Serengeti golf course construction gains momentum

Mara. It sounds like something out of a storybook, golfers teeing off while zebras, antelopes, wildebeests, elephants, or giraffes roam freely nearby.

But this vision is fast becoming a reality at Fort Ikoma, where construction of the Serengeti National Park Golf Course is gaining momentum.

Wild animals will move freely near or alongside the course, creating a unique experience unlike any other in the world.

The project, spearheaded by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (Tanapa) at a cost of over Sh9.5 billion, will feature 18 international-standard holes.

Beyond its stunning natural setting, the course is being built to high-quality specifications in both design and construction.

It incorporates modern technology and premium materials, including carefully designed fairways, contemporary rest areas, and eco-friendly infrastructure.

The course’s proximity to a nearby airstrip makes it easily accessible for both local and international visitors, positioning it as a future hub for tourism and sports, with the potential to host international golf tournaments and boost the regional economy.

A visit to the site last week revealed that construction is in full swing.

According to Zacharia Edward, one of the site supervisors, 15 of the 18 holes, stretching over 7.05 kilometres have already been completed, despite several logistical challenges.

“This course will have international status once complete. It will be among the finest and most unique, because golfers will play while wildlife roams nearby,” said Edward.

Addressing concerns about safety, Edward clarified that no dangerous animals inhabit the immediate area. He listed wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes as the most commonly seen species. Another standout feature of the course, he noted, is the adjacent airstrip: “Tourists, businesspeople, and sports enthusiasts can land and head straight to the course,” Edward said.

Edward, who is also a golfer, added that the course would rank second in the country in terms of international standards. The design includes advanced drainage systems, allowing play to resume shortly after heavy rain.

Once completed, the course will offer breathtaking scenery and a surrounding wildlife backdrop, adding a special appeal for both golf lovers and nature enthusiasts.

65 percent complete

Dr Richard Matolo, one of the engineers overseeing the project, said the work is 65 percent complete across a 450-hectare area within the park.

“The holes have been carefully planned with great expertise to match the vast landscape. This provides players with a diverse and challenging experience, enhancing the course’s international appeal,” said Dr Matolo.

He confirmed that the project’s budget remains at Sh9.5 billion and that, beyond the golf course itself, luxury sleeping cottages are planned to increase the site’s tourism value and generate national income.

“We’ve already begun inviting investors to participate in various service components of the project,” he added.

The course is expected to attract not only traditional tourists but also golfers from around the world, placing Serengeti firmly on the map of elite sports and tourism destinations. Acting Serengeti National Park Manager Alex Choya noted: “This sport will become part of our tourism portfolio, helping increase both visitor numbers and revenue.”

Choya emphasized that the initiative aligns with the broader strategy of elevating the park’s profile both locally and globally. Already, Dr Hassan Abbasi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, has visited the site.

He praised the initiative and stated: “Once complete, this project will introduce a new strategic tourism product—sports tourism. I’ve instructed Tanapa to fast-track the completion process.”

Dr Abbasi also pointed out that the golf course could spark the development of additional sports infrastructure in the region, contributing to Tanzania’s sports tourism economy and generating new sources of revenue for both wildlife parks and surrounding communities.

What Stakeholders say

Peter Lyimo, a local tour guide, said that once the construction is completed, marketing the course will be the next major step. “Imagine playing golf while watching wild animals—that’s a one-of-a-kind tourism experience. We’re grateful to whoever came up with this idea,” said Lyimo.

Paul Myers, an American tourist visiting Serengeti, said the course might be the reason he returns to Tanzania. “I’ve visited Serengeti and it’s stunning. You get to see all kinds of animals up close. I’ve enjoyed it immensely. That golf course? I’ll definitely come back to play on it.”