Campo de Golfe Olímpico opened in 2016 as the first Olympic golf course built for the sport's return to the Games after more than a century. Gil Hanse designed the layout on a former wetland site in Barra da Tijuca, working with Amy Alcott as associate designer. The course occupies coastal terrain along the Marapendi Lagoon system, with the routing shaped by environmental restoration requirements that preserved and enhanced native vegetation and wildlife corridors throughout the property.
The design features wide fairways and large, undulating greens that reflect Hanse's preference for strategic options over penal hazards. Natural sandy areas and native grasses frame the holes, giving the course a links-like aesthetic despite its tropical setting. The routing takes advantage of prevailing winds from the Atlantic Ocean and incorporates views of the surrounding mountains and lagoons. Several holes play along or across restored wetland areas, integrating the golf course into the broader ecological landscape.
The course hosted men's and women's golf competitions during the 2016 Rio Olympics, marking golf's Olympic debut in the modern era. Justin Rose and Inbee Park won the inaugural gold medals on the layout. Following the Games, the facility transitioned to public use as part of the Olympic legacy plan, operating as a municipal course accessible to Brazilian golfers. The course represents South America's first Olympic golf venue and remains one of the few championship-caliber public courses in Brazil.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Campo de Golfe Olímpico was designed by Gil Hanse.
Yes. Campo de Golfe Olímpico is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Campo de Golfe Olímpico is 71.
Campo de Golfe Olímpico plays 7,163 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Campo de Golfe Olímpico is 144.
Campo de Golfe Olímpico is a 18-hole course.