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The name ‘Nelson Mandela’, or ‘Madiba’ as he was fondly known, has become synonymous with South Africa.
There are many monuments and historic sites dedicated to the life and times of Nelson Mandela sprinkled throughout the country. These places reveal insights not only into this important historic figure, but bring to light the troubled past of the country and its citizens. Be sure to take in some of these inspirational sites during your southern African safari.
- Robben Island, Cape Town
Robben Island was a South African version of Alcatraz, except no one escaped. Take a ferry from the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront across the turbulent Atlantic to see where Nelson Mandela spent 27 years of his life along with many other political prisoners of the time.
- Apartheid Museum, outside Johannesburg
Just south of Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum showcases the background of the struggle for freedom led by Nelson Mandela. Be prepared to fight back the tears as you take this emotional journey into the country’s dark, complicated, and traumatic past. It’s a real eye-opener and highlights exactly why Mandela is so beloved for his attitude of forgiveness and conciliation.
- Mandela House, Soweto
The humble house where Nelson Mandela lived during these troubled times has been declared a national monument and is one of the city’s most visited tourist destinations. Arrive early if you want to miss the crowds, or if you can’t beat them, join them on a guided tour of Vilakazi Street which was also once the home of Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
- Constitution Hill, Johannesburg
Another tear-jerker, this former prison showcases the abominable conditions of Number 4 prison, where political prisoners were kept. Nelson Mandela was incarcerated here during the notorious 1952 Treason Trial, and again in 1962 following his arrest in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Capture Site, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Be sure to include this destination in your Midlands Meanderings during a visit to the Durban or Drakensberg area. From the roadside, this memorial looks like a bunch of spears randomly thrust into the ground, but when you view it from the other side - from the correct perspective, it forms an image of the former leader.
He’s Everywhere
Wherever you travel in South Africa you will find references to the man who brought the country out of the dark ages as gently as possible, and indirectly made your visit to this incredible southern African destination possible. Get in touch today to include any of these famous sites in your itinerary, or for the true disciple - to plan a guided pilgrimage to Mandela’s ancestral beginnings and final resting place in rural Qunu.
