The second in the series of Top 10 Things to do in Cape Town is taking the Robben Island Tour. The infamous prison where former president Nelson Mandela was kept captive.

The knowledge that Nelson Mandela, and all those other prisoners spend so many years at Robben Island makes the visit to this small island even more impressive. It is a definite must for anyone visiting Cape Town.

Boat to Robben Island

To get to Robben Island you have to buy your tickets at the Waterfront, at the Robben Island information centre near the lighthouse. This is also where the boat to Robben Island departs every hour, behind the building at the docks.

The tour of Robben Island

The tour of Robben Island takes about 3 and a half hours and shows you all aspects of life on the island. From the tiny cell bocks, to the town of the guards, and from the blinding light of the quarry to the abundant wildlife.

The tour includes the following:

• A return trip by boat
• A guided tour of the Maximum Security Prison (by ex-inmate or prisonguard)
• Interaction with an ex-political prisoner
• A 45 min bus tour around the island

Personally I found the stories of our tourguide the most impressive and I will never forget them. Afterall that he has been through he, like Mandela, holds no grudges against his former captives. A truly remarkable place, Robben Island.

TIP: Book your tour in advance during the high season, it is extremely busy! 

Next week I will embark on a slightly different activity in Cape Town, as I will put on my shorts and explore the different beaches around Cape Town. See ya on the beach!

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