There are few places in South Africa that bear the weight and sheer historical significance of Robben Island, and a trip to the former prison serves as a jarring reminder of the country’s troubled political past. At the same time, it reveals itself as a powerful symbol for the triumph of the human spirit, and offers fascinating insight into the reconciliation and resilience that played such a key role in the development of a new South Africa.

Based on the current circumstances, Robben Island Museum (RIM) operates three tours on a weekly basis – Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 11am. Tour capacity and frequency will be relooked and gradually increased based on the domestic demand and the reopening of international travel.

RIM has introduced and is following stringent health protocols throughout the visitor experience value chain to ensure that facilities are compliant and meet all safety minimum standards for visitors and employees. These include, but not limited to the following measures:

– All visitors and staff wearing a mask

– Compulsory COVID-19 screening and testing is conducted at the main entrance of all premises

– Employees, including all operational staff, have received training on COVID 19 procedures

– Hand sanitizer dispensers have been installed at various locations

– Social distancing markings, and other COVID-19 signage have been installed

– The ferries and vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, and after every tour

Ticket sales are available at Nelson Mandela Gateway (NMG), but they strongly encourage tickets to be purchased at their user-friendly online ticketing system or at Pick ’N Pay.

– South African Adult rate: R400 | Non South African Adult rate: R600

– South African Child (under 18) rate: R210 | Non South African Child (under 18) rate: R310

– Online tickets can be purchased here: http://webtickets.co.za/events/tourism/robben-island-museum-tour/76219

For more information, please visit www.robben-island.org.za or follow Robben Island Museum’s social media pages:

– Twitter: @robben_island

– Instagram: @robben_island

– Facebook: Robben Island Museum – An Agency of The Department of Arts & Culture

Picture/s: supplied

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