Nelson Mandela's Historic Prison

Infamous for being the holding place of Nelson Mandela during his many years of imprisonment, Robben Island has a 400-year history of being a place of exile, punishment and isolation. Situated 12km from the coast of Cape Town, it has been home to political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society. Since the Dutch settled in the Cape in the mid-1600's, Robben Islands primary function was that of a prison. However, thousands of years ago, when the channel between the Cape and the Island was not covered in water, the island was happily inhabited by people. Now the residents of Robben Island (some ex-prisoners and guards) live together in their own small community. Catch a ferry from the V&A to explore this fascinating destination and tour the prison with one of the ex-prisoners as your guide. Pre-booking tickets is recommended to avoid queuing.