Things To Do
in Upington
Upington is a town located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. It is situated on the banks of the Orange River, which provides important irrigation for the region's agriculture. Upington is known for its hot desert climate, with temperatures frequently reaching above 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months.
The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a visit to the Kalahari Desert where the scenic landscapes will take your breath away. Enjoy the tranquility of the early morning as you witness the sun rising over the dunes.
In the afternoon, visit the Augrabies Falls National Park, about an hour's drive from Upington. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the impressive waterfalls and unique flora and fauna.
End your day with a sunset cruise on the Orange River. Relax as you watch the colors of the sky change over the water while enjoying a picnic dinner.
Kick off your adventure by renting a bike and cycling along the scenic paths of Upington. The morning air is perfect for exploring the town’s charm and local markets.
Spend your afternoon at the nearby Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Discover the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes with a guided safari tour.
In the evening, head back to Upington for a delicious meal at a local restaurant. Try traditional South African dishes while enjoying live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful desert landscapes and stunning sunsets.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Near the Kalahari Desert and the Augrabies Falls National Park, ideal for nature lovers.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major South African cities.
- Friendly community and a slower pace of life.
- Limited access to shopping and entertainment compared to larger cities.
- Extreme temperatures, especially in summer months.
- Potential isolation due to distance from major urban centers.
- Job opportunities may be fewer than in more developed areas.
- Public transportation options can be limited.
Best Activities in Upington
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the impressive waterfalls, take scenic walks, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
Experience thrilling rafting adventures on the Orange River, offering a unique way to explore the region's landscapes.
Embark on a dune driving adventure and marvel at the stunning red sand dunes of the Kalahari Desert.
Tours
Uncover the best of Upington with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Upington
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping views of the river and surrounding landscapes, great for sunrise and sunset photos.
Provides panoramic views of Upington and the Orange River, ideal for capturing the town and its surroundings.
Features stunning vistas of the Kalahari Desert and offers great opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
Food in Upington
Upington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy and flavorful, Karoo lamb is a must-try local delicacy. The meat is often slow-roasted or grilled to perfection, showcasing the natural tenderness and unique taste of sheep raised in the semi-arid Karoo region.
Must-Try!
A traditional stew made with indigenous water lily flowers, lamb or mutton, and a mixture of fragrant spices. It's a distinct local favorite, especially during the winter months.
A type of South African sausage, boerewors is made from a blend of beef, pork, and spices. It's often grilled and enjoyed with pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish).
Unique Experiences
Get to know Upington better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to sample a variety of local street foods, including vetkoek (deep-fried dough filled with savory mince or sweet fillings), biltong (dried and cured meat), and freshly baked roosterkoek (grilled bread).
This bustling market is ideal for exploring fresh produce, local snacks, and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Upington's street food scene. Be sure to try the popular local snack, skilpadjies (lamb liver wrapped in caul fat and grilled).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Upington, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting. It is considered respectful to make eye contact and use a person's title and surname when addressing them.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Upington. It is important to show deference and respect to older individuals, which may include using formal language and avoiding interrupting or contradicting them.
It is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions in Upington. This includes being respectful of traditional ceremonies and practices, such as asking permission before taking photographs at cultural events or in certain locations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Upington with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Upington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Upington, South Africa. It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and for other services such as hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides. However, tipping is not mandatory and should be based on the quality of service received.
In Upington, South Africa, cash is widely accepted for payments, especially in smaller establishments and for services such as taxis and markets. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used in larger businesses, hotels, and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about payment methods before making a purchase or booking a service.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Upington.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Upington is during the summer months when the weather is hot and the days are long. This is also the ideal time for outdoor activities such as river cruises and wine tasting.
Autumn in Upington is also a good time to visit as the weather begins to cool down, making it pleasant for exploring the local attractions and enjoying the annual Kalahari Kuier Festival.
Winter is Upington is characterized by mild daytime temperatures and cool nights. Although it's off-peak tourist season, it's a great time for birdwatching and experiencing the unique desert landscape.
Spring brings the bloom of the flowers in the region, creating a beautiful and colorful landscape. It's also a good time to visit for outdoor activities and to witness the Namaqualand daisies in full bloom.
Upington at Night
Hiking in Upington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its dramatic waterfalls and scenic hiking trails through the rugged landscape.
Venture into the Kalahari Desert with trails that offer unique experiences of the arid landscape and diverse wildlife.
A natural reserve featuring hiking routes along the scenic Kuruman River and opportunities to see local wildlife.
A remote park well-known for its hiking paths that traverse mountainous terrains and desert areas, showcasing unique flora.
A coastal trail that combines hiking with breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Upington through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Upington by plane.
The primary airport serving Upington, South Africa.
The main international airport serving Cape Town, approximately 800 km southwest of Upington.
The largest international airport in South Africa, located in Johannesburg, approximately 900 km to the east of Upington.
International airport situated in Durban, about 1,500 km southeast of Upington.
A regional airport that provides limited international flights, located approximately 1,000 km south of Upington.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A demographic group primarily consisting of people of European descent who speak Afrikaans.
A demographic group with mixed-race heritage, often with roots in indigenous Khoisan, European, and Malay ancestry.
This group comprises various ethnic communities, including the Tswana and Xhosa, among others.
A smaller demographic group consisting of people of Indian and other Asian descent.
The Soul of Upington
Discover the essence of Upington through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Upington, with many local clubs and schools participating in league matches and tournaments.
Soccer, or football, is widely played in Upington, with numerous teams competing at various levels, from grassroots to amateur leagues.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Upington, with organized competitions for different age groups and skill levels.
Netball is particularly popular among women and girls in Upington, with regular matches and tournaments held throughout the year.
Athletics, including track and field events, is actively promoted in Upington, with schools and clubs encouraging participation.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Upington, with local courts and community leagues encouraging youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Upington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes dominate the local cuisine, many restaurants and cafes in Upington offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives. Look for options featuring locally sourced vegetables, grains, and legumes, often creatively prepared to showcase regional flavors.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that establishments in Upington are increasingly accommodating to dietary needs. Many places offer gluten-free versions of traditional dishes or alternative menu items that cater to gluten intolerances.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Upington with these cultural adventures.
