TL;DR
Mpumalanga offers some of South Africa’s finest golf courses amid breathtaking scenery. From championship layouts to luxury resorts, this guide covers the top courses, how to visit, where to stay, expert tips, local experiences, and safety advice.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a leisure traveler looking to combine sport with nature, find practical insights, travel suggestions, budget guides, and personal recommendations to make your Mpumalanga golf trip unforgettable.
Jump directly to the top golf courses.
Discover the Best Golf Courses in Mpumalanga
As an avid golfer and local Mpumalanga enthusiast, I’ve explored many of the province’s spectacular golf spots. Here’s my take on the top courses that combine world-class design with stunning natural beauty.
Perry Lakes Golf Estate
Perry Lakes stands out for its meticulously sculpted fairways and lush, manicured greens surrounded by indigenous vegetation. It’s a favorite amongst local pros for its challenging water hazards and immaculate maintenance.
Location: Near White River, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R350 – R500 per round depending on season
Highlights: Scenic river views, top-tier club facilities, and peaceful ambiance.
White River Golf Club
Nestled in the quaint town of White River, this historic golf club offers a warm, community feel. The course challenges golfers of all levels with a mix of technical holes and friendly fairways.
Location: White River, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R250 – R400
Why Visit: Friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and great value for money.
Leopard Creek Country Club
One of South Africa’s premier golf destinations, Leopard Creek is renowned worldwide and situated near the famous Kruger National Park. It offers breathtaking views and superb facilities and has hosted many international tournaments.
Location: Malelane, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R1,200 – R1,500, booking required well in advance
Experience: Luxury golfing with exclusive access to wildlife glimpses on parts of the course.
Sabie River Country Club
This lesser-known gem offers a tranquil escape with well-maintained fairways and challenging greens. The proximity to the beautiful Sabie river adds to a calming environment.
Location: Sabie, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R150 – R300
Insider Tip: Perfect for a relaxing round after exploring local waterfalls.
Graskop Golf Course
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Set amidst Mpumalanga’s famed escarpment, Graskop offers spectacular mountain views and a challenging layout that tests driving accuracy and short game skills.
Location: Graskop, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R200 – R350
Why Choose: Combines natural beauty with a genuine golfing challenge.
Nelspruit Golf Club
A well-established club in Mpumalanga’s capital, this course combines traditional course design with convenient access to city amenities.
Location: Nelspruit (Mbombela), Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R250 – R450
Perks: Friendly local golf community with excellent practice facilities.
Sabie River Bend Golf Course
Offering a blend of forested and open terrain, this course is famed for spectacular birdwatching opportunities alongside your round.
Location: Near Sabie, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R180 – R320
Local Insight: Bring binoculars for nature spotting as part of your play.
Lydenburg Golf Club
A historic course in the gold mining town of Lydenburg, featuring a challenging 18-hole layout surrounded by rolling hills.
Location: Lydenburg, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R200 – R400
Experience: Great club atmosphere and an ideal spot for experienced players wanting to test their skills.
Bushbuckridge Golf Club
Set further northeast, this course blends natural bushveld with maintained fairways, providing a unique golfing experience with local wildlife occasionally nearby.
Location: Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: R150 – R300
Why Visit: A lesser-traveled course with authentic bushveld charm.
Kaapsehoop Golf Club
Located in the lovely small town of Kaapsehoop, this quaint, picturesque course is perfect for a casual game surrounded by mountain vistas.
Location: Kaapsehoop, Mpumalanga
Green Fees: Usually under R200
Local Charm: A favorite for locals looking to unwind in a relaxed environment.
Planning Your Golf Trip to Mpumalanga: Insights, Tips & Logistics
When to Visit for Best Golf Conditions
Mpumalanga’s highveld climate means mild winters and warm summers with some rain in summer months (November to March). For optimal golf conditions, try visiting in late autumn (April to May) or early spring (August to September) when courses are lush but weather is stable. Avoid the peak rainy season if you dislike interrupted rounds.
How to Get There and Get Around
The main gateway to Mpumalanga’s golf courses is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), just outside Nelspruit/Mbombela. Numerous car rental agencies operate there, and a rental car is strongly recommended for accessing courses and exploring the region comfortably. Mpumalanga’s roads are generally good, but some rural courses require sturdy vehicles. Public transport is sparse, so self-drive or private transfers are preferable.
Where to Stay: My Top Recommendations
For ultimate convenience, stay near Nelspruit or White River for access to many golf courses and quality hotels/lodges.
Luxury
Victoria Falls Golf & Safari Lodge combines elegant accommodation with on-site golf access and safari tours.
Mid-Range
Protea Hotel by Marriott Nelspruit—close to full facilities with golf shuttle options.
Budget
Local guesthouses in White River offer affordable comfort with easy driving access.
Typical Costs & Suggested Budget
Expect green fees between R150 and R1,500 per round, varying by course prestige. Accommodation ranges from R600 to R3,000+ per night. Adding meals, transport, and tours, a comfortable 5-day trip might budget around R7,000 to R15,000 per person.
Money-Saving Tips for Golf Travelers
- Book tee times directly via course websites to get the best rates and promotions.
- Consider midweek rounds, which are often cheaper and less crowded.
- Choose accommodation packages that include golf or shuttle services.
- Bring your own golf equipment to avoid rental costs.
Must-See Sights & Activities Beyond Golf
Since you’re in Mpumalanga, extend your trip to visit the iconic Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, and Kruger National Park safaris. These nearby experiences perfectly complement your golfing adventure.
Staying Safe While Golfing and Traveling
Mpumalanga is generally safe, but always take standard precautions:
- Lock up valuables in your vehicle or accommodation.
- Use airport/reputable transfers or rental cars.
- Avoid isolated areas after dark and stay informed about weather conditions.
- Keep emergency local contacts saved.
Emergency Contacts for Mpumalanga Visitors
- Police: 10111
- Ambulance/Medical Emergencies: 112
- Nearest Hospital: Nelspruit Medi-Clinic (+27 13 752 3000)
- Tourist Information: [email protected]
Getting Around Map: Central Mpumalanga Golf Regions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time of year to golf in Mpumalanga?
Late autumn (April to May) and early spring (August to September) provide the best balance of mild weather and minimal rain, ideal for golf.
Do I need to book tee times in advance?
Yes, especially for popular courses like Leopard Creek. Booking in advance secures your preferred tee time and often better rates.
Are golf clubs available for rent?
Most major clubs offer rental equipment, though bringing your own clubs is recommended to save costs and ensure comfort.
Which nearby attractions can I visit while golfing?
Don’t miss the Panorama Route scenic drives, Blyde River Canyon, waterfall hikes, and safaris in Kruger National Park for a well-rounded Mpumalanga trip.
How do I stay safe while exploring golf courses?
Stick to daylight hours for golf and tours, secure your belongings, use reputable transport services, and stay updated with local advice.
Final Pro Tip
Connect with local golf clubs ahead of your visit. Many offer insider knowledge on course conditions and hidden gems and can share access to exclusive tee times or bundled packages combining golf and safari experiences.
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
