Robben Island (Robben Island)

Member Name: sharkman

Product:	Robben Island
Date:	30/03/01 (66 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unique view of Nelson Mandela's prison life

Disadvantages: Trips can be called off due to bad weather

Robben Island is known the world over as a place of banishment, exile and imprisonment, for nearly 400 years colonial and apartheid rulers banished those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society to this rocky outcrop in Table Bay.

During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. Some freedom fighters spent more than 25 years in prison for their beliefs. Yet people like Nelson Mandela emerged from here to lead South Africa to democracy with a message of tolerance, reconciliation and hope that moved the World.

Now you can visit Robben Island, the standard tour includes: -

A return boat trip across Table Bay.

A visit to the famous maximum-security prison, which includes the Footsteps Of Mandela Tour- from the main prison entrance through the famous b-section, which includes Nelson Mandela's cell and also the Cell Stories Exhibition in A-Section- a stark area of 40 isolation cells with artefacts loaned by ex-political prisoners. Intimate stories of lesser-known prisoners and the bleakness of prison life recreated.

A 45-minute island bus tour, which takes in the Leper Church and Cemetery, Lighthouse, WWII Gun Batteries and Women’s Quarters as well as the Garrison Church and the Governor’s Residence.


Points to note: -

Cameras are not allowed to be taken to Robben Island.
Do not remove or deface any object, even stones and shells must not be removed.
Tap water on the Island is not drinkable, however refreshments are available at the museum shop and cafeteria.
Medical services on the Island are not comprehensive; remember to take your own medication with you.

The visit is very moving and leads you to realise just how incredible it was that Nelson Mandela could come from such a place to lead South Africa; you cannot fail to be moved by the stories you hear and the sights you
see.

All boat trips leave from the Clock tower terminal at the V&A Waterfront, it is advisable to pre-book during the busy summer season, trips are also subject to weather conditions.

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