Recognized excellence in global golf tourism

Sun City has earned a distinguished new accolade by being named South Africa's Best Golf Hotel 2025 by the World Golf Awards, a global platform that celebrates and rewards excellence in golf tourism. Golf tourism continues to grow as an important pillar of the international travel and leisure market, and this recognition comes at a significant time. The annual Nedbank Golf Challenge NGC, one of the highlight events on South Africa's sporting and social calendar, begins at the Gary Player Country Club on Thursday 4 December 2025. Over the next four days, an estimated 74,000 spectators and guests will arrive to watch world-renowned golfers compete on one of the continent's most famous courses.

A legacy of championship excellence

Opened in 1979, the 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Gary Player has become a cherished landmark in South African golf. Home to the NGC since 1981, it is admired for its impeccable conditioning and the way it tests even the best players in the world while still delivering a fair and satisfying round. Over the years, many top international golfers have praised its impeccable design, often referring to it as one of the best tournament courses in the world.

Savor the flavors, savor the leisure

The club experience goes far beyond the streets. Guests can relax in the restaurant and bar, where panoramic views of lush green spaces provide the perfect setting for a relaxed breakfast or light lunch. Golfers can enjoy refreshments and refreshments at Halfway House on the ninth hole, while those seeking total relaxation can retreat to the resort's gym and spa to enjoy beauty treatments, therapies and a professional salon. With additional amenities including a chipping green, gym, locker rooms, pro shop, club hire, putting green, showers and steam room, every detail has been designed to ensure comfort, convenience and a true sense of indulgence.

The Main Hotel: The Iconic Haven of Timeless Elegance

Often called the flagship hotel, the Sun City Hotel and Casino was the first hotel built at the resort and has since become an iconic heart of Sun City's identity. Its central location places guests within walking distance of the resort's full spectrum of entertainment, dining and leisure experiences, cementing its status as South Africa's Best Golf Hotel 2025.

This treasured 47-year-old landmark is now in the midst of an extensive three-year refurbishment, with the second phase due to be completed this month, just in time for the Nedbank Golf Challenge. Guests can choose from nine carefully designed room types, from spacious family rooms to elegant luxury suites, all within the hotel where the enduring legend of Sun City began.

Preparing the course for the champions

In the run-up to the Nedbank Golf Challenge, Gary Player Country Club has undergone carefully planned upgrades, designed to test the world's best golfers and delight spectators at every turn. Maintaining the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment is key. Tournament director Ken Payet explains:

“When it comes to the Nedbank Golf Challenge, these players are the best in the world and we want to continue to challenge them while maintaining a balance so it remains exciting for fans to watch,” tournament director Ken Payet said.

He continues: “We're in a good place in terms of our preparation. We've had good rain. We've fertilized the grosso, so that's definitely going to have an effect. We're very happy with the players we've announced, including a lot of South Africans who are playing some great golf this year. So the stars just need to align to put it all together come tournament week.”

A VIP perspective on championship golf

The improvements to the field are accompanied by significant improvements in fan hospitality. This year presents the Hospitali TEE Lounge, a refined VIP experience that marks a first in the history of the African Major. Guests will enjoy exclusive access to the 18th hole grandstand, autograph sessions with players, a photo opportunity with the Nedbank Golf Challenge trophy and a merchandise voucher worth R500 to use at The Pro Shop at Sun City, among other premium benefits. A new feature, the Sunbet signage in the viewing area on the 18th, offers viewers a vantage point. Located along the 18th fairway and furnished with comfortable director's chairs, it provides exceptional proximity to where many professionals land their tee shots, ensuring an exciting experience on the final hole.

Test yourself on a championship course

Sun City extends the championship experience to its visitors. Resort guests and day visitors alike have the rare opportunity to play on the same fairways that shape the destiny of world-class golfers. Sun City's recognition as South Africa's Best Golf Hotel 2025 reaffirms its status as a premier destination where championship golf, luxury hospitality and resort excellence come together in perfect harmony.