Ceres
Ceres
Upington
Upington
Driving

Ceres to Upington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Ceres to Upington covers approximately 800 kilometers. You will travel north through the Cederberg region and into the arid Northern Cape. The drive takes about 9 hours. Upington is the gateway to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and is known for its vineyards along the Orange River. Expect a scenic but dry landscape.

Total Distance: 800 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the only direct method, taking 9 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical and cheapest option.
Compare Ceres to Upington Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
9 hours
Avg Price
R1500 - R1900 fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
R46 to N7, then R27 through Vanrhynsdorp and Kenhardt to Upington.

The R27 is a long, straight road; ensure your cruise control is working.

Travel Tips
  • Water Supply
    Carry extra water for both you and your vehicle's radiator.
  • Fuel Stops
    Fill up in every major town like Vanrhynsdorp and Kenhardt.
  • Tire Pressure
    Check your tire pressure before leaving, as heat affects it significantly.
  • Mobile Signal
    Expect long stretches without cell service; download maps beforehand.
  • Driving Time
    Start early to avoid the hottest part of the day on the road.
Safety Tips
  • Heat Exhaustion
    Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
  • Vehicle Check
    Ensure your cooling system is in perfect working order.
  • Emergency
    Carry a satellite phone or a reliable radio if traveling deep into the desert.
  • Wildlife
    Be cautious of animals crossing the road, especially near riverbeds.
People Also Ask
  • Is Upington hot?
    Yes, it is one of the hottest towns in South Africa during summer.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes approximately 9 hours.
  • Are there flights?
    Upington has an airport, but you would need to fly from Cape Town.
  • Is the road safe?
    The R27 is safe but remote; keep your vehicle well-maintained.
  • What is the scenery like?
    It transitions from mountain passes to vast, arid desert plains.
Quick Info
  • From Ceres, Western Cape, South Africa
  • To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Winter (May to August) is best to avoid the extreme summer heat of the desert.

Things to Do in Upington
1
Orange River
Take a sunset cruise on the Orange River. It is a relaxing way to see the local vineyards.
2
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Drive north from Upington to experience one of the world's largest conservation areas.
3
Spitskop Nature Reserve
Visit this reserve near Upington to see desert-adapted wildlife and beautiful flora.
4
Ceres Valley
Enjoy the lush green orchards of Ceres before heading into the dry Northern Cape.
Tags
Ceres to Upington R27 route driving to Northern Cape Upington travel Ceres road trip desert driving Western Cape to Upington long distance driving South Africa travel