Robben Island

Highlights:

• Guided tour led by former political prisoners, offering powerful first-hand insight
• Visit key historic sites including the Maximum Security Prison and Nelson Mandela’s cell
• Scenic ferry crossing from the V&A Waterfront with views of Table Mountain and Cape Town’s coastline

Often described as a triumph of the human spirit over adversity, suffering and injustice, Robben Island is best known as the place where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in captivity. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience and the transformative power of forgiveness. While the guided tour lasts around three and a half hours, its impact is lasting and deeply moving.

Your experience begins at the V&A Waterfront, where you board a ferry for the short crossing of Table Bay. Along the way, enjoy striking views of Cape Town’s skyline, Table Mountain and the surrounding coastline. On arrival at Murray’s Bay Harbour on the island’s east coast, you will disembark and take a short walk to board a coach for a guided tour around the island.

The coach journey introduces you to Robben Island’s layered and complex history, spanning more than 500 years, featuring the leper graveyard, the Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe’s house, the Bluestone quarry and former army and navy bunkers. These sites offer important insight into the island’s varied roles over centuries, from a place of banishment to a military base.

The final and most poignant part of the tour takes place inside the Maximum Security Prison. Here, you are guided by former political prisoners who share personal experiences and first-hand insight into life on the island. The tour concludes with a visit to Nelson Mandela’s cell, a simple space that continues to resonate deeply and serves as a powerful reminder of South Africa’s journey toward freedom.

What's included

• Return transfers
• Return ferry tickets and Museum tour