The first word that springs to mind for many when considering South Africa is "Mandela." After the death of the revered statesman last year, pilgrimages centered around Mandela are quietly happening among travelers. People flocked to the country follow in the footsteps of the revolutionary leader and reconciling statesman.

Mandela's image as an international icon was mainly built on his 27 years in jail. So the pilgrimage starts from Robben Island, once home to some of South Africa's famous political prisoners, when it was a maximum security prison with no chance of escape. Mandela arrived there in 1964 and was imprisoned in an 8 by 7 ft cell for 18 years. Visitors are guided by a former political prisoner on the island to explore Mandela's cell, which has been kept in its original state. The narration of the guide relies on their personal experience. The firsthand account of life in prison is impressive.

The natural scenery of the island is another attraction, with a curious mix of unique flora and fauna. Its small harbor, Murray Bay, home to 140,000 penguins, is also worth visiting.  The tour of the Robben Island begins at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, the departure point from Cape Town's Waterfront for the Robben Island Ferry. But it's wise to book tickets and ask for a phone number in advance because occasionally the trip will be canceled due to bad weather.

Mandela's former home-turned museum in Vilakazi Street, Soweto is another must-see stop. He lived in the simple dwelling with his wife Winnie and their two daughters in the 1950s and 60s, as he changed from purely peaceful protest to militancy. He actually spent little time with his family because he was too busy with his underground protest at that moment. The museum holds a collection of Mandela memorabilia such as doctorates, paintings and photographs. But if travelers hope to take an in-depth look at the "Mandela Legacy" and his early life, the birthplace and the villages in Eastern Cape, where Mandela spent his boyhood should not be missed.

Mandela was born in Mvezo and grew up and returned to Qunu in his later years. The remote area provides an important backdrop of his life, but the fact that specific sights are scarce and the museum is run-down easily disappoints visitors, even if the landscape and coastline are intoxicating.