Cape Town Robben Island Tour with Extra Convenances

Cape Town , South Africa

Cape Town Robben Island Tour with Extra Convenances

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About this experience

Step onto Robben Island, the place that shaped Nelson Mandela and South Africa’s journey to freedom. This unforgettable tour takes you across the ocean, deep into the heart of South Africa’s most powerful story — where struggle, courage, and hope come alive.
Your journey begins at the iconic V&A Waterfront, where we personally assist you with check-in and ferry boarding.

Once on Robben Island, an expert island guide leads you on a riveting bus tour around the island’s major historical sites, including the Lime Quarry where Mandela and other political prisoners worked, the Leper Colony ruins, the old WWII fortifications, and sweeping viewpoints overlooking the ocean and the Cape Town skyline.

The emotional heart of the tour unfolds inside the Maximum-Security Prison, where a former political prisoner shares their personal story — giving you rare, firsthand insight into the hardships and resilience experienced during apartheid.

Available options

Cape Town Robben Island Tour with Extra Convenances

What's included

Return Ferry Tickets Secure, pre-booked

Guided visit led by a former political prisoner, including Mandela

Digital map highlighting key landmarks and historical points, will be sent via your Watsaap

Light snack for convenience during the 3–4 hour excursion.

Dedicated guide to assist with ticket collection, boarding procedures, and orientation.

Assisted Check-In at Nelson Mandela Gateway

Complimentary Bottled Water Provided to keep guests refreshed throughout the journey.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Once you step off the ferry, you board a tour bus with a local guide. The bus drives around the island while the guide explains the history, the prison system, and daily life on the island. Here’s what you will typically see:
You see buildings and remains from the time when the island was used as a leper colony.
• A small old church and several grave markers are pointed out.
• Guides explain how people were isolated here long before apartheid.You’ll pass through:
• The staff village where current island residents (guides, workers, museum staff) live.
• Old houses and administrative buildings from the apartheid era.The Lime Quarry

This is one of the most meaningful stops:
• Prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were forced to work here doing physically exhausting labour.After the Bus Tour: Walking Tour Inside the Prison

After the bus loop, travellers enter the maximum–security prison area. A former political prisoner becomes your guide.

You will see:

Mandela’s cell (B-section)

What's not included

Meals & Drinks beverages are not included.

Purchases such as souvenirs, snacks at the Waterfront, or additional refreshments.

Optional tips for guides and drivers are not included in the tour price.

Mobility Arrangements Must be pre-arranged and may not be guaranteed depending on ferry availability

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Last -minute Bookings include Complimentary Bottled water and light Snacks , Subjected to availability.

Meeting point

The Gateway is located inside the V&A Waterfront, at the “Clock Tower Precinct” / “Clock Tower Square” area Is the red Monument near Fish market Restaurant

Important notes

1. Book Your Tour Online
• Choose your preferred tour date and time.
• Complete the easy online booking process. You will receive an instant booking confirmation via email with your e-ticket and a QR code. we will provide you the Robben Island tickets for the Ferry and the Museum via your WhatsApp number
2. Arrival at the Nelson Mandela Gateway
• On the day of your tour, please arrive at the Nelson Mandela Gateway (V&A Waterfront) at least 45 minutes prior to your departure time. This ensures a smooth check-in process and timely boarding. Meet our assistance guide always standing at clock Tower monument , we will send you the name for the assistance Guide for day on your WhatsApp.
3. Check-In and Ticket Collection
• Present your e-ticket (printed or on your mobile device) at the Robben Island check-in counter. Our team will assist you with your ferry tickets and boarding pass.
• Please bring valid ID for verification purposes (passport, driver’s license, or booking reference number).
4. Board the Ferry
• After checking in, proceed to the ferry boarding area. Our guide will ensure that you are directed to the right ferry, based on your departure time.
5. Enjoy Your Robben Island Experience!
• Once onboard, enjoy the scenic ferry ride to Robben Island and let your journey through history begin.
• Follow the guide’s instructions and enjoy the tour!

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