. Exquisite villas, a focus on sustainability and conservation, contemporary art, incredible cuisine, and unique activities like sleep-outs under the stars.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (Tanzania)
Located in the heart of the Serengeti, offering incredible wildlife viewing from your room or the infinity pool overlooking an active waterhole. Kiligolf is accessible via a scenic flight. The trusted Four Seasons standard of service and amenities, with beautifully appointed rooms, excellent dining, a superb spa, and an educational discovery centre.
The Ascot Tours Curation Process
Our selection process is rigorous. We personally visit and vet properties. We look for: Not just a one-off good review, but a sustained reputation for quality. The small touches that make a big difference. A commitment to guest satisfaction, responsible tourism, and showcasing the best of Africa. We listen intently to what our returning clients say about their stays.
Pairing the right luxury accommodation with your chosen golf courses and safari experiences is an art form. It’s about creating a harmonious journey where every element complements the others, ensuring that your time off the course is as memorable as your time on it. At Ascot Tours, this commitment to curated luxury is at the heart of what we do. If your idea of an African golf safari includes indulging in the finest accommodation the continent has to offer, contact Ascot Tours at scott@ascottours.co.za. Let us introduce you to a world of unparalleled luxury.
By Scott Edkins, Ascot Tours