Robben Island - Discovering South Africa

Travelling to Robben Island

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Robben Island, a pretty good destination in South Africa (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Robben Island and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Robben Island, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through South Africa, here's everything to know about Robben Island for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Robben Island

Robben Island is a small island off the coast of Cape Town in South Africa. It is most famously known for its former prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during the apartheid era. Nowadays, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the South African struggle for democracy and freedom. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison and the island, and learn about the history of the island and the people who were imprisoned there. In addition to the historical significance, Robben Island's scenic beauty, wildlife, and views of Cape Town make it a popular destination for tourists.

What to visit in Robben Island

Robben Island is an island in South Africa, located off the coast of Cape Town. It is one of the country's most visited tourist destinations, known for its rich history and cultural significance.
Here are some tourist attractions on Robben Island and some information about them: 1. The prison: The prison on Robben Island was formerly used to house political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison, led by a former political prisoner.
2. The limestone quarry: This quarry was where political prisoners worked during their time on the island. The quarry tour provides visitors with insight into the harsh living conditions of the prisoners.
3. The leper colony: Robben Island also served as a leper colony for most of the 20th century. Visitors can learn about the history and treatment of leprosy on the island.
4. The museum: The Robben Island Museum is located on the island and features exhibitions on the island's history, including the stories of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners.
5. The wildlife: The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including African penguins, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can take a wildlife tour to learn more about the island's unique ecosystem.
6. The views: Robben Island offers stunning views of the coast of Cape Town and the surrounding ocean. Visitors can take a scenic walk around the island and appreciate its natural beauty.
Overall, Robben Island is a powerful and educational tourist destination, offering visitors a unique perspective on South Africa's history and culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in South Africa, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Robben Island

The best time to visit Robben Island is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny, and there is a low chance of rain. However, it's important to note that this is peak tourist season, so it's advisable to book your tickets and accommodation well in advance if you plan to travel at this time. The shoulder seasons - from March to May and September to November - can also be great times to visit with less crowds and cooler temperatures. However, visitors should be aware that winter (June to August) can be rainy and windy, making travel to the island difficult at times.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Robben Island

To get to Robben Island in South Africa, you need to take a ferry from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. Here are the steps to follow: 1. Book your ticket online in advance to ensure availability, as the ferries can be quite busy. You can visit the official website of Robben Island Museum or book through any reliable tour operators for hassle-free bookings.
2. Arrive at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to check-in and collect your boarding pass.
3. Board the ferry for the approximately 30-minute trip to Robben Island.
4. Once you arrive on the island, you will be taken on a guided tour of the prison, which includes seeing Nelson Mandela's cell and learning about the history of the island.
5. After the tour, you will return to the ferry for the trip back to Cape Town.
Note: It is recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water with you, as the island can get quite hot and there is limited access to shade and water on the tours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Robben Island, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Robben Island

Robben Island in South Africa is primarily known as a place of historical significance, and there are no specific food items that can be attributed to the island. However, if you are planning to visit Cape Town, which is the nearest mainland city to Robben Island, here are some typical South African foods that you may enjoy: 1. Bobotie - A dish made with curried minced meat topped with a mixture of egg and milk and served with yellow rice.
2. Biltong - A type of dried, cured meat typically made from beef or game that is spiced with salt, vinegar, sugar, and various other spices.
3. Boerewors - A type of sausage made from beef, pork, or a mixture of both and spiced with coriander, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Cape Malay Curry - A spicy and fragrant curry made with chicken, beef, or lamb, served with rice or roti.
5. Pap and Wors - A dish consisting of maize porridge (pap) and boerewors sausage.
6. Melktert - A traditional South African milk tart made with a pastry crust and a creamy filling of milk, sugar, eggs, and flour.
7. Vetkoek - A type of fried dough bread that is typically filled with savoury mince or sweet syrup.
These dishes are popular in South Africa and can be enjoyed in many restaurants and food markets in Cape Town and the surrounding areas.
You can find general info about typical foods in South Africa here.

Is Robben Island an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting Robben Island can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of tour you choose and the time of year you visit. Generally, the cost ranges from ZAR 360 to ZAR 600 (approximately USD 24 to USD 40) per person for a standard tour. Prices may also be higher for private tours or tours that include transportation from the mainland. While the cost may seem high, it is important to remember that a visit to Robben Island is a unique and historically significant experience that many consider to be well worth the expense.

Where to find accomodation in Robben Island

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Robben Island in South Africa would be in the Waterfront area or in Greenpoint. Both areas have a good selection of accommodation options and are close to the Nelson Mandela Gateway departure point for the Robben Island ferry.
You can check hotel prices at Robben Island here:
Booking.com

Is Robben Island a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Robben Island is generally a safe place for tourists. The island is heavily guarded and monitored by security personnel to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of its historic landmarks. However, like any other tourist destination, it is always recommended to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying expensive items or large amounts of cash. It is also important to follow the instructions given by your guide or the island staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in South Africa here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Robben Island.

What type of travelers will enjoy Robben Island the most?

Robben Island is a great place to visit for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the political history of South Africa. It's a meaningful and educational experience, suitable for families, couples, and young people alike.
Visitors will learn about the hardships and struggles of the political prisoners who were once held on the island, including Nelson Mandela. However, it's worth mentioning that the island offers a quite emotional and introspective visit, quite different from other tourist attractions; it's really about understanding South African history. Keep in mind that the tour is generally not appropriate for very young children as it can be quite long (approximately 3.5 hours) and the content may not be suitable for young children.

How to get around Robben Island

The only mode of transportation available for visitors on Robben Island is by bus. The buses are operated by the Robben Island Museum and are used to transport visitors from the ferry landing to various points of interest on the island.

What to see around Robben Island

Certainly! Here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Robben Island: 1. Cape Town - just a 30 minute ferry ride from Robben Island, this vibrant city offers a number of must-see attractions, including the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Table Mountain, and the Victoria & Albert Waterfront.
2. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - located about 13 miles from Robben Island, this stunning nature reserve is home to a diverse collection of plants and flowers, including rare species from South Africa and around the world.
3. Constantia Wine Valley - situated about 20 miles from Robben Island, this picturesque wine region is known for its world-class vineyards and stunning scenery.
4. Boulders Beach - located about 30 miles from Robben Island, this beautiful beach is home to a colony of endangered African penguins.
5. Stellenbosch - situated about 35 miles from Robben Island, this charming town is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, world-renowned vineyards, and gourmet dining scene. I hope these suggestions help you plan a fabulous day trip from Robben Island!
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