Upington
Close to the ground.
GPS: S 28 27.434 E 021 14.630 | pop. 100,000 | elevation 804 m/2,638 ft
Upington is situated along the fertile banks of the Orange River, a stark contrast to the otherwise arid and dry landscape. The city is a good base from which to explore the surrounding area, which is host to an array of outdoor activities, the plunging waters of Augrabies Falls and the fine libations of the Orange River Wine Cellars, one of the largest wine consortiums in the country. The city itself has a small vibrant town center that is easily explored on foot.
Kalahari Oranje Museum
Kalahari Oranje Museum is located inside of an old church near the southwest end of Schroder Street. The main building has a collection of local historical photographs and news articles, but head outside to the rear of the property to look at the more interesting Manse House. Here, you can explore each of the rooms in this authentic house from the late 1800s; this is one of the rare times you can view history without being stuck behind a velvet rope.
Orange River Wine Cellars
Orange River Wine Cellars has been producing wine along the Orange River for more than 40 years. Starting with just three wines, the conglomerate has grown to 950 members, covering 300 kilometers and producing more than 30 products. The cellar is definitely worth a stop, if only for the bottomless glasses of good wine.
Tours
Sakkie se Arkie
Sakkie se Arkie is best known around town for its sunset cruises on the Orange River. There is a bar onboard, which leaves the decision up to you as to whether or not you want to make this relaxing trip down river into a booze cruise. Trips depart from the Sakkie se Arkie location at the end of Park Street (just head down towards the river) at 5:30pm and last 1.5 hours. Sakkie also offers tours of the national parks, 4x4 trips, river rafting, and paintballing.
Tata Ma Tata Tours
Tata Ma Tata Tours can arrange trips for you to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Augrabies Falls, Witsand Nature Reserve and the |Ai|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, among many other spots.
Budget
Die Eiland Holiday Resort
Die Eiland Holiday Resort is an odd place, but worth a visit for budget travelers who want a show. From the police trainings (there is a Police Station at the main entrance) to the hordes of monkeys that overrun the camp, just sitting outside your tent or on your front porch is sure to entertain. The self-catering rooms are pretty standard with cottages and rondavels along the riverfront.
Mid-range
Libby's Lodge
Libby's Lodge is a relaxing escape from the main town. Despite its location right on the N14, this guesthouse still manages to maintain a tranquil air, with gardens and a large swimming pool. Each room is different, but includes new furnishings and spacious bathrooms.
Kalahari Guesthouse
Kalahari Guesthouse is a local affair that will make you feel like you are staying with friends. Neighbors often gather to watch football games on the living room TV. The rooms are not much to look at, but the owners are very friendly and you will definitely feel like part of the family rather than a paying guest.
Top-end
Protea Hotel Oasis
Protea Hotel Oasis is the slightly newer and more modern version of its sister hotel, the Protea Hotel Upington, located across the street. Rooms are simple and neutrally decorated with wood furnishings and replica rock art on the walls. The lounge downstairs is a little more chic and has a small bar for hotel guests. Amenities such as the swimming pool are shared between the two hotels.
The White House @ Belurana River Manor
The White House @ Belurana River Manor is a stately mansion with exquisite appointments and a great location right on the Orange River. The rooms have plush canopy beds and Jacuzzi tubs in the bathrooms.
Le Must
Le Must comes highly recommended by the locals and is one of the fancier restaurants to try in Upington. They serve a variety of traditional dishes, including bobotie and baked sheep head. Outdoor seating is in a narrow alley beside the restaurant.
About
About is one of the few non-chain restaurants in town. The chic décor and ostrich leather chairs provide a comfortable setting to enjoy a selection from the grill or one of the lighter fish or salad options. Vegetables and herbs are grown in the garden out back.
Irish Pub & Grill
Irish Pub & Grill is a little fancy, if you can call any Irish pub fancy. The menu includes an extensive selection from the grill and its location right on the river makes for a great spot to enjoy an afternoon or evening steak and a beer.
Havana Club
Havana Club is a chain restaurant and cigar club. It is one of the few places to go out for a drink in town and usually attracts a good crowd on weekend nights.
Dros
Dros is another chain restaurant in town, but one of the better ones. It is a dark wood pub and restaurant that serves salads, seafood, grills, burgers, pizza and sweet or savory pancakes. On weekends it's a popular drinking spot.
Le Must
Le Must comes highly recommended by the locals and is one of the fancier restaurants to try in Upington. They serve a variety of traditional dishes, including bobotie and baked sheep head. Outdoor seating is in a narrow alley beside the restaurant.
About
About is one of the few non-chain restaurants in town. The chic décor and ostrich leather chairs provide a comfortable setting to enjoy a selection from the grill or one of the lighter fish or salad options. Vegetables and herbs are grown in the garden out back.
Irish Pub & Grill
Irish Pub & Grill is a little fancy, if you can call any Irish pub fancy. The menu includes an extensive selection from the grill and its location right on the river makes for a great spot to enjoy an afternoon or evening steak and a beer.
Havana Club
Havana Club is a chain restaurant and cigar club. It is one of the few places to go out for a drink in town and usually attracts a good crowd on weekend nights.
Dros
Dros is another chain restaurant in town, but one of the better ones. It is a dark wood pub and restaurant that serves salads, seafood, grills, burgers, pizza and sweet or savory pancakes. On weekends it's a popular drinking spot.