Half Day Experience in Robben Island Museum From Cape Town
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is an all-in-one ticket that includes the ferry ride to and from Robben Island as well as admission into the Museum. One ticket for everything.
With this ticket, you will board the ferry to Robben Island at the V & A Waterfront. This will be a brief 30-minute ride onto the famous Robben Island. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the native, ex-inmates who will take you around the maximum security prison for about 2 hours.
At the Robben maximum security prison, you will be shown the cells where political activists were held for many years. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the violent past of South Africa through the eyes of an ex-inmate. Your guide will gladly answer any questions that you may have regarding the prison. You will also be shown the actual prison cell that held Nelson Mandela during his incarceration on the island.
After such an eye-opening experience, you will be board the ferry back to the V & A Waterfront. A final, brief 30-minute ferry ride.
Available options
Half Day Experience in Robben Island Museum From Cape Town
What's included
Guided tour of Robben Island Maximum Security Prison
Robben Island ferry ticket (round trip)
Registered tour guide at Robben Island
Robben Island Museum entry/ admission
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Delve into South Africa’s troubled past on a visit to the infamous Robben Island. Take a ferry ride from Cape Town across to the island, for an informative tour of the site, including the cell where Nelson Mandela spent much of his incarceration.
Your journey starts at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V & A Waterfront in the Silo District. Here, board the ferry for the 30-minute ferry ride across to Robben Island. Alight on the island and join a guided tour by an ex-political prisoner who will tell you about the island's rich history.
The tour route includes the graveyard of people who died from leprosy, the Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe’s house, the Bluestone Quarry, the army and navy bunkers, and the maximum security prison where thousands of South Africa’s freedom fighters were incarcerated for years.
Your tour ends with Nelson Mandela's actual prison cell where he spent a large part of his 27-year incarceration. Return to Cape Town will be via ferry ride.
What's not included
Transportation to and from your accommodation
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.0
22 reviews
5★
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Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers prone to sea sickness
Important notes
Upon completing your booking, an electronic ticket or booking reference number will be sent to you by one of our operators on the ground via text, whats app or email.
Make your way to the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island which is right next to the Clock Tower at the V & A Waterfront. Go up the steps at the entrance and join the line which will be for the Robben Island ferry.
Produce your electronic ticket or reference number at the checkpoint (Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island) to gain admission on the ferry.
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
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Free cancellation available
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