Flight
Driving
Sandton to Upington
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Sandton to Upington is a significant 850-kilometer trek across the heart of South Africa. You can drive via the N14, which takes you through the North West and Northern Cape provinces. Alternatively, a flight from OR Tambo is highly recommended to save time. Upington is the gateway to the Kalahari and the Augrabies Falls.
Total Distance: 850 km driving distance; 750 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is significantly faster, taking under 2 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is cheaper for families or groups.
Compare Sandton to Upington Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour 45 mins | 9 hours |
| Avg Price | R2500 - R4000 | R1500 - R2000 fuel |
| Operator | Airlink | N/A |
| Route | OR Tambo International Airport to Upington Airport. | N14 highway via Ventersdorp and Kuruman. |
| Tip | Flights are the most efficient way to cover this distance. | The N14 is a long, isolated road; ensure your vehicle is serviced. |
Travel Tips
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Road SafetyThe N14 has long stretches with no cell signal; download offline maps.
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FuelFill up at every major town; do not let your tank drop below half.
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HydrationCarry at least 5 liters of water in your car.
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BookingBook flights well in advance to secure reasonable rates.
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AccommodationStay in Kuruman if you need to break the drive into two days.
Safety Tips
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Night DrivingStrictly avoid driving at night due to wildlife on the road.
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VehicleCheck your spare tire and jack before leaving.
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EmergencyCarry a basic first aid kit and emergency supplies.
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FatigueTake regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue on long roads.
People Also Ask
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Is it safe to drive?Yes, but it requires preparation for long, isolated stretches.
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How long is the flight?Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
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Are there car rentals?Yes, at Upington Airport.
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What is the best route?The N14 is the standard route.
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Is Upington worth visiting?Yes, for its proximity to national parks and the river.
Quick Info
- From Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa
- To Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to August for cooler, manageable temperatures.
Things to Do in Upington
1
Augrabies Falls National Park
Visit one of the world's largest waterfalls. The landscape is dramatic and rugged.
2
Kalahari Desert
Upington is the perfect starting point for exploring the vast Kalahari.
3
Orange River
Enjoy a sunset cruise on the river. It is the lifeblood of the region.
4
Spitskop Nature Reserve
A great place to see desert-adapted wildlife and unique flora.
Tags
Sandton to Upington
flights to Upington
driving to Northern Cape
Upington travel
N14 highway
Airlink Upington
Sandton to Upington distance
road trip Northern Cape
