Available languages
5 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
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
Robben Island Museum
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.
Jack Friedman V&A WaterFront
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).
Entry/Admission to Robben Island
former political prisoner guide
Lunch
Gratuities
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
South African citizen
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
qinisos2025,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The best thing I experienced about Robben Island is that my tour guid was already told me about more of the things so it was easy form me to know it and asked more clarification. What my tour guide did is too show me Nelson Mandela cell I was so happy about it because I only heard about it but know seeing it.it was recommended to book ticket online well In advance and the half day outing it includes ferry and bus tours from the V&A Waterfront my tour guide did show me everything on the V&A Waterfront
Adventure58345222854,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great tour guide! Very patient, helpful, and professional. They handled the bookings smoothly and made the whole experience enjoyable and stress-free. Highly recommended!
dineom888,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Nothing short of amazing and educational.
Operated by Karibu South Tours