Mandela’s South Africa

Trace the life of Nelson Mandela through the places he knew…

1 Nelson Mandela Museum, Mthatha

Mandela was born in the Eastern Cape, where most people still know him by his clan name, Madiba. This museum collects memorabilia and photos from his political life; it also has a second site in Qunu (30km away), where Mandela spent his youth, which looks at his earlier years. nelsonmandelamuseum.org.za

2 Liliesleaf Farm, Rivonia

Head to the suburbs north of Jo’burg for tours of what was the secret HQ of the ANC (African National Congress) between 1961 and ’63. Mandela lived here under a pseudonym before his eventual capture.

3 Capture Site, Howick

It was here in Kwazulunatal province, on 5 August 1962, that Mandela was finally arrested after a long pursuit. A sculpture installed on the site, made from 50 steel bars, marks the spot and reveals a touching portrait of his face when viewed at the right angle.

4 Drakenstein Prison, Western Cape

Mandela’s final months of incarceration were spent in the warder’s cottage of this institution near Paarl, 60km from Cape Town. It was from here that he walked free. It’s still a working prison, so there are no tours, but the statue of Mandela outside is iconic.

5 City Hall, Cape Town

The site of Mandela’s first speech upon his release from prison is marked by a statue on the balcony on which he stood. Wander Grand Parade below and imagine the excitement of the crowd that gathered here.

6 Mandela House, Soweto

Mandela first moved here in 1946, then returned briefly in 1990 following his release from prison. Thereafter it was preserved as a museum and has some great family photos. mandelahouse.com