How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 11.5 hours of driving.

Upington has a variety of guesthouses and hotels for travelers.

The N10 is a major route and generally safe, but watch for road conditions.

Upington

Driving

Kirkwood to Upington

Updated: 29 May 2026

The route from Kirkwood to Upington is a long-haul journey of approximately 950 kilometers. You will traverse the Eastern Cape and the vast Northern Cape interior. The most common route involves the N10 highway, passing through Cradock, De Aar, and Prieska. This is a remote drive, so preparation is essential. Expect a total travel time of roughly 11 to 12 hours.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 950 km; straight-line air distance is 720 km.

Fastest Way

Driving via the N10 is the fastest route, taking 11.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the only practical way to reach Upington from Kirkwood.

Compare Kirkwood to Upington Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

11 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

R1500 - R1800 in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N10 through Cradock, De Aar, Prieska, and Groblershoop.

Plan for an overnight stop in Prieska if you prefer not to drive the full distance in one day.

Travel Tips

Water Supply
Carry at least 10 liters of drinking water in your car for emergencies.
Fuel Stops
Fill up at every major town; do not let your tank drop below half.
Tire Pressure
Check your tires before leaving, as the heat can cause pressure fluctuations.
Resting
Take a break every 200 km to maintain alertness on the long, straight roads.
Offline Maps
Download maps as signal is very poor between Prieska and Upington.

Safety Tips

Heat Exhaustion
Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kudu and other wildlife on the road at dawn and dusk.
Vehicle Maintenance
Check your radiator and oil levels before starting the journey.
Emergency Plan
Inform someone of your travel plans and expected arrival time.