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Activity Cape Town, South Africa

Robben Island Former Prisoner Tour + Tickets.

5.0 (16 reviews) 5 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Robben Island Former Prisoner Tour + Tickets.

About this activity

Experience one of South Africa’s most powerful historical landmarks with our unforgettable tour to Robben Island.

All travelers will meet at the designated meeting point at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, located at the iconic V&A Waterfront. From here, you’ll join your group and begin a meaningful journey across the water.

What makes this experience truly special is that your tour will be led by a former political prisoner, offering a rare and deeply personal perspective on life inside the prison. Walk through the historic grounds, visit key sites, and hear firsthand stories that bring the island’s past to life in a way no textbook ever could.

This is more than just a tour — it’s a moving journey through history, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Book now to secure your place on this powerful and inspiring experience.

Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Historical Tours Ports of Call Tours Car Tours Shore Excursions Excellent Quality

At a glance

Duration
5 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 50 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English
Operated by
African Heritage Travel

Ages: Children (1–17 years) · Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Historical landmark
  • Included: Maximum Security Prison visit
  • Included: Entry/Admission to Robben Island
  • Included: former political prisoner guide
  • Included: Nelson Mandela’s prison cell
  • Included: Scenic ferry experience

Not included

  • Not included: Lunch
  • Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

  1. Robben Island Museum

    4 hours Admission included

    One of the most popular museums in South Africa, Robben Island excursions are best planned well in advance. This half-day package guarantees a hassle-free vacation by including round-trip transportation from your Cape Town lodging and museum admission. Make reservations in advance to prevent disappointment on the day of the event after visiting Nelson Mandela's cell and learning about the island's lengthy history. With a round-trip transfer from your hotel, you'll enjoy a hassle-free trip. You'll see the cell Nelson Mandela was held captive for 18 years. You'll pass buildings and a high wall constructed by prisoners during the 1960s on your way to the buses. The prison tour will be led by a Robben Island Tour Guide. (Please note that our tour guide/driver will not be joining you on the tour of the Robben Island museum.) Visit the prison cell of Nelson Mandela and upon our arrival back at the Jetty, your Tour Guide and driver will meet you at the entrance of the Nelson Mandela Gateway.

  2. Jack Friedman V&A WaterFront

    one hour

    Return from Robben Island to the V&A Waterfront and enjoy some free time to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants (cost not included).

    Learn about the history of South Africa, the fight against oppression, and the thousands of freedom fighters—among them former president Nelson Mandela—who were detained on Robben Island by taking a guided tour of the prison. Take the ferry back to the V&A Waterfront and use your free time to shop or eat at one of the many restaurants (own expense).

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

End point

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • 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

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

  • South African citizen

    South African citizen

  • International travel

    Step into the pages of South A

    Step into the pages of South A

    Legacy of Robben Island

    Duration: 4 hours: Step into the pages of South Africa’s history with Freedom’s Footsteps, a powerful and immersive tour of Robben Island — the

    Legacy of Robben Island

    Van

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 16 reviews
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Robben Island Former Prisoner Tour + Tickets.

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