Robben Island Half-Day Tour from Cape Town with Ferry Ticket

Cape Town , South Africa

Robben Island Half-Day Tour from Cape Town with Ferry Ticket

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About this experience

Discover the historical significance of Robben Island on this half-day tour from Cape Town. Starting with a hassle-free pick-up from your hotel in the city center, enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to the ferry terminal. Glide across the Atlantic Ocean and take in the stunning coastline before exploring the island's iconic prison, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. Your knowledgeable guide will share powerful stories that illuminate South Africa’s journey to freedom, creating a thought-provoking experience.

- Convenient hotel pick-up in Cape Town’s city center
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Robben Island with pre-booked tickets
- Explore the historic prison and learn about its significance
- Reflect on your experience during the comfortable return to your hotel

Available options

Robben Island Half-Day Tour from Cape Town with Ferry Ticket

Pickup included

What's included

Private Vehicle and Driver Pick-Up and Drop-Off at the Hotel

Entry to Robben Island shared Ferry (Please note: Time slots are 8am, 10am & 12pm)

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Shared Tour Guide Based at Robben Island

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cape Town's vibrant city centre. As you depart, you'll enjoy views of the bustling city streets and scenic surroundings, setting the tone for an informative journey. The comfortable transport ensures a relaxed start to your day, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the experiences ahead. This initial stage offers a glimpse into Cape Town's lively atmosphere, while your guide provides insights into the history and significance of the tour. It’s an ideal way to begin your half-day adventure, with the reassurance of a smooth and hassle-free transfer from your accommodation.

Stop 2

Robben Island Half-Day Tour with Pre-Booked Ferry Ticket - The highlight of the tour is the visit to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history. The ferry ride across the Atlantic Ocean offers stunning views of the coastline and an opportunity to appreciate the island's remote beauty from afar. Once on the island, you’ll explore its historic sites, including the infamous prison where Nelson Mandela was held. The tour provides an in-depth look at South Africa's complex past, with informative commentary that brings to life the stories of resilience and change. The experience combines scenic surroundings with powerful historical insights, creating a memorable journey through South Africa’s path to freedom.

After the tour, you'll be transported back to your hotel in Cape Town, concluding your half-day excursion. During the return trip, you can reflect on the historical significance of Robben Island and the stories shared during your visit. The comfortable transfer allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Cape Town’s cityscape and nearby mountains. This seamless end to your tour ensures a convenient and pleasant conclusion to your half-day adventure, leaving you with lasting memories of your time spent exploring one of South Africa's most meaningful sites.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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