Robben Island Museum Ticket & Authentic Former Prisoner Tour

Cape Town , South Africa

Robben Island Museum Ticket & Authentic Former Prisoner Tour

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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

Home to Nelson Mandela: Robben Island is world-famous as the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years in
incarceration. Visiting the site provides a profound connection to
South Africa’s struggle for freedom and the end of apartheid.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The island is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, recognized for its historical importance and preserved as a
symbol of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.
Guides with Personal Experience: Many of the tours are led by
former political prisoners who were incarcerated on the island. Their
personal stories and insights offer an authentic and powerful
perspective that cannot be replicated in any other museum or
historical site.

In-Depth Learning: The tour offers a comprehensive look into the
history of South Africa, apartheid, and the struggle for democracy.
Participants gain a deep understanding of the country's past and the
resilience of its people.

Available options

Robben Island Museum Ticket & Authentic Former Prisoner Tour

What's included

Admission fees

All Fees and Taxes

Former political prisoner tour guide

Ferry return ticket

Detailed itinerary

Scenic and Cultural Exploration:
Stunning Views: The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of Cape Town
and Table Mountain, as well as the opportunity to spot marine life.
Cultural Heritage: The tour encompasses not just the history of
political imprisonment but also the island's broader history,
including its use as a leper colony and military base, offering a
well-rounded cultural experience.

Benefits of Joining the Robben Island Museum Tour:

1. Gain a Deep Understanding of South Africa’s History:
Participants walk away with a nuanced understanding of apartheid
and the struggle for freedom, as well as the chance to reflect on the
importance of human rights and justice.

2. Witness a Living Testament to Resilience:
The tour highlights the strength and determination of those who
fought for freedom, making it an inspiring experience for visitors.

Stop 2

Opportunity to Engage with Local Guides:
The chance to interact with guides who lived through the events
provides a unique and personalized experience, allowing for questions
and deeper discussion.

Support Cultural Preservation:
By participating in the tour, visitors contribute to the
preservation of this important historical site and the education of
future generations.

Memorable and Moving Experience:
The Robben Island tour is not just a visit to a historical site but
an emotional journey that stays with participants long after they’ve
returned home.

Stop 3

Free Time:Enjoy some free time to reflect on your experience, take in the scenic views, and capture photos of the island's natural. Return Ferry: Board the return ferry to Cape Town, where you can continue to contemplate the profound impact of your visit to Robben
Island.
Conclusion:
As you disembark from the ferry back at the V&A Waterfront, take a moment to reflect on the powerful history and enduring legacy of Robben Island beauty.

What's not included

Breakfast

Lunch

Items/services of personal nature

No pickup and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

It is recommended to allocate approximately 3.5 to 5 hours for the entire tour, including ferry transfers and exploration time on the island. Additionally, please be aware that tour schedules and availability may vary, so it is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred date and time slot.

BEFORE TICKETS CAN BE ISSUED, ensure you have: • Full names of all participants • Date and time of the selected ferry departure • Nationality (often required for manifest purposes) • Contact number or email (for emergency communication) • Confirmation of payment through the booking platform (GetYourGuide, Viator, direct website, etc.)

WEATHER CLEARANCE Robben Island Museum tours are guaranteed after confirming weather conditions, usually: • On the morning of the tour, or • 1–2 hours before departure This is because ferries can be cancelled last-minute due to: • Strong winds • Rough sea conditions • Mechanical or operational issues Tickets are not released early to avoid visitors travelling unnecessarily when the ferry may be cancelled.

PASSENGER MANIFEST REQUIREMENTS (Why we ask names of participants) To issue the final boarding ticket, the following must be completed: • Each participant must be added to the passenger manifest • Names must match the ID/passport, as the ferry is a regulated maritime transport service • Children must be listed individually This is a legal requirement for maritime safety.

COMMUNICATION WITH GUESTS Once the tour is confirmed: • Tickets are sent via WhatsApp or email • Guests are reminded to bring: • A valid ID/passport for adults • The digital ticket (QR code) • To arrive at least 30–45 minutes before departure

Important notes

Full Names of all participants are required for the confirmation bookings
Please Note:
- Full Names: Provide the full names of all participants.
- Minors' Details: For minors under the age of 18, please also include their dates of birth.
- Contact Information: Submit a valid email address and phone number or WhatsApp number where the tickets can be sent.
- Meeting Point: All guests must proceed directly to the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island Museum, located at the Clock Tower, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. Please note that we no longer provide pickup and drop-off services due to traffic conditions, especially when shuttling multiple groups.

South African Nationals:
- In addition to the above requirements, South African nationals must also provide their National Identification Number.

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