East Africa is not exactly world renowned for Golf, but there are a few gems that golfers may like to know about, listed within easy reach of a Serena property – the most notable of which is the Lake Victoria Serena, which is one of a handful of golf resorts in East Africa.
Nairobi Serena Hotel
Muthaiga Golf Club to the north of Nairobi, was established in 1913. The front 9 are laid out across undulating terrain, while the back 9 are routed around several man-made lakes. The Kenyan Open was held here from 1969 to 2002, and in 2018. The course was renovated in 2004-5 by Peter Matkovich and is regarded as one of the prettiest to play in East Africa.
Karen Country Club was founded in 1937 and is situated on Karen Blixen’s former coffee plantation, in the colonial suburb of Karen. Host to the Kenya Open between 2004 and 2008 and again between 2013 and 2016, is a testing course that stretches almost 6,900 yards with a par set at 71. Karen in a favourite of any golfers visiting Kenya.
Royal Nairobi Golf Club is the oldest society in Kenya, founded in 1906. The course was granted the Royal title by King George V, in 1935. Today the course layout extends to just over 7000 yards. This is the closest golf course to Nairobi Serena Hotel.
Serena Beach Hotel
Nyali Golf and Country Club is located north of the creek that separates Mombasa Island from the North Coast and is laid out over 150-acre site. Wild animals still roam around and you will see the occasional Vervet monkey (the club’s logo). Green fees are free if you are staying at Serena Beach Hotel.
Vipingo Ridge is located about an hour drive north of Serena Beach and affords golfers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. This is East Africa’s sole PGA-approved golfing facility, and is rated as the No.1 course in Kenya.
Arusha Serena Hotel
Kilimanjaro Golf Club (Kiligolf) is Tanzania’s first golf and wildlife resort, where Africa’s highest mountain is in full view.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
The Sea Cliff is only 9-holes and is the only course on the island of Zanzibar, and lies on the north-west coast, about 30 minutes’ drive from Stonetown.
Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort
On the banks of Lake Victoria lies our beautiful, picture perfect golf resort with an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Golf Plan with a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels. The views of the lake and its surroundings are soft on the eye with ample bird life, while each hole has a different and relaxed feel to it. Its unique features include a finishing hole with an island green that is not seen in many courses. Additional amenities and services include a driving range, caddies, equipment rentals and golf professionals to provide instruction for juniors and adults.
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