Bus
Driving
Ladysmith to Upington
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Ladysmith to Upington covers 1,000 kilometers and takes about 12 hours by car. You will travel via the N3, N8, and N14 highways. Upington is the gateway to the Kalahari Desert and the Augrabies Falls. It is a long-distance route through the heart of the Northern Cape.
Total Distance: 1,000 km driving distance; 850 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving your own car is the fastest at 12 hours.
Cheapest Way
Bus travel is the most affordable at R1,000.
Compare Ladysmith to Upington Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 18 hours | 12 hours |
| Avg Price | R1,000 - R1,500 | R1,800 fuel |
| Operator | Intercape | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Ladysmith to Bloemfontein, then Bloemfontein to Upington. | N3 to N8 to N14. |
| Tip | Check schedules for connecting buses. | The N14 is a long road; stay alert. |
Travel Tips
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Road SafetyThe N14 has many curves; drive carefully.
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FuelingFill up in major towns.
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WeatherUpington is hot; carry water.
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NavigationUse GPS.
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BookingBook bus tickets in advance.
Safety Tips
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Highway SafetyDo not stop on the N14.
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Vehicle SecurityLock doors in the city.
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EmergencyKeep a charged phone.
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VisibilityUse lights in rain.
People Also Ask
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How long is the drive?About 12 hours.
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Is there a bus?Yes, via Bloemfontein.
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Is it safe?Yes, stick to main roads.
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What is the best route?N3 to N8 to N14.
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Are there trains?No passenger trains.
Quick Info
- From Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Winter for mild weather.
Things to Do in Upington
1
Augrabies Falls
A spectacular waterfall.
2
Kalahari Desert
Explore the desert landscape.
3
Orange River
Great for river cruises.
4
Upington Museum
Features local history.
Tags
Ladysmith to Upington
N14 highway
Upington travel
Northern Cape
driving to Upington
Ladysmith to Upington route
South Africa travel
Upington transport
