Activist, philanthropist, president: Nelson Mandela is an icon around the world. In his native South Africa, there are many rewarding sites to visit and pay homage to this great leader. Here are a few:
Robben Island
This island-prison off the coast of Cape Town was home to Mandela from 1964-1982. He was confined to a small concrete cell, without plumbing and only a straw mat for sleep. He had to do hard labor breaking rocks into gravel. The jail is now a museum; a visit inside his cell is a moving experience.
Apartheid Museum
This Johannesburg museum celebrates the anti-apartheid movement. The exhibits will leave a profound impression for all. The experience starts outside the building, which has two entrances labeled “White” and “Non-white.” Depending on which tickets you’re randomly issued, you’ll be ushered through one of the two.
Soweto – The Mandela House
This was the home of Mandela and his family from the 1946-1990’s (although he spent many of these years on the run and as a prisoner). Audio-visuals, photographic galleries and live guides give an intriguing and rare glimpse into the Mandela’s family life during his years fighting apartheid.
Visit these poignant memorials on your trip to South Africa. A fantastic way to experience the culture and the wildlife is with our partner AmaWaterways, combining a unique river cruise with a safari and city stay. Call your Stellar Travel advisor today for more details.
Photo: The Good News