Safaris and Sand
In the more than two decades since the end of apartheid, South Africa has blossomed into a remarkable country. A chance to see the animals on safari and explore the culture, history and architecture—and do it all in such a gorgeous setting—helps make this a trip of a lifetime. Cape Town is perhaps the most beautiful city on the planet and one hour away are the towns of Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch in an unparalleled wine region. But South Africa’s special secret is that it’s among the most underrated golf destinations in the world.
What We Love About South Africa
This country has a little something for everyone and most people love everything about it. We like to start in Cape Town, staying at the Cape Grace, or Ellerman House. Then we head to Franschoek for fine wine, a stay at Leeu Estates and a warm-up round at Pearl Valley. Next up, we like to play at Arabella en route to Hermanus and our chance to see the Marine Big 5 (dolphin, penguin, seal, shark and whale). After we enjoy a round at the Links of Fancourt, the former President’s Cup host, we have a choice to make. Architecture aficionados will want to continue east to play Humewood and Durban, while others will be ready to fly to Krugar National Park for a safari to see the Big 5 (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes) and an exclusive round at Leopard Creek. Our perfect, unforgettable day here looks like this: game drive at dawn, helicopter to Leopard Creek for golf, back to Londolozi for a dip in your private pool and a game drive at dusk.
Favourite Courses
• Leopard Creek: Don’t be surprised if you see one of the Big 5 stroll by while you’re playing this course, which is on the border of Kruger National Park (but don’t worry, your caddy knows what to do)
• The Links at Fancourt: A wonderful country club with three courses, including The Links, often considered the best in South Africa and home to the 2003 President’s Cup. Montagu is a great second round
• Arabella: The edge of the Southern Africa’s largest lagoon is the ideal setting for some golf while you’re making your way from the wine region to Hermanus
• Durban Country Club: This unique course along the shores of the Indian Ocean was a member of the World Top 100 for a long time and still offers a memorable round
• Humewood: Set in the sand dunes of Algoa Bay, this is South Africa’s only true links course and the strong winds, hard fairways and the bunkers make it a formidable test
• Pearl Valley: Located in the Paarl wine region, this Jack Nicklaus course allows us to do what we love most: play a round, then enjoy great wine, superior dining and excellent hotels
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