What exactly will I see on Robben Island?

You'll visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 of his 27 total years of imprisonment. The guided tour includes the cell blocks, exercise yards, and historical exhibitions explaining life during apartheid. Ferry transport and island access are included in the package.

Is Table Mountain climbing included, or just viewing?

The tour includes Table Mountain as part of the itinerary. Specific access details (whether cable car, hiking, or viewpoint only) should be confirmed at booking, as conditions and package variations may apply.

How much walking is involved?

Expect moderate-to-heavy walking: Robben Island involves uneven terrain and multiple sites; Bo-Kaap's colourful streets are on steep, cobbled hills; the Company's Garden and Castle precinct require walking between museums and outdoor areas. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

What if the ferry to Robben Island is cancelled due to weather?

Ferry operations are weather-dependent, particularly in winter months. If seas are too rough, tours may be rescheduled or alternative activities within Cape Town offered. Confirm cancellation and rebooking policies when you book.

The listing does not specify meal inclusions. Lunch is typically not provided, though Bo-Kaap offers many local Cape Malay restaurants. Bring snacks and water, or budget for meals separately.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

Limited accessibility due to steep hills in Bo-Kaap, uneven terrain on Robben Island, and museum staircases. Minivan transport assists between sites, but walking is unavoidable. Advise the operator of mobility requirements when booking.

Best Seller1 / 10

Best Seller

1 / 10

Nelson Mandela's Robben Island Prison Museum Cape Town City Tour + Ferry Tickets

(5)

Cape Town, South Africa

Boat ToursNature ToursLuxuryCultural ToursCity Tours

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

An immersive 8-hour journey through Cape Town's most pivotal historical and natural landmarks, centred on a guided visit to Robben Island—the UNESCO World Heritage prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment. Combine this sobering chapter of South African history with iconic sightseeing: Table Mountain (one of the New 7 Wonders), the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, and the Castle of Good Hope.

This is a great tour which brings the tourist face to face with history, nature and sightseeing opportunities.

Experience the life of World Statesman Nelson Mandela during his 18 years of imprisonment at the world heritage site Robben Island as part of his 27 years in prison.

Climb the Table Mountain - voted one of the new 7 world wonders in 2012, attracts 800 000 visitors annually.

Experience Cape culture at Bo-Kaap that has bright coloured houses as a celebration of their freedom from slavery. The first residents arrived from Indonesia, Java, Malaysia and other parts of Asia. It is also a heritage site.

The Company Gardens has a rich history, it has also has museums like the Slave Lodge, the Iziko South African Museum, the Planetarium. The S.A. Art gallery, the Cape Town Holocaust centre, St Georges Cathedral. There is also amazing fauna and flora.

The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest standing colonial building in South Africa.

Highlights

✓Guided tour of Robben Island prison cells and historical sites with ferry included
✓Table Mountain views and exploration of one of the world's most recognisable natural wonders
✓Bo-Kaap's colourful Victorian terraces and rich Afro-Asian heritage stories
✓Company's Garden, Castle of Good Hope, and museum precinct (Slave Lodge, South African Museum, Holocaust Centre)
✓Comprehensive cultural narrative spanning colonialism, slavery, anti-apartheid resistance, and freedom

Insider tips

★Robben Island ferries operate on a set schedule; arrive early to secure your spot, especially in peak season
★Wear layers for Table Mountain—weather changes rapidly and wind can be strong at the summit
★Bo-Kaap's steep cobbled streets are best explored on foot in early morning to avoid crowds and afternoon heat; grab a Cape Malay curry from a local café
★The Slave Lodge museum provides crucial context for understanding the Bo-Kaap and South Africa's colonial past—consider visiting before or after the Bo-Kaap walk

Good to know

•Comfortable walking shoes essential; Robben Island involves uneven terrain and the Bo-Kaap requires hill navigation
•Bring sun protection (SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses) and a water bottle; facilities are limited on the island
•Ferry tickets to Robben Island are weather-dependent; cancellations can occur in rough seas
•Tour operates as a combination of guided minivan transport, walking tours, and ferry—total duration 8 hours includes travel time

Who it's for

History buffs and educators seeking deep understanding of apartheid and post-colonial South AfricaCultural travellers interested in heritage sites and diverse communitiesFirst-time Cape Town visitors wanting a comprehensive overview of iconic landmarksCruise passengers maximising a port day with a full-day immersive experience

Best time to visit

Visit April–September (autumn/winter) for milder temperatures and calmer seas, reducing Robben Island ferry cancellations. Early morning departures (7–8 a.m.) ensure better light on Table Mountain and fewer crowds at historical sites.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Ruth J.

Jun 2026

Zara our captain very good, and jumping off the back into clear water we love it. Is much better than the boat trip we do in Marrakech before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

Hugo W.

May 2026

our captain Yusuf was brilliant and jumping off the back into clear water was the highlight. Mid-week so it was quiet so it wasnt too busy. Miles ahead of a similar boat trip we tried in cape town, and stopped at 3 different bays. Would book again no question.

Sofia E.

Mar 2026

our captain Hassan was brilliant and the little blue cave stop was the highlight, and miles ahead of a similar boat trip we tried in Hanoi, def recommend

Greg T.

Dec 2025

our captain Nadia had so many stories and the little blue cave stop was the highlight ... Mid-week so it was quiet so it wasnt too busy. Blew our kyoto one out of the water, and stopped at 3 different bays. Would book again no question, no joke

Claire T.

Jul 2025

Fatima our captain very good, and dolphins riding the bow for ages we love it. Is much better than the boat trip we do in Lisbon before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

from€161.83€156.64/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

Instant ConfirmationBest priceMobile voucher