Flight
Driving
Port Shepstone to Upington
Updated: 29 May 2026
The journey from Port Shepstone to Upington spans approximately 1400 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. You will primarily navigate the N3 highway toward Johannesburg before transitioning to the N14 through the North West and Northern Cape provinces. This route takes you from the humid Indian Ocean coastline into the arid, semi-desert landscapes of the Kalahari region. Expect a long-haul drive requiring at least 16 hours of active travel time. It is a journey of stark geographical contrasts, moving from lush subtropical vegetation to vast, open plains.
Total Distance: 1400 km driving distance, 1050 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Durban (King Shaka) to Upington is the fastest, taking roughly 6 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with a group of three or more people.
Compare Port Shepstone to Upington Routes
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Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours including layover | 16 hours |
| Avg Price | R4500 - R7000 | R2500 - R3500 in fuel |
| Operator | Airlink | Private Vehicle |
| Route | Margate Airport to King Shaka International, then to Upington Airport. | N3 to Johannesburg, then N14 via Ventersdorp and Kuruman. |
| Tip | Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares on the regional Airlink routes. | Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between Kuruman and Upington has limited fuel stops. |
Travel Tips
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Fuel StopsFill up your tank in every major town like Kuruman or Vryburg. Do not rely on small roadside stations.
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HydrationCarry at least 5 liters of water per person. The Northern Cape heat can cause rapid dehydration.
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Road ConditionsWatch for potholes on the N14 between Vryburg and Upington. Drive during daylight hours only.
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AccommodationBook your overnight stop in Kimberley or Vryburg if you cannot complete the 16-hour drive in one go.
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Vehicle CheckCheck your tire pressure and coolant levels before leaving the coast. The temperature shift is significant.
Safety Tips
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WildlifeBe cautious of animals crossing the road at dawn and dusk in the Northern Cape.
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Emergency KitCarry a basic first aid kit and a spare tire. Cell phone reception is spotty in remote areas.
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FatigueTake a 15-minute break every two hours to avoid driver fatigue on long, straight roads.
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SecurityKeep your doors locked at all times while driving through urban centers like Johannesburg.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Upington?There is no direct passenger rail service from Port Shepstone to Upington.
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What is the best road to take?The N14 is the primary arterial route connecting the North West to the Northern Cape.
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Are there tolls on this route?Yes, the N3 highway between Durban and Johannesburg has several toll plazas.
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Can I fly from Port Shepstone?No, you must travel to Margate or Durban for commercial flight departures.
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Is the route safe?The route is generally safe, but avoid night driving in rural areas due to livestock hazards.
Quick Info
- From Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
April to September, as the Northern Cape heat is extreme during summer months.
Things to Do in Upington
1
Augrabies Falls
Located near Upington, these massive waterfalls are a must-see. The Orange River plunges 60 meters into a granite gorge.
2
Kalahari Desert
Explore the vast red dunes and unique wildlife of the Kalahari. It offers some of the best stargazing in the country.
3
Orange River Vineyards
Visit the local wine cellars in Upington. The region is famous for its high-quality table grapes and dessert wines.
4
Spitskop Nature Reserve
A short drive from Upington, this reserve is home to springbok, gemsbok, and zebras. It is perfect for a quiet afternoon game drive.
Tags
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driving from KZN to Northern Cape
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N3 highway route
N14 road conditions
traveling across South Africa
Upington travel tips
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