Walking Cape Town’s historical sites connects visitors directly with South Africa’s powerful story of struggle and triumph. The must-do Robben Island tour, guided by former political prisoners, brings apartheid history to life through firsthand accounts. Table Mountain provides the backdrop for excellent cultural walking tours through the city’s historic neighborhoods.
I especially recommend the Township Heritage tours for their authentic insights into local life and the cycling history tour, which covers more ground while keeping things active and engaging. The self-guided Slave History mobile tour stands out for its flexibility and deep historical content.
For serious history buffs, these carefully selected tours show Cape Town’s most significant sites and stories.
Good To Know
Robben Island Tours offer an immersive experience led by former prisoners, providing personal insights into Nelson Mandela’s struggles and apartheid-era history.
Cape Town Historical and Cultural Tours combine visits to Robben Island and Table Mountain, with round-trip transportation and pre-booked tickets included.
Cultural and Township Tours, such as the African Township and Cultural Tour of Langa, offer an authentic experience of local life and vibrant culture.
Adventure and Unique Historical Tours, like the scenic cycle through !Khwa ttu Private Nature Reserve, combine fitness and sightseeing with a visit to the San Heritage Centre.
Self-Guided Historical Exploration, such as the Cape Town’s Slave History Tour using the VoiceMap app, provides affordable access to uncover the city’s complex past.
Robben Island and Long Walk to Freedom Historical Full Day Tour.
This full-day tour provides visitors with an immersive experience at Robben Island and the opportunity to explore the Long Walk to Freedom exhibit.
Led by former prisoners, the tour offers personal insights into the island’s history and the struggles of Nelson Mandela. Guests can visit the prison cells, yard, kitchen, and bathrooms, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s role as a notorious apartheid-era prison.
The Long Walk to Freedom exhibit further enhances the experience by showcasing Mandela’s journey.
With private transportation, bottled water, lunch, and entry tickets included, this highly-rated tour is a comprehensive way to explore Cape Town’s complex and impactful history.
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Historical Robben Island, Pre-Booked Tickets & Iconic Table Mountain Full Day.
Visitors to Cape Town can embark on a comprehensive full-day tour that combines the historical significance of Robben Island with the iconic allure of Table Mountain. For €80.66 per person, this tour provides round-trip transportation, pre-booked tickets, and a knowledgeable guide.
The tour accommodates up to 13 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Highlights include visiting the Robben Island museum, ascending Table Mountain, and enjoying a provided lunch.
Previous guests have praised the tour’s organization and the guides’ historical insights, though some have noted concerns about pricing and delays. This tour offers an immersive exploration of Cape Town’s most renowned attractions.
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Historical City & Table Mountain
Travelers embarking on the Historical City & Table Mountain tour will be treated to a comprehensive exploration of Cape Town’s iconic landmarks and rich heritage.
With a 5-star rating and perfect reviews, this private tour offers a personalized experience for small groups. Guests will enjoy private transportation, a professional guide, and all-inclusive services like entrance fees, beverages, and meals.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and families with strollers, and infants can join on laps with provided infant seats.
Booking is flexible, with confirmation within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This comprehensive tour is available year-round, ensuring visitors can discover Cape Town’s history and natural wonders.
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African Township and Cultural Tour – Langa From Cape Town Half Day
Embark on an enriching exploration of Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township, on this African Township and Cultural Tour.
You’ll venture out on a half-day journey to discover the vibrant culture and history of this urban community. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll get an authentic taste of local life, including a visit to a typical township restaurant for a lunch of African cuisine.
The tour, which can accommodate up to 15 travelers, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary admission fees.
Priced at $71.10 per person, this highly-rated excursion promises an immersive and insightful experience in one of Cape Town’s most fascinating neighborhoods.
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Safari Cycle and !Khwa Ttu San Heritage Experience
This enriching day trip takes visitors on a scenic cycle through the !Khwa ttu Private Nature Reserve, located just an hour’s drive from Cape Town.
The tour includes bike hire, a guided cycling tour, and a visit to the San Heritage Centre to learn about the local San communities.
Hassle-free transportation, lunch, and snacks are provided, and gratuities are included.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Priced at $218.42 per person, this activity has an overall rating of 4.5 based on 2 reviews, though no 5-star ratings have been given.
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Cape Town City Center: Art and History Bike Tour
Cycling through Cape Town’s vibrant city center, this art and history-themed bike tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Covering more ground than a walking tour, the 12-rated experience takes you past notable sights like the Cape of Good Hope, District Six, and the Company’s Garden.
With a small group for a personalized experience, the knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary on the city’s art and history, blending culture, local insights, and memorable experiences.
Rental equipment is included, and the tour’s meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this bike tour promises an engaging and enriching way to discover Cape Town’s city center.
Read our full review: Cape Town City Center: Art and History Bike Tour Review
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Visit Robben Island Prison Museum Langa Historical Township Tour
Explore the rich history and culture of Cape Town on this immersive tour that takes you to the notorious Robben Island Prison Museum and the vibrant Langa Township.
You’ll start the day with a ferry ride to Robben Island, where you’ll visit the former prison that once held Nelson Mandela.
Then, you’ll head to the historic township of Langa to learn about its past and present.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a registered guide, and lunch.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Cape Town’s captivating history.
Read our full review: Visit Robben Island Prison Museum Langa Historical Township Tour Review
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Private Historical Robben Island Pre Book and Table Mountain
Set out on a captivating journey through Cape Town’s rich history with this private tour that takes you to the renowned Robben Island and the iconic Table Mountain.
Priced from $121.44 per person, the tour includes round-trip boat transfers to Robben Island, entrance fees to the Robben Island Museum, and cable car tickets to the top of Table Mountain.
Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable private guide to provide insights throughout the experience.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling, this tour offers flexibility and peace of mind.
Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a panoramic city view, this private tour is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Private Historical Robben Island Pre Book and Table Mountain Review
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Cultural Tour
Enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Cape Town on this private cultural tour. Explore the city’s diverse heritage, from its colonial past to its modern multicultural identity.
Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation. The tour includes a knowledgeable driver-guide and local guides, ensuring you experience the city’s rich cultural offerings.
Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-friendly options and modifications available for less mobile passengers. Priced from SEK 1,743.55 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot on this captivating cultural adventure.
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Historic Cape Town Wine Tasting
On this private historic Cape Town wine tasting tour, guests venture through the city’s captivating past while savoring the region’s renowned vintages.
Priced from $227.52 per group (up to 7), the tour includes private transportation, visits to two museums, and a qualified guide.
Pickup is available directly at the meeting point or selected locations, with the tour returning to the starting point.
The experience is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller options, as well as accommodations for service animals.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.
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Slavery in the Cape: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape Towns Slave History
The self-guided audio tour “Slavery in the Cape: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape Town’s Slave History” immerses visitors in the city’s complex and often-overlooked past.
Using the VoiceMap app, travelers can explore Cape Town’s slave legacy at their own pace, starting and stopping the tour as needed.
The tour covers key sites like the Iziko Slave Lodge and Grind 4 Truth Coffee Shop, providing fascinating historical insights.
Accessible to most, the tour offers lifetime access, allowing visitors to revisit the content whenever they choose.
For those interested in uncovering Cape Town’s hidden stories, this self-guided experience is a compelling and affordable option.
Read our full review: Slavery in the Cape: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape Towns Slave History Review
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Private History & Culture Tour of Bo-Kaap and District 6 With a Local Guide
Visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Cape Town’s storied past can embark on a Private History & Culture Tour of the iconic Bo-Kaap and District 6 neighborhoods.
This fully customizable 4-hour experience with a local guide allows guests to tailor the itinerary to their interests, be it architecture, shopping, history, or culture. The tour includes a delicious local meal and costs $98.59 per person, with flexible departure times.
Meeting at Against The Grain, the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, ensuring accessibility for all. With a 5.0 rating and free cancellation, this private tour provides an immersive way to explore Cape Town’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Private History & Culture Tour of Bo-Kaap and District 6 With a Local Guide Review
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Robben Island Guided History Sightseeing Day Tour From Cape Town
Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore South Africa’s complex history.
This guided sightseeing tour takes travelers on a journey to the island, which served as a prison for anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela. During the tour, a small group of up to 16 people will explore the island’s key landmarks, including the cell that confined Mandela for 18 years.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, brunch, and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Visitors should come prepared with seasickness medication, comfortable clothing, and a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves walking.
Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on this popular historical excursion.
Read our full review: Robben Island Guided History Sightseeing Day Tour From Cape Town Review
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Cape Town Robben Island Guided History Tour Tickets
Booking a Robben Island Guided History Tour in Cape Town allows visitors to explore the island’s rich past as a former prison and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from hotels in Sea Point and City Centre, with an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi. Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide who provides historical insights.
The tour package also includes tickets to the Two Ocean Aquarium. Priced from $118.95 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes bottled water and lunch, making it a convenient and inclusive option for exploring Cape Town’s history.
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Full Day Township and Robben Island Heritage Tour
This full-day tour provides an in-depth exploration of Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage, combining a visit to a vibrant township with the historic Robben Island.
Priced from £58.00 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a fully guided experience, lunch, and the Robben Island ticket.
The Robben Island portion requires a cash payment of R600 directly to the guide. Guests must be ready 15 minutes before the 8:30 AM departure time and should look for the Just Safaris branded vehicle.
This tour is weather-dependent but tickets are guaranteed, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Full Day Township and Robben Island Heritage Tour Review
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Cape Town City Centre Historical Private Tour
Cape Town’s vibrant city center comes alive on this comprehensive historical private tour. Operated by Showcase Afrika Tours, the tour allows you to explore the city’s rich heritage at your own pace.
You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and treated to a delicious lunch, as well as coffee or tea. The tour starts at 9 AM from the Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town, with pickup available.
Most travelers can participate, and infant seats are provided. Booking is easy, with a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, and a Lowest Price Guarantee.
This is a must-do experience for anyone interested in Cape Town’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Cape Town City Centre Historical Private Tour Review
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Cape Town: Historical Running Small Group Tour With Hotel Pick up and Drop off
Explore Cape Town’s captivating history on this guided running tour. Offering a maximum of 10 travelers, this small group experience provides a personal and immersive way to discover the city’s landmarks.
Led by a qualified personal trainer, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, chilled bottled water, and an optional personal hand towel.
With a moderate fitness level required, this tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Priced from $37.92 per person, the tour features free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
Don’t miss the opportunity to combine fitness and sightseeing on this unique historical running adventure in Cape Town.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Historical Running Small Group Tour With Hotel Pick up and Drop off Review
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Robben Island Guided History Tour With Pre Booked Tickets
Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into South Africa’s turbulent history.
The Robben Island Half Day Tour provides a comprehensive experience, including transportation, admission to the Robben Island Museum, and a guided history tour. At $96.70 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate and informative experience.
Key inclusions are bottled water, air-conditioned vehicles, hotel pickup and drop-off, and even lunch and snacks.
While the tour enjoys a 92% traveler recommendation, some past guests have reported issues with guide availability and rescheduling.
Nonetheless, this tour remains a popular and highly-rated way to explore the island’s significant historical legacy.
Read our full review: Robben Island Guided History Tour With Pre Booked Tickets Review
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Historical Long Walk to Freedom With Ticket and Transfer
This guided tour takes travelers on a comprehensive exploration of Cape Town’s rich historical legacy.
The “Historical Long Walk to Freedom” tour provides entry to the iconic Long March to Freedom and Castle of Good Hope, allowing visitors to explore South Africa’s past.
Included are private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, onboard amenities, and gratuities.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families.
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience and opt for a reserve now, pay later option.
With a 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, this tour offers an engaging and informative way to uncover Cape Town’s pivotal role in the Long Walk to Freedom.
Read our full review: Historical Long Walk to Freedom With Ticket and Transfer Review
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3 Hours Private Cape Town Historical Walking Tour
For an immersive exploration of Cape Town’s storied past, the 3 Hours Private Cape Town Historical Walking Tour offers an engaging and informative experience.
Priced at $42.66 per person, this private tour allows clients to choose their own pickup location and explore the city’s rich history on foot.
With a 5.0 overall rating based on 2 reviews, the tour includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages, if desired.
Accessibility features make the tour wheelchair and stroller friendly, and infant seats are available.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for free.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Private Cape Town Historical Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Depending on the tour company’s policies, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on historical tours. It’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to ensure compliance with any food and drink restrictions.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most historical tours are wheelchair-accessible, allowing visitors to explore the sites comfortably. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the specific tour you’re interested in accommodates your needs.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if tours are cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. Some companies may charge a small fee for last-minute cancellations. Customers should check the specific policy before booking a tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most historical tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may recommend that children be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the tour operator to understand their specific policies regarding minimum age requirements.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tours?
Participants can typically take photographs during the tours, but they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the tour provider. Some sites may have limited photography or prohibit flash photography to preserve the historical atmosphere.
The Sum Up
Cape Town offers a variety of historical tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich heritage. From the Robben Island tour to the township and cultural experiences, there’s something for all interested in learning about Cape Town’s past. These tours provide an informative and engaging way to discover the city’s significant historical landmarks and events.