Robben Island and Long Walk To Freedom Historical Day Tour

The Robben Island and Long Walk to Freedom Historical Day Tour offers an immersive journey into South Africa’s turbulent past. Visitors will explore the infamous Robben Island, once home to political prisoners including Nelson Mandela, and discover the poignant Long March to Freedom exhibition. With a guided tour led by former inmates, this experience provides a profound understanding of the nation’s struggle for democracy. Complemented by a visit to the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the tour promises a well-rounded exploration of South Africa’s complex history and the resilience of its people.

Good To Know

• This historical day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Robben Island, the site of a former political prison, and the Long March to Freedom exhibition.
• The tour includes a guided visit to Robben Island led by former political prisoners, providing an immersive and authentic experience.
• Participants can witness the free-roaming African Penguins on the island, subject to weather conditions.
• The tour features a visit to the AFROGEM center, where visitors can witness diamond cutting and jewelry manufacturing.
• The tour offers hotel pickup, transportation, and entry tickets, providing a seamless and convenient experience for travelers.

Tour Overview

The Robben Island and Long Walk to Freedom Historical Full Day Tour provides visitors an immersive experience into South Africa’s struggle for freedom.

Priced from CZK 5,970 per person, this 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, entry to Robben Island Museum, and a prison tour led by former political prisoners.

Visitors can also explore the Long March to Freedom exhibition and witness the art of diamond cutting.

The tour includes transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and hotel drop-off.

The Robben Island experience offers a chance to see free-roaming African Penguins, though ferry access is subject to weather conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cape Town, providing a convenient start to the day’s activities.

Guests will visit the Long March to Freedom, an open-air exhibition featuring over 500 life-size bronze statues representing South Africa’s struggle for freedom.

Next, they’ll tour the Robben Island Museum, led by former political prisoners, offering a firsthand account of the island’s history.

At AFROGEM, they’ll experience the art of diamond cutting and jewelry manufacturing, accompanied by complimentary sparkling wine.

The tour culminates with an opportunity for lunch and shopping at the iconic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

1. Long March to Freedom exhibition
2. Robben Island Museum tour
3. Diamond cutting and jewelry demonstration
4. Lunch and shopping at Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Transportation and Amenities

Private air-conditioned vehicles, equipped with Wi-Fi access, transport guests to and from the tour locations. Bottled water is provided throughout the day to ensure hydration.

The tour includes entry tickets to Robben Island, with scheduled departures at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, and 15:00. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for the convenience of the participants.

However, the ferry to Robben Island is subject to weather conditions, and refunds are issued if the trip is canceled. The total duration of the Robben Island and prison visit portion of the tour is typically 3 to 4 hours.

Robben Island Experience

During the Robben Island portion of the tour, visitors explore the island’s rich history.

The tour includes:

1. Viewing the free-roaming African Penguins that call the island home.
2. A ferry ride to the island, weather permitting. Refunds are issued if the ferry is canceled.
3. A guided tour of the island and the former prison, led by former political prisoners, lasting 3-4 hours.
4. The opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like Nelson Mandela and learn about South Africa’s struggle for freedom.

This immersive experience provides a powerful and poignant look into Robben Island’s past and its pivotal role in the country’s journey to democracy.

Cultural Significance

At the heart of the Robben Island tour lies the cultural significance of the site, which represents a powerful timeline of South Africa’s 350-year journey to democracy.

The Long March to Freedom, a display of over 500 life-size bronze icons, celebrates South African heritage through public art. This outdoor sculptural exhibit, the largest of its kind in the world, pays tribute to the countless individuals who fought for the country’s freedom, from 1652 to 1994.

The tour invites visitors to explore this powerful symbol of South Africa’s struggle, offering a profound and immersive experience that highlights the nation’s rich history and the resilience of its people.

Booking and Pricing

The Robben Island tour offers flexible booking options, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Priced from CZK 5,970 per person, the tour provides excellent value for its comprehensive itinerary and inclusions.

Travelers can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, making it easy to secure their spot. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

The tour’s duration is 5 hours, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.

The tour includes:

1. Entry to Robben Island Museum and Prison Tour.
2. Visit to the Long March to Freedom exhibition.
3. Experience at AFROGEM diamond cutting facility.
4. Opportunity for lunch and shopping at the V&A Waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

Commonly, travelers have questions about the Robben Island tour’s logistics and experience.

What’s the weather like on the ferry ride? Trips are subject to weather conditions, and refunds are issued if canceled.

How long is the tour on the island? The Robben Island and prison visit lasts 3 to 4 hours.

Can I explore the island on my own? No, the tour is led by former political prisoners who provide a unique perspective.

Are there opportunities for shopping and dining? Yes, the tour includes time at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, which has numerous options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specified dress code for this tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and appropriately for the activity, considering the weather and the need to walk during portions of the itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on this tour. However, bottled water is provided, and there’s an opportunity for lunch at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront during the tour.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants?

The tour doesn’t mention a specific limit on the number of participants. However, it’s a private tour with an air-conditioned vehicle, so the size is likely small enough to provide a personalized experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

You can extend the tour duration, but a surcharge may apply. The standard tour lasts 5 hours, but the tour operator can customize the itinerary to accommodate special requests, subject to availability and an additional fee.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour, which includes a ferry ride to Robben Island and a prison visit led by former political prisoners.

The Sum Up

The Robben Island and Long Walk to Freedom Historical Day Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience into South Africa’s remarkable history. Visitors can explore the poignant Robben Island and Long March to Freedom exhibition, gaining a profound understanding of the nation’s long struggle for democracy. With convenient transportation, this tour provides an insightful and meaningful way to connect with South Africa’s rich cultural heritage.