Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Robben Island is located some 12 km off the northwestern coastline of the African land mass and has a rich historical background. It is considerably small in size, spanning 5.08 sq km, and most importantly, flat in nature. The island serves as a prison for figures like Nelson Mandela, Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma, who later became presidents of RSA. Today, Robben Island is a veteran survivor of a long and nasty history vying for its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national monument.
Location
Photo: South African Tourism / Wikimedia Commons
The island, which is located in Table Bay, is about 6.9 km from the Island’s northern side of Cape Town in South Africa. It was an important navigational landmark for sailing vessels in the 16th and early years of the 17th century. It was later a pest hut. Leprosy patients occupied this Island between 1846 and 1931, and during the Second World War, garrison works were built on it.
How To Reach
Photo: pixelRaw / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
By Water: Ferries from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront are available three times a day, lasting 3.5 hours and including a boat trip, and seeing such places as a cemetery and quarry, and Sobukwe’s house and the cell of Mandela.
By Air: The nearest flying station available is George (GRJ), which is well connected with Cape Town, from which travellers can connect a ferry.
Places To Visit In And Around Robben Island
1. Robben Island Museum
Photo: Moheen Reeyad / Wikimedia Commons
It was in 1997 that the museum was first founded. RIM aims to protect the history and heritage of the Island since it is a South African National Heritage site. Like most museums of relevance, RIM carries out rehabilitation, tourism growth, and extraction of research resources centered on the island culture and its natural attributes. Other important facilities are, the Indlu of Robert Sobukwe and the max security prison complex, and the famous Mayibuye Archives, as well as Nelson Mandela Gateway at V&AW.
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
2. Nelson Mandela’s Cell
Photo: Daniel Case / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nelson Mandela’s Cell is one of the memorable cells that Mandela called home for 18 years, and it is a very powerful cell. Its great portrayal of loneliness gives an understanding of his resilience and focus while building strength to fight against apartheid. Simple things, such as remembering the cell, its small size, its restrictions, and its limitations, are what define all that he sacrificed and how his spirits led South Africa into the solace of freedom..
Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa
3. Apartheid Museum
Photo: NJR ZA / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Apartheid Museum contains multi level considerations on the history of apartheid in South Africa to present the causes of apartheid, the effects it had on the nation, and finally, how it ended. The museum’s fascinating exhibits, including one dedicated to Nelson Mandela, invite visitors to navigate through the aftermath of apartheid and the struggle for equal rights. There is a Reflection Room at the museum for peace.
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Penguin Colony
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
Penguin Colony is a perfect spot for wildlife lovers. Penguins have made the island their home, making this colony a tourist attraction. It never gets boring watching these rare species in their natural environments, and it feels good to know that something is being done to conserve such species. This is an exciting stop that lays bare the rich biodiversity of the island while giving people an experience of what it feels like to be close to African penguins.
Location: Table Bay, South Africa
Duration: 4 hours
5. Robben Island Lighthouse
Photo: Daniel Case / Wikimedia Commons
The island Lighthouse has been operational since 1864 and can direct ships at Minto Hill. At this range, it became relatively well-known and is referred to as Fire Hill. The lighthouse has an electric flash which has a range of up to 44 km. The lighthouse is now a part of the navigational history of Robben Island, as it has been directing sailors for more than a hundred years. It is situated on the interface between safety and endurance, with no other building like it on the Island.
Location: Robben Eiland, Robben Island, South Africa
Built: 1864
Where To Stay
Photo: Frames For Your Heart / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are generally no accommodations on the island. Most hotels are found on the mainland in the vicinity of Cape Town and provide a range of prices, such as luxury hotels and discount guesthouses. The V & A waterfront area has the optimal and nearest hotels, such as the Table Bay Hotel and the Waterfront Village, which allows visitors to enjoy the views of Table Bay. Other cost-effective but specialized hotels include Mojo Hotel and Radisson RED. Because the ferry is centrally located in Cape Town, it is quite suitable for people visiting the island.
Where To Eat
Photo: Ella Olsson / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Several good restaurants are along the banks of V & A Waterfront, Cape Town, close to the island. Restaurants such as Quay Four and Harbour House serve delicious seafood and look over the bay. For cheap meals, V & A Food Market has local and Oriental food. Karibu Restaurant serves South African cuisine and will provide a real taste and experience. These spots offer a variety of different tastes and budgets, making it easy for people to go during the V & A waterfront or the Robben Island tours for lunch or dinner.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Francesco Bandarin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the island is during Cape Town’s summer, between October and March. The island is in high demand, with patrons taking advantage of moderate temperatures throughout this season. Between May and September, rainfall and low temperatures are visible, making outdoor activities less likely to be pursued by visitors during this season.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Around ₹2000 / $24 would be needed for one to find their way inside the island, with a ferry and tour included (current costs might vary).
Tips For Travellers
- Tickets sell fast, as expected. Try to get your hands on them with plenty of time before your visit.
- Weather varies/ranges sometimes, so make sure you have clothes for two seasons.
- Please come at least 30-45 minutes earlier to walk around V&A Waterfront before departure.
The legacy of Robben Island is central to the story of South Africa. It is a tale of struggle, the thrill of sacrifice and hope. From the cell of Nelson Mandela to the Island’s geography, each section of this UNESCO World Heritage site is a testimony to millions who laid their lives for the idea of freedom. One comes here for learning but leaves with deep emotions. Plan a trip with TripXL to the island and discover South Africa’s history and culture.
Cover Photo: katsuma tanaka / Unsplash
