Latin America offers a diverse and unique golfing experience that sets it apart from other regions. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences, it’s a magical destination that actually has so much more to offer than just golf!
Of course, golfers will be pleased with the collection of world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects. Another factor that gives Latin America the thumbs-up as a holiday destination is the year-round gorgeous weather, which means you’ll get plenty of golf in regardless of when you visit.
But golfing in Latin America isn’t just about the sport; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The region’s rich history, vibrant traditions, and delicious cuisine add a unique dimension to any golfing trip. After a day on the course, you can explore ancient ruins, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and savor local dishes.
And to top it off, a vacation in Latin America is a more affordable experience than other popular golfing destinations. Luxury meets affordability, making this the ideal spot for a vacation, whether you’re on the golf course or enjoying some quality time with your family.
Best golf courses in Latin America
Mexico: El Camaleón Golf Course
El Camaleón Golf Course, located in the Mayakoba resort in Mexico, is a stunning 18-hole course designed by Greg Norman. It winds through diverse landscapes, including tropical jungles, dense mangroves, and oceanfront stretches along the Riviera Maya.
This course is notable for its natural beauty, featuring a fascinating cenote and two oceanfront holes. El Camaleón is also certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for its eco-friendly practices. It also offers top-notch facilities, including a clubhouse with fine dining, a pro shop where you can buy or rent golf clubs, and the renowned Jim McLean Golf School.
Cultural activities around the course
- El Pueblito Mayakoba: This charming area replicates a traditional Mexican town square. It features boutique shops, a farmers’ market, and local cuisine. There’s also a mission-style chapel where you can attend Mass on Sundays.
- Mexican cooking lessons: Mayakoba boasts over 25 dining experiences where you can try local cuisine… But you can also take an interactive cooking class to learn traditional Mexican cooking techniques. A great way to dive into the local culinary culture!
- Nature and wildlife tours: The resort area includes lush mangroves and thriving wildlife habitats. Guided nature walks and bird-watching tours offer a chance to explore these natural environments and learn about the local ecosystem.
- Scuba diving and snorkeling: The Mayakoba Dive & Water Sports Center offers certified instructor-led excursions to the world’s second-largest barrier reef.
- Wellness and spa: For those interested in relaxation, Mayakoba offers a range of wellness experiences, including the Sense, A Rosewood Spa, which uses local ingredients like Melipona honey in its treatments.
Argentina: Chapelco Golf Club
Chapelco Golf Club in San Martín de los Andes, Argentina, is a premier golf destination known for its stunning scenery and challenging course. Co-designed by Jack and Jackie Nicklaus, the 18-hole, par-72 course spans 7,163 yards—a great walk if you’re fit!
It features deep greens and is surrounded by coniferous trees, streams, and three lakes, nestled right into the natural environment. The club offers excellent amenities, including a highly-rated hotel, Loi Suites Chapelco, providing luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views and top-notch service.
Cultural activities around the courses
- Lanín National Park: This park is a must-visit, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the majestic Lanín Volcano. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts who want to explore the Patagonian wilderness.
- Seven Lakes route: This scenic drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with opportunities to stop at various lakes and small villages along the way. It’s a cultural journey through the heart of Patagonia.
- Quila Quina: A small Mapuche community near San Martín de los Andes, Quila Quina offers a cultural immersion experience. You can learn about Mapuche traditions, enjoy local cuisine, and explore the beautiful surroundings.
- Regional cuisine: The town has a range of restaurants that offer traditional Patagonian dishes, like asado (barbecue), trout, and locally made chocolates.
- Museo Municipal Primeros Pobladores: This museum gives insight into the history of the first settlers in the area, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the indigenous people and early European settlers.
Brazil: Rio Olympic Golf Course
Campo Olímpico de Golfe, located in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, is renowned for its world-class facilities and scenic layout. Swing your clubs amidst the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic rainforest and coastal dunes—a special experience.
As the only Olympic golf course in Latin America, it offers a unique golfing experience. The club also boasts excellent amenities, including a pro shop, restaurant, and event spaces, making it a premier destination for both golfing and social events.
Cultural activities around the courses
- Barra Olympic Park: Originally built for the 2016 Summer Olympics, this park includes multiple sports venues like the Olympic Aquatics Stadium and the Olympic Tennis Center.
- Casa do Pontal Museum: This museum is dedicated to Brazilian folk art, featuring a collection of over 8,000 pieces from more than 200 artists. The exhibits offer unique insights into Brazil’s cultural heritage.
- Sitio Burle Marx: Created by the famous Brazilian landscape artist Roberto Burle Marx, this garden is known for its diverse collection of plants and beautiful landscapes. It’s a tranquil spot for nature lovers and a great place to appreciate Brazilian flora.
- Tijuca National Park: One of the largest urban forests in the world, Tijuca National Park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints. It’s a fantastic place to experience the natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro and see local wildlife.
- Praia do Pepê: This popular beach in Barra da Tijuca is known for its clear waters and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for water sports like surfing and kitesurfing, and the nearby restaurants and bars provide plenty of options for dining and relaxation.
Costa Rica: Ocean course at Peninsula Papagayo
The Peninsula Papagayo Golf Club, part of the luxurious Peninsula Papagayo resort in Costa Rica, offers an exceptional golfing experience. The 18-hole, par-72 course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is set against a backdrop of lush tropical landscapes and stunning ocean views.
The course is known for its challenging layout, integrating the natural terrain and elevation changes to create a unique and exciting game. The resort also provides top-tier amenities, including fine dining, water sports, and eco-adventures, making it a premier destination for both golfers and nature enthusiasts.
Cultural activities around the courses
- Cultural explorations: Visitors can immerse themselves in Costa Rican traditions by engaging in activities like learning to lasso, cooking local dishes, and fishing with Guanacaste’s trailblazers. These experiences are a hands-on way to live like a local and understand the cultural fabric of the region.
- Art and craft: The area is rich in indigenous handicrafts and pre-Columbian pottery. Tourists can explore centuries-old techniques and even try their hand at creating some traditional crafts, offering a deep dive into Costa Rica’s artistic heritage.
- Nature and wildlife: The region’s biodiversity is part of its cultural experience. Guided tours through the tropical dry forests, mangrove swamps, and the surrounding ocean offer encounters with local wildlife, such as howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, and marine life. These tours often include educational components about the local ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Adventure activities: The Palmares Outpost offers thrilling activities like zip-lining, tree climbing, and aerial trekking. These activities not only provide an adrenaline rush but also allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region from unique perspectives.
- Local cuisine: Dining in Peninsula Papagayo is an experience in itself, with access to fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Restaurants in the area, such as those in the Four Seasons and Andaz Costa Rica Resort, highlight the rich culinary traditions of Costa Rica, including ceviche and other local specialties.
Colombia: Karibana beach golf Condominium
Club Karibana in Cartagena, Colombia, offers a luxurious golfing experience on its 18-hole, par-72 course designed to challenge players of all levels. The course is unique in Colombia, situated at sea level, providing stunning ocean views and lush surroundings.
Beyond golf, the club features excellent amenities, including tennis courts with Plexicushion surfaces, gourmet dining options, a pro shop, and wellness facilities. The club also hosts various social and corporate events, making it a premier destination for both leisure and business activities.
Cultural activities around the courses
- Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: This fortress, one of the greatest Spanish military constructions in the New World, offers a deep dive into Cartagena’s colonial past and stunning panoramic views of the city.
- Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Cartagena’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with vibrant colonial architecture, plazas, churches, and museums.
- Street art in Getsemaní: This neighborhood is known for its colorful murals and street art, reflecting the local culture and contemporary artistic expressions. Guided tours can provide insights into the stories and artists behind the murals.
- Museo del Oro Zenú: This museum showcases pre-Columbian gold artifacts and offers a glimpse into the rich indigenous history of the region.
- Bazurto Market: Experience the bustling energy of this local market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s an excellent way to engage with the local culture and try traditional Colombian food.
- Islas del Rosario: A short boat trip from Cartagena, these islands are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the pristine Caribbean waters.
- Tayrona National Park: Although a bit further away, this park offers beautiful beaches and a chance to explore Colombia’s natural beauty and indigenous heritage.
Tips for planning a golf trip to Latin America
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Latin America for a golf trip varies depending on the region you’re planning on going to. Generally, the dry season offers the most pleasant weather and optimal playing conditions.
For countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic, the dry season runs from November to April. This period is characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
In South America, countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile have different climate zones. The best time to visit these countries for golf is during their spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) when temperatures are mild and the weather is stable.
Choosing the right course and experience package
Picking the right golf course and experience package is a big part of having a memorable trip. Start by researching the top-rated golf courses in your destination. In Mexico, for example, Cabo del Sol and Playa Mujeres are renowned for their stunning views and challenging layouts.
In the Caribbean, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic offers luxurious courses like Teeth of the Dog and Corales. Many courses have experience packages that include green fees, accommodation, and additional amenities like spa treatments or guided tours. Consider booking through reputable golf travel agencies or resort websites to find the best deals.
Understanding the local language and cultural norms can enhance your golfing trip. While many golf resorts and tourist areas in Latin America have English-speaking staff, learning a few basic Spanish or Portuguese phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
Simple greetings, polite expressions, and golf-related terms can go a long way in making your interactions smoother. Culturally, Latin Americans value politeness and personal relationships. It’s common to greet others with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
Respect for local customs, like dressing appropriately for the golf course and tipping staff, will also contribute to a positive experience. Research these cultural nuances before your trip so you can set the stage for a positive experience!
About the author
Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.
