St Helena

Travel to St Helena

Rugged and remote coastal area of Sandy Bay on St. Helena Island

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Travel to St Helena

St. Helena Island, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and wildlife. Jamestown, the island’s capital, features colonial architecture and historic landmarks such as the Museum of St. Helena and Jacob’s Ladder, a steep 699-step staircase with views of the town and coastline. It serves as the gateway for exploring the island’s diverse attractions.

The island is closely tied to the history of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was exiled here in 1815. Visitors can tour Longwood House, where Napoleon spent his final years, now a museum. Other historical sites include the Boer Cemetery and Plantation House, the governor’s residence, which is also home to Jonathan, the world’s oldest known tortoise.

For nature lovers, St. Helena offers various hiking trails, including those in Diana’s Peak National Park, where visitors can trek through lush landscapes and discover endemic flora and fauna. Sandy Bay, with its volcanic rock formations, and Rupert’s Bay, known for swimming and snorkelling, provide coastal experiences.

Marine life is a highlight, with opportunities for whale shark spotting, diving, and fishing. The island’s waters host diverse marine species, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colourful fish. Birdwatchers can also enjoy sightings of the St. Helena plover, or wirebird, an endemic species.

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Must Visit in St Helena

With its unique blend of rich history, rugged landscapes, and diverse wildlife,

St Helena makes a perfect destination for adventurers seeking remote beauty!

Jamestown

The capital with colonial architecture, narrow streets, and historical landmarks such as the Museum of St. Helena and Jacob’s Ladder, a 699-step staircase offering panoramic views. It’s a central point for exploring the island’s attractions and heritage.

Longwood House

Also remembered as Napoleon Bonaparte’s residence during his exile, the house is now a museum showcasing his life on St. Helena. Visitors can tour the well-preserved house and gardens, gaining insight into the French emperor’s final years on the island.

Plantation House

The house has been the official governor’s residence of St Helena since 1792 and home to Jonathan, the world’s oldest tortoise. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the colonial history of St. Helena while admiring the historic architecture.

Diana’s Peak National Park

The National Park, launched in March 1996, encompasses the area of the three peaks. It is the island’s highest point, featuring hiking trails through lush vegetation and endemic species. Enjoy breathtaking views, exploring the diverse plant life and discovering the natural beauty of St. Helena.

Sandy Bay & Beach

A remote coastal area with volcanic rock formations and black sand beaches. Sandy Bay offers scenic hiking trails and dramatic landscapes. The beach is tranquil, surrounded by volcanic cliffs. It offers a quiet escape and striking views of the rugged coastline.

Napoleon’s Tomb

Set in a serene valley, this is the site where Napoleon was originally buried before his remains were moved to France. The site is surrounded by greenery, a winding footpath leads the visitor to the tomb. It provides a quiet place for reflection.

Heart-Shaped Waterfall

Considered one of St Helena's 7 wonders (voted by the public), it forms part of the Post Box walks series on the island. A picturesque waterfall shaped like a heart, visible after rainfall. It is a great destination for hiking and photography, offering scenic beauty.

High Knoll Fort

High Knoll Fort is a redoubt-style fort of the English East India Company on the island. Its impressive defensive structure provides panoramic views over Jamestown and the island. Visitors can explore the fort’s history and architecture while enjoying scenic vistas.

St Helena in Video

Nothing documents a destination better than a short video and that goes for Saint Helena as well.

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Must Do in St Helena

Each destination offers its own experiences and here are some "must do" activities to experience in St Helena!

St. Helena offers a unique setting for 4x4 excursions, allowing visitors to explore the island’s rugged landscapes, steep cliffs, and remote areas that are otherwise difficult to reach. A 4x4 adventure provides access to scenic spots like Sandy Bay,

St. Helena is a hiker’s paradise, offering diverse trails that lead through rugged landscapes, lush valleys, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Popular hikes include ascending Diana’s Peak, the island’s highest point, with panoramic views and endemic flora, or exploring the volcanic landscapes of Sandy Bay. Trails also take hikers to historical landmarks like Jacob’s Ladder, with its 699 steps, and Napoleon’s Tomb, set in a serene valley. Whether it’s a leisurely walk or a challenging trek, hiking in St. Helena provides a rewarding way to experience the island’s unique natural beauty and history.

St. Helena offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, including sightings of the endemic St. Helena plover (wirebird), while its diverse habitats attract a variety of seabirds and migratory species for nature enthusiasts.

St. Helena offers rich historical excursions, including visits to Napoleon’s exile home, Longwood House, the Boer Cemetery, and the iconic Jacob’s Ladder, providing insight into the island’s fascinating colonial and wartime past.

St. Helena offers diving experiences with clear waters, vibrant marine life, shipwrecks, and opportunities to encounter whale sharks, making it a unique destination for underwater exploration and marine adventure.

St. Helena’s ocean excursions offer opportunities to explore its pristine waters, spot dolphins, encounter whale sharks, and enjoy fishing or boat trips along the island’s stunning volcanic coastline.

St. Helena offers coffee tours that showcase its locally grown, premium coffee. Visitors can explore plantations, learn about the cultivation process, and taste some of the island's distinctive and historically renowned coffee.

St. Helena’s cultural tours offer insights into the island’s rich heritage, including visits to historical landmarks, local markets, and traditional music and crafts, providing a deep connection to its diverse cultural history.

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Best Time to visit St Helena

The best time to visit St. Helena depends on the activities you are interested in. The island has a mild climate year-round, but the warmer months from December to March are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and diving. This period also offers the best chances to see whale sharks, which visit the waters around the island.

From June to September, temperatures are cooler, making it more comfortable for exploring St. Helena’s hiking trails, such as those in Diana’s Peak National Park. These months are also excellent for birdwatching, as the island’s endemic species, like the St. Helena plover, are more active.

While St. Helena can be visited throughout the year, it’s important to plan based on your preferred activities, whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, hiking opportunities, or marine adventures.

Bear in mind that each season has its own particularities, and that a non-advised season may well correspond perfectly to your specific needs.

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St Helena Travel Tips

By default, since we only work on a tailor-made basis, each of our travel projects will always be accompanied by our travel tips on the destinations to be visited. These will of course be adapted to the type of trip envisaged and the reality of the activities and places visited. If you would like general travel advice for Senegal, please don't hesitate to contact us via the "contact us" button.

Where to Stay in St Helena

St. Helena Island offers a variety of accommodation options including comfort and luxury in a remote setting. Visitors can stay in charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, or lodges that blend colonial history with modern amenities. Our mission is to help you select what you like best. While inviting you to explore new options.