Upington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, the things to do, where to eat, stay, and shop in Upington, South Africa. Our comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to have a memorable experience.


Introduction to Upington

Located in the heart of the Northern Cape, Upington is a beautiful city that is surrounded by the Orange River and the Kalahari Desert. It is a perfect destination for those who enjoy nature, history, and culture. Upington has a lot to offer, from museums and cultural centres, to scenic views and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through some of the top places to visit, things to do, and the best places to eat, sleep, shop, and experience the local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Upington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kalahari-Oranje Museum

Discover the story of Upington and the surrounding areas at the Kalahari-Oranje Museum. This museum houses a collection of exhibits and artefacts that tell the history of the region, including a display of San Rock Art.

Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate

Visit the Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate, where you can enjoy a tasting of the estate’s award-winning wines and brandies. The estate also includes a museum that displays the distilling process and the history of wine making in the region.

Natural Attractions of Upington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Augrabies Falls National Park

A visit to Upington is incomplete without a visit to the stunning Augrabies Falls National Park. The park offers breathtaking views of the falls, as well as hiking trails and a range of outdoor activities, including white water rafting, canoeing, and abseiling.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Take a trip to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a conservation area that spans the border between South Africa and Botswana. This park is one of the largest protected natural areas in South Africa and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and meerkats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upington

Boegoeberg 4x4 Trail

The Boegoeberg 4x4 Trail offers visitors the chance to explore the rugged beauty of the Kalahari Desert. This trail takes you through a range of terrains, including dunes, riverbeds, and rocky outcrops, and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Orange River Trail

The Orange River Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that follows the course of the Orange River. This trail takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Upington, including vineyards, mountains, and riverbanks.

Best Things to Do in Upington: Activities and Tours

River Rafting and Canoeing

Take a trip down the Orange River on a rafting or canoeing tour. These tours offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are a great way to experience the beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Hot Air Balloon Tours

Experience the beauty of the Northern Cape from a hot air balloon. These tours offer breathtaking views of the Kalahari Desert and the Orange River, and are a great way to see the region from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upington

Day Activity
1 Visit Kalahari-Oranje Museum and Bezalel Wine and Brandy Estate
2 Explore Augrabies Falls National Park
3 Take a 4x4 trail tour of the Boegoeberg Trail
4 Hike the Orange River Trail
5 Canoe the Orange River
6 Hot air balloon tour
7 Visit Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and return to Upington

Food and Drink Scene of Upington

Must-Try Dishes

Biltong

Biltong is a popular South African snack that is made from dried and cured meat. It is commonly made from beef, game meats, and ostrich.

Boerewors

Boerewors is a traditional South African sausage that is made from beef, pork, or lamb. It is a must-try dish for meat lovers visiting Upington.

Local Beverages

Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea is a popular herbal tea that is native to South Africa. It is commonly enjoyed for its rich, earthy flavour and its health benefits.

South African Wines

South African wines are renowned for their quality and are a must-try for any wine lover visiting Upington. There are a range of wineries and vineyards in the area that offer tastings and tours.

Where to Stay in Upington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Protea Hotel Upington

The Protea Hotel Upington is a popular hotel that is located in the heart of the city. It offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.

River Place Manor

River Place Manor is a guesthouse that is located on the banks of the Orange River. It offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape and is a great place to relax and unwind.

What to Buy in Upington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Upington Wines

Upington is known for its high-quality wines, which make great gifts and souvenirs. There are a range of wineries and vineyards in the area that offer tastings and tours.

San Crafts

San crafts are a popular souvenir that are made by the indigenous San people. These crafts include items such as jewellery, baskets, and carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Upington

The people of Upington are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and to be mindful of the environment when exploring the surrounding areas.

Best Time to Visit Upington

The best time to visit Upington is during the cooler months of April to September. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upington

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Dress appropriately when visiting places of worship or cultural sites
  • Be mindful of the environment when exploring the surrounding areas

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or culture
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Pat or feed wild animals

Safety and Health

Safety in Upington

Upington is a relatively safe city, but visitors are advised to take precautions and to be aware of their surroundings. This includes avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Upington

Visitors to Upington should be aware of the risk of malaria in the region and take appropriate precautions. It is also recommended that visitors have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, rabies, and yellow fever.

Getting to Upington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Upington

Upington Airport is the closest airport to the city and is located less than 10 km from the city centre. There are regular flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Bus Stations Near Upington

There are no long-distance bus services that operate directly to Upington. Visitors can take a bus to the nearest major city, such as Kimberley, and then take a taxi or hire a car to complete their journey.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car and drive to Upington. There are several major highways that connect the city to other major cities in South Africa.

How to Get Around in Upington

The easiest way to get around Upington is by car. Visitors can hire a car at the airport or in the city centre. Taxis and local buses are also available, but these are less reliable and can be more expensive than hiring a car.

Where to Go Next from Upington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kimberley

Located less than 400 km from Upington, Kimberley is a historic city that is known for its diamond mines and museums. Visitors can explore the city’s history at the Kimberley Mine Museum and the McGregor Museum.

Richtersveld National Park

Located less than 300 km from Upington, Richtersveld National Park is a rugged wilderness area that is known for its spectacular desert landscapes and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by car, or by 4x4.

Conclusion

Upington is a beautiful city that offers visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty, culture, and history of the Northern Cape. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing escape, Upington has something to offer. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and have a memorable experience.