How to Plan Your Nelson Mandela Robben Island Plus Table Mountain Tour in Cape Town

Planning a trip to Cape Town can be overwhelming with all the amazing sights to see. However, if it’s your first time in the city, this tour is perfect for you. The Nelson Mandela Robben Island Plus Table Mountain tour is a must-do, and in this guide, we’ll show you how to plan it so that you have the best experience possible.

Overview

The Nelson Mandela Robben Island Plus Table Mountain tour is a full-day tour that takes you to two of Cape Town’s most famous tourist attractions, Robben Island and Table Mountain.

What’s Included

The tour includes pick up from your hotel, a return boat ticket to Robben Island from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V & A Waterfront mall, a cable car return ticket to the top of Table Mountain, drinks, gratuities, and lunch.

Meeting and Pickup

You’ll have two options for meeting the tour group: you can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from your hotel.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is at the Silo Hotel, Silo Square Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Cape Town 8001 South Africa. Travelers are met at the Bus stop next to the Silo Hotel at the V & A Waterfront.

Pickup Points

If you prefer pickup, select a pickup point within a 5km radius of the Cape Town city center. The tour also offers pickup from the Cape Town Cruise Ship Terminal at the V & A Waterfront.

Start Time and End Point

The tour starts at 8:30 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect

The tour includes two main stops: Robben Island Museum and Table Mountain.

Robben Island Museum

You’ll spend four hours at the Robben Island Museum, which includes a return boat trip to the island from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V & A Waterfront mall. Once on the island, you’ll receive a guided tour of the prison where former South African President Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. The tour provides insight into the history of apartheid and the struggle for freedom in South Africa.

Table Mountain

After the Robben Island visit, you’ll take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain where you’ll have a stunning view of Cape Town. The cable car return ticket is included in the tour.

Lunch and Refreshments

You’ll be provided with lunch and drinks during the tour.

Additional Info

Confirmation of the booking will be received at the time of booking. Please make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket as it can be chilly on top of Table Mountain. Book the tour here to have an unforgettable experience during your visit to Cape Town!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Town

Cape Town is a popular tourist destination located in South Africa. Visitors come from all around the world to explore its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

1. What is the best time to visit Cape Town?

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the months of November-April when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also the peak tourist season so expect higher prices for accommodation and activities. May-October is the winter season in Cape Town, but it is still a good time to visit as the city experiences mild temperatures and less crowds.

2. What are some must-visit attractions in Cape Town?

Cape Town is filled with amazing attractions and sights to see. Some of the top-rated places to visit include:

• Table Mountain – offers stunning views of the city
• Robben Island – where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years
• Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – features thousands of plant species
• Victoria & Alfred Waterfront – a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment
• Cape of Good Hope – a scenic drive that takes you to the southernmost point of the African continent

3. Is Cape Town a safe city to visit?

Cape Town has a reputation for having a high crime rate, but this should not deter you from visiting. Like any major city, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night, do not leave valuables in your car, and lock your doors and windows when you are not in your accommodation. Stick to well-lit and populated areas and do not display signs of wealth.

4. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Cape Town?

Cape Town is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its unique offerings. Some of the most popular areas to stay in include:

• City Bowl – centrally located in the heart of Cape Town and close to many attractions
• Camps Bay – known for its stunning beaches, beautiful homes, and trendy restaurants
• Sea Point – a vibrant area with a beautiful promenade overlooking the ocean and many shops and restaurants
• De Waterkant – a trendy neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial properties, known for its colorful houses and lively nightlife

5. What is the typical cuisine in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a diverse food scene with influences from African, Asian, and European cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes to try include:

• Bunny chow – a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry
• Braai – a South African barbeque often featuring meats such as lamb, beef, and boerewors
• Cape Malay curry – a fragrant and flavorful curry that combines sweet and savory flavors
• Bobotie – a sweet and spicy meatloaf with a custard topping
• Koeksisters – a sweet pastry that is deep-fried and soaked in syrup

6. Is it necessary to rent a car in Cape Town?

It is not necessary to rent a car in Cape Town, but it does give you more flexibility when it comes to exploring the city and its surrounding areas. Public transportation is available in the form of buses and trains, but these can be crowded and unreliable at times. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but can be expensive. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, renting a car may be the most convenient option.

7. What outdoor activities are available in Cape Town?

Cape Town is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include:

• Hiking up Table Mountain
• Surfing in Muizenberg
• Shark cage diving in Gansbaai
• Paragliding off Signal Hill
• Biking through the Cape Winelands

8. What is the best way to get to Cape Town?

Cape Town International Airport is the main airport in the city and serves many international destinations. Flights from major cities like London and New York can take around 11-14 hours. Domestic flights are also available from other parts of South Africa. If you are already in South Africa, you can also travel to Cape Town by bus or train. Alternatively, many visitors opt to rent a car and drive to Cape Town from other parts of the country.

9. What is the currency used in Cape Town?

The currency used in Cape Town is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is recommended to exchange your currency at a bank or authorized exchange bureau to get the best rates. ATMs are also widely available throughout the city and usually offer competitive exchange rates, but be aware of potential fees. Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.

10. What is the nightlife like in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. Long Street in the City Bowl is known for its bars and clubs and is a popular spot for partygoers. Other areas with great nightlife options include De Waterkant, Sea Point, and Camps Bay. The city also has a thriving live music scene with many venues showcasing local and international artists.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cape Town

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, Cape Town offers a diverse range of attractions, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventurous activities or leisurely sightseeing, Cape Town has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Cape Town.

1. Explore the Table Mountain National Park

Table Mountain is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cape Town, and it’s a must-visit destination for any first-time tourist. The Table Mountain National Park spans over 7,750 hectares and offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Visitors can take a cable car to the summit or hike up one of the many trails. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect place to take photos.

2. Visit Robben Island

Robben Island is a World Heritage site that served as a prison for political prisoners, including the former South African President Nelson Mandela. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination and offers visitors a glimpse of the country’s history. Visitors can take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island and see the prison cells, the limestone quarry, and the house where Mandela lived.

3. Take a Winery Tour

Cape Town is known for its excellent wine, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a winery tour. The Western Cape is home to several wine regions, including the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyards, sample different wines, and learn about the winemaking process. Many wineries also offer restaurants and accommodation, making it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

4. Explore the City’s Art Scene

Cape Town has a vibrant art scene, with several galleries and museums showcasing local and international talent. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is a must-visit destination, featuring contemporary African art. The South African National Gallery, located in the Company’s Garden, houses an extensive collection of African, European, and Asian art. Additionally, visitors can explore the street art scene in Woodstock, where colorful murals adorn the walls of buildings.

5. Relax on the Beaches

Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some of the popular beaches include Clifton, Camps Bay, and Muizenberg. Visitors can relax on the sand, swim in the clear waters, or participate in water sports such as surfing, kite-surfing, and paddleboarding. Additionally, several restaurants and bars are located along the beaches, making it a perfect place for a sundowner or a meal.

6. Visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a 528-hectare garden located at the eastern foot of Table Mountain. It’s home to a vast collection of indigenous plants, including fynbos, proteas, and cycads. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the gardens, have a picnic, or attend one of the many concerts that take place during the summer months.

7. Experience the Cape Malay Culture

The Cape Malay community is a significant part of Cape Town’s history and culture. Visitors can experience the Cape Malay culture by eating traditional Cape Malay food, listening to the music, and watching traditional dances. Bo-Kaap, located in the heart of Cape Town, is a neighborhood that’s home to many Cape Malay families. Visitors can take a walking tour of the area, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, and taste the traditional foods such as bobotie, samosas, and koeksisters.

8. Take a Township Tour

Township tours offer visitors a chance to see the other side of Cape Town, away from the glitz, and glamour of the city center. A tour of the townships will take you through areas such as Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, and Langa, where you’ll meet the locals, learn about their way of life, and experience the vibrant culture. Visitors can take a guided tour on foot or by bike, and many tours include a visit to a shebeen, a traditional tavern.

9. Visit the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s a bustling hub of activity, with several restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can take a boat tour of the harbor, explore the Two Oceans Aquarium, or attend a cultural event at the Amphitheatre. Additionally, the V&A Waterfront is a perfect place for souvenir shopping.

10. Attend a Rugby or Cricket Match

Rugby and cricket are two of the most popular sports in South Africa, and attending a match is a perfect way to experience the local culture. The Newlands Rugby Stadium is located in the southern suburbs of Cape Town and is home to the Stormers rugby team. The Newlands Cricket Ground is adjacent to the rugby stadium and hosts international cricket matches. In conclusion, Cape Town is a city with something for everyone, from its natural beauty to its rich history and culture. The above list is just a small selection of the many attractions and activities on offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests in Cape Town.