The Traveling Taylors

Robben Island is one of Cape Town’s most powerful attractions. A former prison turned UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in captivity. Visiting is moving, educational, and unforgettable—but only if you know what to expect. Here are 7 common mistakes tourists make when visiting Robben Island, and how to avoid them.

1. Thinking Tickets Are Easy to Get

Many travelers assume they can buy tickets at the last minute. In reality, Robben Island tours sell out weeks in advance, especially in summer. If you are able to secure tickets and if you enjoy filming your travel experiences, a tiny wearable camera like this one is a great way to capture hands-free POV footage while on Robben Island.

✅ Fix: Book directly through the Robben Island Museum website as early as possible.

If you’d rather skip the last-minute scramble, you can reserve a Robben Island tour with ferry tickets and transfers included so your spot is locked in before you arrive. For the full rundown on timing, tickets, and what to expect, see our Cape Town Robben Island visitor guide.

2. Believing It’s Just About Mandela

While Mandela’s cell is the highlight, the tour covers far more—other political prisoners, the limestone quarry, and the island’s long history as a place of exile.

✅ Fix: Go in with an open mind and learn the full story. Elevate your experience on Robben Island with a keepsake journal  thoughtfully designed for travelers who love capturing memories, documenting adventures, and preserving the fun of every trip.

3. Underestimating the Ferry Ride

The ferry across Table Bay can be rough, with strong winds and choppy seas. Seasickness catches many visitors off guard. Many travelers use anti-nausea wristbands like these to help relieve sea sickness for both adults and kids.

✅ Fix: Bring motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to nausea, and sit outside for fresh air.

4. Expecting a Quick Visit

The entire tour takes about 3.5–4 hours including the ferry, bus tour, and prison walk. Some tourists expect a quick photo stop and are surprised by the time commitment.

✅ Fix: Plan half a day for Robben Island in your itinerary.

5. Forgetting to Dress for the Weather

Cape Town weather changes fast. It can be warm at the V&A Waterfront but freezing on the ferry or windy on the island.

✅ Fix: Bring a jacket, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes—regardless of the season. Many travelers stay warm with this quilted women’s jacket which is the perfect travel layer for chilly days or being on the ferry.

6. Not Respecting the Space

Robben Island isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a site of trauma and resilience. Tourists taking loud selfies or treating Mandela’s cell like a backdrop often draw criticism.

✅ Fix: Take photos, but remember the site’s gravity. Listen carefully to guides and former prisoners. Many travelers use quality hybrid active noise cancelling headphones like these that help them clearly hear their tour guide. 

7. Assuming Tours Always Run

High winds and rough seas frequently cancel ferries, sometimes at the last minute. Many tourists don’t realize this and miss their chance to reschedule.

✅ Fix: Book early in your trip so you have buffer days if tours are canceled. Staying hydrated during the ferry ride and your Robben Island tour is important, so many travelers carry a collapsible water bottle like this one that folds flat when it’s empty.

Cape Town Robben Island

Visiting Cape Town Robben Island is emotional, eye-opening, and one of the most meaningful experiences you can have in South Africa. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll get the most from your visit—leaving with not just photos, but a deeper understanding of resilience, justice, and hope.

Looking for more history and culture? Don’t miss our Cape Town Bo Kaap Neighborhood guide for another powerful glimpse into the city’s heritage.