Excursion Wc collection: a day in the life of nelson mandela tour at Cape Town

Embark on an exclusive journey with Christo Brand as your guide for a private tour of Robben Island, complemented by the luxury of a private vehicle and dedicated driver on the island. This personalized exploration promises a unique and intimate experience, delving into the profound history and poignant landmarks that define this iconic location.

Ferry Ride to Robben Island

Check-in for your ferry to Robben Island at Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront.

Robben Island is an outcrop of rock formed by geological processes extending millions of years ago.   Except for the administrative buildings and prison infrastructure, the island is primarily sand covered with somewhat limited vegetation. It is home to penguins, seals, chameleons, lizards, snakes, seabirds and a variety of buck. Robben Island hosts about 23 mammals and 132 bird species including the African penguin. Robben Island hosts the third largest colony of African Penguins.

Robben Island: World Heritage Site  

For over four centuries, Robben Island has been a place of punishment for exiles and prisoners as well as a place of confinement for lepers, lunatics and the sick. Since 1960, it has become synonymous with the political struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Political prisoners of the past have included Nelson Mandela and poet Dennis Brutus. The last political prisoners were released in 1991 and on 01 January 1997, the Robben Island Museum opened its doors to the public, with quite a number of the former political prisoners becoming island guides. In 1999, Robben Island was declared a Word Heritage Site.

Graveyard, Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe's House

As you traverse the island's historic landscape, the tour unfolds with a visit to the graveyard, a somber site that holds the memories of those who succumbed to leprosy, revealing a chapter of the island's complex history that is both poignant and reflective. Continue your journey to the Lime Quarry, where the harsh realities of manual labor during the island's penal era come to life. Gain insights into the resilience of those who toiled under challenging conditions, leaving an indelible mark on the island's terrain.

The tour then takes you to Robert Sobukwe's house, offering a glimpse into the life of a man whose activism significantly impacted South Africa's struggle for freedom. Delve into the historical significance of the Bluestone quarry, the army and navy bunkers, and the censor office, each playing a unique role in the island's multifaceted history.

Maximum-Security Prison, Nelson Mandela's Cell

A pivotal stop on this immersive journey is the Maximum-Security Prison, where countless South African freedom fighters endured years of incarceration. Walk in their footsteps, understanding the sacrifices made for the pursuit of justice and equality. Culminating this extraordinary exploration is a visit to Nelson Mandela's cell, a powerful moment that brings to life the resilience and triumph of the human spirit against adversity. Christo Brand, with his personal connection to Mandela, provides unparalleled insights and anecdotes, enriching the tour with a unique perspective.

This private tour is a rare opportunity to intimately connect with Robben Island's past, illuminating the stories of resilience, struggle, and triumph that echo through its historic sites. With your private vehicle and seasoned driver, every step of this journey is tailored to ensure an immersive and unforgettable encounter with one of South Africa's most significant historical landmarks.

Upon return from Robben Island, take a leisurely walk to Nobel Square to view life-sized sculptures of our four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates: Nelson Mandela, FW de Klerk, Desmond Tutu and Albert Luthuli.

Return to the pier.

Points of interests

points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Robben Island, Nelson Mandela, Ferry Ride, Special Guide - Christo Brand

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and it is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests must be able to embark/disembark the coach via steps with little to no assistance. We recommend guests wear flat, comfortable shoes and bring a sweater or light jacket if cool. The ferry is subject to weather allowance. Due to strict reservation rules, this tour requires booking three months in advance. Guests names, passport number and DOB are required. This tour is NOT REFUNDABLE.