Robben Island Nelson Mandela's Prison Museum + Township Tour incl Ferry Tickets
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Robben Island Nelson Mandela's Prison Museum + Township Tour incl Ferry Tickets

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(9 reviews)
8h
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

On this tour, you will learn finer details of the history of world statesman Nelson Mandela, His imprisonment and life at Robben Island for 18 years of his 27 years. You will also interact face to face with those still living under the inhumane effects of apartheid during the Langa leg of the tour. Despite attaining independence in 1994, many blacks are still living in shacks and delipidated houses.

Available options

Robben Island Nelson Mandela's Prison Museum + Township Tour incl Ferry Tickets

Pickup included

What's included

Return transfer to Langa for the township experience
Pick up from your hotel and drop off after the tour
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
African Lunch in an African restaurant
Return ticket to Robben Island Museum from the V & A Waterfront Mall at the Gateway to Robben Island

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Robben Island is an island in Table Bay – Cape Town. It was named by the Dutch- Robben Island and the British had called it Seal Island.
It was used as an animal quarantine station, as a leper colony and for isolation of mainly political prisoners. To date, three former inmates of Robben Island have gone on to become President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma.
Robben Island was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 1999 and offers daily tours. Tour to this world Heritage site begins at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront.

After pick-up from your hotel in Cape Town, you will be driven to the V&A Waterfront where you board the Robben Island Ferry to the world-famous place of incarceration of Nelson Mandela for 18 of his 27 years. This place dubbed “South Africa Alcatraz” served as a leper colony, a place of isolation, banishment, and imprisonment.
The Island is a state reminder of the harsh conditions endured as a reward for freedom from the Government of apartheid. After the historical, emotional, educative and informative tour which is conducted either by ex-prison warders or ex-prisoners of Robben Island, you board the ferry back to the Waterfront.

2

In Cape Town, there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious traditional African dishes from various countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Congo, and Ethiopia. We will visit one of them and that will leave you finger-licking. You may also want to try the famed South African braai (barbecue) and Malay curry dishes that Cape Town restaurants are famous for.

3

In South Africa, the term township or location refer to the often underdeveloped racially segregated urban areas that, from the 19th century till 1994 – the era when apartheid came to an end, where reserved for non-whites, that is, Africans, Coloureds and Indians

Townships were or are still referred to as locations or lokasies in Afrikaans and also called “Kasie” in slang, which is a short version of “lokasie”.

Townships have large informal settlements sprouting up in unexpected areas. Despite all this, townships in South Africa are known to be very vibrant, steeped in history with a strong sense of togetherness and a great sense of belonging, community, and cohesion.

It is also a place where great entrepreneurial spirit thrives, with art and culture among the most notable characteristics of the townships. Here is a place which doesn’t go to sleep especially during the pay days.

ITINERARY
Experience- The Oldest Township in South Africa.
>Take a walk in Langa Township.
> Learn a bit of Xhosa for greeting the locals as you tour Langa.
> If its a Sunday morning visit local church for an African Worship experience.

Visit Guga S'thebe Cultural Centre.
> Enjoy art, design and performance. You may even learn how to play the African drum

Apartheid Hostel Visit
> Hear the heart-rending stories of great-grandchildren of migrant workers that lived in the ‘bachelor flats’ whilst their wives and kids worked at farms many kilometers.
> Learn the history of apartheid

Art and Craft Market Visit
> Walk through the art and craft market where you have the opportunity to buy locally made art and craft. These include:
*bead-work,
*stone curving,
*wooden sculptures,
*wire art and craft and many more.
*traditional dresses

African Witch-doctor visit
This witchdoctor is available for consultation by all visitors at a minimal price. Since Africans are very superstitious, meeting the witchdoctor will make you understand township life from a spiritual viewpoint.

Langa Taxi Rank
See how the township transportation system works. At the taxi rank you will see many small businesses selling their wares and services including braai (barbecue). If fortunate, you might even catch some free public performances by local musicians and artists.

What's not included

Drinks
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress comfortably/ wear comfortable walking shoes

Meeting point

We pick up travelers at the "Drop & Go" area at the Silo Hotel.

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

Adults
Age 2-120
1
Infants
Age 0-1
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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