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Nelson Mandela Capture Site

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Nelson Mandela Capture Site (South Africa)

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The Nelson Mandela Capture Site near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal marks the exact location where Nelson Mandela was arrested by apartheid police on 5 August 1962. After evading capture for seventeen months while operating underground, Mandela was traveling disguised as a chauffeur when his vehicle was stopped. This arrest was a pivotal turning point in South African history, leading to his subsequent 27-year imprisonment and his emergence as a global icon of resistance. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the arrest, a massive sculpture by artist Marco Cianfanelli was unveiled in 2012. The artwork consists of 50 laser-cut steel columns that align to form Mandela's profile when viewed from a specific vantage point. A comprehensive visitor center and museum provide deep insights into the history of the liberation struggle and Mandela's long walk to freedom. The site serves as a profound memorial to the sacrifices made for democracy and attracts visitors from across the globe.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May, Sep.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Nelson Mandela Capture Site is a public memorial near Howick, open free of charge at any time. Visitors can explore the famous sculpture ensemble and the viewing platform.
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Typical hours
The memorial is open 24/7, but the visitor center typically operates from 9 AM to 5 PM. Plan your outdoor visit during daylight hours.
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Photography
Photography is allowed across the entire site. The sculpture of 50 steel rods forming Mandela's face features changing perspectives for creative shots depending on the light.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the outdoor site and the visitor center. If you want to enjoy the surrounding landscape, budget one hour.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Howick Falls and the Midlands Meander art route. The uMsunduzi River also provides pleasant walks in the area.
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Getting there
The memorial is about 5 km west of Howick on the R103. Best accessed by car; there is parking on site, usually free of charge.
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Insider tip
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds as it is also popular with school groups. The visitor center features a moving audiovisual presentation - take time to watch it.

Geography

Coordinates
-29.47520, 30.17060

Facts

  • Exact date of Nelson Mandela's arrest at this site: 5 August 1962.
  • Mandela had been a fugitive for 17 months before his capture here.
  • The iconic steel column sculpture was inaugurated in August 2012.
  • The artwork comprises 50 vertical steel columns of varying heights.
  • The site is located along the R103 road near the town of Howick.
  • The museum building was expanded in 2016 to accommodate more exhibits.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

HowickHowick6 km · EExplore →
PietermaritzburgPietermaritzburg25 km · SEExplore →
Zulu HighlandsZulu Highlands55 km · NExplore →
UnderbergUnderberg74 km · SWExplore →
Maloti-Drakensberg ParkMaloti-Drakensberg Park84 km · WExplore →
Drakensberg MountainsDrakensberg Mountains84 km · WExplore →
Sani Pass BorderSani Pass Border86 km · WExplore →
DrakensbergDrakensberg87 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Nelson Mandela Capture Site (6)

Mandela Capture site 1962📍 landmark

This historic site marks the exact location where Nelson Mandela was famously arrested by the police in 1962, altering the course of South African history.

Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve🌿 nature

Encompassing the steep gorges of the Umgeni River, this wildlife reserve protects indigenous bushland and diverse regional fauna.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site – Visitor Center and Museum🏛 museum

This modern cultural institution features comprehensive exhibitions detailing the life, struggle, and eventual 1962 arrest of Nelson Mandela.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:30-16:30

Horse Shoe Bend📍 landmark

This dramatic meander in the local river system creates a spectacular, horseshoe-shaped natural attraction surrounded by lush vegetation.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-16:00

Midmar Nature Reserve🌿 nature

Centered around a large dam, this expansive natural park features extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, and spotting grazing wildlife.

Kwawula Nature Reserve🌿 nature

Officially established on December 30, 2021, this newly protected environment safeguards the local biodiversity and natural habitats near the Mandela Capture site.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site?
There is an impressive sculpture and a visitor center.
How long does a visit take?
Plan about 1 hour for the tour of the memorial.
Is the site child-friendly?
Yes, the site is open and the sculpture is very impressive for all ages.
Is admission free?
There is usually a small fee for visiting the site.
When is the best time to visit?
Mornings are often quieter to enjoy the atmosphere.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site: where is it located?
Nelson Mandela Capture Site is located in South Africa.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mandela Capture site 1962, Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve, Nelson Mandela Capture Site, Visitor Center and Museum.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May, Sep.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site: why is it worth visiting?
The Nelson Mandela Capture Site near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal marks the exact location where Nelson Mandela was arrested by apartheid police on 5 August 1962.
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Howick — Nelson Mandela Capture Site (South Africa)
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Famous for the spectacular Howick Falls and as the place where Nelson Mandela was captured in 1962.
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Once the capital of the Zulu Kingdom and later of the KwaZulu bantustan, rich in cultural heritage.
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Scottburgh — Nelson Mandela Capture Site (South Africa)
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A charming coastal resort on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, famous for its safe swimming beaches and proximity to Aliwal Shoal.
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History & landmarks

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Shakaland
A living museum and cultural village that authentically showcases the traditions and history of the Zulu people.

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