I’m often asked where to play golf in Antigua Guatemala. Well, the simple answer is if you’re looking to play at a well maintained 18 hole golf course then you’ll have to travel to Guatemala City. However, there are two options to play some golf within 30 minutes of Antigua. I have played at both courses.
Antigua Golf or the Monte María Country Club is a 9 hole course close to Santa María de Jesús. It has gone into administration more than once. Don’t be put off by the rather rundown appearance. It may be the Schitt’s Creek of Guatemalan country clubs but it has a certain charm! The major drawback which the developers discovered is that there is no easily accessed water supply. During the rainy season from May to November the fairways and greens are in pretty good shape. However as the dry season takes hold, the green become pretty sad. If like me, golf is basically a great opportunity for a walk, then you’ll not be disappointed. There are great views of Agua Volcano and the many pine trees on either side of the fairways do give the place a type of majesty.
It’s also cheap. 9 holes are Q150 ($20) and caddies cost Q60 ($7.50).
There are various phone numbers to book games but the only one that seems to work is: (+502) 5627-1479. His name is Carlos. He is a great caddy but beware he speaks only Spanish.
Golf With Volcano Views
The second option of where to play golf in Antigua Guatemala is at the recently opened Laguna Golf. Some of you amy have heard of the Fuego Volcano eruption that occurred in June 2018. Villages around were destroyed and many hundreds died. La Reunion Golf Resort and Residences were partially destroyed including the Pete Dye 18 hole golf course.
Recently, a pitch and putt course has opened using some of the unaffected parts of the course. I played there a few weeks ago and was very impressed. Being on the slopes of the volcano, it’s very much an up and down course and for all of us playing the game was challenging. The course is in great shape and the views and show from Fuego Volcano is always an amazing sight.
9 holes are Q200 ($27) plus a caddy at Q100 ($13.50). For 18 holes the only extra is for the caddy at Q150 ($20). The contact there is Luis Angel Garcia and can be contacted on: 0052 5595-6162. Again, you will need to speak Spanish.
For those who want to play on an 18-hole well maintained course then I suggest Mayan Golf. It’s around an hour from Antigua and has all the facilities. As with all the options mentioned here, you will need a car with a driver. Your hotel can arrange it. Honestly, I wouldn’t advise renting a car for the day unless you fancy a challenge!
