Embark on a Journey to History at The Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island
Discover the profound history of Nelson Mandela and Robben Island at the vibrant gateway located in Cape Town's V&A Waterfront.
The Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island is a must-visit destination for tourists fascinated by South Africa's rich history. Located at the scenic V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, this gateway offers visitors a chance to explore the legacy of Nelson Mandela and the profound historical significance of Robben Island, where Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The gateway features informative exhibits, a dedicated visitor center, and boat tours to the island, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to understand the struggle against apartheid and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.
A brief summary to The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island
- V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, 8001, ZA
- +27214134200
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your ferry tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
- Arrive early to explore the exhibits at the gateway before your ferry departure.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour on Robben Island involves some walking.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to prepare for changing conditions on the water.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining options.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from anywhere in the Cape Peninsula, head towards Cape Town and follow the signs for the V&A Waterfront. The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island is located at the V&A Waterfront, specifically at the coordinates -33.9064555 latitude and 18.4225207 longitude. There is parking available at V&A Waterfront, but be aware that parking fees may apply, typically ranging from ZAR 10 to ZAR 30 per hour. Once you park, walk towards the waterfront area; the Gateway is easily visible and well-signposted.
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Public Transportation - MyCiTi Bus
To reach The Nelson Mandela Gateway using public transport, take the MyCiTi bus service. You can catch the bus from various points in the Cape Peninsula. Look for the bus labeled 'V&A Waterfront' or 'Civic Centre' as a transfer point. The nearest MyCiTi station to the Gateway is the V&A Waterfront station. The fare for the MyCiTi bus is approximately ZAR 10-20, depending on your starting point. After disembarking at the V&A Waterfront station, follow the signs towards the Gateway, which is a short walk away.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct option, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply input 'Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island, V&A Waterfront' into the app. The cost will vary based on your starting location, but expect to pay around ZAR 100 to ZAR 300 from various points in Cape Town to the V&A Waterfront. Once you arrive, the Gateway is easily accessible and well-marked.
Discover more about The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robben Island Museum
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Old Port Captain's Building
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Frame Table mountain.
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Collier Jetty
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Jetty 2, V & A Waterfront
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The Cape Wheel
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Things To Do In Cape Town
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Battery Park @ V&A Waterfront
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Fort Wynyard
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Cape Town Breakwater
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Prestwich Memorial
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eyeseeAfrica
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Koopmans-De Wet House
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South African Sendinggestig Museum
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Rovos Rail Cape Town
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Unmissable attractions to see
Clock Tower Waterfront
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Cape Town Fish Market
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City Sightseeing Harbour cruise
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Cape Town Diamond Museum
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Wineland Ballooning Cape Town
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African Trading Port
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MIRAGE
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Adventure One -Waterfront Charters
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Chavonnes Battery Museum
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Jetty 1, V & A Waterfront
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Tigger 2 Exclusive Cruises
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Cape Town Cruises
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Cape Town Scuba Dive
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Serenity One Luxury Catamaran Cruises
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AAFRICAA
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Essential places to dine
La Parada V&A Waterfront
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Harbour House V&A Waterfront
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Sevruga Restaurant
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Mozambik V & A Waterfront
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Heirloom Restaurant
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Karibu Restaurant
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Belthazar
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Baía Seafood Restaurant - V&A Waterfront
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Tiger's Milk V&A Waterfront
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Dash Restaurant Cape Town
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Col'Cacchio V&A Waterfront (Halaal Friendly)
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PRIMI V&A Waterfront
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Pitso's Kitchen Waterfront
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Seven Colours Eatery
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GOLD Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Couture Classic Ladies Wear Store
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AVOOVA
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BHH Boutique V&A Waterfront
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Out of Africa
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Made in SA
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Carrol Boyes V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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African Curiosity
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aLoveSupreme Watershed
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Melvill & Moon V&A Watershed CPT Boutique
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Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre
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Nicci Boutiques V&A Waterfront
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Poetry V & A Waterfront
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Wild Thing Africa
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Freedom of Movement V&A Waterfront
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Silo Rooftop Bar
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RED Roof bar
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The Willaston Bar
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OUI Bar & KTCHN
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Bascule Bar and Lounge
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Ferrymans Irish Tavern
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Mitchell's Scottish Ale House
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Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen
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The Pool Bar - The Table Bay hotel
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Vista Bar & Lounge
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Shimmy Beach Club
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Skybar
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The Fireman's Arms
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The Ghibli Bar & Pool Terrace
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Harald's Rooftop Bar & Terrace
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