Kenya: One of the best golf destinations in Africa

Kenya is increasingly developing into a popular golf destination. The country has dozens of beautiful golf courses in unique and diverse locations. It is possible to play golf near the beach or in the mountains. Several golf clubs are also located in the country’s largest cities, Nariobi and Mombasa. Travellers should apply for a Kenya visa before departure.

Golf in Kenya is becoming increasingly popular.

Currently, there are around 35 golf courses in Kenya, with many new ones in the planning or construction stage. A golf trip to Kenya offers travellers the opportunity to combine visits to high-quality golf courses with a safari or beach holiday. In order to travel to Kenya, you need a Kenya visa before arriving in the country.

High altitude and special courses

More than half of the golf courses in Kenya are located near national parks or nature reserves. Often golfers can enjoy beautiful views of mountains, lakes and valleys. In general, golf clubs can be found in the following five regions: Nairobi, along the coast, in the highlands, near Lake Victoria and in the Western Rift Valley. There is a great diversity of courses and the nature that surrounds them. 

For golf trips to Kenya, it is a good idea to visit several different regions to explore the diversity of the country. The Kenya visa allows travellers to stay in the country for 3 months, which is more than enough time to visit numerous locations.

A special feature of golfing in Kenya is that many of the courses are located at elevations. Kenya’s capital Nairobi, for example, sits at an altitude of 1,800 metres. This is also where many of the country’s best golf clubs are located. Because of the thin air at altitude, there is less resistance, so the balls fly farther and turn stronger.  

Award-winning golf courses and hotels

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muthaiga_Country_Club

Probably the most famous golf course in Kenya, which is also nominated for the best golf course in Africa in 2021, is the Muthaiga Golf Club. This Nairobi golf club hosted the country’s first major international golf tournament, known today as the Kenya Open. For a few years now, the Kenya Open has even been part of the European Tour. The Kenya Open is also regularly held at another golf club in Nairobi: the Karen Country Club. Travellers who want to play golf in the best conditions can therefore choose between these two clubs. 

The Great Rift Valley Lodge was voted the best golf hotel in Africa in 2021. This hotel with a good golf course is located on the Ol Donyo Opurru Mountain, around 100 kilometres from Nairobi. While playing golf, visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley. The tranquillity of this location is unique. Moreover, this golf club is located between two popular safari destinations that can be visited during a day trip.

In Kenya, there are also golf courses located right next to the beach. The Leisure Lodge Resort in Mombasa offers the ideal opportunity to combine a beach holiday with golf. Golfers can also play at Vipingo Ridge, Windsor Golf Club or Sigona Golf Club, located in different parts of the country.

Easily apply for your Kenya visa

Before departure, travellers should apply for a Kenya visa. The Kenya visa is valid for 3 months and can easily be applied for online. Applying only takes a few minutes and once approved, is sent to your email, so you do not have to visit any embassies or consulates.