The town developed from a missionary station, founded here in 1871. Today, it houses a little museum (Kalahari Oranje Museum).

In the middle of a dry semi-desert area an oasis has been created using the waters of the Orange River for irrigation. A narrow ribbon of fertile land runs for over 280 kilometres on both sides of the river. The main crops are wine grapes, as well as citrus, wheat and vegetables. The grapes are exported to Europe as table fruits or used in the local wine production.

Upington is the hottest town in South Africa. In summer temperatures often rise to over 40 degrees.

Travel tips and accommodation

Upington
Northern Cape

Upington, on the banks of the Orange River, is the economic and traffic centre of the Northern Cape and the gateway to the Kalahari desert. For travellers to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, this is the last stop to do the shopping in well stocked supermarkets and replenish the provisions. Those coming from the Kalahari can enjoy the green lawns and the luxury of a swimming pool after a dusty desert ride.



Top: Aerial shot of Upington. The irrigated strip is quite narrow. In the background is the desert. Left: Grape harvest and Kokerboom tree at the Orange River.