The city of Cape Town offers countless tiny wonders that you can explore during your visit, but it’s also surrounded by many magnificent attractions. Robben Island is one of the most popular day-trip destinations that you can easily access from this South African city, and here are three reasons why you should check it out.
Rich History
Robben Island is best known for serving as a prison before the end of apartheid, housing many political prisoners – including Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 years behind bars on this island. Robben Island was later declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there’s now a museum on the island exploring this part of its past.
Penguin Viewing
Boulders Beach is Cape Town’s No. 1 penguin viewing spot, but it’s not the only one. Robben Island is also home to a colony of African penguins, and penguin viewing is popular tourist activity, but it’s important to note that the number of penguins on the island is in decline.
Amazing Views
Robben Island Viewing Point is one of the island’s must-see attractions because it offers incredible views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. Robben Island is also a popular shipwreck viewing hotspot with 31 vessels being wrecked around the island due to its rocky cliffs and powerful surf.