Saint Helena Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Saint Helena packs a remarkable amount of history and nature into a small island.

• Jacob’s Ladder — A steep staircase of around 700 steps climbing from Jamestown to Ladder Hill, with sweeping views over the town and sea.
• Longwood House — The house where Napoleon Bonaparte lived in exile until his death in 1821, now a museum.
• Napoleon’s Tomb — The peaceful valley site where Napoleon was first buried before his remains were returned to France.
• Plantation House and Jonathan — The Governor’s residence, whose grounds are home to Jonathan, a giant tortoise regarded as the world’s oldest known living land animal.
• Diana’s Peak — The island’s highest point, reached by trails through cloud forest with endemic plants.
• Whale sharks and diving — Seasonal whale sharks, dolphins and historic shipwrecks make the island’s waters a highlight.
• Jamestown — Stroll the Georgian streets, the Museum of Saint Helena and the historic castle and church.

Saint Helena has a mild, subtropical oceanic climate moderated by the south-east trade winds. Temperatures vary little through the year, but the highlands are noticeably cooler, cloudier and wetter than coastal Jamestown, so pack layers whatever the season.

The warmer months from about December to April are the most popular time to visit, with calmer seas for boat trips and the chance to swim with whale sharks, which are usually seen roughly from January to March. Walking is enjoyable all year round, though trails in the uplands can be muddy after rain.

Saint Helena Airport is located on Prosperous Bay Plain on the east side of the island, while Jamestown lies on the north-west coast. The drive across the island follows winding roads and takes around half an hour or more.

There is no extensive public transport, so arrange transport in advance: most accommodation providers and local tour operators offer airport transfers, and pre-booked taxis and hire cars are available. Because flights are infrequent, it is wise to confirm your transfer before arrival.

Accommodation on the island is limited, so book well in advance.

• Jamestown — The capital, with hotels, guesthouses, shops and restaurants; best for first-time visitors.
• Half Tree Hollow — A residential area above Jamestown with self-catering options and views.
• Longwood and the east — Quieter, rural self-catering cottages close to Napoleon’s sites and the airport.
• Countryside — Holiday cottages in the green interior for walkers seeking peace.

• Money: The Saint Helena pound is used alongside sterling; card acceptance is limited, so carry cash and check with your bank before travel.
• Getting around: Roads are steep and narrow; drive carefully, and remember that it is customary to wave to other drivers.
• Planning: Flights and accommodation are limited, so plan and book your trip well ahead.
• Health: Medical facilities are limited, so comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
• Connectivity: Mobile data and internet are available but can be slower and pricier than elsewhere.