Robben Island

Robben Island, a low island in Table Bay off Cape Town, is a sobering and powerful UNESCO memorial, the political prison where Nelson Mandela and many other opponents of apartheid were held for decades. Now a museum, it is reached by ferry, and its tours are often led by former political prisoners themselves, who guide visitors through the bleak cell blocks, the limestone quarry and the small cell where Mandela spent eighteen years.

What you actually see

• Mandela's cell - the small cell where he was held for eighteen years.
• The prison tour - the cell blocks, often led by former prisoners.
• The limestone quarry - where prisoners were forced to labour.
• The ferry and views - the crossing and the view back to Table Mountain.

When to go

October to April for the calmest seas, as the ferry crossing can be rough and is often cancelled in bad weather, so book ahead and have a flexible day in case. Tours run daily, weather permitting, and sell out, so book online in advance.

Honest expectations

The ferry is frequently cancelled in rough weather, so book ahead and keep a spare day; tours sell out, so reserve online. It is a moving, sombre experience rather than a scenic outing, and the tours can feel rushed. Approach it with the respect its history of suffering and resilience deserves.

Nearby

The V&A Waterfront is the departure point; Table Mountain and the Cape Town sights are close.