Things To Do
in Saint Helena
Saint Helena is a remote volcanic island located in the South Atlantic Ocean, known for its rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty. It is a British Overseas Territory and is most famous as the place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte, who spent his final years there until his death in 1821. The island has a small population, with Jamestown as its capital, and has a unique biodiversity, including several endemic species.
Tourism is modest due to its isolation, but visitors are drawn to its historical sites, dramatic landscapes, and serene environment.
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Goodbye" - Goodbye
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Please" - Please
- "Excuse me" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $35 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic town of Jamestown, the capital of Saint Helena. Explore the interesting architecture and landmarks that reflect the island's rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the museum to learn more about Saint Helena's fascinating past. Don't miss the chance to see exhibits on Napoleon Bonaparte's exile here.
Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Take in the stunning sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Begin your adventure with a hike up Jacob's Ladder, a famous set of stairs that offers breathtaking views. Take your time to appreciate the unique flora and fauna along the way.
After reaching the top, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Descend back down and spend some time exploring the nearby botanical gardens.
Head back to Jamestown and relax at a local pub. Enjoy dinner while taking in the island's nightlife vibe.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
- Rich history, including its connection to Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Unique wildlife and biodiversity, with several endemic species.
- A peaceful and tranquil environment, away from the hustle of modern life.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Isolated location, making travel to and from the island challenging.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Economy largely dependent on tourism and a few other sectors.
- Potential for limited healthcare and educational facilities.
- Higher costs of goods and services due to shipping limitations.
Best Activities in Saint Helena
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna as you hike to the highest point on the island, Diana's Peak.
Visit the capital city of Saint Helena, filled with historical buildings, museums, and vibrant local culture.
Relax and enjoy the sun at Sandy Bay, a beautiful and secluded beach perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Discover unique bird species and enjoy the tranquility of nature while walking through the Millennium Forest.
Try your hand at fishing in the rich waters surrounding the island, where you can catch a variety of fish species.
Take a tour of the local distillery, learn about the production of rum, and enjoy tastings of their unique spirits.
Explore the historical significance of Longwood, famous for being the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile.
Experience the underwater beauty of Saint Helena by snorkeling or diving in the clear waters of Papanui Cove.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint Helena with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint Helena
Visit one of these nice places.
Located on the northern coast, this monument offers panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
This historical fort provides breathtaking views of Jamestown and the surrounding landscapes. The vantage point is ideal for capturing the unique topography of the island.
A stunning area that showcases the unique geological features and vegetation of Saint Helena, providing dramatic backdrops for photography, particularly during the golden hours.
The highest points on the island offer spectacular views over the entire landscape. Hiking to the peaks not only delivers picturesque views but also an opportunity to capture the diverse wildlife.
The cliffs and coastline around the island provide dynamic views of the ocean waves crashing against rock formations, perfect for dramatic seascapes and nature photography.
The capital of Saint Helena is rich in history and colorful buildings, making it a charming backdrop for street photography and capturing the essence of island life.
Home to the Governor of Saint Helena, this site not only features beautiful gardens but also offers lovely views of the surrounding area, ideal for both architecture and landscape photography.
Food in Saint Helena
Saint Helena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty seafood dish that combines shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, typically seasoned with spices and served in a communal pot. You can find it in local restaurants, particularly during the warmer months.
Must-Try!
Known for its rich flavor and unique aroma, Saint Helena coffee is grown on the island's volcanic soil. It can be enjoyed in local cafes and is a perfect souvenir to bring home.
Fresh fish caught from the surrounding waters, seasoned and baked to perfection, often served with plantains or fresh salad. A must-try at local eateries overlooking the ocean.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint Helena better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market held weekly in Jamestown where you can find fresh produce, locally caught seafood, and handmade goods. It's a great place to sample street food and interact with local vendors.
A casual street food festival occurring on weekends, featuring various food stalls that offer everything from burgers and fried fish to traditional island snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Saint Helena has its own unique cultural norms that reflect its history and traditions. It is important to respect local customs, such as greeting people appropriately and adhering to the island's social etiquette.
Being on time for appointments and social gatherings is appreciated in Saint Helena. While the locals may be more laid-back, showing punctuality demonstrates respect for others' time.
Although Saint Helena is a small island, dressing modestly is considered a sign of respect. Visitors should be mindful of their attire, especially when visiting religious sites or local events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint Helena with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Helena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint Helena, tipping is not a common practice and is generally seen as optional. Service providers such as restaurant staff or taxi drivers may appreciate a tip, but it is not expected. Visitors are encouraged to offer a small tip if they feel that the service was exceptional.
Payment in Saint Helena primarily occurs in Saint Helena pounds (SHP), which is pegged to the British pound sterling. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most establishments, but cash is often preferred, especially in smaller shops or rural areas. ATMs are available, but it's advisable to carry some cash for transactions where cards may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint Helena.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer on Saint Helena offers warm temperatures and is considered one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities, beach trips, and enjoying the natural beauty. Expect daytime temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F) and minimal rain.
Autumn features milder weather and is a great time for hiking and exploring the island. Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 16-22°C (61-72°F), and there is a slight chance of rain as the season progresses.
Winter is cooler and can be windy, with temperatures averaging 12-18°C (54-64°F). This season sees more rainfall, but it also offers a different perspective of the island’s natural landscapes, with lush greenery and lower tourist numbers.
Spring is characterized by mild weather and blooming flora, making it an excellent time for photography and nature walks. Temperatures range from 15-20°C (59-68°F) and it starts to become warmer as the season progresses.
Saint Helena at Night
Hiking in Saint Helena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring miles of hiking trails through lush forests and across peaceful meadows, with options for various skill levels.
Offers challenging hikes with stunning panoramic views of the Napa Valley and beyond; the summit trail is a local favorite.
This park features scenic hiking routes, including the popular trail leading up to the site of the historic Peter B. Kyne cabin.
A multi-use trail for walking, running, and biking that spans the length of Napa Valley, connecting several towns and offering beautiful vineyard views.
A well-maintained trail that follows the scenic Conn Creek, perfect for a leisurely hike with opportunities to explore nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint Helena through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Saint Helena by plane.
Located in Kingston, Jamaica, this international airport is approximately 1,500 miles from Saint Helena.
Located in Cape Town, South Africa, this airport services international flights and is about 1,800 miles from Saint Helena.
Located in Walvis Bay, Namibia, this airport serves regional flights and is roughly 2,000 miles from Saint Helena.
Located in Guadeloupe, this airport is significant for international travel and is about 2,300 miles from Saint Helena.
Located in Windhoek, Namibia, this airport is approximately 2,200 miles from Saint Helena.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group, comprising the native population of the island.
A significant demographic, particularly due to historical connections and administration.
Includes various individuals of European descent, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A smaller demographic group present on the island, mainly involved in local businesses.
Individuals of mixed ethnicity, reflecting the diverse ancestry of the population.
The Soul of Saint Helena
Discover the essence of Saint Helena through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport on Saint Helena, with a strong local league and community involvement.
Cricket has a long history on the island and is played both recreationally and competitively.
Rugby is a growing sport on Saint Helena, with local teams and schools promoting the game.
Running events, including marathons and charity races, are popular among the island's residents.
Horse racing is a traditional sport on Saint Helena, often drawing crowds for various local events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as salads, vegetable curries, and pasta. It's advisable to ask the chef about customization.
Vegan options are somewhat limited, but some cafes and restaurants are willing to prepare special dishes upon request. Lentil-based and vegetable dishes are usually available.
Gluten-free options are not widely advertised, but seafood, grilled meats, and many vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free. Always inform the staff of dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint Helena with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Helena.