Robben Island Travel Guide

Explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of Robben Island, its food and drink scene, accommodation options, local customs, and travel logistics.


Introduction to Robben Island

Robben Island is a small island located in the Table Bay of Cape Peninsula, Western Cape, South Africa. The island has a rich history that goes back to the 17th century when it was used as a place of banishment and isolation for political prisoners, lepers, and others who were deemed undesirable by the colonial authorities. Today, Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a museum, and memorial that serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

List of Places to Visit in Robben Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

A tour of Robben Island takes visitors through numerous museums and historical places that recount the island’s past. The highlights are:

  • Robben Island Museum: The museum is dedicated to the political prisoners who were incarcerated on the island for their opposition to apartheid.
  • Maximum-Security Prison: This is where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 18 years of his 27-year sentence.
  • Lime Quarry: The quarry is where political prisoners were forced to work, breaking stones for construction purposes.
  • Robert Sobukwe House: This is the house where Robert Sobukwe, the founder of the Pan-Africanist Congress, was confined in solitary confinement.
  • Kramat (Shrine): This is a Muslim shrine dedicated to Sayed Abdurahman Moturu, a religious teacher who died on Robben Island in the 19th Century.

Natural Attractions of Robben Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Robben Island offers several exciting outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities for those looking to explore beyond its museums and historical places. Here are its top natural attractions:

  • Seal Colony: The island has a large seal colony that lives on its rocky shoreline. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to view the seals from a safe distance.
  • Bird Watching: Robben Island is home to several species of birds, including African penguins, cormorants, and gulls.
  • Fishing: Visitors can go fishing on the island’s coastline with a valid permit.
  • Walking Trails: There are several walking trails around the island that provide stunning views of the ocean and the mainland. The Island is known for its spring wildflowers that bloom in August and September.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Robben Island

Robben Island has several cycling and hiking routes that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty. Here are some of the suggested routes:

  • Circular Route: A 22-kilometer circular route that takes visitors around the entire island, passing through historical sites, natural attractions, and viewpoints.
  • Single Route: A 9-kilometer single route that explores the southern side of the island and provides stunning views of Hout Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Robben Island: Activities and Tours

Robben Island offers several exciting activities and tours. Here are its top picks:

  • Robben Island Guided Tour: A guided tour around the island, led by former political prisoners who share their stories and experiences.
  • Boat Tours: Boat tours around the island provide breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Museum Tour: A museum tour that explores the island’s history and prison life.
  • Sunset Tour: A tour of the island at sunset, which provides stunning views of the sun setting over the ocean.
  • Personal Exploration: Visitors can explore the island on their own by cycling, hiking, or walking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Robben Island

A week-long itinerary for Robben Island can be planned as follows:

  • Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your choice of accommodation
  • Day 2: Explore the island museums and historical sites
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour to view the seals, go fishing, or go bird-watching
  • Day 4: Walk the island’s circular route, enjoy the views and explore the island’s natural attractions
  • Day 5: Rent a bike and explore the island’s southern side or go on a sunset tour
  • Day 6: Personal exploration day
  • Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Robben Island

Must-Try Dishes

Robben Island’s food scene is influenced by the cuisines of the Western Cape and Cape Malay origins. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Bobotie: A traditional Cape Malay dish made with minced meat, spices, and a creamy egg topping.
  • Bunny Chow: A spicy curry dish served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread.
  • Potjiekos: A slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew served with rice.

Local Beverages

Robben Island’s beverage scene is dominated by local brews and wines. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Rooibos Tea: A South African herbal tea.
  • Witblits: A locally brewed brandy made from distilled grapes.
  • Pinotage: A South African wine unique to the Western Cape.

Where to Stay in Robben Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Robben Island has several accommodation options for visitors. Here are the top picks:

  • The Island Hotel: Located on the island, the hotel is a former leper colony that has been converted to modern hotel rooms.
  • The Backpack: A budget-friendly backpacker hostel located in the nearby town of Cape Town.
  • The Commodore Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the nearby Victoria and Alfred Waterfront area of Cape Town.

What to Buy in Robben Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Robben Island has several shops and markets that sell souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Prisoner Art: Artwork made by former prisoners that depict life on the island.
  • Local Crafts: Handmade crafts such as beaded jewelry, woven baskets, and wooden carvings.
  • Traditional Spices: A range of local spices such as Cape Malay curry and South African chutneys.

Local Culture and Customs of Robben Island

Robben Island’s culture and customs are influenced by the Cape Malay traditions and the political resistance movement against apartheid. Here are some interesting facts:

  • The island’s first inhabitants were Khoikhoi pastoralists, who lived there between the 13th and 17th centuries.
  • The island was used as a maximum-security prison from 1961 to 1996.
  • The island was also used as a military base during World War II.
  • Robben Island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Best Time to Visit Robben Island

The best time to visit Robben Island is during the spring months of August and September. This is when the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the island is at its most picturesque. However, the island can be visited year-round, with pleasant weather throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Robben Island

Do:

  • Respect the island’s cultural and historical significance.
  • Take a guided tour around the island.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the island’s cultural heritage by littering or vandalizing.
  • Enter restricted areas.
  • Smoke or drink alcohol on the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Robben Island

Robben Island is a safe place to visit, with a low incidence of crime. Visitors are advised to be cautious of pickpockets and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Health in Robben Island

Robben Island has a small hospital that can provide basic medical care. Visitors are advised to take a first-aid kit and any medication they need, as the island’s facilities are limited.

Getting to Robben Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Robben Island, visitors need to take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. There are several ferry operators, and visitors can book tickets online. The journey takes about 30 minutes each way.

Airports Near Robben Island

The nearest airport to Robben Island is Cape Town International Airport, located about 20 kilometers away from the ferry terminal.

Bus Stations Near Robben Island

There are several bus stops and stations located near the V&A Waterfront, with frequent connections to other parts of Cape Town.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to drive to the V&A Waterfront, park their cars there, and take the ferry to Robben Island.

How to Get Around in Robben Island

Robben Island is a small island, and visitors can explore it on foot, by bicycle or on guided tours.

Where to Go Next from Robben Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Robben Island is located near several other popular tourist destinations in Cape Town. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Table Mountain: A stunning natural landmark that offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.
  • Cape of Good Hope: A scenic headland at the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula.
  • Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden located at the foot of Table Mountain.

Conclusion

Robben Island is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into South Africa’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore its museums and historical places, enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking, and sample local cuisine and beverages. With several accommodation options and easy access to nearby attractions, Robben Island is an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

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