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.
Pickup included
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.
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.
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.
We pick up travelers at the "Drop & Go" area at the Silo Hotel.
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.
Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
South African Rand (ZAR)
GMT+2
220VV, 50HzHz
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.
Cape Town Station
Cape Town Bus Station
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.
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 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 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.
Price varies by option