Tourism in Saint Helena

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Western Africa

Tourist attractions

Jacob's Ladder

Region: Jamestown (Saint Helena Island)

Historical structure

699-step staircase built on former cable car tracks from 1829. Panoramic views of town and sea from the top.

Longwood House

Region: Saint Helena Island

History/Museum

Residence where Napoleon spent his final 6 years. Furniture and belongings preserved as they were.

Napoleon's Tomb

Region: Sane Valley, Saint Helena Island

Historic site

Though remains were moved to Paris, the stone tomb and garden remain as a pilgrimage site in a quiet forest.

Diana's Peak National Park

Region: Central Saint Helena Island

Nature

Cloud forest around the highest point at 823m elevation with endemic plant communities.

Heart-Shaped Waterfall

Region: Saint Helena Island

Nature

Seasonal waterfall cascading down heart-shaped cliffs, appearing after rains with fantastic scenery.

Plantation House

Region: Saint Helena Island

Historic architecture

Governor's residence. Home to 'Jonathan,' a giant tortoise born in 1832.

Green Mountain National Park

Region: Ascension Island

Nature

Artificial cloud forest created following Charles Darwin's proposal. 360-degree views from summit.

Long Beach (Sea Turtle Reserve)

Region: Ascension Island

Nature

Green turtles come ashore to nest December-March. Night-time guided tours popular.

Queen Mary's Peak

Region: Tristan da Cunha Island

Volcano/Trekking

2,062m stratovolcano. Day climb to crater lake possible in good weather.

Edinburgh of the Seven Seas

Region: Tristan da Cunha Island

Settlement/Culture

World's most isolated settlement. Visit post office, pub, and craft shops.

Boatswainbird Island Viewing

Region: Off Ascension

Nature reserve

Uninhabited island with seabirds nesting on cliffs. Charter boat tours available.

High Knoll Fort

Region: Saint Helena Island

Fortress ruins

Trapezoidal fort built in 1790s. Interior houses a small museum.

Suggested itineraries

Complete Saint Helena Island 7-Day Tour

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Jamestown historic district, Longwood House, Diana's Peak climb, Dolphin cruise

Classic plan arriving by scheduled flight, enjoying history and nature. Day 7 visit to island coffee plantation.

Ascension Island 3-Day Turtle & Trail

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Long Beach nesting observation, Green Mountain hiking, Wartime relics tour

Access via military runway for short trip enjoying wildlife and volcanic scenery.

Tristan Exploration 10-Day Expedition

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Queen Mary Peak ascent, Nightingale Islands birdwatching, Homestay with islanders

Adventure course boarding supply ships several times yearly to experience life culture at world's end.

Travel tips

  • Book scheduled charter flights from London or Johannesburg in advance
  • Medical facilities are basic; severe cases evacuated to South Africa
  • Satellite communication means Wi-Fi is paid and slow; prepare offline entertainment like e-books
  • British BF-type plugs standard, adapter essential
  • Cash uses Saint Helena Pound and Sterling Pound; credit terminals limited
  • Island roads have steep grades and narrow passages, 4WD rental recommended
  • Strong sun but wind chill requires layered clothing
  • Island-unique stamps cheapest to purchase by posting mail on return journey
  • Wildlife observation may require licensed guide accompaniment
  • Long-distance hiking prone to fog, carry GPS
  • Islanders sensitive to invasive species introduction, comply with food and plant quarantine rules
  • Few mosquitoes but insect repellent needed for sand flies after sunset
  • Only one ATM in Jamestown, prepare sufficient cash before departure
  • Drinking water safe, but secure extra water for long ship journeys
  • No public transportation; arrange tour company or taxi day before

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