How to Plan Your Robben Island Tour in Cape Town

Are you planning to visit Cape Town, South Africa? Then, a must-visit place on your list should be one of the most famous places in South Africa, Robben Island. A visit to Robben Island is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that tells the story of South Africa’s history and the fight against apartheid. In this post, we will guide you on how to plan your Robben Island tour, including what to expect and how to book.

Overview of Robben Island Tour

The Robben Island tour begins with a ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. After a 30-minute boat ride, you will arrive at the island, where you will be met by a professional tour guide who will take you through the island, revealing fascinating stories of its history, including the lives led by the prisoners who were jailed there, including former South African president Nelson Mandela.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a professional, knowledgeable Driver/Guide who will show you around the island. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package. Plus, admission tickets and entrance fees to Robben Island are included. Please take note that food and drinks are not included in the tour package.

Pickup Points

When booking your tour, you will be asked to select a pickup point. You can select one of two pickup points located in the city. The first pickup point is located at the Cape Town Tourism Office, while the second pickup point is located at the major hotels in Cape Town.

Select a Pickup Point

When booking, you must select one of the two pickup points. This will allow the tour company to know where to pick you up, as the city centre is quite large, and pickups can be confusing.

Pickup Details

Please provide your pickup address details, as the tour company offers pickup for locations within 10km (6 miles) of the Cape Town CBD. Additionally, please note that additional charges may apply should your accommodation fall outside of this radius.

What to Expect During the Tour

The Robben Island tour takes approximately 4 hours to complete. It is best to come prepared with comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat as it may get windy on the ferry ride to the island. Please note that the island terrain is uneven, and visitors must be comfortable with walking for long periods to appreciate the tour fully.

1. Robben Island Museum

Once you arrive at Robben Island Museum, the tour begins with a brief video introduction on the history of the island, providing some context for your tour.

Additional Info

Please note that the Robben Island tour is weather-dependent, and in cases of poor weather, the tour may be cancelled, and you will be offered a different date or receive a refund. Infant seats are available to ensure a comfortable ride for families with young children. Please note, however, that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Confirmation Policy

Confirmation of your tour booking will be sent to you within 48 hours of booking. Please note that the tour/activity has a maximum of seven travellers.

Cancellation Policy

The experience is non-refundable, and date changes are not allowed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Book the Tour HereConclusionPlanning a tour to Robben Island is a great option for adding a cultural experience to your South African holiday. By following the tips provided in this blog post, you can efficiently plan your Robben Island tour, ensuring you have a memorable experience. Book your tour early and be prepared with comfortable clothing and sunscreen to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Answering the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Many people have questions before visiting the city, and we’re here to answer them. This article discusses some of the most frequently asked questions about Cape Town to help you plan your trip.

1. What’s the weather like in Cape Town?

The weather in Cape Town is varied and can change rapidly. Summers (December-February) are hot and dry with average temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Winters (June-August) are cool and rainy with temperatures averaging between 7-18°C (45-64°F). Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are comfortable and mild, with temperatures averaging between 12-25°C (54-77°F). It’s always a good idea to pack layers, as the temperatures can vary throughout the day.

2. What are the best tourist attractions in Cape Town?

Cape Town has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best ones to add to your itinerary:

a. Table Mountain

Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town. Visitors can take a cable car to the top for stunning views of the city and surrounding area.

b. Robben Island

Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. Visitors can take a ferry to the island for a guided tour.

c. Cape of Good Hope

Cape of Good Hope is a rocky headland on the Atlantic coast, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

d. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden that showcases South Africa’s unique plant life.

3. What are some of the best beaches in Cape Town?

Cape Town is famous for its beautiful beaches. Here are some of the top picks:

a. Clifton Beaches

Clifton Beaches are a series of four small beaches that are popular among locals and tourists.

b. Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is known for its resident colony of African penguins, which visitors can get up close to.

c. Camps Bay Beach

Camps Bay Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, with a wide stretch of sand and several cafes and restaurants nearby.

4. What’s the best way to get around Cape Town?

Cape Town has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, many tourists prefer to hire a car to explore the city and surrounding areas. It’s also possible to join organized tours, which will take you to many of the city’s top attractions.

5. Is Cape Town safe for tourists?

Cape Town is generally safe for tourists if you take basic safety precautions. It’s always a good idea to stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and keep a close eye on your belongings. Most crime in Cape Town is opportunistic, so taking these simple steps can greatly reduce your risk.

6. What are some of Cape Town’s best restaurants?

Cape Town has a thriving dining scene, featuring a large variety of international and local cuisine. Here are some top picks:

a. The Test Kitchen

The Test Kitchen is a fine dining restaurant that offers an innovative tasting menu.

b. The Pot Luck Club

The Pot Luck Club is located on the top floor of an old silo and offers stunning views of the city. They offer a tapas-style menu with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

c. La Colombe

La Colombe is consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in Cape Town, offering a French-inspired tasting menu in a beautiful setting.

Conclusion

Cape Town has something for everyone, from stunning natural beauty to a rich cultural history. We hope this article has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the city, helping you plan your trip and make the most of your time there.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors from all over the world. With so much to see and do, planning your itinerary can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step plan to help you make the most of your time in Cape Town.

Step 1: Visit the Table Mountain

Table Mountain is without doubt, one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks. At just over 1000 meters high, the mountain provides stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding ocean. You can either hike up, take a cable car, or drive up to the summit.

Hiking up Table Mountain

If you’re up for a bit of a challenge and are physically fit, hiking up Table Mountain is an option. There are several trails to choose from, and the most popular is the Platteklip Gorge route. Remember to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen as it can get very hot on the mountain.

Taking the cable car

If you’re not keen on hiking, taking the cable car is a popular option. The cable car runs every 10-15 minutes, and you can buy tickets online or at the entrance. The ride to the top takes only a few minutes, and the views are absolutely stunning.

Driving up

If you have your own car, you can drive up to the summit. However, parking can be limited and expensive, so be sure to check the availability before heading out.

Step 2: Visit the V&A Waterfront

Located at the foot of Table Mountain, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity. The area is home to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium

The Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-visit attraction at the Waterfront. You’ll get to see a wide range of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and turtles. The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 am, and tickets can be bought at the entrance.

Take a boat tour

Another popular activity at the Waterfront is taking a boat tour. There are several options to choose from, including sunset cruises and harbor tours. You can book these tours at the Waterfront, and prices vary depending on the length and type of tour.

Step 3: Visit the Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a nature reserve that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The reserve is located at the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.

Drive to the Cape of Good Hope

The easiest way to get to the Cape of Good Hope is to drive. The road to the reserve takes you through the picturesque coastal towns of Hout Bay, Noordhoek, and Kommetjie.

Take the Flying Dutchman Funicular

If you’re not keen on driving, you can take the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the top of the reserve. The funicular runs from the car park to the lighthouse, and tickets can be bought at the entrance.

Hiking in the reserve

If you love hiking, the Cape of Good Hope offers several scenic hiking trails. Some of the most popular routes include the Cape of Good Hope Trail and the Shipwreck Trail.

Step 4: Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a stunning botanical garden located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The garden is home to a wide range of indigenous plants, as well as several walking trails.

Take a guided tour

To get the most out of your visit, consider taking a guided tour. The tours are available daily and are led by experienced guides who will provide you with information about the plants and the history of the garden.

Enjoy a picnic in the garden

Another popular activity in Kirstenbosch is having a picnic. The garden provides several picnic areas, and there are food kiosks selling snacks and refreshments.

Step 5: Visit the beaches

Cape Town is famous for its beautiful beaches, each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Camps Bay Beach

Camps Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cape Town, offering stunning views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. The beach is great for swimming and sunbathing, and there are several restaurants and bars nearby.

Clifton Beaches

There are four Clifton Beaches, all located in a row and offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Each beach has its own unique character, with Clifton 4th being the most popular for swimming and sunbathing.

Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is located outside of Cape Town, but it’s worth the trip. The beach is famous for its resident penguin colony, which you can get up close and personal with.

In conclusion

Cape Town has a lot to offer tourists, from stunning natural landscapes to vibrant city life. By following this step-by-step plan, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this beautiful city. Just remember to bring your sunscreen and your sense of adventure!