Ultimate experience: Golf safari in Kenya

Hippo in the rough

There aren't many golf courses in the world where your view of the green might be obscured by a wandering giraffe, your playing partner pro is a former Maasai tribesman or you find yourself chipping to avoid a stubborn hippo.

But then, nothing is quite like playing golf in Kenya. Maniago, one of Africa's leading tour operators specialising in exclusive safaris, offers a unique golf opportunity combining some of Kenya's finest courses with viewing the country's exotic wildlife on safari – occasionally at the same time!

Kenya boasts some wonderfully challenging courses set in a variety of spectacular landscapes. The majestic Windsor Golf and Country Club boasts a colony of Sykes monkeys who make for unusual, if not always engrossed, spectators.

Magnificent clubhouse at Windsor

A trip to Mt Kenya will features a night at the renowned Mt Kenya Safari Club. At 6,000 feet, its 9-hole course may leave clients a little breathless, but thrilled at how far their drives travel. You also get to play at one of the country’s championship venues, Muthaiga Golf Club.

Putting out at Great Rift Valley

Those who prefer their vast mammals in a more fitting setting, will enjoy a visit to the Lake Nakuru National Park or Maasai Mara Game Reserve, where black and white rhino roam amidst millions of flamingoes, with the occasional sight of lions and leopards.

Maniago arranges golf within the group or against local club members while non-golfers are offered a wide range of alternative activities and excursions. Hand-tailored golf safaris with Maniago start at around £2,200 per person.

Clubhouse at Pezula

The Pezula development in the southern Cape near Knysna, is a residential resort with 255 homes, 18-hole course, resort hotel and planned ‘Field of Dreams’ sporting facility, including tennis, bowls and equestrian centre.

Located in the heart of South Africa's breathtaking ‘garden route,’ it’s a home from home for many sports stars, including Roger Federer, Jonas Bjorkman, golfer Nick Price and South African cricket captain, Graeme Smith.

The golf course has spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and Knysna Lagoon, with sweeping fairways and greens that roll through the southern Cape landscape, with tees and green built almost on the edge of cliffs.