History & Heritage · Cape Town and Robben Island
Diamonds & Freedom
South Africa's diamond story alongside Robben Island's story of freedom.
- Duration
- About 8 hours
- Location
- Cape Town and Robben Island
- Style
- Private, 2 or 4 guests
- Price
- From R2,990 pp4 guests sharing
The experience
Diamonds & Freedom
A day of reflection. It begins with diamonds, a story that shaped South Africa's economy and its history, and a short walk through the historic centre before an early lunch at the Waterfront.
In the afternoon you cross Table Bay to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela and many others were imprisoned for their part in the struggle for freedom. The island tour is a meaningful, often moving, experience, and the day ends back at the harbour.
Your journey
How the Day Unfolds
Timings are a guide. Your concierge confirms each appointment and shapes the day around you.
09:00–09:45
The Diamond Works Signature Experience
The story of diamonds and tanzanite, and time in the showroom.
10:00–10:45
Company's Garden and the historic centre
A short heritage walk before heading to the harbour.
10:45–11:45
Early lunch
Lunch near the Waterfront.
12:00–12:30
Ferry check-in
Check-in at the Nelson Mandela Gateway.
13:00–16:30
Robben Island
The ferry crossing and the island tour; timings follow the confirmed sailing.
16:30–17:00
The Waterfront and return
A short walk if the sailing allows, then back to your hotel.
The diamond experience
Every Journey Begins With a Diamond
Each day includes time with diamonds in Cape Town: how they are found, cut and set, the craftsmanship behind a finished stone, and time to look closely in a showroom.
Buying is never part of the plan. If something catches your eye, you deal directly with the jeweller, and nothing you see is included in the tour price.
What's Included
- Private vehicle with your own driver-guide for the day
- Hotel collection and return within central Cape Town
- The Diamond Works' complimentary Signature Diamond & Tanzanite Experience, by appointment
- Robben Island ferry and tour ticket
- Lunch, up to R250 per guest
- Bottled water and parking
Not Included
- Jewellery, diamonds, gemstones and rings, which you buy directly from the jeweller if you choose to
- Other attractions and purchases at the Waterfront
- Additional drinks, gratuities and personal purchases
- Flights, accommodation and travel insurance
- Collection outside central Cape Town, extra hours or changes after confirmation, unless quoted
Make it yours
Optional Extras
Add any of these when you enquire. Each depends on appointments and timings, which your concierge confirms with you.
Cape Town Diamond Museum
A visit of 30 to 45 minutes to the Cape Town Diamond Museum, separate from the diamond experience in your day.
Price on request
Shimansky Rockwell Diamond Experience
A guided diamond experience at Shimansky's Rockwell showroom, booked by appointment.
In place of the morning diamond visit, if the timings work.
Price on request
Collection outside central Cape Town
Collection from the Southern Suburbs, the Atlantic Seaboard, the Winelands or further afield.
Request a quote
- Ask your concierge.
Plan your journey
Make This Journey Your Own
Tell us your date and who you are travelling with. Our Diamond Concierge will confirm every detail and shape the day around you.
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