About Robben Island

A boat ride away from Cape Town, the Robben Island is famous for the imprisonment of the three Presidents of South Africa -  Nelson Mandela, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma. It is a major historic place and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place will give you the chills, especially if you are a history buff. Do visit the prison to dig deep into the apartheid histories of South Africa. There is also a museum here that hosts tales of the anti-apartheid movement. The Robben Island is almost 7 Km from the city center and is oval in shape, a few meters above sea level, due to an ancient erosion event. If you want to really explore the place, it is a good idea to read about the history of the island before you visit. Also, make sure you do not miss your boat!

Must See

Museum and prison cells are a must-see on Robben Island. It is a South African National Heritage Site as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to reach

Take a ferry from Nelson Mandela Gateway, situated at the V&A Waterfront to Murray's Bay. It will take 30 minutes and will cost you around R 250 - R 350.

Tips

  • Reach a minimum of 30 minutes before the departure.
  • The ferry gates close 10 minutes prior to the time of departure.
  • Do wear your walking shoes as you will have a lot of places to explore on foot.
  • The timing of the ferry boat that takes you to Rodden Island is 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Plan your trip accordingly.
  • Boats operate to and from the island every day. 
  • Carry enough cash as ATMs may be hard to find.
  • Take water bottles as the day might get warm and sunny.
  • Robben Island is a South African National Heritage Site as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
     

Visit Time

Sunday: Open 24 hours

Monday: Open 24 hours

Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Thursday: Open 24 hours

Friday: Open 24 hours

Saturday: Open 24 hours

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Waiting Time

You may need to wait in queue to take ferry tickets.

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

 Admission, including the ferry tickets, is R 230 for adults and R 120 for children.

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Time you can spend

3-5 hours

 

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Weather

Broken Clouds 20.66°C

 

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