3 nights/4 days Kruger Park Golfing Safari
The Secrets VIP Safari and Golf package is an exclusive, custom made safari package for avid nature lovers who want to tick of this bucket list experience….available only to a very selected group. The ones who will dare to play a round of golf amidst the Kruger Park's wild animals, and even encounter the odd predator in "Golf's garden of Eden".
The special safari package for Secrets VIP guests, who are keen golfers of all levels, who would like to combine both experiences and visit this truly unique golf destination.
Introduction
Imagine teeing off against the backdrop of the African bushveld, with the sounds of lions roaring in the distance and elephants grazing nearby. A luxury golfing safari in Kruger National Park combines world-class golfing with the thrill of an authentic African safari. Two of the most unique golf courses in South Africa—Kambaku Golf Course and Skukuza Golf Course—offer golfers an unforgettable experience where wildlife and fairways intersect.
Let us explore why a golfing safari in Kruger National Park is a must for luxury travelers, highlighting the exceptional courses at Kambaku and Skukuza, the best lodges to stay at, and how to blend golf with unforgettable safari adventures.
Why Choose a Golfing Safari in Kruger National Park?
Kruger National Park is South Africa’s premier wildlife destination, renowned for the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo). But beyond its legendary game drives, Kruger offers something truly unique—golf courses where wild animals roam freely.
A luxury golfing safari here means:
- Unparalleled wildlife encounters while playing golf.
- Exclusive lodges with world-class amenities.
- Championship-level courses in the heart of the bush.
- Helicopter transfers and private game drives on request.
Kambaku Golf Course: A Hidden Gem in the Wild
The Wild Beauty of Kambaku Golf Course
Nestled in Komatipoort in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga, Kambaku Golf Course is a 9-hole (18-tee) wilderness golfing experience set in one of South Africa’s most untamed landscapes. Perched at the meeting point of the Crocodile and Komati Rivers, with the rugged Lebombo Mountains as its backdrop, this course offers a golfing adventure unlike any other. Just a stone’s throw from Kruger National Park, Kambaku presents a thrilling challenge for golfers of all skill levels—where the wild bushveld and the spirit of the game collide.
A Golf Course Like No Other
With its dramatic riverfront setting, Kambaku is the perfect golfing escape for those on a Kruger Park safari. The course is alive with wildlife—elephants, buffalo, and hippos are often spotted along the riverbanks during play. Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars alongside their clubs, as the area teems with kingfishers, fish eagles, and vibrant bee-eaters. On rare occasions, the wild even intrudes on the fairways—legend has it that a leopard once took down an impala on the second green, a reminder that this is no ordinary golf course.
The Legacy of Kambaku: A Tribute to a Giant
The course is named after Kambaku, one of the legendary "Magnificent Seven" giant tuskers of Kruger National Park. In Shangaan, Kambaku means "Exceptionally Big Elephant Bull"—a fitting title for this majestic creature. His tusks were awe-inspiring:
Left tusk: 259.5 cm (63 kg)
Right tusk: 265 cm (64 kg)
Kambaku was easily recognizable by his near-identical tusks, a tail missing its usual "paint-brush" tip, three distinct trunk folds, and a perfectly round hole in his left ear. He frequented the Crocodile River, which now forms part of the golf course’s boundary, leaving behind a legacy that still echoes through this wild and wonderful landscape.
Unique Features
Wildlife on the Course: It’s not uncommon to see impalas grazing near the fairways or hear baboons calling from the trees.
Natural Hazards: Instead of water traps, golfers navigate elephant footprints and termite mounds.
Exclusivity: The course is private, ensuring an uncrowded, tranquil golfing experience.
Best Time to Play
Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and higher chances of wildlife sightings.
Avoid midday heat, especially in summer (November-February).
Nearby Luxury Lodges
Secrets VIP Safari Lodge – A luxury bush retreat with private game drives and gourmet dining.
Skukuza Golf Course: Golfing Among the Big Five
A Wild Golfing Adventure in Kruger National Park 
Tucked on the outskirts of Skukuza Rest Camp in the heart of Kruger National Park, the Skukuza Golf Course offers a one-of-a-kind golfing experience where the wild and the fairway collide. Originally built in 1972 as a recreational retreat for park staff, this 9-hole (18-tee) course is now open to visitors, allowing golfers to tee off surrounded by untamed African wilderness.
A Golf course of note
Par 72 | Length: 5,831 m (6,450 yards) for men / 4,950 m (5,480 yards) for women.
No bunkers—just towering trees forming "aerial bunkers"
Unfenced terrain means wildlife roams freely—expect hippos, impalas, warthogs, and baboons as your gallery.
Golfing Among the Big Five
Set within a rich wildlife sanctuary, the course immerses players in nature’s symphony. The Big Five may wander nearby, while birdsong fills the air, creating a round where every swing comes with a side of safari.
Challenge Meets Adventure
Designed for both leisure and thrill, Skukuza’s layout blends strategic play with raw bushveld beauty. Whether you're navigating tree-lined fairways or watching elephants in the distance, this is golf at its most unforgettable.
Unique Features
Wildlife Warnings: Golfers must be cautious—no caddies are allowed due to safety risks from wild animals.
Natural Layout: The course follows the natural contours of the bushveld, with sand bunkers resembling dry riverbeds.
Affordable Green Fees: Unlike exclusive private courses, Skukuza is accessible to the public, making it a bucket-list destination for golf enthusiasts.
Best Time to Play
Winter months (May-September) provide cooler weather and better wildlife visibility.
Sunrise rounds are magical, with mist lifting over the fairways and animals emerging from the bush.
Nearby Luxury Lodges
Secrets VIP Safari Lodge – A luxury bush retreat with private game drives and gourmet dining.
Singita Lebombo Lodge – Cliff-top suites with panoramic Kruger views.
Ready to play where nature leads the way? Skukuza Golf Course promises not just a game, but a true Kruger adventure.
Combining Golf with a Luxury Safari Experience
A golfing safari in Kruger isn’t just about the courses—it’s about blending world-class golf with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Be sure to visit the itinerary section below on the page for a complete breakdown of your trip.
Your Secrets VIP golfing safari includes our amazing Kruger Park experience in our open vehicle safari vehicles and two rounds of golf .......that will forever be remembered !
PRICE INCLUDES:
3 nights’ accommodation at our 4 star Lodge 10 minutes from Crocodile bridge gate
3 dinners and 3 breakfasts (or breakfast packs)
3 half day Kruger Park game drives in open safari vehicle
1 round of golf at Skukuza Golf Club with green fees and golf cart included
1 round of golf at Kambaku Golf Club with green fees and golf cart included
Return transfers from KMI International airport
Services of a professional accredited tour guide
Conservation fees and entrance fees
Mineral water on all the drives
PRICE EXCLUDES:
Daily lunches and beverages
Gratuities
Why This is a Bucket-List Experience
Rare Opportunity: Few places in the world allow you to golf alongside wild animals.
Luxury Meets Adventure: Five-star lodges, private guides, and helicopter transfers elevate the experience.
Perfect for Golf Enthusiasts & Safari Lovers: Combines two passions into one unforgettable trip.
A luxury golfing safari in Kruger National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending the thrill of the wild with the elegance of world-class golf. Whether you choose the exclusive Kambaku Golf Course or the legendary Skukuza Golf Course, you’ll leave with memories of eagles soaring over your putt and elephants wandering near the rough.
Ready to Book Your Golfing Safari?
Contact our luxury travel specialist at the safari desk to tailor your dream Kruger golf adventure—where every swing comes with a wild surprise!
Check out this video below of the Kambaku Experience as told by South African National Cricket team members.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1
You will be met at KMI International airport and transferred to the Lodge where a warm welcome awaits you.
Check in and orientation.
Your guide will collect you from the Lodge at 14:30 pm for your first open vehicle safari.
We exit the Kruger Park at gate closing time just before sunset and return to the Lodge where you will enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 2
After a good night’s rest, we will be off to an early start for our morning game drive on route to Skukuza. Breakfast packs and drinks will be enjoyed en-route. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with the registering of your party for a round of unforgettable golf at this unique golf course. Lunch enjoyed at halfway.
After a quick 19th hole we will be on our way and the safari continues in search for the over 100 mammal & 500 bird species. We return to the lodge late afternoon where you can then relax and even jump into the swimming pool before dinner.
Day 3
Early morning pick-up for the start of your half day safari. After the breakfast stop, the guide will make his way to the Kambaku Golf Club. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with the registering of your party for your round. Lunch enjoyed at half way.
Informal prize giving can also be arranged.
We return to the Lodge after a great day in the bush and a walk on one of the most scenic golf courses in the South African bush.
Enjoy dinner and drinks whilst sharing memorable stories of your unique experience.
Day 4
After breakfast at the Lodge we depart to the airport in time for your flight.
Share This Page