Absolutely phenomenal experience, definitely value for money and will recommend 10/10 times





Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Cape Town
Begin your journey at the iconic Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, the historic departure point for Robben Island. Before boarding the ferry, take a moment to reflect on the stories of courage, sacrifice and hope that shaped South Africa’s journey to freedom. Cross Table Bay by ferry and follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners. On Robben Island, explore the former prison, see Mandela’s historic cell and hear powerful stories connected to the struggle against apartheid. What makes this experience special is the journey itself—from the modern Cape Town waterfront, across the ocean, to a place that became a powerful symbol of resilience, freedom and the triumph of the human spirit. Experience highlights: • Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront • Scenic ferry journey across Table Bay • Robben Island Museum and historic prison • Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell • Stories of former political prisoners
Start your tour with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Cape Town City Central, allowing you to maximise your sightseeing experience without the hassle of transportation. This service ensures that you can focus on the day's itinerary while enjoying the comfort of being collected directly from your accommodation. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the local area as you head towards the ferry terminal, setting the tone for an enriching adventure.
Robben Island Museum offers a profound glimpse into South Africa's history, allowing travellers to explore the site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The half-day tour begins with a scenic ferry ride across Table Bay, providing stunning views of the Cape Town skyline and the majestic Table Mountain. Once on the island, guests can participate in a guided tour led by former political prisoners who share their personal experiences and insights into life on Robben Island. The tour includes visits to significant areas such as the prison cell where Mandela was held and the courtyard where he and others gathered. The museum exhibits detail the island's history beyond imprisonment, showcasing its role in whales and seals as well as its rich cultural significance. The serene natural beauty enveloping this historical site adds to the reflective atmosphere, making it a worthwhile visit that allows travellers to connect with South Africa’s past in a powerful and moving way.
Conclude your memorable day with a return journey to your hotel in Cape Town. This comfortable ride offers a chance to reflect on the significant experiences you’ve had throughout the day. As you make your way back, you may find yourself contemplating the inspiring stories of courage and hope that embody the essence of Robben Island.
We will meet you at the arrivals hall, where your driver will be ready and waiting. If you prefer, we can also pick you up from your hotel or any location within a 15-kilometre radius of Cape Town City Centre. This flexible pickup service ensures a convenient start to your journey, allowing you to relax while we take care of your transportation needs. Whether you’re just arriving in the city or require pickup from another location, our friendly driver will be on hand to assist you, making your experience seamless and enjoyable. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re in good hands as you begin your adventure in Cape Town.
Robben Island Guided Tour with Ferry and Hotel Pickup lasts about 4h 30min. The itinerary has 3 stops.
Prices start at $57 per person for this Cape Town experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Yes, pickup is offered. We will meet you at the arrivals hall, where your driver will be ready and waiting. If you prefer, we can also pick you up from your hotel or any location within a 15-kilometre radius of Cape Town City Centre. This flexible pickup service ensures a convenient start to your journey, allowing you to relax while we take care of your transportation needs. Whether you’re just arriving in the city or require pickup from another location, our friendly driver will be on hand to assist you, making your experience seamless and enjoyable. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re in good hands as you begin your adventure in Cape Town. Pickup points include MEET_AT_DEPARTURE_POINT, CONTACT_SUPPLIER_LATER, LOC-6eKJ+or5y8o99Qw0C8xWyMoC3H6v0cAwCkKzdB8PPRw=.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 100 participants.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Absolutely phenomenal experience, definitely value for money and will recommend 10/10 times
Great guides, first had experience of the harshness of being an inmate in Robben Island. Not many displays apart from the whipping rack. This seems to be a common theme in South Africa most museums are just empty buildings with little displays.
Thank you for sharing your honest feedback. We’re pleased to hear that you appreciated our guides and the opportunity to hear firsthand experiences of what life was like as an inmate on Robben Island. These personal stories are an important part of understanding South Africa’s history. We also appreciate your comments regarding the displays and museum experience. We understand that visitors may expect more exhibitions and historical artefacts, and your feedback is valuable. We hope that, despite the limitations you experienced, the stories, history, and significance of Robben Island made your visit meaningful. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience with us.
The tour was well organised. Access to Robben Island is restricted. The tour through the prison and surrounds is completely by bus and guided. That being said, the tour guides have lived experience as former political prisoners of the prison and their stories were captivating. To round out the day, I would have appreciated some walking time on my own, to reflect, and some information about the history of the other structures on the island, such as the homesteads.
Thank you for your thoughtful review and for sharing your experience with us. We’re delighted to hear that you found the tour well organised and that the stories shared by our former political prisoner guides made such a lasting impression. Their lived experiences are indeed a unique and powerful part of visiting Robben Island. We also appreciate your constructive feedback regarding personal reflection time and additional information about the island’s other historic structures, including the homesteads. Your comments are valuable and will be shared with the relevant team as we continually look for ways to enhance the visitor experience while working within the site’s operational and conservation requirements. Thank you again for visiting, and we hope to welcome you back in the future.
Hearing a former prisoner recount his time in prison was deeply moving and inspiring. His journey demonstrated the extraordinary strength and perseverance of anti-apartheid activists who sacrificed so much in the struggle for freedom and equality.
Thank you for sharing your thoughtful review. We are delighted to hear that the former prisoner’s account was both moving and inspiring. Personal stories like these provide a powerful insight into the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of those who fought against apartheid. We appreciate your reflection on this important history and are glad the experience left such a meaningful impression on you.
one of the most moving parts of the tour was hearing a former prisoner describe what life was like behind bars. His experiences highlighted the resilience and bravery of the anti-apartheid activists who endured great suffering for justice
Thank you for sharing your experience. We are delighted to hear that the testimony of a former political prisoner was such a meaningful part of your visit. Their personal stories provide a powerful and authentic insight into the history of Robben Island and the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and equality in South Africa. We appreciate your thoughtful reflection and are pleased that the tour helped highlight the resilience, courage, and determination of the anti-apartheid activists. Thank you for visiting, and we hope to welcome you again in the future.
Our guide, a former prisoner, shared firsthand accounts of his time in the prison. His personal stories brought history to life and helped us appreciate the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and equality.
Thank you for your wonderful review. We are honored to hear that your guide’s firsthand experiences made such a lasting impression on your visit. The personal accounts shared by former political prisoners offer a unique and powerful perspective on the history of Robben Island, helping visitors connect with the realities of the past in a meaningful way. We are delighted that the tour helped you gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices, courage, and resilience of those who fought for freedom and equality. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, and we hope to welcome you again in the future.
The former prisoner who led our tour spoke about his own experiences in the prison. Listening to his story gave us a deeper understanding of the hardships endured during apartheid. His courage and determination made the visit both inspiring and unforgettable.
Thank you for your thoughtful review. We are honored that the personal testimony shared by our former prisoner guide added such depth and meaning to your visit. Hearing firsthand experiences helps bring the history of apartheid to life in a powerful and authentic way. We are delighted that his courage, resilience, and determination left such a lasting impression on you. Thank you for visiting and for taking the time to share your experience. We hope the lessons and stories from your tour continue to inspire and resonate with you.
An interesting day for sure learning about the life of political prisoners during their time there. A big shout out to our operator Said Travel tours…the original date got cancelled due to weather issues but he worked behind the scenes to get us a new date and we were extremely appreciative of that.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We’re delighted to hear that you found the visit both interesting and educational, and that learning about the lives of the political prisoners made such an impact. A special thank you for recognizing Said’s efforts. We understand how disappointing weather-related cancellations can be, and we’re pleased that he was able to work behind the scenes to arrange a new date for you. Your appreciation means a great deal to our team. We’re grateful for your support and hope to welcome you on another memorable tour in the future!
The former prisoner who guided us shared personal stories about life inside the prison. Hearing real experiences from someone who lived there made the tour very emotional and meaningful. It showed the strength, courage, and resilience of the people who fought against apartheid.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We are deeply moved to hear that the former prisoner’s personal stories made such a strong impact on your visit. Hearing firsthand accounts of life on Robben Island helps preserve the history, sacrifices, and resilience of those who fought against apartheid. We’re glad the tour was meaningful and emotional for you, and we hope the experience will stay with you for years to come.
When I visited Robben Island, I felt excited and emotional because it is one of the most important historical places in South Africa. The tour gave me a deeper understanding of the struggle for freedom during apartheid.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We are delighted to hear that your visit to Robben Island was both exciting and meaningful. The island holds a special place in South Africa’s history, and we are glad the tour helped deepen your understanding of the struggle for freedom and the sacrifices made during apartheid. We hope your visit leaves you with lasting memories and inspiration.
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Robben Island Guided Tour with Ferry and Hotel Pickup | 4h 30min | 4.4 (49) | $57 | |
Table Mountain, Boulders Penguins and Cape point Day Tour | 9–10 hours | 4.9 (1,130) | $169 | View |
Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Penguins Day Tour from Cape Town | 9–10 hours | 4.9 (3,669) | $57 | View |
Cape Town Wine Tour: Stellenbosch & Franschhoek +Tastings & Lunch | 8h 30min | 4.9 (1,156) | $124 | View |
Wine Tour: Paarl, Franschhoek & Stellenbosch incl 3 wineries | 8 hours | 4.9 (6,038) | $57 | View |
Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Group Tour from Cape Town | 10 hours | 4.7 (2,343) | $67 | View |
WILDX 60min Atlantis Dunes Cape Town QUAD BIKE ADVENTURE + PHOTO | 1 hour | 4.7 (330) | $31 | View |