Stop 5: Constitution Hill
How much does it cost?
Entry to the court itself is free, but entrance fees are charged for the other museums on the site. Please learn more about entry fees here.
How much time do I need?
Things to see and do at Constitution Hill
- See the Constitutional Court, partially built on the site of the number 4 prison where many awaiting trial prisoners were kept during the apartheid struggle
- See where Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were once imprisoned
- Go on a tour taking you through the number 4 prison and the women’s jail
- Visually understand life in a cell, solitary confinement, the food quarter, all impacting the life of a prisoner during the apartheid regime
FAQs
What can I see at Constitution Hill?
Constitution Hill offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's history, featuring the Constitutional Court, which is partially built on the site of the infamous number 4 prison. This prison housed many awaiting trial prisoners during the apartheid era.
Visitors can explore the cells where notable figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were once imprisoned. The site also includes tours of the number 4 prison and the women's jail, providing a vivid understanding of life during apartheid, including solitary confinement and the food quarters.
How long should I plan to spend at Constitution Hill?
It is recommended to allocate one to two hours for a visit to Constitution Hill. Tours are available every hour on the hour, starting at 9am and concluding with the last tour at 4pm, except on certain holidays when times may vary.
This timeframe allows visitors to fully engage with the exhibits and tours, which provide a comprehensive overview of the site's historical significance. The duration ensures that you can explore the Constitutional Court and the surrounding museums without feeling rushed.
What are the entry fees for Constitution Hill?
Entry to the Constitutional Court itself is free, but there are entrance fees for the other museums on the site. The highlights tour costs R80 for adults, R55 for pensioners and students, and R40 for children.
For a more extensive experience, the full tour is available at R100 for adults, R70 for pensioners, and R65 for students and children. These fees contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the site, allowing visitors to learn about South Africa's history in an engaging way.
Are there any discounts available for visiting Constitution Hill?
Yes, Constitution Hill offers a 25% discount on certain tickets. This makes it more accessible for visitors, particularly those who are students or pensioners, who already benefit from reduced rates on both the highlights and full tours.
These discounts are part of an effort to encourage more people to learn about South Africa's history and the role of Constitution Hill in the country's journey towards democracy. It's advisable to check in advance for any special deals or promotions that might be available.
What are the operating hours for Constitution Hill?
Constitution Hill is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with the final tour departing at 4pm. However, on 24 and 31 December, the site closes earlier at 3pm. It is closed on Good Friday, 25 and 26 December, and 1 January.
These hours allow visitors ample time to explore the site and participate in the guided tours. It's important to plan your visit accordingly, especially during the holiday season, to ensure you have enough time to experience everything Constitution Hill has to offer.
