Entebbe Golf Club: Uganda’s Top Golf Course by Lake Victoria
Welcome to Entebbe Golf Club, the oldest golf course in East and Central Africa, established in 1901. Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Victoria, this 18-hole championship course in Entebbe, Uganda, blends historic charm with tropical beauty.
Known for its lush fairways, challenging layout, and vibrant community, it’s a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, travelers, and locals.
Whether you’re teeing off against a backdrop of lake breezes or soaking in the colonial-era ambiance, Entebbe Golf Club offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Pearl of Africa.
History and Background
Founded in 1901 during British colonial rule, Entebbe Golf Club began as a nine-hole retreat for administrators in Entebbe, then Uganda’s capital.
Expanded to 18 holes, it became a cornerstone of regional golf, surviving challenges like the Idi Amin era to thrive post-1990s renovations.
Today, it hosts prestigious events like the Uganda Open and Singleton Challenge, drawing top talents from East Africa’s Safari Tour. Its legacy, set against Lake Victoria’s shimmering waters, cements its status as a historic gem in Uganda golf.
The Course: A Challenging Blend of Beauty and Strategy
At the heart of the Entebbe Golf Club experience is its renowned 18-hole layout, a par-71 masterpiece that demands precision amid paradise.
Spanning 6,784 yards from the back tees (5,761 yards from the ladies’ tees), the course features a balanced mix: five par-5s for power plays, seven par-4s for tactical approaches, and six par-3s that test iron accuracy.
The front nine (par 35) winds through open, forgiving fairways, while the back nine (par 36) tightens with doglegs and elevation changes, culminating in a dramatic lakeside finish.
Signature holes abound. The par-3 7th, a 220-yard carry over a water hazard, rewards bold tee shots with panoramic Victoria views.
Hole 14, a sweeping dogleg par-4 flanked by the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (formerly Entebbe Zoo), often sees monkeys and birds as uninvited spectators.
Bunkers, filled with soft Lake Victoria sand, add peril, though some reviews note their variable condition—ranging from pristine to muddy after rains.
The greens are notoriously quick and sloped, demanding deft putting to avoid three-putts. Tropical maintenance ensures year-round playability, with lush Bermuda grass thriving in Uganda’s equatorial climate—no seasonal closures here. Rated 7.3/10 on Leading Courses in 2025, it’s a standout in East African golf courses.
Facilities and Amenities at Entebbe Golf Club
The modern clubhouse at Entebbe Golf Club overlooks the 18th green, offering a lively bar with Nile Special beers, satellite TVs, and spacious changing rooms.
Affordable dining options cater to all, with lake-view verandas perfect for post-round relaxation. The pro shop stocks essentials like Titleist balls, while resident pros provide lessons for beginners.
Golfers can rent clubs, and caddies (UGX 60,000/$16 USD) offer local expertise. Event spaces host corporate functions, weddings, and galas, with eco-friendly upgrades like solar-powered carts in 2025. Practice facilities include a driving range and putting greens, ensuring a complete golf in Uganda experience.
Membership and Green Fees at Entebbe Golf Club
Entebbe Golf Club offers inclusive membership options: UGX 2,000,000 ($540 USD) for Ugandans, UGX 3,000,000 ($810 USD) for East Africans, and UGX 5,000,000 ($1,350 USD) for non-residents annually.
Juniors and students pay UGX 200,000 ($54 USD), and corporate packages (UGX 5,000,000) include team perks. Members enjoy priority tee times and regional club reciprocity.
Visitors can play for UGX 75,000 ($20 USD) per round, with day passes available. Contact Membership Secretary Adoch Luwum at info@entebbegolfclub.com or +256-774-340650 to join or book.
Events and Tournaments
Entebbe Golf Club is a hub for Uganda golf events. The Singleton Challenge, Entebbe Open, and Uganda Open (Safari Tour events) attract regional pros, while the Entebbe Ladies’ Open and Junior Open nurture talent.
In 2025, the Hima Cement Clash of the Titans (September 20-27) sees alumni compete, with St. Mary’s College Kisubi leading.
The NCBA Junior Golf Series (September 21) and MTN Monthly Tees (September 20-21) crowned winners like Steven Magero (net 63). These events make the club a vibrant center for competition and community.
Location and Accessibility
Located on Church Road, Kitende, Entebbe Golf Club is just 2 miles from Entebbe International Airport, ideal for layover golfers. From the airport, taxis cost UGX 20,000 ($5 USD) and take 5-10 minutes.
From Kampala (40 minutes away), drive via the Entebbe-Kampala Expressway (toll: UGX 5,000/$1.35 USD) or take a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) for UGX 15,000 ($4 USD).
Public matatus from Kampala’s Old Taxi Park cost UGX 3,000 ($0.80 USD) but are slower. International visitors can fly into Entebbe via Uganda Airlines or Ethiopian Airlines from London, Dubai, or Nairobi. The club’s GPS-friendly address ensures easy navigation for a seamless Entebbe golf experience.
Nearby Attractions
Entebbe is a treasure trove of attractions beyond the fairways of Entebbe Golf Club. Just steps away, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre showcases chimps, crocs, and other native species, offering an up-close look at Uganda’s biodiversity.
Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, invites visitors for boat rides, fishing, or serene sunset cruises. The Entebbe Botanical Gardens, with their lush trails and vibrant birdlife, provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
For adventure, day trips to Mabamba Swamp offer world-class birdwatching, including sightings of the rare shoebill stork, while Ngamba Island’s chimpanzee sanctuary delivers unforgettable encounters.
That’s where we come in. At All Uganda Safaris, we craft bespoke experiences for visitors. Whether you choose gorilla trekking in Bwindi, birdwatching in Mabamba, or chimp encounters at Ngamba, their expert-guided Uganda tours ensure a seamless, memorable adventure.
Nearby hotels like the Imperial Golf View Hotel offer comfortable stays, making Entebbe an ideal base for exploring the Pearl of Africa.
Why Visit Entebbe Golf Club
Entebbe Golf Club blends sport, leisure, and stunning scenery, making it ideal for golfers, business travelers, and tourists. Its challenging course, rich history, and Lake Victoria backdrop create a unique experience.
Affordable fees, welcoming staff, and proximity to Entebbe’s attractions make it a top choice for locals and international visitors seeking relaxation or competition in East African golf courses. Whether you’re a pro or beginner, the club’s inclusive vibe ensures memorable moments.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM–6:30 PM (weather permitting).
- Dress Code: Smart casual, collared shirts, no denim.
- Booking: Reserve tee times via entebbegolfclub.com. June-August dry season books fast.
- Contact: Email info@entebbegolfclub.com
- Tips: Pack sunscreen and bug spray for 25-30°C weather. Expect occasional wildlife encounters such as monkeys.
FAQ
What is the green fee at Entebbe Golf Club?
Visitors pay UGX 75,000 ($20 USD) per round, with club rentals available.
How far is Entebbe Golf Club from the airport?
Just 2 miles, a 5-10 minute taxi ride (UGX 20,000/$5 USD).
Can beginners play at Entebbe Golf Club?
Yes, with lessons, rentals, and caddy support for all levels.
In conclusion, Entebbe Golf Club is more than a course—it’s a historic haven where golf in Uganda thrives. From its 1901 roots to 2025’s vibrant tournaments, it offers challenge, beauty, and community.
Whether teeing off by Lake Victoria, exploring Entebbe attractions, or joining the action of the Uganda Open, this club delivers. Don’t miss this gem—book your tee time and experience the Pearl of Africa’s finest fairways.
