The idea of an African golf safari, playing amidst wilderness with animals potentially roaming nearby – is undeniably exotic and exciting. However, for first-time visitors, this allure can sometimes be accompanied by misconceptions or uncertainties. Is it safe? Are the courses up to par? Will it be overwhelmingly rugged? At Ascot Tours, we believe in transparency and ensuring our clients are well-informed and completely comfortable. Having guided countless travellers on their first African golf adventures, I’ve heard many of the common myths. So, let me debunk a few and paint a clearer picture of what you can really expect on a well-planned, professionally managed African golf safari.
Myth 1: Africa is Universally Dangerous and Undeveloped
Reality: This is perhaps the biggest and most outdated misconception. While Africa is a vast continent with diverse nations and varying levels of development, the primary tourist destinations for golf safaris – like South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zimbabwe – have well-established tourism infrastructures, especially in the areas we frequent.
Safety: Reputable tour operators, like Ascot Tours, prioritise your safety above all else. We partner with trusted lodges, experienced guides, and reliable transport providers. In wildlife areas, clear safety protocols are always in place. Like any travel destination worldwide, common sense and awareness are key, but the regions popular for golf safaris are generally very safe for tourists.
Infrastructure: You’ll find international airports, good-quality roads in many tourist areas, excellent communication networks (Wi-Fi is common in lodges and hotels), and world-class hospitality services.
Myth 2: The Golf Courses Won’t Match International Standards
Reality: Africa is home to some truly world-class, championship-level golf courses designed by renowned architects like Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Peter Matkovich.
Quality & Conditioning: Courses like Leopard Creek, Fancourt The Links, The Gary Player Country Club (South Africa), Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate (Tanzania), and Vipingo Ridge (Kenya) consistently rank among the best globally and are maintained to impeccable standards.
Variety: You’ll find a fantastic variety, from challenging links-style layouts and classic parkland courses to dramatic clifftop designs and unique bushveld courses. Pro shops are generally well-stocked, and caddy services are often excellent.
Myth 3: It’s All Roughing It in Tents with Basic Amenities
Reality: While you can opt for a rustic tented camping experience if that’s your desire, the hallmark of a modern African golf safari, especially with Ascot Tours, is often luxury and comfort.
Accommodation: Expect anything from opulent five-star hotels and grand colonial-style lodges to incredibly chic boutique guesthouses and supremely luxurious safari camps with private plunge pools, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. Even our “tented camps” are often more like canvas palaces with en-suite bathrooms and every imaginable comfort.
Cuisine: Prepare to be impressed by the culinary scene. From fine dining in city restaurants to exquisite meals prepared in remote safari lodge kitchens, the quality and variety of food and wine are often highlights of the trip.
Myth 4: You’ll Be Constantly Fending Off Wild Animals on the Fairway
Reality: While wildlife encounters are a unique and exciting part of many African golf courses (as discussed in my previous blog!), it’s not a chaotic free-for-all.
Managed Environments: Most premier golf courses bordering wildlife areas have measures in place (like subtle fencing or natural barriers like rivers) to manage the more dangerous animals’ access to the primary playing areas while still allowing smaller, harmless game to roam.
Safety Protocols: The staff and caddies are well-versed in wildlife behaviour and safety. Encounters are generally at a respectful distance, adding to the ambiance rather than posing a constant threat. (Refer to my blog on “Wildlife Encounters on Africa’s Golf Courses” fore.) The staff and caddies are well-versed in wildlife behaviour Planning a trip on your own can be challenging due to the logistics involved.
Myth 5: Planning an African Golf Safari is Too Complicated
Reality: It can be if you try to DIY it, given the logistics of internal flights, multiple accommodations, tee times, and safari bookings. However, that’s precisely why specialists like Ascot Tours exist!
Expert Planning: We take all the complexity out of your hands. From the initial consultation to your return home, we manage every detail, creating a seamless, stress-free experience. Our expertise turns potential complications into smooth transitions.
What You Can Expect
- Unforgettable Scenery: From dramatic coastlines and majestic mountains to vast savannahs and lush forests, the backdrops to your golf will be breathtaking.
- Warm Hospitality: Africans are renowned for their warmth and friendliness. Expect genuine smiles and excellent service.
- Unique Cultural Experiences: Opportunities to engage with local cultures can add incredible depth to your journey.
- A Sense of Adventure: Even amidst luxury, there’s an undeniable thrill to being in Africa, a feeling of being connected to something ancient and wild.
- Value for Money: While luxury options abound, many find that the quality of experience, accommodation, and service in Africa offers excellent value compared to other high-end destinations.
An African golf safari is more than just a holiday; it’s an enriching, multi-faceted adventure. By dispelling these common myths, I hope I’ve provided a clearer picture of the incredible, safe, and sophisticated experience that awaits. Ready to experience the reality of an amazing African golf safari? Contact Ascot Tours at scott@ascottours.co.za and let us answer any further questions you may have.
By Scott Edkins, Ascot Tours