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Freedom flight

Be humbled by Nelson Mandela's life story with a tailor-made tour
A tailor made tour

Meet Christo Brand, warder and close friend of Nelson Mandela and follow the personal journey that these two men shared, from the moment they met as a young, 19-year-old prison warder and a wise 60-year old prisoner. Hear the stories behind the scenes and experience the connection these two men shared under unusual and spirit-breaking circumstances. This intimate meeting will be followed by a scenic and informative flight departing from the iconic V&A Waterfront and around the infamous Robben Island. Witness the stark beauty and isolation of the island that kept both Nelson Mandela and Christo Brand far from their loved ones.

From Robben Island, we will fly along the breath-taking coastline and the Atlantic Seaboard, with vistas of the famous beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. At Hout Bay, we will head inland towards Steenberg, where Christo will share his memories of Mandela’s 6 years at Pollsmoor prison.

From there we will fly past the Drakenstein Correctional Centre, formerly known as Victor Verster Prison in the Cape Winelands where Christo will again share the intimate details of his relationship with Madiba and how their friendship and respect for each other blossomed, even under such harsh conditions.

Following the rolling vineyards, we will find our way to the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Allow the heart-stirring stories to seep into your memory as you share the experience of the day at the magnificent Mont Rochelle, enjoying a scrumptious lunch and their delectable wines.

Flying back to the V&A Waterfront, you will be absorbed in your thoughts as you replay the moments of the day, imagining what life must have been like for these two remarkable men, and ultimately being grateful that you are on this magnificent Freedom Flight.

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What is included?
  • Private helicopter flight
  • Guided curated tour by Christo Brand
  • 2 Signed copies of Christo Brand’s book, “Doing Life with Mandela – My Prisoner, My Friend”
  • Wine tasting and 3-course lunch (set menu) at MIKO, Mont Rochelle Estate, Franschhoek
Tour details
  • Valid all year round, except on Christmas Day
  • Meet at NAC Helicopters, East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront
  • Duration: 4 ¼ hours
  • Starting at 10:45, and returning at 15:00
  • Regrettably no children under 2 years old
  • Subject to availability of helicopter and Christo Brand
  • Weather dependent
pack@2x-min

*Please note that the Freedom Flight does not land on the island. If you would like to land on the island, there will be landing fees associated with it as well as routing and pricing will differ.

Star Star Star Star Star
Excellent professional staff with very high quality equipment. Some super pre-arranged tours & also bespoke itineraries. We’ve had a number of flights already this trip and have booked more. Our pilot Guy had added hugely to the enjoyment
Important Flight Information
Please arrive 30 minutes before your flight. NAC offers a complimentary vehicle transfer service within the CBD, Green Point, Sea Point and Waterfront area.
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