I visited Cape Town during April of 2025, which is near the summer of the Southern Hemisphere. I created a Youtube video on my channel for a more interactive way of reviewing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3sRuFqcAzY&ab_channel=MscBonbon

I visited Robben Island in April 2025. Tourists have to book an official tour to visit this island. I booked a noon tour which is a mistake because it is blazing hot in the summer. I'm not sure why the but local guide, who was an ex prisoner, decided to talk about his experience and the history under the sun in the courtyard with no shade for 20 mins plus. So I would suggest going for morning tours. When I lined up at the docks, I didn't have to wait in the dock for too long and got on the boat straight away. My advice is to not arrive too early at the docks.

Overall it was a good experience, and one definetly should visit to fully appreciate the hardship the prisoners suffered here. I understand the need of a tour bus because it is quite a barren and big island and you don't want stragglers or people to wander and get lost, or worse cause damage to places. I learned about some more famous prisoners (because I think everyone knows about Mandela) but actually Robert Sobukwe was also a very influential figure in the movement. Visiting this site will take a full day of your itinery even if you start early because the ship schedule is fixed.

For food and drinks there is a cafe at the sea side where they will bring you and you can get some refreshments.