If you’re looking to play on the best golf courses in Mexico, Mayakoba’s El Camaleón has to be on your list. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just getting started in the game, this spectacular Riviera Maya golf course has plenty of challenges and thrills to offer.
Designed by legendary golfer Greg Norman, El Camaleón is Mayakoba’s prestigious golf course and one of the best golf courses in Mexico. Winding across the destination’s tropical landscape, this 18-hole, par 72 course boasts a unique topography that grants players a challenging and exciting experience, as well as visually stunning moments throughout their game. As the first PGA Tour course in Latin America, El Camaleón has hosted several world-class tournaments, including the PGA Tour and, most recently, LIV Golf Mayakoba.
What Every Golfer Should Know Before Playing At El Camaleón
How Do I Prepare To Play At El Camaleón?
Before you plan your game at El Camaleón, you should get ready to play in tropical conditions: high temperatures and high humidity. Wear clothing that will keep you fresh, as well as a hat to protect you from the sun. Make sure to apply sunscreen constantly throughout the game. As for the golf course itself, keep in mind that the ocean and the wind play significant roles in the playing conditions, so your game might not be the same as it is in the city – which will make it interesting and fun! Check weather conditions on the day of your game and plan accordingly.
Getting Ready To Play The Most Difficult Holes At El Camaleón
Because of the golf course’s location and topography, some of its most special holes are also the most challenging. Hole 7, known as “the Devil’s Mouth,” boasts a natural sinkhole, which is visually breathtaking but creates a peculiar hazard for players – this cave bunker is something you won’t forget. As for holes 15 and 16, their layout and position, right by the shore, make them particularly challenging, as the wind is stronger near the sea.
Who Can Play Golf At El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course?
El Camaleón, A Golf Course For Players Of All Levels
Maybe you’re making your debut on the golf course; maybe you have a long bucket list of the best golf courses in Mexico to play. No matter your history or your level of expertise, you are welcome to play at El Camaleón. The course features tee boxes of all colors: red, the closest to the hole; gold, mostly for senior players; white, for amateur golfers; blue, for advanced players; and black, the furthest from the hole and meant for the most advanced players.
Enjoying El Camaleón as a First-Time Player
If you’re preparing to play at El Camaleón for the first time, you’re in for an unforgettable game. To make the most of every swing, study the course beforehand: in some holes, the breeze can help create a longer reach, while in others, the wind direction might pose a challenge. Also, keep in mind that playing at sea level means that the ball won’t fly as high as it might in places with higher altitudes.
El Camaleón is the Perfect Golf Course for Kids
Junior golfers will find plenty to love when they play at El Camaleón. Not only is this Riviera Maya golf course friendly for younger players, but it is also home to the Jim McLean Golf School, where kids can take personalized lessons as they begin their journey in this beautiful game. They will also get the opportunity to appreciate nature in all its glory as they play among mangroves and canals, tropical birds, and perhaps a family of friendly coatís.
How to Book Tee Time at El Camaleón
Booking Tee Time at El Camaleón as a Guest in Mayakoba
If you’re staying at one of Mayakoba’s four resorts –Andaz Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba, or Rosewood Mayakoba–, the Concierge team at your hotel will help you make arrangements and book your tee time at El Camaleón. You can also inquire directly by visiting the Mayakoba Golf landing page and contacting the team via email, phone, or Social Media. The destination’s four resorts offer special packages for golfers, so make sure to check them out when booking. At Rosewood Mayakoba, for example, you can enjoy the Unlimited Golf Package, featuring all-you-can-play rounds of golf and a welcome mezcal bottle, while at Andaz Mayakoba, the Unlimited Golf Package allows you to play as many times as you want and enjoy breakfast for two guests during your stay, plus $50 on spa credit.
How to Book Tee Time at El Camaleón if you’re a Visitor
If you’re dreaming of playing golf on the best golf courses in Mexico, El Camaleón is surely on your list. Luckily, you can experience this golf course even if you’re staying at another hotel in the Riviera Maya, or if you’re a resident in the area. You can consult tee times and fees and make your reservation via email, phone, or Social Media by visiting the Mayakoba Golf landing page.
Mayakoba Golf School – Perfect your Skills at the Jim McLean Golf School
Should I Take a Golf Lesson at El Camaleón?
Make the most of your visit to El Camaleón and book a class at the best golf academy in Mexico: the Jim McLean Golf School. Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime golfer looking to perfect your skills, the school’s team offers personalized lessons, ensuring a truly productive and enriching lesson. Choose from one to two-hour classes, or even two to three-day programs to fully immerse yourself in the game. The school also offers lessons for junior golfers ages 4–16, including one and two-hour classes, and a fun Summer camp for a full experience.
Mayakoba Golf Lessons: What makes the Jim McLean Golf School special?
With a 350-yard practice range and a short game facility equipped with a putting and chipping green, the Jim McLean Golf School offers spectacular opportunities for golfers to practice their game. The facilities also boast state-of-the-art JC Video Swing Analysis and Trackman technology, allowing players to fully understand every detail of their movements, strengths, and areas of opportunities alongside the school’s team, who will provide expert guidance along the way. The school’s various formats of personalized classes make each second count, allowing golfers to polish their skills and inspiring them to play better each time they hit the course.
The Most Amazing Views that El Camaleón Offers
Exploring the terrain at El Camaleón Golf Course
Experts in camouflage and shape-shifting, chameleons are among the most fascinating creatures in nature. It’s no wonder this stunning golf course is named after them, thanks to its unique setting in the heart of the Riviera Maya. As it traverses the jungle, the mangroves, and the canals all the way to the Caribbean, El Camaleón seems to change and transform, just like a chameleon would. Along the way, players will encounter sand bunkers, sinkholes, endemic birds, and perhaps a monkey or two.
The Mayakoba Golf Cave Bunker – A Riviera Maya Icon
Perhaps the best-known hole on El Camaleón, hole 7 is a natural wonder, as well as a fascinating challenge for players: the Devil’s Mouth. A cenote –a natural sinkhole typically found along the Riviera Maya– creates a cave bunker on hole 7, which can be tricky to get out of, but will surely make for a special memory of your game at El Camaleón, not to mention a gorgeous photo for you to treasure.
Admiring Ocean View Holes at El Camaleón
As you reach the end of your journey on El Camaleón, you’ll reach three of the most exciting holes on the course: holes 15, 16, and 17. This is a picture-perfect trifecta, as these holes are known for their spectacular views of the sea. While holes 15 and 16 are known to bring a challenge thanks to their layout and wind conditions, make sure to take a few minutes to snap some photos and make memories of your game at one of the best golf courses in Mexico.
Tips for Playing at Mayakoba Golf Course El Camaleón
Plan the Best Times of Day to Play at El Camaleón
Playing at El Camaleón means playing in one of the best golf courses in Mexico –but it also means playing in a tropical environment. To avoid rainy conditions on the course, your best bet is to aim for a game in the dry months, between December and April. As for tee times, the early morning allows for cooler temperatures. You should consider between four and five hours on the course. After that, relaxing at The Clubhouse is highly recommended!
Find Everything You Need At The Mayakoba Golf Pro Shop
Some golfers love traveling with their own equipment, while others prefer to travel light. Perhaps you didn’t plan to play golf but decided to book some green time out of the blue. Whatever the case, the Pro Shop at the Clubhouse has you covered. You can rent equipment and buy apparel from top brands like Callaway and PXG, as well as El Camaleón’s own line of merchandise.
Treat Yourself: What To Eat At Mayakoba Golf Club
You can stay hydrated and nourished throughout your game on El Camaleón through a modern ordering system. Using your cart’s GPS, you can contact the roving snack cart, and enjoy refreshing drinks and ice-cold margaritas. Before or after your game, a stop at the newly renovated Clubhouse is mandatory. Stop by Koba Sports Bar for favorite lunch dishes like the Koba burger and flank steak tacos, paired with signature cocktails from the bar.
Plan the game of a lifetime among mangroves and views of the turquoise Caribbean at El Camaleón, one of the best golf courses in Mexico. Book a stay at one of Mayakoba’s resorts –Andaz Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba, or Rosewood Mayakoba–, and inquire about exclusive packages and deals for golfers.
