Overview
Robben Island, located off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the most historically significant landmarks in the country. The island served as a prison for political activists during South Africa’s apartheid era, including its most famous inmate, Nelson Mandela. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of resilience, freedom, and justice. Visitors can take guided tours of the island, learning about its dark past and the inspiring stories of those who fought for democracy.
Quick Facts
- Location: 7 km off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa
- Famous For: Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment, UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Best Time to Visit: October to April (warm and clear weather)
- Tour Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours (including ferry ride)
- Activities: Guided prison tours, museum visits, lighthouse sightseeing, exploring the island’s wildlife
Budget & Costs
| Expense Category | Cost (ZAR) | Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry & Tour Ticket (Adult) | 600 ZAR | ~$32 |
| Ferry & Tour Ticket (Child, 2-17 years) | 310 ZAR | ~$16 |
| Food & Drinks (Per Meal) | 150 – 300 ZAR | ~$8 – $16 |
| Souvenirs & Gifts | 100 – 500 ZAR | ~$5 – $26 |
| Transport to V&A Waterfront (Taxi/Uber) | 100 – 300 ZAR | ~$5 – $16 |
Flights to Cape Town (for Robben Island Visit)
Robben Island is only accessible by ferry from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Visitors must first fly into Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
- From Johannesburg (JNB) to Cape Town (CPT): Flights range from 1,200 – 2,500 ZAR (~$63 – $132), flight time ~2 hours.
- From Europe (London, Paris, Frankfurt) to Cape Town: 9,000 – 15,000 ZAR (~$475 – $790), flight time ~11-12 hours.
- From the US (New York, Los Angeles) to Cape Town: 14,000 – 25,000 ZAR (~$740 – $1,300), flight time ~16-20 hours with layovers.
Safety Tips
- Book Official Tours Only – Purchase tickets through the official Robben Island Museum website or the V&A Waterfront ticket office.
- Be Cautious on the Ferry – The sea can be rough; bring motion sickness medication if necessary.
- Keep Personal Items Secure – Cape Town’s waterfront is generally safe but keep valuables close.
- Respect the Site’s History – This is a place of remembrance, so follow guidelines and behave respectfully.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Robben Island has a mild coastal climate, similar to Cape Town.
- Summer (October – April): Warm and sunny, best time for ferry rides, temperatures 18-27°C (64-80°F).
- Winter (May – September): Cool and wet, ferry rides may be canceled due to rough seas, temperatures 10-18°C (50-64°F).