Business Reporter
Hospitality Group African Sun Limited says it is strategically positioning itself to exploit opportunities in golf tourism to improve occupancy rates across its properties.
By integrating golf experiences into the group’s offerings, the company aims to attract both leisure and business travellers seeking recreational activities during their stay.
According to African Sun, this approach not only enhances guest experiences but also promotes the exquisite scenery and rich amenities available at its resorts, ultimately driving higher occupancy and activities in the local tourism sector.
Codenamed Tee off in the safari or swing into action surrounded by misty mountains, African Sun offers a highland golf experience nestled among picturesque landscapes at Troutbeck Resort and Elephant Hills Resort which offers a golfing experience in the wild.
According to the International Golf Tourism Organisation, golf tourism generates circa US$2,5 billion annually and statistics show that golfers spend 20-30 percent more than non-golfing travellers with an average spend of US$1 400- US$2 000 per golfer per trip.
About 40 percent is spent on accommodations and 25 percent on golf fees.
Roughly 60 percent of golfers are known to book 4-7 night stays.
The National Golf Foundation recently noted that 70 percent of golf travellers book accommodations with golf courses.
By leveraging golf courses effectively, hotels can increase occupancy levels, drive revenue, and establish a loyal customer base.
Offering golf facilities is also known to promote cross-selling opportunities to other services like spas, dining, and room upgrades.
“African Sun Hotels offers the best of both worlds: the wild, untamed beauty of Elephant Hills and the peaceful, highland charm of Troutbeck.
“Whether you are chasing the thrill of playing alongside elephants or enjoying a quiet round in the hills, these courses promise an unforgettable golfing experience. The resort combines the excitement of golf with the allure of nature, making every swing a memorable encounter.
“If you are a golfer who loves to travel, African Sun Hotels invites you to discover two of the most stunning golf courses in Zimbabwe.
“Whether you are teeing off with wildlife in the Victoria Falls savannah or enjoying a serene escape in the eastern highlands, a golf trip to Elephant Hills Resort or Troutbeck Resort promises to be so much,” African Sun said in a statement.
The Elephant Hills Resort golf course in Victoria Falls offers a pristine 18-hole championship course, designed by the iconic Gary Player.
On the other hand, Troutbeck Resort, which has the highest elevated tee in Africa offers a 9-hole course.
These resorts not only provide excellent golfing facilities but also promote a relaxed atmosphere perfect for recreation.
In recent years, the global golf tourism market has witnessed a dynamic shift, influenced by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and a growing emphasis on sustainability.
This comes as the listed hospitality group is bullish about growing the volume of international travellers in the second half of the year, typically the company’s peak period, which it believes will boost conference business and drive demand from local tourism.
African Sun Limited, recently sold The Great Zimbabwe Hotel in Masvingo and Beitbridge Express Hotel for a combined US$6,9 million to TD Hotels and Leisure (Private) limited, an upcoming local hospitality concern.
According to African Sun, the transactions were occasioned by the need to complement capital raising by selling selected assets considered not to be core to the group’s future.
In an announcement to shareholders, the hospitality group said that over the past three years, after the Covid-19 pandemic, it has enjoyed a considerable turnaround in fortunes.
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