Things to Do in Upington: Restaurants, Attractions & Day Trips Near Schröderhuis Guest House
Upington is home to a delightful selection of restaurants, cafés, and eateries—each offering its own taste of the Kalahari’s warm hospitality and regional flavour. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty steak, a glass of award-winning local wine, or a quiet coffee with a fresh pastry, you’ll find a dining spot just right for your mood. Thanks to Schröderhuis Guest House’s central location, many of these favourites are just a short stroll or quick drive away. This means our guests can enjoy a relaxed evening out without needing to venture far. From riverside meals with sunset views to quaint street-side coffee shops, Upington’s food scene is both varied and inviting.
Below are some of our top recommendations—places we love and proudly suggest to every guest looking for a memorable meal in town.
Orange River Cellars Tasting Room & Restaurant
Located just 400 metres from Schröderhuis Guest House, Orange River Cellars Tasting Room & Restaurant offers a relaxed and flavourful local experience. Guests can enjoy expertly guided wine tastings featuring award-winning wines from the Orange River region, all in a stylish setting with vineyard charm. The on-site restaurant serves light meals inspired by Kalahari flavours, perfect for casual lunches or afternoon pairings. Whether you’re sampling wines, enjoying a meal on the terrace, or simply browsing for a souvenir bottle, this nearby gem offers an authentic taste of the Northern Cape – warm, welcoming, and proudly local.
Website: https://orangerivercellar.com/tasting-centre/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QSJXmNebDY7XL33R9
Bi-Lo Restaurant & Ladies Bar
Located in the peaceful Keidebees suburb of Upington, Bi-Lo Restaurant & Ladies Bar offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for any time of day. Just a short drive from Schröderhuis Guest House, it’s a favourite among locals for its generous menu, warm service, and stylish yet casual setting. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or dinner with cocktails, Bi-Lo delivers consistently good food in a family-friendly environment. The restaurant also features a fireplace for cosy winter meals and a tranquil outdoor area perfect for warmer evenings.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BiLoBistro
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HhiYMfr1xDj46Jbd
Red Ox Steakhouse
Red Ox Steakhouse is one of Upington’s most well-known dining establishments, offering a classic South African steakhouse experience with a view. Located near the banks of the Orange River and not far from the Kalahari-Oranje Museum, it’s perfect for guests looking to enjoy hearty, expertly prepared meals in a relaxed riverside setting. The menu features top-quality cuts of meat, traditional favourites, and a renowned Sunday breakfast buffet. With a welcoming interior, friendly staff, and a scenic outdoor deck ideal for sunset dinners, Red Ox is a must-visit for anyone staying at Schröderhuis Guest House.
Website: https://ncfamouslodges.com/red-ox-upington/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TCh2AxfVxsPquTCj9
Deli on Main
Just a few steps from Schröderhuis Guest House, Deli on Main is a charming and contemporary spot perfect for a relaxed breakfast, light lunch, or a quick coffee break. Located on Schröder Street, this locally loved eatery serves freshly prepared meals, baked goods, and a variety of refreshments in a warm, welcoming setting. The focus is on flavourful simplicity and friendly service, with an atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing something on the go, Deli on Main offers convenience, comfort, and a taste of Upington’s local hospitality.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeliOnMainDKB
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MHcdhGcrxhLTWpar8
Boere.Troos Koffiewinkel
Boere.Troos Koffiewinkel is a cosy and nostalgic coffee shop in Upington, known for its authentic atmosphere and friendly service. Located just a few minutes’ drive from Schröderhuis Guest House, it’s the perfect stop for a quality cup of coffee, light breakfast, or homemade sweet treat. With its vintage charm and warm, rustic décor, Boeretroos offers a relaxed space to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you’re meeting a friend or just grabbing a quiet moment to yourself, this local favourite captures the heart of Kalahari hospitality – simple, heartfelt, and full of flavour.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/BoereTroos-61561240197904/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wsvwwUZhsy1h8ZfJ7
Upington is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination full of natural beauty, cultural charm, and memorable local experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or something uniquely Northern Cape, there’s something here for everyone. From river cruises at sunset to iconic landmarks like Augrabies Falls and the Kalahari’s vast open spaces, you’ll find a variety of attractions just beyond our doorstep. Guests of Schröderhuis Guest House are perfectly positioned to explore the region’s best-kept secrets—be it wine tasting at Orange River Cellars, strolling under South Africa’s longest palm tree lane, or day-tripping to national parks.
Whether you have an hour or a day, Upington offers a balance of relaxation and discovery. We’ve curated a selection of our favourite activities and destinations to help you make the most of your stay.
Sakkie se Arkie
Sakkie se Arkie is a unique river cruise experience on the mighty Orange River, right in the heart of Upington. This iconic flat-bottomed boat offers scenic cruises ideal for birdwatching, sunset views, and relaxed socialising with snacks and drinks on board. A favourite among locals and visitors alike, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups looking to experience the natural beauty and calm of the river. The Arkie departs from the banks near the town centre, making it a convenient and unforgettable outing during your stay at Schröderhuis Guest House.
Website: https://arkie.co.za/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gMNwdyFBebfK3YUv7
Orange River Wine Cellars
Located just a short walk from Schröderhuis Guest House, Orange River Wine Cellars is one of the largest wine cooperatives in the Southern Hemisphere and a must-visit for wine lovers. The Upington Tasting Room offers an inviting space to sample a variety of award-winning wines, including crisp whites, smooth reds, and unique local blends. Guests can enjoy curated tastings, browse the cellar shop, or relax with a light meal on the terrace. With its warm hospitality and authentic Kalahari charm, Orange River Wine Cellars delivers a memorable taste of the Northern Cape’s winemaking heritage.
Website: https://orangerivercellar.com/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YVk5a7qS3hLKKPWK7
Augrabies Falls National Park
Just over an hour’s drive from Upington, Augrabies Falls National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder and a must-see day trip for guests staying at Schröderhuis. The park is home to the mighty Augrabies Falls, where the Orange River thunders down a 56-metre gorge surrounded by dramatic, rocky landscapes. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained viewing platforms, hiking trails, and the chance to spot local wildlife including klipspringers, dassies, and Verreaux’s eagles. The park’s surreal scenery and powerful waterfall make it one of the Northern Cape’s most iconic attractions and a photographer’s dream.
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/augrabies-falls
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9zyQFE2xcGgwLt1J6
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
A spectacular destination for nature lovers and photographers, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park lies to the northwest of Upington and is well worth the journey for an unforgettable wilderness experience. This vast park spans South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, and is famous for its red sand dunes, camelthorn trees, and impressive predator sightings—including black-maned lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, self-drive routes, and remote campsites in a rugged yet captivating landscape. Ideal for adventurous travellers staying at Schröderhuis, a visit to Kgalagadi offers a true taste of the Kalahari’s raw and untamed beauty.
Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xhmRRLCGkskjwcXSA
Longest Airport Runway in Africa
Upington Airport is home to the longest commercial runway in Africa, stretching an impressive 4.9 kilometres (16,100 feet). Originally built to accommodate emergency landings for NASA space shuttles and large cargo aircraft, this engineering marvel is a unique point of interest in the region. Its extraordinary length was designed to suit the hot, high-altitude conditions of the Kalahari, making it ideal for long-haul take-offs. While not a typical tourist attraction, aviation enthusiasts and curious travellers will find it fascinating—and it adds to Upington’s proud status as a gateway to the Kalahari and beyond.
Website: https://www.airports.co.za/airports/upington-international-airport
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QhZ7iK2FwR6D2fPn9
Longest Palm Tree Lane in South Africa
Upington proudly boasts the longest palm tree lane in South Africa, a striking 1 km stretch of date palms that lines the road into the heart of town. Planted in neat rows approximately nine metres apart, these majestic palms create a scenic and memorable entrance to the region. The lane is not only a unique visual landmark, but also a symbol of the town’s agricultural heritage – date farming has long been part of the local economy. Whether you’re arriving in Upington or taking a leisurely drive, this impressive avenue offers a warm and iconic welcome to the Kalahari.
Kokerboom (Quiver Tree) Food & Wine Route
The Kokerboom Food & Wine Route offers a scenic journey through the heart of the Green Kalahari, stretching across charming towns like Upington, Keimoes, Kenhardt, Augrabies, and beyond. Named after the iconic quiver tree (Kokerboom), the route invites travellers to experience the unique flavours of the region through wine tastings, farm stalls, craft producers, and homegrown culinary stops. Visitors can sample local wines, dried fruit, preserves, and traditional dishes while enjoying warm Northern Cape hospitality. Ideal for day trips or slow travel exploration, this route blends culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes into one unforgettable experience.
Website: https://experiencenortherncape.com/routes/quiver-tree-route/
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Copyright © Schröderhuis | Designed and Hosted by: Upington-Online
