Skukuza Golf Club, situated within Kruger National Park, South Africa, has earned its reputation as the most ‘wild’ golf course globally, and for good reason! In a recent Facebook post on Monday, the Skukuza Golf Club shared a lighthearted observation: “These guys don’t seem to be fazed that it’s Monday. Just a typical day on the wildest course in the world.” Playing 18 holes at Skukuza Golf Club offers a truly unique experience.
Unlike typical golf courses with bunkers and water hazards, Skukuza poses a different challenge – the presence of freely roaming wildlife. As the only golf course within Kruger Park itself, this 72-par, nine-hole, 18-tee course, established in 1972, is open to the public. Nestled on the road to Paul Kruger Gate, the course provides an immersive, close-to-nature setting with picturesque bushveld trees, vibrant birdlife, and scenic views over Lake Panic.
Unfenced, the course often treats golfers to unexpected wildlife encounters. Stories include a lion once killing a buffalo on the first green and a honeymoon couple’s game interrupted by a pack of wild dogs chasing an impala across the course. While park staff vigilantly monitor the area to keep dangerous animals at bay, an indemnity form is required before teeing off to ensure safety. Despite these thrilling wildlife encounters, no golfers have ever been harmed by wild animals.
To play the course, tee-off times are available between 7:00 am and 11:00 am from Sundays to Fridays. Accessing Skukuza Golf Club involves a five-hour car ride from Johannesburg or by taking a one-hour flight from Johannesburg International Airport to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) on the park periphery. While caddies are not available, golf trolleys can be rented for added convenience. Learn more about Skukuza Golf Club at http://www.skukuza-golf.co.za/
