Leopard Creek Country Club is an exclusive golf destination situated near Malelane in Mpumalanga, South Africa, on the southern border of the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The 360-hectare development is uniquely bordered to the north and west by the picturesque Crocodile River, which also serves as a natural boundary with the national park. This prime location offers magnificent vistas into the Kruger National Park from both the clubhouse and the golf courses.

Designed by legendary golfer Gary Player and opened in 1996, with contributions from Phil Jacobs, Golf Data, and Greg Letsche, Leopard Creek features an 18-hole championship course with a par of 72, measuring 6665 meters from the blue tees. The course is renowned for its challenging layout, undulating terrain, and strategic bunkering, blending seamlessly with its bushveld surroundings. Innovative architectural and landscaping techniques ensure the golf course and living areas are naturally protected from animals, while lakes and small streams have been diverted to create scenic vistas and interesting golf strategies. Notable holes include the 505-meter par-five 13th, where the green is perched 32 meters above the Crocodile River, providing spectacular views into the Kruger Park, and the 9th and 18th holes, which feature peninsula and island greens, respectively. The fairways are covered in warm season Bermuda grass, and the greens boast Champion bent grass, both chosen for their playability and water efficiency.

Golfing at Leopard Creek offers a unique safari-golf experience, where hazards take on a new dimension due to the abundant wildlife. Sightings of crocodiles and hippos in the water features, along with antelope, buffalo, and elephants either on the course or along the river, are commonplace. Although security fencing separates the course from the larger mammals of the Kruger National Park, leopards are occasionally spotted, particularly at night. The club maintains an atmosphere of luxury and exclusivity, primarily reserved for members and their guests. Limited visitor tee times are available during off-peak periods, typically weekdays, and must be booked through one of the club's associate lodges. The elegant clubhouse, situated on the bank of the Crocodile River, provides premium facilities including a lounge, covered patio, bar, restaurant, a fully stocked Pro Shop, and well-appointed changing rooms. Additionally, Leopard Creek is home to the National Junior Development Centre (NJDC), a 30-hectare facility established in 2015 to provide world-class golf practice and a challenging Par 3 course for underprivileged children. The club also annually hosts the Alfred Dunhill Championship, a flagship event of the DP World Tour. Visitors should be aware that the area is considered a malaria-risk zone and are advised to consult health professionals for appropriate precautions.

Skukuza Camp, Kruger National Park

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