Driving
Drakensberg to Upington
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from the Drakensberg to Upington spans approximately 1100 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. You will primarily navigate via the N3, N1, and the N14 highway through the Free State and Northern Cape provinces. This route takes roughly 12 to 13 hours of pure driving time depending on traffic near Bloemfontein. The landscape shifts dramatically from the lush peaks of the Drakensberg to the arid, vast plains of the Karoo and Kalahari. It is a long-haul journey that requires careful planning for fuel stops in remote towns.
Total Distance: 1100 km driving distance; 850 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest practical method as there are no direct commercial flights between these points.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for groups of two or more.
Compare Drakensberg to Upington Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
12 hours 30 mins
Avg Price
R2500 - R3500 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
N3 to N1 via Bloemfontein, then N14 to Upington.
Ensure your spare tire is in perfect condition as road conditions vary on the N14.
Travel Tips
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Fuel StopsFill up your tank in every major town like Bloemfontein or Kimberley as petrol stations become sparse on the N14.
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HydrationCarry at least 5 liters of drinking water in your vehicle due to the intense heat of the Northern Cape.
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Road SafetyAvoid driving at night to prevent collisions with wildlife crossing the road.
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Toll FeesKeep a credit card or cash ready for the N3 and N1 toll plazas.
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Vehicle CheckCheck your coolant and oil levels before departing the Drakensberg mountains.
Safety Tips
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WildlifeBe vigilant for kudu and other game crossing the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
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FatigueTake a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness on the long, straight roads.
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Emergency KitPack a basic first aid kit and a flashlight for unexpected roadside stops.
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ConnectivityDownload offline maps as cellular signal can be intermittent in remote Northern Cape stretches.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Upington?There is no direct passenger rail service from the Drakensberg to Upington.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes approximately 12 to 13 hours depending on stops.
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Are the roads safe?The N1 and N14 are major national routes and are generally safe for travel.
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What is the best time to visit?Autumn and Spring are best to avoid the extreme summer heat.
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Do I need a 4x4?A standard sedan is sufficient for the main highways to Upington.
Quick Info
- From Drakensberg, 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 falls are among the largest in the world. The Orange River plunges 56 meters into a granite gorge.
2
Kalahari Desert
Explore the vast red dunes of the Kalahari. It offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities including meerkats and desert-adapted lions.
3
Orange River Wine Cellars
Visit the second-largest wine cooperative in South Africa. They offer tastings of local white wines produced in the river valley.
4
Spitskop Nature Reserve
A short drive from Upington, this reserve is home to springbok and zebra. It provides excellent sunset photography spots.
Tags
Drakensberg to Upington drive
N14 highway route
Upington travel guide
Northern Cape road trip
driving from KZN to Upington
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South Africa long distance driving
Upington transport options
