Half-Day Robben Island Tour with Pre-booked Ticket Experience

Cape Town , South Africa

Half-Day Robben Island Tour with Pre-booked Ticket Experience

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Half-Day Robben Island Tour with Prebooked Ticket Experience offers an insightful journey into South Africa's rich history. Kicking off with convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cape Town, guests are taken to the historic Robben Island, where they will explore significant landmarks and learn about the lives of the political prisoners who were held there, including Nelson Mandela. The tour features a guided visit to the prison, where you can view the cells and facilities that were part of the island’s infamous past. In addition to the moving narratives shared by knowledgeable guides, visitors also encounter stunning views of Table Mountain and the surrounding ocean. After delving into this poignant chapter of South Africa's history, the experience concludes with a return trip to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the country's journey towards freedom.

Available options

Half-Day Robben Island Tour with Pre-booked Ticket Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water onboard

Private transport for hotel pick-up and drop-off

Professional English speaking guide & driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entry/Admission to Robben Island with Pre-Booked Ticket(s) (Time slots are 8am, 10am, and 12pm)

Detailed itinerary

Begin your enriching journey with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cape Town's vibrant city centre. This service ensures that you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience ahead. The drive to the ferry terminal is filled with scenic views of the city and its surroundings, setting the stage for the historical adventure to come. The guide will share insights about Cape Town’s culture and history en route, enhancing your understanding of the region before you set sail to Robben Island, a site of profound significance in South Africa's struggle against apartheid.

Stop 2

Robben Island Museum Experience with Pre-Booked ticket - Upon arrival at Robben Island, you will step into a place steeped in history, known primarily for its infamous prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years. The guided tour provides a compelling narrative of the island’s past, focusing on its role in the fight for freedom. You will visit key locations, including Mandela’s prison cell, and hear powerful stories from former political prisoners who narrate their experiences. The visit not only deepens your appreciation for South Africa's struggle for democracy but also offers stunning views of the Cape Town skyline, making it a profoundly moving experience that connects you to the trials and triumphs of those who fought for justice.

After completing your memorable visit to Robben Island, you will return to your hotel in Cape Town. The journey back offers an opportunity to reflect on the stories and experiences you’ve encountered throughout the day. As you traverse the scenic route, the lush landscapes and coastal views serve as a reminder of the rich history that envelops this beautiful region. Once you arrive, you can take a moment to process the impactful insights gained during the tour and possibly share your experiences with fellow travellers, enhancing your overall appreciation of South Africa’s complex narrative and its resilience.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Note: The Robben Island ferry is a shared boat trip, not a private one.

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