Cape Town , South Africa

Half Day Robben Island Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Pick up and drop off from your hotel
Visit the Robben Island Museum, where the Iconic political figure Nelson Mandela was arrested and spent 18 years.
Visit the historical and one of the oldest buildings in the Country.
End the tour with a mouthwatering lunch or curio shopping in Waterfront.

Available options

Half Day Robben Island Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will visit the Castle of Good Hope for 1 hour 3 minutes.

The Castle of Good Hope is a historic site in Cape Town, South Africa. It’s the oldest surviving colonial building in the country and was built by the Dutch East India Company between 1666 and 1679 to serve as a military stronghold and maritime supply station. It’s situated near the city’s waterfront and originally overlooked Table Bay, offering strategic defence for the Cape Colony.

Stop 2

Robben Island Museum is one of South Africa's most significant and powerful historical sites, located about 6.9 kilometers (4.3 miles) off the coast of Cape Town in Table Bay. The island is known worldwide for its role as a prison during the apartheid era, particularly because it housed some of South Africa's most prominent political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 years of his 27-year imprisonment there.

Robben Island has a long and complex history. It was originally used as a leper colony in the 17th and 18th centuries and later became a military post during both World Wars. But its most infamous role was as a maximum-security prison for political dissidents during apartheid. The prison, particularly Cell 5, where Mandela was held, has become an iconic symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa.

What's not included

Lunch is the client's own account.

Robben Island R400 SA / R600 Intl. Pay directly at venue.

Castle of Good Hope ticket R50 for Adults and R25 for kids can be paid at the Castle office.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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