Robben Island

Robben Island is an island in Table Bay, 6.9 kilometres west of the coast of Bloubergstrand, north of Cape Town, South Africa. It takes its name from the Dutch word for seals, hence the Dutch/Afrikaans name Robbeneiland, which translates to Seal Island.

robben island

What is special about Robben Island?

Robben Island is most famous as the place where Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president of South Africa, was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years in jail. The island has since become a symbol of the triumph of democracy and freedom over oppression.

How much is Robben Island entrance fee?

The Robben Island entrance fee via a boat has been categorised into two. For adults, the normal ferry trip costs R360 while for children it costs R200. A special tour with 10 highlights and 5 stops is also available and it needs the adults to pay R1050 and children below 12 years of age to pay R600 for the tickets.

What are 2 facts about Robben Island?

Robben Island is located 12 kilometers off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. For decades, it was home to a maximum-security prison where political prisoners were incarcerated during apartheid. Nelson Mandela—the first black president of South Africa, elected in 1994— served 18 years in prison on Robben Island.

Who owns Robben Island?

Many of the guides are former prisoners. All land on the island is owned by the nation of South Africa, with the exception of the island church. Administratively, Robben Island is a suburb of the City of Cape Town.