Robben Island Half Day Tour with Diamond Museum experience
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Robben island boat trip and museum tour is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South Africa.
Visitors can take advantage of return ferry boat trips to and from the V&A Waterfront;
Experience a guided tour of Robben Island Maximum Security Prison with an ex-political prisoner and take the Long March to Freedom in the historical footsteps of former president Nelson Mandela;
Available options
Robben Island Half Day Tour with Diamond Museum experience
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick up and drop off
Bottled water onboard the vehicle
Entrance into the Diamond Museum tour
Robben island boat trip & museum tour ticket
Shared Tour Guide/driver, vehicle and fuel
Detailed itinerary
1
After pick up at your accommodation in Cape Town we will travel to the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island situated at the Clocktower Precinct in the Waterfront. We ask that you kindly wait in the hotel lobby for your pick up. Hotel pick up commences 1 hour before the tour starts.
2
Upon our arrival at the Waterfront, we will stop at the Cape Diamond Museum, situated in the Gateway to Robben Island Clocktower Center.
Here you will learn about the 3 billion-year-old history, from the diamond’s formation to the final polished stone. Explore the origins of South Africa’s diamond industry with an introduction to some of the great names in diamond history, like Cecil John Rhodes, Barney Barnato and the Oppenheimer family.
The Cape Town Diamond Museum also pays tribute to the most famous South African diamonds, such as the 3,106 carat Cullinan rough diamond. This diamond was discovered in 1905 and showcases specimens of Kimberlite rock, dating back to billions of years. Life-size replicas of the famous diamonds worn by royalty, the rich and the famous are also on display.
Please note that visitors will have the option to purchase exquisite jewelry pieces from Shimansky Jewellers that is adjacent to the Cape Diamond Museum. However, visitors are under no obligation to make any purchases of jewelry.
3
Stop 3
Upon your arrival at the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island, you will skip the ticketing line and proceed directly to the boat departures line. Upon your arrival at the Robben Island Jetty, you will disembark the boat and be guided on a bus by a resident Robben Island Tour Guide for a tour of the island. The guide will provide live commentary about Robben Island and its history. The tour will culminate with a view of the prison cell where former President Nelson Mandela was held as a prisoner and an opportunity to take a walk in his historical footsteps on The Long March to Freedom. Thereafter, you will return to the Jetty where you will charter the boat for your return journey back to the V&A Waterfront.
4
Please meet your tour guide/driver at the entrance of the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island for your return transfer back to your hotel. Should you not require a return transfer, please advise your Tour Guide/driver in the morning when he pick you up.
What's not included
Meals, Drinks and Gratuities (optional)
Items of personal nature
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
1.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.0
4 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Please ensure to provide accurate full names and passport numbers for each participant when making a booking. Tickets cannot be amended, transferable or refunded. This sale is final.
About Cape Town
Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.
Top Attractions
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
Nature
2-4 hours
Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining
Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Cape Malay Curry
A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Biltong
A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Shark cage diving
Surfing
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans
- Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transport services
Getting there
By air
- Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Cape Town Station
By bus
Cape Town Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cape Town City Centre
Camps Bay
Bo-Kaap
Day trips
Stellenbosch
50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.
Hermanus
120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
Festivals
Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual)
Cape Town Carnival • January (annual)
Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
- Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
- Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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