Image credit: Artistry Rack, Zhanna
Robben Island is one of those places that stays with you long after you visit. Just a short ferry ride from Cape Town, the island is known around the world as the prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years during the fight against apartheid. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South Africa’s most meaningful tourist destinations.
The trip starts at the V&A Waterfront, where you board a ferry and head across the water with beautiful views of Table Mountain behind you. The ride is calm on most days, and it gives you a moment to take in the scenery before stepping into a very different kind of space. When you reach the island, the tour takes you through the old prison blocks, the courtyards, and the small cell where Mandela lived. Many guides are former political prisoners, and hearing the story from someone who experienced it makes everything feel real and deeply emotional.
As you move around the island, from the cell rooms to the lime quarry where prisoners once worked, the weight of the history becomes clearer. It’s not just a museum; it’s a place where people fought for freedom, survived harsh conditions, and held onto hope. That mix of history and personal stories is what makes the visit powerful for tourists.
Even with its heavy past, Robben Island has a quiet beauty. The ocean surrounds you on all sides, and the ferry ride back to Cape Town gives you one more view of the city from the water. Because the tours depend on weather, especially wind, it’s best to book ahead and choose a morning trip when the sea is usually calmer.For many visitors, Robben Island becomes the highlight of their Cape Town experience. It’s a reminder of resilience, courage, and how far South Africa has come. If you’re exploring the city and want something meaningful, Robben Island is an important stop that adds depth to any trip.