Is there a train to Upington?

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

What is the best route?

The N14 via Pretoria is the most reliable road route.

Yes, Airlink operates flights from MQP to Upington via Johannesburg.

How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 16 hours of driving time.

Yes, provided you stick to main highways and avoid night travel.

Upington

Flight Driving

Mkhuhlu to Upington

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Mkhuhlu to Upington spans approximately 1450 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. You will primarily navigate via the N4 and N14 highways, passing through Gauteng. Driving is the most practical method, taking roughly 16 hours of pure road time. Alternatively, you can fly from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Upington via Johannesburg. This route transitions from the lush Lowveld to the arid landscapes of the Northern Cape.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1450 km; straight-line air distance is 1120 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from MQP to UTN takes approximately 5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Mkhuhlu 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	Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP) to OR Tambo (JNB) to Upington (UTN).	R536 to N4, then N14 through Pretoria and Kuruman.
Tip	Book your connecting flight on a single ticket to protect against delays.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between Kuruman and Upington is remote.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Kuruman as petrol stations are sparse in the Karoo.
Hydration
Carry at least 5 liters of water per person due to the dry climate.
Toll Fees
Budget for N4 toll gates between Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure before leaving as road temperatures are high.
Offline Maps
Download Google Maps for the Northern Cape as signal can be intermittent.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to wildlife crossing the roads.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic first aid kit and a spare tire in good condition.
Road Conditions
Watch for potholes on secondary roads in the North West province.
Communication
Keep a power bank charged for your mobile phone at all times.