Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry and Guided Tour
ID: GYG833023-1321620
Category:
Country: South Africa
Duration:
04:00 hours
Description
Discover the history of Robben Island on a guided tour with a former political prisoner. See Nelson Mandela's prison cell and enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Cape Town.
Step back in time with a visit to Robben Island, one of South Africa's most significant historical and cultural sites. Known for its deep connection to the anti-apartheid struggle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held for many years.
Begin your journey with a scenic ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town to Robben Island. Enjoy breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic coastline as you approach the island.
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a local guide, often a former political prisoner, who will lead you through the island's history. Gain a personal and profound understanding of life during apartheid and hear firsthand accounts of the prisoners' experiences.
One of the tour's most poignant moments is a visit to Nelson Mandela's small prison cell, where he spent 18 of his 27 years of incarceration. Stand in the place where Mandela’s resilience and vision for a free South Africa were born.
The tour includes stops at the prison yard, the limestone quarry where prisoners worked, and other key landmarks that tell the story of South Africa’s turbulent past and eventual liberation. Robben Island is not only rich in history but also home to diverse wildlife. You may spot penguins, seals, and various bird species during your visit.
Highlights
- Discover the history of Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Learn about the island's history and the anti-apartheid struggle from a guide
- See Nelson Mandela's prison cell and learn about his life and struggles
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town to the island
- Spot penguins, seals, and various bird species during your visit to the island
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The tour is subject to weather conditions. The ferry operates when the weather permits.
The Victorian Gothic-style Clock Tower is an icon of the old Cape Town harbour. It was the original Port Captain's Office built in 1882. The pointed Gothic windows surrounds the structure with a clock, imported from Edinburgh, as a main feature. The red walls are the same colour as they were in the 1800's, having been carefully matched to scrapings of the original paint.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
