Robben Island In Cape Town

The Robben Island history is very rich and the island is also fascinating from environmental and geographical perspectives. At one time, this island was a part of the mainland. The Robben Island is basically the peak of a mountain, the rest of which remains under water these days. The first democratically chosen President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela had to spend 18 years from his total 27 years of prison on the Robben Island. Apart from him, the nation’s other Presidents, namely Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma also spent some years over here. Second half of the 19th century saw the island becoming a leper colony and animal quarantine station. During the Second World War, the island was also used as a military base. Hence, the history of the Robben Island in itself is too vast and eventful to be ignored which becomes another reason for the tourists to have interest in gaining the experience of visiting it.

Things To Do In Robben Island

Visit the Prison 7 - while there a number of different prison cells on Robben Island, Prison No. 7 is the most infamous one. It was the home of renowned freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela during the period of his imprisonment. He was kept in the cell for nearly 18 years during the anti-apartheid movement. It is now converted into a tourist attraction after being restored. 

Take a tour of the Penguin Sanctuary - besides the prisons and cells in Robben Island, the Penguin Sanctuary in Robben Island is a refreshing attraction. Whether or not you are a wildlife enthusiast, you must definitely visit this park. It is always a delight to watch these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.