ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Leopard Creek is owned by Johann Rupert, South Africa's wealthiest man, and sightings of lions, hippos, crocodiles, and elephants are common during play, especially along the Crocodile River bordering several holes.
About
Leopard Creek Country Club, designed by Gary Player, is a celebrated private golf course in Malelane, South Africa. Overlooking the Crocodile River and bordering Kruger National Park, the course features immaculate parkland design, prolific wildlife sightings, and world-class facilities. Host to the Alfred Dunhill Championship, it blends natural African vistas with modern architecture for a truly unique playing experience.
Caddie Tip
Course knowledge is essential; play conservatively near water hazards, especially on the back nine. The rough is thick in wet seasons, and wind can funnel through the river valley. On 13, aggressively aim for the green in two only if you control ball flight—bailing left avoids a watery grave below.
The Main Challenge
Leopard Creek challenges golfers with strategic water hazards, elevated greens, and shifting winds off the Crocodile River. The back nine’s proximity to wild riverside terrain can distract and intimidate, with unpredictable wildlife movement and beauty as a constant test of focus.
The Good
Golfers rave about the unique experience of playing alongside wild African game, the seamless integration of golf holes into natural settings, and the expertly maintained greens and fairways. The panoramic river-view clubhouse and dramatic vistas over Kruger make the experience unforgettable.
The Not So Good
Prices are very high compared to most South African courses, and some reviewers mention that several holes lack character or memorability. Strict access policies and required arrangements for non-members can make play logistically challenging.
Signature Hole:
#
13
The 13th hole, a par 5, is renowned for its dramatic green perched above the Crocodile River, offering vistas over Kruger National Park. Wildlife such as hippos and crocodiles are frequently seen from the elevated green, combining shotmaking challenge with one of golf’s most spectacular natural settings.
Clubhouse
The elegant clubhouse features panoramic terraces, upscale dining, a fully stocked bar, spacious locker rooms, pro shop, covered cart parking, and viewing decks overlooking both the 9th and 18th greens with Kruger vistas.
Practice Facilities
Practice areas include a full driving range, putting greens, and short game zones. Facilities are pristine, with modern range balls, targets, and shaded warm-up spaces available exclusively to players.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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