What is the best time to leave?

Early morning to maximize daylight driving.

Welkom

Upington

Driving

Welkom to Upington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Welkom to Upington is a long 700-kilometer drive, primarily following the N8 national road through the heart of the Northern Cape. This route takes you through Kimberley and across the vast, arid landscapes of the interior. Expect a travel time of about 8 hours. It is a demanding drive that requires careful planning, especially regarding fuel and rest stops in the sparsely populated areas.

Total Distance: 700 km driving distance; 620 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the N8, taking 8 hours.

Cheapest Way

Private vehicle, costing approximately R1350 in fuel.

Compare Welkom to Upington Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

8 hours

Avg Price

R1200 - R1500 fuel cost

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N8 West through Kimberley to Upington.

Plan your fuel stops carefully; distances between towns are large.

Travel Tips

Fatigue
The N8 is very long; take frequent breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
Fuel
Fill up at every major town, such as Kimberley and Groblershoop.
Water
Carry plenty of water, as the region is extremely dry and hot.
Navigation
The route is well-marked, but keep a physical map as a backup.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is in top condition before embarking on this long journey.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of animals on the road, especially at night.
Emergency
Keep your phone charged and have emergency numbers for the Northern Cape.
Vehicle Security
Always lock your car when parked in public areas.
Visibility
Use your headlights during the day for better visibility on the open road.