Royal Harare Golf Club
Fact File
Par-72
Rating – 72
Length – 6402m
Best Time to Play – April to November
History
Royal Harare was founded in 1898 and the Course was established on the current location, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, in 1901. The original course with its sand greens had a completely different layout to the current design. Originally known as Salisbury Golf Club, the club was granted royal patronage in 1929. The name changed again to Royal Harare Golf Club in 1980, after independence. After a redesign in 1996 by Nick Price and Steve Smyers, the course was rejuvenated and lengthened with some major re-routing of holes. The new course opened for play in October 1997.
The Course
Royal Harare has evolved considerably since those early days of ‘links-style’ conditions, maintained by grazing livestock and hardy committee members. Today it’s a parkland layout, but despite its manicured and lush appearance, Royal Harare is no pushover. The course rewards shrewd shot choice and course management. Many a golfer has been lulled into carelessness by the veneer of ease that the course projects, only to be humiliated. According to the locals, you need to “play wisely and you will be rewarded.”
The best time of the year to play golf in Harare is between the months of April and early November before the rainy season sets in. The days are clear and warm, with the possibility of some gusty days in August, but generally the weather is ideal for golf.
Signature Hole
The signature hole at Royal Harare is the 15th, which is the longest par-3 on the course. It’s short on visual intimidation, as the green sits below the tee box and is in turn raised high above the surrounding ground. Bunkers short left and to the right side of the green punish the overly cautious and aggressive alike. It is a must-hit green to avoid a big number, whilst long and left will result in an impossible shot, most times.
Rates (18 holes)
Affiliated visitors – $35
Non-affiliated visitors – $40
Caddie – $15
Cart Hire – N/A
Club Hire – $10
Directions
Royal Harare Golf Club is three kilometres from the city centre, in the northern suburbs, behind State House and behind Harare Sports Club. The golf club is on the corner of Josiah Tongagara Avenue and Fifth street.
Contact
Address: 5th Street Extension, Harare, +2634 702927, golfbookings@royalharare.co.zw