Is the road to Upington safe?

Yes, the N10 is a well-maintained national highway.

Can I fly to Upington?

There are no direct flights from Bhisho; you would need to fly from East London to Johannesburg then to Upington.

What is the best stopover town?

Colesberg or De Aar are excellent choices for an overnight break.

Is there public transport?

Long-distance buses exist but are infrequent and require multiple transfers.

How much fuel should I budget?

Budget for at least R2500 to cover the 1050km distance.

Bhisho

Upington

Driving

Bhisho to Upington

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Bhisho to Upington is a long-haul journey of over 1000 kilometers, primarily through the arid heart of the Northern Cape. You will typically drive via the N6 and then transition onto the N10, passing through towns like Cradock and De Aar. This route takes you through the vast Karoo plains, offering stark, beautiful scenery. Expect a driving time of approximately 12 to 13 hours. Because of the distance, most travelers choose to break the journey with an overnight stay in a town like Colesberg or De Aar.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1050 km; straight-line air distance is 780 km.

Fastest Way

Driving is the only practical mode, taking 13 hours of active travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to reach Upington from Bhisho.

Compare Bhisho to Upington Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

13 hours

Avg Price

R2200 - R2800 in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N6 to N10 via Cradock and De Aar

Ensure your vehicle's air conditioning is functional before starting this trip.

Travel Tips

Plan Stops
Stop every 3 hours to stretch your legs and stay alert.
Sun Protection
Wear high-SPF sunscreen, as the Northern Cape sun is intense even through car windows.
Vehicle Fluids
Check your oil and radiator water levels at every fuel stop.
Snacks
Pack plenty of non-perishable snacks and water, as shops are far apart.
Tire Pressure
Adjust your tire pressure for long-distance highway driving to improve fuel efficiency.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kudu and other wildlife crossing the road at dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Do not push yourself to drive the full distance in one go if you feel tired.
Emergency Contacts
Save the numbers of local towing services in the towns along your route.
Roadside Assistance
Ensure you have active roadside assistance coverage before departing.