Exploring Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort: Uganda’s Luxury Golf Retreat 

Luxury isn’t the first thing you think about when considering Uganda, but that just makes Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort stand out even more. You won’t feel like you’re in a third-world country when you set foot on this gorgeous resort, located just 30ish kilometers away from Entebbe International Airport. 

The hotel and championship course are upmarket and luxurious, and the only hint of being somewhere exotic is the glimpse of local birds (and maybe wildlife) you’ll spot throughout the grounds and on the golf course. 

If you’re going to be visiting, gift yourself a few extra days to relax and fill your senses at Lake Victoria Serene Golf Resort. Whether you choose to golf, chill, or rent a 4×4 and hardcore explore, it’s well worth taking some time out to experience everything on offer. Let’s take a deeper look at the resort and its surroundings. 

Explore the Resort 

While you could enjoy a lovely stay just lounging in your room and ordering room service, the true beauty of this resort lies in the environment. From the moment you set foot on the grounds, you’re surrounded by indigenous birdlife, including ibis, casqued hornbills, hamerkop, and, if you’re lucky, fish eagles. 

Between the beautiful facilities and the many exciting things to do for individuals, couples, and families, this is a wonderful place to spend some time. 

Hotel Rooms 

The rooms are spacious and modern. Choose from a deluxe room, an executive suite, or one of two presidential suites—all will exceed your expectations. Comfortable seating areas, a workstation, a dressing table, and more make you feel right at home. 

Wherever you’re laying your head, you’ll wake up to a beautiful view over the lake. What a way to start your day! 

Restaurants 

Take your pick of two restaurants and two bars, depending on your mood or your tastes. The Citadel is the central spot to eat, offering the Chef’s Mediterranean cuisine and a selection of international options. 

If you’re on the golf course, the Marina is the natural choice. Enjoy the à la carte menu and views over the lake, the perfect mix of good food and relaxation. 

You might not expect to get a taste of Italy in Uganda, but the Kigo Bar delivers exactly that. The unique array of authentic Italian coffees and Ugandan teas makes this an interesting and tasty spot to spend some time, whether you’re in the mood for cocktails or caffeine. 

Finally, with a view of the gardens, a bandstand, and a dancefloor, the Pool Bar is the social hub of the resort, featuring a full menu and a buzzing atmosphere. 

Amenities 

The hotel facilities include a swimming pool for lazy days, a fitness center so you can still burn those calories on holiday, and the Maisha Mind Body & Spirit Spa, where you can indulge in aaaaaah experiences like deep tissue massages or hot stone therapy. 

There’s also plenty for kids to do, like a kids’ pool (supervised by a lifeguard), trips to local villages and schools (a cultural experience every child should experience), board games and books on African culture, various tours, and even sports coaching. 

Activities 

The championship golf course is the main attraction for many visitors, but it’s not the only thing to get excited about. Those who like being out on the water can grab a boat ride from the marina, spend a day fishing for tilapia on the lake, or enjoy a romantic picnic on the lake at sunset. 

Marvel at the local wildlife on Paradise Island or make unforgettable memories at the Ngama Chimpanzee Sanctuary or Entebbe Botanical Gardens. If you’ve got a vehicle, take a road trip to some further-out destinations. It’s worth stepping out of the deluxe resort to get up close to African wildlife and nature for a few hours! 

Golf Course Details 

Holes: 18 

Par: 72 

Yardage: 7262 yards (6640 metres) 

Architect: Kevin Ramsay, David Dale, Mark Wiltshire 

For who? Public 

Dress Code: Proper golf attire 

Club Rental? Yes, $30 

Shoe Rental? Yes, $15 

The on-site golf course is the only one in the country (out of 18) built to USGA recommendations, and the first in Uganda to feature bent grass fairways. It’s set up to provide an enjoyable round for all levels of golfers, so don’t be shy if you’re new to the game or worry it won’t challenge you enough. 

You’ll be able to see the lake from every hole, and the bird life is fantastic. Don’t let it distract you from your shots, but make sure to take a few minutes to notice what’s around you. 

How’s the Game Play? 

The course is long and flat, but don’t think that makes it easy. It begins with a light par 4 that’s a good birdie opportunity if you avoid the mid-fairway bunker. Don’t get complacent, though… Hole #3 is a monster of a par 5, reaching 628 yards and featuring water all down the left-hand side. Big drivers, you’ll need to pull out your strongest tee-offs for this one. 

Be careful, because unexpected slopes can turn good shots into dropped shots as they trickle into the lake. There’s plenty of water, but also smartly-placed bunkers that can trip you up if you don’t take care. 

It finishes with a tricky peninsula fairway and an island green, a worthy end to a course as beautiful as this one. And with club hire and golf shoe hire at very reasonable prices, you don’t even need to cart your own equipment around in your luggage. 

Other Facilities 

If you don’t have time for the full course but want to swing your clubs anyway, you can spend some time stretching your muscles on the driving range. Or, just warm up a bit before you hit the fairways. 

You can hire a caddie if you want some local knowledge to accompany you throughout the course. Chances are you’ll be glad you did—they don’t just know the course, but can also enlighten you with information about the area, the culture, and the Uganda wildlife. 

This is also the first course in the country to have a fully-stocked Pro Shop, so if you’re looking for practical souvenirs of your trip, consider something like a pair of golf shorts or a hat. Ease up after your round in the steam room (one for ladies, one for men). 

Final Thoughts 

Whatever your reasons for visiting Uganda, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort is the spot to stay. Golfers will love the opportunity to play this iconic course. Families will enjoy the many opportunities to make memories together. And there are ample chances to immerse yourself in the local culture and have an experience you just can’t have elsewhere. 

It might be out of the ordinary, but there’s a thriving world in Uganda that’s well worth your time. Whatever you do here, enjoy every moment, for it’s an experience you won’t quite find anywhere else. 

About the Author 

Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.