Robben Island and the Long Walk to Freedom are powerful symbols of South Africa’s struggle for democracy. This historical day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore these sites and gain insights into the nation’s complex past. Led by former political prisoners, the experience takes visitors on a journey through the island’s notorious prison and the awe-inspiring Long March to Freedom monument. With comprehensive inclusions and amenities, the tour provides an immersive and educational experience. However, the true significance of this tour lies in its ability to confront the realities of the anti-apartheid movement and inspire reflection on the enduring legacy of this pivotal chapter in South African history.
Good To Know
- This guided tour provides a unique opportunity to visit Robben Island and the Long Walk to Freedom monument, both historically significant sites in South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
- The tour is led by former political prisoners, offering firsthand insights into the island’s history as a prison, leper colony, and military base.
- The Long March to Freedom exhibition features over 500 life-size bronze statues, showcasing the timeline of South Africa’s journey towards democracy from 1652 to 1994.
- Inclusions such as hotel pick-up/drop-off, entry tickets, bottled water, and lunch ensure a comprehensive and seamless experience for the participants.
- The tour offers flexibility with a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, making it accessible for visitors.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Robben Island Historical Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of South Africa’s rich history. Priced at $258.91 per person, the 5-hour tour provides an immersive experience, including a guided visit to Robben Island and the Long Walk to Freedom monument.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as entry tickets, bottled water, and lunch. Guests can also opt for additional stops at AFROGEM and the V&A Waterfront.
The Robben Island experience is led by former political prisoners, offering a unique perspective, and the tour is subject to ferry availability due to weather conditions.
With a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a flexible and memorable way to discover South Africa’s past.
Itinerary and Highlights
Starting at The Onyx Apartment Hotel in Cape Town, this historical day tour takes guests on an immersive journey through South Africa’s past.
The key stops include Robben Island, where visitors can explore the island and learn from former political prisoners on a guided tour.
After that, the tour visits the Long March to Freedom exhibition, showcasing over 500 life-size bronze statues representing the country’s struggle for freedom.
Optional stops at AFROGEM and the V&A Waterfront provide breaks for shopping and sightseeing.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, and all entry tickets, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive experience.
Robben Island Experience
Included in the tour is admission to the Robben Island Museum, where guests are guided by former political prisoners.
The Robben Island experience features free-roaming African Penguins, adding to the historical significance. Visitors can explore the island’s past as a prison, leper colony, and military base.
The tour’s availability is subject to weather conditions, and refunds are provided if ferry trips are canceled.
Robben Island holds significant importance in South Africa’s struggle for freedom, and the guided tour provides an immersive and authentic experience for guests to learn about this pivotal chapter in the country’s history.
Long March to Freedom Details
Along With the Robben Island experience, the tour includes a visit to the Long March to Freedom, home to over 500 life-size bronze statues representing South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
This expansive outdoor sculptural display celebrates the country’s heritage and history, covering a timeline from 1652 when the Dutch East India settlement was established to 1994 and the first democratic elections.
As the largest outdoor collection of individual statues globally, the Long March to Freedom offers a powerful and immersive glimpse into South Africa’s journey towards freedom and democracy.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Bottled water and lunch are provided, and entry tickets to Robben Island and Long March to Freedom are included. Gratuities for the driver and guide are also covered. Passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi access throughout the journey.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Private air-conditioned vehicle |
| Refreshments | Bottled water and lunch |
| Admission | Robben Island and Long March to Freedom |
| Gratuities | For driver and guide |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi access in the vehicle |
Exploring Robben Island
Visitors to Robben Island embark on a poignant journey through South Africa’s complex history.
Led by former political prisoners, the tour provides a powerful first-hand account of the island’s use as a prison and place of exile.
Highlights include:
- The imposing Maximum Security Prison, where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were incarcerated.
- The limestone quarry, where prisoners were forced to perform backbreaking labor.
- The lush environment, home to a thriving colony of African penguins.
Through these experiences, the tour offers a compelling and immersive exploration of Robben Island’s dark past and its role in the country’s long struggle for freedom.
Commemorating the Long Walk
Complementing the Robben Island experience, the Long March to Freedom monument pays tribute to South Africa’s struggle for independence.
This outdoor sculpture park features over 500 life-size bronze statues depicting key figures from 1652 to 1994. Visitors can follow the timeline, learning about the country’s history and the individuals who fought for freedom.
The massive display is the largest of its kind globally, celebrating South Africa’s rich heritage and the sacrifices made.
After exploring Robben Island, guests can opt to visit this moving memorial, providing a comprehensive look at the nation’s complex past and inspiring journey towards democracy.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and Constantia Wine Tasting
- Private Full Day Tour to Table Mountain & Cape of Good Hope
- Cape Town: Peninsula Tour With Optional Seal Island Boat …
- Cape Town: Marine Wildlife Tour From the V&A Waterfront
- Full Day Aquila Safari (English)
- From Cape Town: Aquila Game Reserve Safari Tour With Lunch
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but bottled water and lunch are already included in the tour price. Bringing your own snacks is optional and won’t affect the tour experience.
Is the Tour Available in Different Languages?
The tour is available in various languages to accommodate different nationalities. Guests can choose from English, Afrikaans, French, German, and Spanish tours, allowing them to fully engage with the historical experiences.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though parental supervision is recommended to ensure an enjoyable and enriching experience for the entire family.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour offers wheelchair accessibility and accommodates travelers with disabilities. Guests are advised to disclose any special needs when booking so the operator can make appropriate arrangements for a comfortable experience.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price covers all major expenses, including transportation, admission tickets, lunch, and gratuities. Travelers should be aware of any optional add-ons or personal expenses that may incur additional costs not included in the quoted price.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- CAPE TOWN: JEEP 4X4 TOURS IN ATLANTIS DUNES
- Table Mountain: Tranquility Cracks Hike
- Cape Town: Guided Cycling Tour
- Cape Town: Street Art Walking Tour in Woodstock
- From Cape Town: Steam Train Ticket to Elgin Railway Market
- Hiking Table Mountain in Cape Town on a Private Day Trip
- Cape Town Airport Transfer to Muizenberg
- Explore: Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour
- Walking Tour + 3-Hour Malay Cooking Class & Lunch in Bo-Kaap
- Shark Cage Diving and Viewing With Transport From Cape Town
- Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike
- Inter-lodge Transfers, Airport Transfers and Game Drivers
- Simons Town: Fishing Charter Boat
- Cape Town: Langa Township Half- Day Tour (Shared)
- 5 Day Private Luxury Safari Garden Route Classic From CPT
The Sum Up
The Robben Island and Long Walk to Freedom Historical Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of South Africa’s struggle for freedom. Led by former political prisoners, the tour provides a profound and comprehensive journey through the nation’s rich history, from the Robben Island prison to the awe-inspiring Long March to Freedom monument. With thoughtful inclusions and amenities, this tour ensures an enriching and unforgettable experience for visitors.