Flight
Driving
Polokwane to Upington
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Polokwane to Upington is a long-distance trek of approximately 1250 kilometers. You will travel through the North West province and into the Northern Cape via the N14. This route takes you through the heart of the Kalahari region. Expect a driving time of 14 to 16 hours. Flights are available but usually require a connection in Johannesburg.
Total Distance: 1250 km driving distance; 1000 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is the fastest, taking about 4 hours including connection time.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest if traveling with multiple passengers.
Compare Polokwane to Upington Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 hours | 15 hours |
| Avg Price | R3500 - R5000 | R3000 - R3800 fuel |
| Operator | Airlink | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Polokwane to Johannesburg (OR Tambo), then to Upington. | N1 to Pretoria, then N14 through Vryburg and Kuruman to Upington. |
| Tip | Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares. | The N14 is a long, straight road; watch out for fatigue. |
Travel Tips
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WaterCarry at least 5 liters of water in your car for the desert stretches.
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FuelFill up at every major town like Vryburg and Kuruman.
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Sun ProtectionThe sun is intense; wear high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses.
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Road SafetyWatch for wildlife crossing the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
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AccommodationBook your Upington stay in advance as it is a popular hub for tourists.
Safety Tips
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Vehicle PrepCheck your cooling system; the desert heat is hard on engines.
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CommunicationCell signal is limited in the Kalahari; carry a satellite phone if traveling off-road.
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Emergency KitPack a basic first aid kit and spare tire tools.
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Night TravelAvoid night driving due to poor visibility and nocturnal animals.
People Also Ask
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Is Upington hot?Yes, it is one of the hottest towns in South Africa during summer.
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Can I take a bus?Yes, but it is a very long journey with limited direct options.
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What is the N14 like?It is a long, straight highway with varying road quality.
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Are there car rentals?Yes, available at Upington Airport.
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Is it worth visiting?Yes, especially for the Augrabies Falls and desert scenery.
Quick Info
- From Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa
- To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to August to enjoy the cooler desert climate.
Things to Do in Upington
1
Augrabies Falls
A spectacular waterfall on the Orange River. It is a must-see for its raw power and beauty.
2
Kalahari Desert
Explore the unique flora and fauna of the desert. Guided tours are available from Upington.
3
Orange River Wine Cellars
Visit the local vineyards to taste wines produced in the desert climate. A unique experience.
4
Spitskop Nature Reserve
Great for spotting desert wildlife like gemsbok and springbok. Ideal for a day trip.
Tags
Polokwane to Upington
Northern Cape travel
driving to Upington
flights to Upington
Orange River
Kalahari travel
South Africa road trip
N14 highway
