Robben Island Tour: Discover South Africa's History

Embark on a captivating journey through history with a Robben Island tour, exploring Nelson Mandela’s prison and stunning Cape Town views.

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Cape Town Central - Begin your tour with a convenient hotel pick-up in Cape Town City Central, ensuring you can fully enjoy your sightseeing without worrying about transportation. This service allows you to focus on the day’s itinerary while enjoying the ease of being picked up directly from your accommodation. Your experienced guide will share…
What's Included
  • Private vehicle and driver pick-up and drop-off at the hotel
  • Pre-Booked Ticket to Robben Island Museum shared Ferry
  • Shared Tour Guide Located at Robben Island
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Bottled water
  • Parking fees
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch
Additional Information

The Cape Town Robben Island Museum half-day tour provides an unforgettable exploration of South Africa’s rich history and cultural heritage. Participants will embark on a 4-hour adventure starting with a picturesque ferry ride across Table Bay, where they can admire the stunning views of Cape Town’s iconic skyline and the majestic Table Mountain. Upon…

Location
Cape Town Central
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.7
(21 Ratings)
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Joe_o
Jan 20, 2026
Great tour. Very ... - Great tour. Very informative . Very good ex prisoner descriptions of the hardships endured . Great to see such history with The cell of. Elsie Mandela
Review provided by Viator
Janice_m
Dec 3, 2025
Excellent tour guide👍👍 - Excellent tour with excellent guide Excellent tour with knowledgeable tour guide. Very enjoyable……..
Review provided by Viator
I3365aybrianm
Jul 30, 2025
I experienced so many things - The view was amazing we took a lot of pictures.The environment was perfect and they were lot of activities.The icons was good and perfect we even took a lot of pictures
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Matumas
Jul 30, 2025
Robben Island was one of the most unexpectedly emotional experiences on the trip. I knew what were were going to see. - A trip to Robben Island could not be more fitting. We feel absolutely privileged to have visited this remarkable place and remember Sobukwe, Mandela and the countless other freedom fighters who fought bravely for the right to life, equality and human dignity. The events that took place at Sharpville and how Robert Sobukwe was banished to Robben Island, where he stayed under 24hour guard in solitary confinement away from other prisoners for six years. Mandela's inspiring Limestone Quarry classroom in which he showed how education is the most powerful weapon to change the world. The prisoners experienced the worst mental, physical and emotional pain in this Quarry yet Mandela used it as an opportunity to educate and it was through the discussions held here that the post apartheid fate of South Africa was determined at that time. We remember the pile of stones in the Quarry. Each one placed by an ex prisoner symbolizing unity, the struggle and freedom. We are so thankful for Mandela, who as he walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to his freedom, managed to leave all his bitterness and hatred behind him. One cannot visit Robben Island and not be moved to tears. An incredibly emotional yet inspiring experience. I urge every South African to visit this incredible place at least once in their lifetime.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wilsonlq4524cy
Jul 30, 2025
To explore and make new memories - The tour was one of my best memories ive ever made it was so much fun and i was so happy that i went to make new friends and memories
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Liyemaangeln
Jul 29, 2025
Best views ever - The views were amazing and we had an amazing experience with my friends. We really enjoyed ourselves it was the best thing we did this year
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bonganis198
Jul 14, 2025
A learning experience - It was an amazing experience and learnt a lot about the life of political prisoners during apartheid. The harsh conditions they were subjected too because wanting equality
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Quentint653
Jul 14, 2025
A profound Experience Visiting Robben Island Museum - My recent visit to Robben island museum was a truly profound experience. As I stepped onto the island, I was hit by it's rugged beauty and rich history. The stunning views of the the Atlantic ocean and the island's natural beauty added to the experience, making it a truly unforgettable journey. Visiting Robben Island was not just an educational experience, it was also a deeply moving and inspiring one As we took pictures as family and enjoyed our self.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
776sipheleled
Jul 29, 2025
It was good expo - Robben Island is a powerful and emotional experience. The guided tour, led by former prisoners, provides a unique perspective on the island's history and significance. A must-visit for anyone interested in South Africa's journey to democracy.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Christine_l
Feb 5, 2026
Enjoyable but ripped off - The actual trip to Robben Island was good, but there was no opportunity to walk around or take photos of particular buildings such as the little Chapel or church. The first hand accounts of life on the island by ex-prisoners was sobering and thought provoking. However my main concern is how Viator sold this trip. We paid around £96 for this trip (2 adults) but the day before the event the local tour operator demanded a further Rand 1000 because they had bought the wrong tickets! South African citizens pay a lower entrance fee than international visitors. Believing I was being scammed, I checked the official Robben Island website, the difference in fees was Rand 200 per person so I should have only been asked for this additional sum, which I was happy to pay. I challenged the tour operator and got some BS about them having to bulk purchase tickets in advance and having to cover admin costs etc although these were not fully explained. I had no choice other than to pay the additional amount (about £50 equivalent). I would urge others to check terms and conditions when booking and ensure that the correct tickets are being purchased by 3rd party agents on your behalf.
Review provided by Viator
From $60
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).