Upington is the main town of the Green Kalahari region in the Northern Cape. Approximately 820 km north of Cape Town and 875 km west of Johannesburg, Upington is ideal as a stopover for those travelling to the Augrabies Falls National Park, the Fish River Canyon and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Upington is named after Sir Thomas Upington, the first Attorney General of the Cape. Originally known as Kharahais, Upington owes its success to agriculture and irrigated lands along the Orange River.
Accommodation options in Upington includes luxury Lodges, Guesthouses, Bed and Breakfast's, Hotels, Self-catering units and camping. Read about Upington as a tourist destination in the article "Upington Tourist Information" as well as other interesting articles on Upington and surrounds in our article section.
Some of the things to do and see in Upington are as follows:
SA Dried Fruit Co-operative
The Mill - local delights such as dried fruit, freshly baked home products, goat's milk feta cheese, arts and crafts to body product and home decor
The Kalahari Kuierfees, held in September, offers loads of entertainment
Spitskop Nature Reserve
Orange River Wine Route through Keimoes, Kakamas and explore the unique stops along the way to the majestic Augrabies National Park and waterfalls only +-120 km away
River cruise on Sakkies Arkie
Upington offers a wide range of restaurants to choose from. From casual outdoor dining to fine dining experiences, there is something for everyone. One can enjoy traditional South African cuisine as well as a variety of international dishes. Whether you are looking for an intimate dinner or a family outing, the restaurants in Upington offer something for everyone.
Upington Solo Adventure: 10 Must-See Sights for Independent Travelers
Orange River: The lifeblood of Upington, the Orange River, is perfect for a peaceful stroll along its banks or an adventurous canoe trip. The river's scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for any traveler.
Augrabies Falls National Park: A short drive from Upington, Augrabies Falls National Park is home to the impressive Augrabies Falls. Witness the power of nature as water cascades down 56 meters into the gorge below. The park also offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: For those who love wildlife, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a dream destination. Located a few hours from Upington, this vast conservation area is famous for its large predators and striking red dunes. Self-drive safaris are a great way to explore the park.
Desert Landscapes: The Northern Cape’s arid landscapes provide a surreal backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. The vast, open spaces and unique flora offer endless exploration opportunities.
Upington 26 Monument: History buffs should not miss the Upington 26 Monument, which commemorates the anti-apartheid activists. It’s a poignant reminder of South Africa’s turbulent past and a tribute to the resilience of its people.
Kalahari-Oranje Museum: Located in a historic building along the Orange River, the Kalahari-Oranje Museum showcases the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. Exhibits include local archaeology, paleontology, and artifacts from early settlers.
Spitskop Nature Reserve: Just outside Upington, Spitskop Nature Reserve is ideal for wildlife spotting and hiking. The reserve’s diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of antelope species and birdlife.
Quiver Tree Forest: A visit to the Quiver Tree Forest offers a glimpse into the unique flora of the Northern Cape. These ancient trees, with their striking shapes, are perfect for an afternoon of exploration and photography.
Sakkie se Arkie River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely river cruise on the Orange River to take in the stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife. It’s a serene way to appreciate Upington's natural beauty.
Rooiduin Waterhole: For a tranquil escape, the Rooiduin Waterhole offers a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy the surrounding wildlife. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and enjoying the quietude of nature.
We hope you have found this an interesting read on Upington – should you wish to add any information or contribute an interesting Upington holiday experience please email us at: