South America isn't the most obvious golf destination, but it has a long golf history, particularly in Argentina, and some memorable courses: parkland clubs in Buenos Aires, seaside golf in Uruguay, mountain golf in Patagonia, and courses at high altitude in the Andes. Combine golf with tango, wine, beaches and spectacular landscapes for a trip unlike any other.
Argentina
- Buenos Aires: many established clubs in the city and suburbs, some with a long history. Private clubs may accept visitors by arrangement. Read playing as a guest at a private club.
- Mar del Plata: a seaside resort city with links-style golf on the Atlantic coast.
- Patagonia: courses near Bariloche and the lakes, with mountain and lake views in summer.
- Mendoza: golf combined with wine country beneath the Andes.
Uruguay
Punta del Este is a fashionable beach resort with golf, especially popular in the southern summer.
Brazil
Brazil has courses near Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, plus beach resorts on the northeast coast with warm weather year-round.
Chile
Courses near Santiago, with the Andes as a backdrop, and on the coast, combined with wine regions.
Colombia and Peru
- Colombia: courses in Bogotá at high altitude and in the Caribbean city of Cartagena.
- Peru: golf near Lima on the Pacific coast.
When to go
| Region | Best months |
|---|---|
| Buenos Aires, Uruguay, Chile | October to April (spring to autumn) |
| Patagonia | December to March |
| Brazil's northeast coast | Year-round, drier from September to February |
| Colombia and Peru | Varies by region; check local climates |
Playing at altitude
Bogotá sits at around 8,600 feet, and some Andean courses are higher still. The ball flies much further; read golf at altitude. Take it easy on your first day to adjust.
Practical tips
- Private clubs dominate in some cities; arrange visits through hotels or tour operators. Read golf tour operators.
- Safety: follow local advice in cities and use reputable transport.
- Language: Spanish (and Portuguese in Brazil); a few words help.
- Travel insurance: read golf travel insurance.
- Jet lag and long flights: read jet lag and golf trips.
Frequently asked questions
Is Argentina good for golf?
Yes. It has the strongest golf culture in South America, with many clubs around Buenos Aires.
When is the best time for golf in Argentina?
October to April, the southern spring to autumn.
Does the ball fly further in Bogotá?
Yes, significantly, due to the high altitude.
Can visitors play private clubs in South America?
Often by arrangement through hotels, tour operators or member introductions.
The bottom line
South America offers golf with a difference: historic clubs in Buenos Aires, seaside resorts, mountain courses and high-altitude golf. Plan around the reversed seasons, arrange private-club visits in advance and combine golf with the continent's culture and landscapes. For more long-haul ideas, read golf in South Africa.