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Robben Island

Robben Island is a world heritage site located off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. The island was originally used as a leper colony, but later became an apartheid prison. Nelson Mandela, the world-famous South African leader of the anti-apartheid movement, was imprisoned on Robben Island for 18 years. Today, the island is open to tours, and visitors can see the cell where Mandela was held, as well as the prisons and leper colony.

It’s historical importance aside, the island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and ostriches and a feral population of peacocks. The boat trip to Robben Island from Cape Town takes about an hour, and tickets can be purchased at the Waterfront or online in advance. Tours of the island are conducted by former prisoners, making for a unique and enlightening experience.

Popular Activities Around Robben Island

Robben Island is best known as historical landmark with significance in South Africa’s political history, but this World Heritage Site offers so much more. 

Heritage Frame on Robben Island
Heritage Frame on Robben Island
Lepers Graveyard on Robben Island
Lepers Graveyard on Robben Island
Prison No.7 on Robben Island
Prison No.7 on Robben Island
The Moturu Kramat on Robben Island
The Moturu Kramat on Robben Island
The Prison Museum on Robben Island
The Prison Museum on Robben Island

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About the Area

Robben Island is best known as the site of a maximum security prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were incarcerated during apartheid. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Robben Island is a must-see for any tourists visiting South Africa. The island has a long and fascinating history, and it is now home to a variety of attractions.

Visitors can tour the island by boat, see the prison where Nelson Mandela was held, or visit the museum dedicated to his life. There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, including penguins, seals, and endemic bird.

From Robben Island, you can get unparalleled views of Cape Town’s skyline and Table Mountain. Whether you’re admiring the view from the ferry ride over or soaking up the scenery. In addition, the views from the island are simply breathtaking.

Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or just want to enjoy some stunning scenery, Robben Island is sure to please.

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Popular Attractions on Robben Island

Robben Island Museum
Robben Island Museum
Table Mountain yellow frame
Table Mountain yellow frame
Prison
Prison
Muslim Moturu Kramat shrine
Muslim Moturu Kramat shrine

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