Zambia, a landlocked gem in southern Africa, is renowned for its raw wilderness, the thundering Victoria Falls, and sprawling national parks teeming with wildlife. Yet, it’s also quietly carving out a niche as an extraordinary destination for golf vacations, where the fairways are as untamed as the surrounding savanna. A golf trip to Zambia isn’t just about perfecting your swing; it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape where elephants might wander near the green and the Zambezi River provides a dramatic backdrop.
The Allure of Golf in Zambia
Golf in Zambia is a relatively undiscovered treasure, overshadowed by the country’s more famous safari and adventure tourism. However, for those in the know, the golf courses here offer a unique experience that blends sport with the wild beauty of the African continent. The country’s golfing infrastructure, while not as extensive as that of South Africa or Mauritius, is growing, with courses that capitalize on Zambia’s stunning topography and natural features. The climate, characterized by a warm, dry season from May to October, provides ideal conditions for golf, coinciding perfectly with the peak season for wildlife viewing, making it an excellent time to combine a golf trip with a safari.
One of the standout destinations for golf in Zambia is the region around Livingstone, near the iconic Victoria Falls. Here, the Elephant Hills Golf Course at the Elephant Hills Resort offers an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by the legendary Gary Player. What sets this course apart is its integration with the natural environment. Golfers might find themselves sharing the fairways with curious warthogs or impalas, as the course is nestled within a game-rich area where wildlife has the right of way. The Zambezi River, visible from several holes, adds a serene yet majestic element to the game, while the distant mist from Victoria Falls creates an unforgettable backdrop. The course is challenging yet accessible, with well-maintained greens and strategic bunkers that test players of all skill levels.
Another notable venue is the Lusaka Golf Club, a historic course that has hosted the Zambia Open, a professional tournament on the Sunshine Tour since 1996. This 18-hole course, set in the heart of Zambia’s capital, offers a more urban golfing experience but doesn’t skimp on charm. The club’s lush fairways are framed by indigenous trees, and its challenging layout has attracted golfing greats like Ian Woosnam, a former Masters champion. The Zambia Open, traditionally held here, draws international players and adds a vibrant energy to the local golfing scene, making it a great time to visit for those who want to combine their vacation with spectating a high-calibre event.
Beyond the Fairways: Adventure and Culture
A golf vacation in Zambia is about far more than just the game. The country’s tourism infrastructure, while still developing outside major hubs like Lusaka and Livingstone, is designed to immerse visitors in its natural and cultural riches. After a morning on the course, golfers can venture to Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders.” At 108 meters high and 1,708 meters wide, it’s the largest curtain of falling water in the world, and activities here range from serene sunset cruises on the Zambezi to adrenaline-pumping bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge. For a closer look at the region’s wildlife, a short drive from Livingstone takes you to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, where you can spot rhinos, elephants, and giraffes on a game drive.
Zambia’s national parks, which cover a third of the country, are a golfer’s dream complement. South Luangwa National Park, a pioneer of the walking safari, offers an intimate way to experience Africa’s Big Five — lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. The park’s 400-plus bird species also make it a paradise for birdwatchers, adding another layer to your trip. Lower Zambezi National Park, accessible from Lusaka, combines game drives with canoeing along the Zambezi, where hippos and crocodiles might drift past as you paddle. These experiences elevate a golf vacation into a full-fledged African adventure, blending the precision of the sport with the unpredictability of the wild.
Culturally, Zambia is a tapestry of over 70 tribes, each with its own language and traditions. In Livingstone, you can visit local markets to sample nshima, a maize-based staple dish often paired with relishes like fish or game meat. The friendliness of Zambians, noted for their warmth and courtesy, makes every interaction a highlight. For a deeper dive into history, the Shiwa Ng’andu estate, a grand manor built in 1932, offers a glimpse into colonial-era Zambia alongside activities like fishing and boat trips. The Barotse Floodplain in Western Province, home to the Lozi people, hosts the Kuomboka ceremony, a vibrant festival marking the seasonal migration from flooded villages, showcasing Zambia’s living traditions.
Why Zambia Stands Out
What makes Zambia unique in the world of golf tourism is its ability to offer an authentic, unpolished experience. Unlike more established golf destinations, Zambia’s courses are deeply integrated with their surroundings, offering a raw connection to nature that’s hard to find elsewhere. The chance to tee off with the Zambezi in view or pause your game as a kudu strolls by is a reminder that you’re playing in one of the world’s last great wildernesses. Add to that the opportunity to explore Victoria Falls, embark on a walking safari, or witness a cultural festival, and you have a golf vacation that transcends the sport.
Zambia’s golf scene is also on the cusp of growth. With its natural beauty and increasing global interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations, the country is poised to develop more courses and attract a broader golfing audience. For now, it remains a hidden gem, perfect for those who crave exclusivity and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, Zambia offers a chance to swing your clubs in a setting that’s as wild as it is welcoming.
So, pack your golf bag, book your flight, and prepare for a vacation where every hole tells a story, and every day brings a new adventure. Zambia is waiting to show you that golf can be more than a game — it can be a journey into the heart of Africa.
