Robben Island and Table Mountain Cable Car Experience

Robben Island and Table Mountain offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore Cape Town’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can embark on a ferry to the island, where they’ll uncover the poignant story of South Africa’s past. After this thought-provoking experience, they’ll ascend Table Mountain via the iconic cable car, soaking in panoramic vistas and learning about the diverse flora and fauna. This once-in-a-lifetime tour provides a seamless blend of cultural significance and scenic wonder, leaving you eager to discover more about this captivating destination.

Good To Know

• This combined tour includes visits to the historically significant Robben Island and the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa.
• The Robben Island experience features a guided bus tour, insights from a former political prisoner, and exploration of the maximum-security prison and Mandela’s cell.
• The Table Mountain portion of the tour involves a cable car journey to the summit, where a private guide provides insights into the mountain’s biodiversity and geological features.
• The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours and includes priority boarding for the Robben Island ferry, with a starting price of $135.84 per person.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and weather conditions must be favorable for the activities to proceed, with the possibility of rescheduling with 48 hours’ notice.

Tour Overview

The tour includes a visit to both Robben Island and Table Mountain, allowing visitors to experience two of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks.

The 6.5-hour excursion provides priority boarding for the ferry to Robben Island and a cable car ride to the summit of Table Mountain. Priced from $135.84 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

The shared experience includes a guided bus tour, visits to historic sites, and insights from a former political prisoner on Robben Island.

Atop Table Mountain, a private guide leads the exploration of the unique flora and fauna.

Robben Island Boat Trip

Visitors begin the tour with a priority boarding ferry from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island.

The guided bus tour showcases key landmarks, including the lime quarry and Robert Sobukwe’s house. Guests then tour the maximum-security prison section and visit Nelson Mandela’s cell, gaining firsthand insights from a former political prisoner during a guided walk.

Interactive exhibits provide historical context and personal accounts of the island’s tumultuous past.

After the guided exploration, the ferry returns to Cape Town, allowing time to reflect on the powerful impact of this experience.

Robben Island Guided Tour

Upon arrival at Robben Island, guests embark on a guided bus tour that showcases the island’s key historical landmarks.

The tour takes visitors to the infamous lime quarry and the house of Robert Sobukwe, a prominent anti-apartheid activist.

Guests then explore the maximum-security prison section and visit Nelson Mandela’s cell, gaining a firsthand understanding of the island’s profound history.

A former political prisoner guides the group, providing personal insights and accounts of the island’s significance.

Interactive exhibits further contextualize Robben Island’s role in South Africa’s past, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience this poignant and educational tour.

Table Mountain Cable Car

After exploring the powerful history of Robben Island, guests ascend Table Mountain via the iconic cable car system.

The private tour guide leads the way, providing insights into the mountain’s unique biodiversity, including the Table Mountain Ghost Frog and other wildlife.

From the summit, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic views and gain an appreciation for the geological significance of the flat-topped mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cable car experience offers:

• Smooth, scenic ascent to the top of Table Mountain
• Knowledgeable private tour guide for the mountain experience
• Opportunity to discover the mountain’s rich flora and fauna
• Breathtaking vistas overlooking Cape Town and beyond

Table Mountain Highlights

Towering over Cape Town at an impressive elevation of 3,558 feet (1,085 meters), Table Mountain is the iconic centerpiece of the city’s stunning skyline.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain boasts incredible biodiversity, including the endemic Table Mountain Ghost Frog and a variety of wildlife.

The cable car journey to the summit offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings.

Visitors can explore the mountain’s unique geological features and learn about its rich cultural history.

With a private tour guide leading the way, travelers can discover the mountain’s many wonders and gain a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour package includes the round-trip Robben Island boat trip and museum ticket, as well as entry/admission to the Robben Island Museum and Table Mountain.

The tour also provides a private tour guide/driver and vehicle with fuel, as well as pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Cape Town. Bottled water is provided on board.

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s important to bring the following:

• Passport or ID
• Comfortable shoes
• Camera
• Jacket

Important Considerations

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a valid passport is required for verification when visiting Robben Island.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so visitors should ensure they can manage the terrain. Weather conditions must be favorable for the activities to proceed as planned.

Participants will be part of a shared experience with other guests on the boat and cable car. Rescheduling is possible with 48 hours’ notice, but fees may apply.

Infant seats are available, and most travelers can participate. Overall, visitors should come prepared with the necessary documents, attire, and flexibility to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Robben Island?

The best time to visit Robben Island is during the dry summer months between November and April. This offers the most pleasant weather and optimal conditions for the guided tour and ferry trip.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Table Mountain Cable Car?

There are no age restrictions for the Table Mountain cable car. Children of all ages can participate, though parents should ensure their safety and supervision on the mountain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, bottled water is provided on board. The tour itinerary does not include time for extended meal breaks during the 6.5-hour experience.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Robben Island Prison?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Robben Island prison, but visitors are advised to check with the tour guides for any specific restrictions or guidelines. Most visitors find the opportunity to capture the historic site valuable.

How Much Time Should I Allow for the Entire Tour Experience?

The entire tour experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including the Robben Island ferry, guided tours, and the Table Mountain cable car ride. Travelers should allow sufficient time to fully experience both landmarks.

The Sum Up

The Robben Island and Table Mountain Cable Car Experience offers a unique and unforgettable day in Cape Town. Visitors explore the poignant history of Robben Island, followed by the iconic cable car ride up Table Mountain, where they discover the area’s rich biodiversity and stunning views. This tour blends history and natural beauty, making it an exceptional way to experience the city.