ROBBEN ISLAND
A Place of Mystery and Amazement!
The first recorded landing on Robben island by Europeans was in 1498, when a group of Portuguese sailors took refuge there and stayed overnight in a cave. During World War 2 Robben island was chosen as the key site to protect Table Bay and Cape Town from threat of enemy attack, resulting in the construction of artillery batteries, fortifications and an airstrip.
Robben island holds less mystery and more torrid memories of brutality, isolation and victimisation. Many freedom fighters were imprisoned there, including Nelson Mandela, who was incarcerated there for 27years and PAN Africanist Congress leader, Robert Sbukwe, who was housed there in solitary confinement.
The Island is remembered just as much as the site where anit-apartheid activists honed their principles of non-racialism and human rights, where they educated themselves – and their prison warders – and strengthened their resolve to attain freedom.
There are boats that depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the Waterfront on the hour every hour. The guided tour on the island including the return boat/ferry trip takes between 3–5 hours depending which boat is used. A private tour on the island can be arranged. A private helicopter trip can also be arranged which would obviously save time.
“Robben Island is definitely a must do activity if you are planning to visit Cape Town.”
ROBBEN ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS
Graveyard of people who dies from Leprosy
Lime Quarry
Robert Sobukwe’s house
Bluestone Quarry Army and Navy bunkers
Maximum Security Prison where thousands of South Africa’s freedom fighters were incarcerated
for years.
Viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell
PRIVATE MEETING WITH CHRISTO BRAND
(Mandela’s prison Warden)
A private meeting with Christo Brand can be arranged and pre booked. Christo will meet you for tea, lunch, dinner where he spends intimate time with you and your family talking about his incredible journey being Nelson Mandela’s prison Warden
CAPE PENINSULA
The most south-westerly tip of Africa, covered in fynbos, white sandy beaches, spectacular coves and blue waters.
VICTORIA ALFRED WATERFRONT
One of the cities most visited attractions, shopping, restaurants, boat cruises, entertainment - a unique experience along a working harbour.