Leopard Creek Golf Course - South African Safari Golf

Course Overview

Leopard Creek Golf Course, designed by Gary Player and opened in 1996, is a masterpiece of golf course architecture set on the banks of the Crocodile River in South Africa. The course features a unique blend of championship golf and African wildlife, with the Kruger National Park as its neighbor. Measuring 7,200 yards from the championship tees, the course plays to a par of 72 and offers a perfect balance of challenge and natural beauty. The layout takes advantage of the river and natural water features, creating a stunning backdrop for golf while providing strategic challenges throughout the round.

Signature Holes

• The 13th hole, a dramatic par-5, plays along the Crocodile River with stunning views of the Kruger National Park.
• The 9th hole, a challenging par-3, features an island green surrounded by water and natural vegetation.
• The 18th hole, a spectacular par-5, offers a risk-reward opportunity with water coming into play on the approach.
• The 4th hole, a strategic par-4, requires precise shot placement to avoid the natural water hazards.
• The 15th hole, a picturesque par-3, plays over a natural lake with the African bush as a backdrop.

Course Condition

1. The course is maintained to the highest standards, with pristine fairways and consistent playing surfaces.
2. The greens are kept at tournament speed, featuring subtle undulations and challenging pin positions.
3. The rough is maintained at a challenging length, with native grasses adding to the difficulty.
4. The bunkers are filled with high-quality sand and feature natural faces that blend with the surroundings.
5. The water features and natural vegetation are carefully maintained to enhance both the challenge and the wildlife habitat.

Playing Experience

Playing Leopard Creek is a truly unique experience that combines championship golf with the beauty of the African bush. The course requires strategic thinking and precise shot-making, with the natural hazards and wildlife adding to the challenge. The Crocodile River and water features create stunning backdrops while providing strategic challenges. The course is walkable, and caddies are available to provide local knowledge and wildlife spotting. The experience is enhanced by the luxurious clubhouse and the opportunity to see African wildlife during the round.

Tournament History

• Leopard Creek has hosted the Alfred Dunhill Championship since 2005, attracting top European Tour players.
• The course has been consistently ranked among the top golf courses in South Africa and Africa.
• The Alfred Dunhill Championship has seen victories by major champions including Charl Schwartzel and Branden Grace.
• The course has hosted numerous charity events and corporate tournaments, raising funds for wildlife conservation.
• The course has been recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation.