Flight
Driving
Bulwer to Upington
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Bulwer to Upington spans approximately 1200 km, traversing the heart of the Free State and Northern Cape. Driving is the primary method, utilizing the N8 and N14 highways. Expect a travel time of roughly 14 hours by car. This route takes you through the arid landscapes of the Karoo. It is a long-haul trip requiring careful planning for fuel stops in remote areas.
Total Distance: 1200 km driving distance, 950 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Durban King Shaka to Upington via Johannesburg takes 6 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest for groups, costing approximately R3000 total fuel.
Compare Bulwer to Upington Routes
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Connecting via Johannesburg OR Tambo
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Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours including transit | 14 hours |
| Avg Price | R4500 - R6000 | R2500 - R3500 in fuel |
| Operator | Airlink | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Durban King Shaka to Upington Airport via Johannesburg. | R617 to N3, then N8 through Bloemfontein, and N14 to Upington. |
| Tip | Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares on the Johannesburg-Upington leg. | Ensure your vehicle is serviced as fuel stations are sparse between Kimberley and Upington. |
Travel Tips
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HydrationCarry at least 5 liters of water in your car when driving through the Northern Cape.
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Fuel StopsFill your tank in every major town like Bloemfontein or Kimberley to avoid running dry.
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Road ConditionsWatch for stray livestock on the N14, especially during dawn and dusk.
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AccommodationBook guesthouses in Upington early as they fill up during peak harvest seasons.
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Vehicle CheckCheck your tire pressure and coolant levels before leaving the KZN Midlands.
Safety Tips
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Night DrivingAvoid driving at night due to limited visibility and wildlife hazards.
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Emergency KitKeep a basic first aid kit and a spare tire in your trunk.
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ConnectivityDownload offline maps as cellular signal can be weak in the Karoo.
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FatigueTake a 15-minute break every 2 hours to prevent driver fatigue on long stretches.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Upington?Passenger rail services to Upington are currently limited; driving or flying is recommended.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes approximately 14 hours of pure driving time.
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Are there tolls?Yes, expect tolls on the N3 highway section.
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Best time to visit?Autumn and Spring are best to avoid extreme heat.
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Is it safe to drive?Yes, provided you follow standard road safety rules and avoid night driving.
Quick Info
- From Bulwer, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
April to May or September to October to avoid extreme summer heat in the Northern Cape.
Things to Do in Upington
1
Augrabies Falls
Located near Upington, these massive waterfalls are a must-see. The Orange River plunges into a deep granite gorge.
2
Kalahari Desert
Explore the vast red dunes of the Kalahari. It offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
3
Orange River Wine Cellars
Visit the local wine cellars in Upington. They are famous for their high-quality dessert wines.
4
Spitskop Nature Reserve
A great spot for bird watching and seeing desert-adapted game. It is located just outside the town.
Tags
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