Is there a train to Upington?

There is no direct passenger train service from Mpumalanga to Upington.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 16 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, the N4 and N12 have several toll plazas.

What is the best airport?

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) is the closest to Kanyamazane.

The N14 is a major national route and generally safe during daylight hours.

Upington

Flight Driving

Kanyamazane to Upington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kanyamazane to Upington spans approximately 1450 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. Most travelers prefer driving via the N12 and N14 highways, a trip taking roughly 16 hours of pure driving time. Alternatively, you can fly from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Upington via Johannesburg. This route transitions from the lush Lowveld to the arid, stark beauty of the Northern Cape. Expect significant temperature fluctuations between these two regions. Plan for multiple stops as the route crosses through the Free State and North West provinces.

Total Distance: 1450 km driving distance, 1150 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is the fastest, taking 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with more than two people.

Compare Kanyamazane to Upington Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	R4500 - R6000	R2800 - R3500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Personal Vehicle
Route	MQP to JNB, then JNB to UTN.	N4 to N12 via Johannesburg, then N14 through Vryburg and Kuruman.
Tip	Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares on the Johannesburg-Upington leg.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between Kuruman and Upington is remote.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Vryburg; do not skip gas stations in remote areas.
Hydration
Carry at least 5 liters of water per person when driving through the Northern Cape.
Road Conditions
Watch for potholes on the N14 near the North West border.
Accommodation
Book guesthouses in Kimberley or Vryburg if you need to break the drive into two days.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular signal is intermittent in the Karoo and Kalahari regions.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to wildlife crossing the roads.
Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure and coolant levels before leaving the Lowveld.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic first aid kit and a spare tire in good condition.
Communication
Keep a power bank and a physical road map in your vehicle.