8 hour(s)
English
Included
Cable car ride up Table Mountain with stunning city and ocean views
Guided tour of the prison where Nelson Mandela was held
Walk among unique mountain flora and scenic trail
Discover rare plants and wildlife atop this natural wonder
€ 178.84
€ 164.53
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
Lowest Price Guarantee — no other provider offers this tour for less
Combining a visit to Table Mountain with a trip to Robben Island offers a truly enriching experience that captures both the natural beauty and profound history of Cape Town. The journey begins with a scenic cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain, where visitors are treated to panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding landscapes, along with the opportunity to explore the mountain’s unique flora and fauna. From this breathtaking natural wonder, the adventure continues with a ferry ride across the bay to Robben Island, a place steeped in historical significance. Here, visitors delve into South Africa’s turbulent past, walking through the former prison that once held Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid leaders. Guided by former inmates or knowledgeable historians, the tour offers powerful insights into the country's struggle for freedom and justice. This combined tour seamlessly we
Complimentary bottled water
Experiences tour guide
Three museums
Parking Fees
A valid passport is required
Not wheelchair accessible
No public transportation nearby
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
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In the 1960's Robben Island was re-established as a maximum security prison. It is famous because Nelson Mandela and other political leaders that resisted apartheids era was held there. It was abandoned in 1996. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Interestingly, the island church is today still owned by the Anglican Church. the rest of the island belongs to the nation of South Africa. Apparently, today about a 150 permanent residents stay on the island and they are all employed and working on the island. The Robben Island Museum manage the island. The view from Robben Island to Cape Town is breath-taking and with Table Mountain as the most impressive site.
A very unique experience that everyone should do when they are in Cape Town. Tickets for the boat are reasonable. You get a tour of the island and also a tour from a former prisoner on the island. It is a must visit and be sure to do it soon! The tour guides are getting older these days so there’s only so much time left to get first hand insight into what took place on the island.
Part of Robben island tour. This is the place where you get refreshments and toilet break, depending on your specific tour. Very nice view of table mountain and lots of birds here.
The Robben Island tour, beginning at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, is a deeply reflective journey. Tickets cost around R400 per person and are cashless, with check-in required 30 minutes before departure. The boat, "Great Mother Krotoa," is spacious, accommodating over 100 passengers with clean facilities but no food services, so bringing your own snacks is advised. For the best views of the ocean, Table Mountain, and Cape Town, aim for a window seat. The 45-minute ride culminates in arrival at Robben Island. On the island, guided bus tours provide insights into its history, with stops for sightseeing, snacks, and restroom breaks. A significant highlight is the prison tour led by a former prisoner, who shares personal stories and details about life under apartheid. Visitors see key sites, including Nelson Mandela’s cell, before concluding with a "long walk to freedom" back to the boat. While the stories are emotionally charged, guides balance the experience with light humor. Feel free to tip them in cash as a gesture of appreciation for their service, especially given the challenging weather and the weight of the narratives they share. This tour is a powerful reminder of humanity’s resilience and unity—an experience not to be missed.
You shouldn't miss Robben Island when in Cape Town / South Africa as this 5* review attests. The history and lessons are poignant and necessary. In addition to the must-see historic and important sites on the island, the boat ride to the island and the wildlife are both highly enjoyable. The views back to the mainland from here are jaw dropping
