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Robben Island Museum has launched its NextGenHeritage Free Pass, giving South African children under the age of 15 free entry to the museum when accompanied by a paying adult.
The offer runs from 1 June to 30 October 2026: that includes the winter and spring school holidays, as well as two public holidays!
The aim, says Robben Island Museum, is to make heritage experiences more accessible for South African families, while encouraging younger visitors to engage with the country’s history and democratic journey. Round of applause for the Museum for that!
It’s a timely reminder that Robben Island is not only one of Cape Town’s most popular visitor attractions, but also one of South Africa’s most powerful living-history sites. For many visitors, the most poignant stop is the former prison block where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison, including a visit to his small cell in Section B. But the wider island tour also gives a sense of Robben Island beyond the prison walls, from its military history and limestone quarry to the natural landscapes and views back to the city.
Tours include the ferry crossing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, a guided bus tour of the island and a visit to the former maximum-security prison, with insight from guides who help bring the island’s layered history into focus.
The free pass applies to one South African child under 15 per paying adult. A South African adult ticket costs R400, while additional children are charged at the standard child rate of R210.
The offer is valid for daily tour slots at 9am, 11am and 1pm, subject to availability and weather conditions.
Bookings can be made online via the Robben Island Museum website or in person at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront.
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