South Africa’s Top 100 Golf Courses for 2025, as ranked by Golf Digest South Africa, has just been announced, showcasing a shake-up among the country’s elite fairways. From coastal links to bushveld beauties, these courses represent the pinnacle of South African golf. For clients looking to combine championship golf with safari adventures, Ascot Tours offers exclusive access to all of South Africa’s top-ranked courses. Whether it is luxury golf safaris or tailored itineraries, we’ll get them on the best fairways in the country.
Here are the Top 10 South African Golf Courses for 2025
There are four along the Garden Route, two situated on the east coast of the country, two in the north, one in the Cape Winelands and one on the doorstep of the Kruger National Park. Their respective positions are even more of an indication of why South Africa is the best destination for a once-in-a-lifetime golf adventure – indeed a world in one.
1. The Links at Fancourt — George, Western Cape
Reclaiming its No. 1 spot, The Links at Fancourt is a true masterpiece renowned for its diverse design and lasting impressions. This rugged, authentic links-style course perfectly integrates with the surrounding fynbos, offering golfers a world-class experience unlike any other. It is a private course built on reclaimed land previously used as an airport, combining innovative design with a distinctly challenging layout.
2. Blair Atholl — Lanseria, Gauteng North
Soaring to second place this year, Blair Atholl sits on the historic grounds of golfing legend Gary Player’s former farm. Its expansive fairways, thoughtfully placed bunkers and serene bushveld setting make it an essential round for any golfer. It is one of South Africa’s longest courses, stretching over 8,000 yards, and features wide fairways and serene countryside surroundings.
3. Leopard Creek — Malelane, Mpumalanga
Bordering the famed Kruger National Park, Leopard Creek is a championship course that uniquely combines top-tier golf with the chance to spot wildlife. Elevated greens and the challenge of water hazards from the Crocodile River create an unforgettable golfing adventure. It has been described as an “African Augusta,” combining exceptional championship golf with stunning views of South Africa’s most famous wilderness.
4. Pearl Valley — Paarl, Western Cape
Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Pearl Valley is celebrated for immaculate course conditioning and breathtaking scenery. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course captivates players with its intricate water features and pristine fairways. It was extensively shaped around existing trees and wildlife, ensuring minimal environmental disruption.
5. St Francis Links — Eastern Cape
Another gem crafted by Jack Nicklaus, St Francis Links epitomises true links golf. With rolling terrain and coastal winds that demand precision, its strategic layout keeps it firmly among South Africa’s elite courses. The course was constructed with sand, not soil, to replicate traditional Scottish links terrain and to ensure efficient drainage. This design accommodates the natural coastal conditions of the Eastern Cape.
6. Glendower — Gauteng
A classic parkland layout defined by towering trees and strategically positioned water hazards, Glendower has consistently ranked among the country’s best. Its traditional golf challenge has hosted multiple South African Opens, cementing its elite status. Glendower Golf Course is one of South Africa’s premier championship courses, hosting eight South African Opens, the most by any Gauteng club in the modern era. It features stunning parkland scenery coupled with a challenging design, making it a test of golfing prowess and a visual treat.
7. Arabella — Kleinmond, Western Cape
Offering spectacular views over the Bot River Lagoon and the Kogelberg Mountains, Arabella is one of South Africa’s most scenic golf experiences. Its demanding course design requires accuracy, particularly on the signature 8th hole. Arabella Golf Course, located near Cape Town, is consistently ranked as one of South Africa’s top courses and is set within the scenic Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. It is known for its challenging layout and features the iconic 18th hole, which is considered one of the best finishing holes in the country.
8. Durban Country Club — KwaZulu-Natal
Steeped in history, Durban Country Club is famed for its rolling fairways, coastal winds and proximity to the Indian Ocean. This iconic course presents a fun yet challenging test for players of all levels. Durban Country Club is recognized as one of South Africa’s top golf courses and has hosted more South African Open Championships than any other club. Its unique layout includes a combination of coastal dunes and lush vegetation, offering varied playing conditions.
9. East London Golf Club — Eastern Cape
Often hailed as a hidden treasure, East London Golf Club combines coastal dunes with lush forest landscapes. Its natural beauty and compelling layout have earned it a deserved place in the top 10. East London Golf Club is one of South Africa’s oldest courses, founded in 1893, and features a mix of parkland and coastal terrain. It has hosted multiple South African Open Championships and provides challenging play conditions shaped by coastal winds.
10. Pinnacle Point — Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Dramatically perched on cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, Pinnacle Point offers breathtaking views and exhilarating shot opportunities. It’s widely regarded as one of the Garden Route’s most spectacular courses. Seven holes at Pinnacle Point Golf Course are positioned along the Indian Ocean, which integrates natural coastal features into the course design. Their layout demands precise shot-making and strategic play, influenced by the coastal winds and varying terrain elevations.
