Golf Tourism on the Rise in Colombia
Golf Tourism on the Rise in Colombia
In the vibrant city of Bogotá, a new chapter is being written in the world of golf tourism. Colombia is stepping into the spotlight as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts, thanks to its diverse landscape, breathtaking views, and a growing collection of elite golf courses. With over 50 challenging courses spread across stunning terrains—from the high-altitude greens of Bogotá to the sun-kissed shores of Cartagena—the country is quickly becoming a hot spot for international players looking for their next great golf adventure.
World-Class Courses Await
Among the shining stars in Colombia’s golf lineup is El Rincón de Cajicá, a gem located just outside Bogotá. Designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, it boasts immaculate fairways and a storied history. It even earned a spot among the world’s top 50 courses at one point! Dino Canepa, a Swiss golf journalist who recently toured the area, couldn’t help but rave about it, declaring it as “the best golf course in Colombia and an ideal introduction to golf culture in South America.”
But that’s not all. Over in Cartagena, golfers can enjoy the stunning Club Karibana, a remarkable course designed by Jack Nicklaus. This beauty ranks high on the list with PGA TOUR standards, offering breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities that promise to impress even the most seasoned players. And if you’re heading to Cali, don’t miss Club Campestre de Farallones. Canadian golf expert Dave Finn shared glowing remarks about it, noting, “It was in pristine condition with water on almost every hole, great bunkers, and excellent caddies.”
A Little Access Challenge
However, gaining entry to these premier courses can often be a bit tricky since many are private and require special arrangements. Thankfully, local operators like Pelecanus are stepping up to facilitate access. Frank Spitzer, the CEO of Pelecanus, has a vision for Colombia as a global golf destination. He states, “Colombia has extraordinary golf courses, but its potential as a global golf destination is only beginning to unfold.”
Pelecanus aims to bridge the gap between elite courses and international golfers, working to solve issues like language barriers and logistical challenges. They’re here to showcase what Colombia has to offer, both on the green and off. Colombian golf is not just about playing; it’s a whole experience infused with the country’s rich culture and hospitality.
More Than Just Golf
What’s truly exciting is that Colombia has so much more to offer than just fabulous golf courses. Cities like Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín are rich in cultural heritage, featuring a dynamic culinary scene and friendly, welcoming locals. The remarkable transformation of Colombia from a turbulent past to a vibrant present is an adventure in itself, as noted by Finn, who describes the country as a “safe, unique destination with the convenience of a similar time zone to North America.”
In Summary
Colombia is ready to take its place on the map of global golf tourism. With some of the finest golf courses designed by legendary architects and the promise of rich cultural experiences, it’s no wonder international players are taking notice. If you’re considering a new golf destination, why not explore Colombia? After all, there’s no better time than now to discover this hidden golf paradise!