Golf Tourism South Africa (GTSA) Launches to Position the Country as a New Leading Sports Tourism Destination

Published on August 5, 2025

A fresh chapter in tourism for South Africa has been opened with the establishment of Golf Tourism South Africa (GTSA). GTSA seeks to make South Africa a world-class destination for golfers. The only national body exclusively focused on golf tourism, GTSA unites a rich variety of industries such as golf, travel, wine, hospitality, and lifestyle sectors. Its main aim is to advance the rich golfing traditions of the country and highlight its international-standard golf courses to global travelers.

Founders and Leadership of GTSA

The founding team behind GTSA comprises some of the leading names in global tourism and golf. Cuthbert Simphiwe Ncube, the chair of the African Tourism Board and a renowned tourism leader, serves as one of the key figures. Along with Charlene Thomson, the founder of We Women Golf Magazine and a recognized golf tourism expert, and Lynnqwinda Scott, the founder of Visit Africa, they aim to bring about a significant change in how the world views South Africa’s golf tourism.

The team’s vast experience in tourism, branding, and destination storytelling positions them well to carry forward the mission of transforming South Africa into a leading destination for golf enthusiasts globally.

South Africa’s Golf Tourism Potential

South Africa boasts some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world, coupled with exceptional hospitality, rich wine culture, and unforgettable travel experiences. GTSA plans to elevate the country’s golfing offerings on the global stage while working to empower local communities. By working closely with the tourism trade, GTSA aims to ensure that the economic benefits of golf tourism are felt nationwide.

GTSA’s Approach to Promoting Golf Tourism

Unlike traditional booking agents or destination management companies (DMCs), GTSA does not directly sell travel packages. Instead, it functions as a partnership-based marketing platform. This unique approach is designed to promote South Africa’s golfing destinations, fostering greater awareness and engagement with international travelers. By working collaboratively with tour operators, travel agents, and private-sector stakeholders, GTSA enhances South Africa’s appeal as a must-visit destination for golfers worldwide.

Key Features and Objectives of GTSA

GTSA has developed a number of initiatives aimed at boosting golf tourism in South Africa:

• Tiered membership programmes: These offer golf clubs, wine farms, hotels, and destination management companies (DMCs) a chance to be part of a national effort to market South Africa as a premier golf destination.
• Destination marketing content: GTSA is focused on creating and distributing engaging marketing materials that highlight South Africa’s unique golf experiences.
• Golf travel routes: GTSA will curate travel routes that connect key golfing destinations across the country, promoting an integrated tourism experience.
• Annual Golf Tourism Summit: This summit will be a key platform for networking and discussions within the industry, helping to drive innovation and growth in the sector.
• Global trade show participation: GTSA will participate in prominent tourism and golf trade shows to increase South Africa’s visibility on the international stage.
• Collaborative storytelling: GTSA will engage in collaborative storytelling with stakeholders to reach golfers in key markets, including Europe, the UK, USA, India, Asia, Scandinavia, and the Middle East.

Membership and Opportunities for Stakeholders

Golf Tourism South Africa is open for membership, inviting golf clubs, tourism businesses, and destinations to join this landmark initiative. GTSA aims to unite the country’s diverse tourism and hospitality stakeholders to promote a sustainable and thriving golf tourism industry. This initiative will not only boost tourism numbers but also foster long-term relationships between international markets and local communities, contributing to the overall economic growth of South Africa.

Impact on Local Communities

GTSA’s emphasis on promoting golf tourism goes beyond attracting visitors to the country’s world-class courses. By ensuring that tourism benefits are spread across local communities, GTSA supports the development of rural areas, creates job opportunities, and promotes the preservation of local culture and heritage. The focus is on ensuring that local communities are active participants in the tourism process, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and long-term sustainability in the sector.

GTSA impact on Sports Tourism Industry in South Africa

Golf Tourism South Africa is a thrilling new era for the tourism sector of South Africa. By touting the golf industry’s potential, GTSA is placing South Africa on the map as an untapped treasure for global golfers and travelers alike. Through innovative thinking, strategic partnerships, and empowerment of local communities, GTSA is well-positioned to become a leading force in international golf tourism. South Africa’s individual blend of golf, hospitality, and culture will assist in drawing international visitors and promoting the country to be regarded as a world-class tourism destination.