St Helena Holidays
Remote and far-flung, the sub-tropical island of St Helena is a paradise, partially trapped in a time-warp and largely untouched by the outside world.
Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, Captain Cook and the Duke of Wellington by adventuring to Britain's second oldest remaining overseas territory. A tiny speck out in the Atlantic Ocean, 1200 miles from the west coast of Africa, the rugged island of St Helena is so remote that it was only in 2017 that air travel became possible, opening up this relatively unknown volcanic outpost to tourism. Discovered by the Portuguese in 1502, the island was used for centuries by ships as a trade-route stopover, and it is here that Napoleon spent the final years of his exile. The house where he lived is now a museum. Other prisoners of war included a revolutionary Zulu king and over 5000 Boers, during the Second Boer War.
Whilst the coastlines are rocky and dramatic, further inland you'll find lush rolling hills, forested mountains and verdant plantations. Indeed the island is also famous for its coffee, said to be amongst the best, and most expensive in the world. Napoleon was apparently a fan.
There are several tours available on the island, or you can hire a car if you prefer to explore independently. In the charming capital of Jamestown, discover a legacy of fortifications and historic buildings, as well as the fascinating St Helena museum, colourful gardens that belonged to the East India Company, and the oldest Anglican church in the Southern Hemisphere, St James' Church. For spectacular views of the town and sea beyond, climb the 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder. Preferably before sampling the spirits!
Out of town visit Plantation House, home of the Governor and also St Helena's oldest resident, Jonathan, a giant tortoise who has been trundling around for 192 years. Hiking is incredible here too, with a multitude of trails winding through wild mango forests and ancient deserts, rewarding hikers with waterfalls and a whole host of endemic plant and bird species that are a huge draw to nature lovers. Diving and snorkelling are superb here, with wrecks, reefs and caves to glide past, and whales sharks and dolphins are often spotted from the shore.
St Helena can easily be combined with a South Africa holiday.
I've recently explored St Helena — I’d love to help you plan your trip.
A Hiker's Paradise in the South Atlantic
- St Helena
A Hiker's Paradise in the South Atlantic
St Helena Trip Inspiration
Tamara, our St Helena specialist says:
“From climbing Jacob’s Ladder to walking through cloud forest at Diana’s Peak, St Helena is full of surprises. One day you’re snorkelling with whale sharks, the next you’re standing in Napoleon’s former home or meeting Jonathan, the world’s oldest giant tortoise. It’s remote, welcoming, and completely unlike anywhere else I’ve been.”
When to go to St Helena
Find out the best time to visit St Helena with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is predominately sunny and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees. If you venture out of Jamestown you can expect some rainfall but it rarely more than a light shower. If you're looking to see whale sharks around the island and perhaps swim with these gentle giants, January is the perfect time to visit.
February
February is sunny and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees. If you venture out of Jamestown you can expect some rainfall but it rarely more than a light shower. If you're looking to see whale sharks around the island you will have a good chance of spotting some during February.
March
March is the hottest month of the year with temperatures reaching up to 32 degrees, with some chance of showers. It is the peak tourist season. If you're looking to walk up Green Mountain it is usually around 4-7 degrees cooler, so it can be pleasant to venture up in March.
April
The height of the rainy season with frequent showers, yet still remaining warm. There are fewer tourists because it is noticeably cooler than the summer months.
May
The rainy season still prevails in May with frequent showers, yet still remaining warm with average temperatures reaching 25 degrees. There are fewer tourists because it is noticeably cooler than the summer months.
June
The rainy season still prevails in June with frequent showers, yet still remaining warm with average temperatures reaching 25 degrees. There are fewer tourists because it is noticeably cooler than the summer months.
July
During August the weather is noticeably cooler and generally wetter than the summer months. If you visit during low season you can see St Helena's other big marine attraction, humpback whale.
August
During August the weather is noticeably cooler and generally wetter than the summer months. If you visit during low season you can see St Helena's other big marine attraction, humpback whales - in August they will have calves present.
September
The weather is noticeably cooler and generally wetter in September than the summer months. If you visit during low season you can see St Helena's other big marine attraction, humpback whale.
October
In October the weather is noticeably cooler and generally wetter than the summer months. If you visit during low season you can see St Helena's other big marine attraction, humpback whale.
November
November is the main tourist season because it is summer on St Helena with days predominately sunny and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees. If you venture out of Jamestown you can expect some rainfall but it rarely more than a light shower.
December
December is predominately sunny and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees. If you venture out of Jamestown you can expect some rainfall but it rarely more than a light shower.
Types of St Helena holidays
Best places to stay in St Helena
Speak to a St Helena expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Alistair
Tamara
FAQs About Your St Helena Holiday
Planning a holiday to St Helena? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What makes St Helena a unique holiday destination?
St Helena is one of the world’s most remote islands, sitting in the South Atlantic Ocean. It combines dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich history, warm island culture, and outstanding opportunities for hiking, diving, and wildlife encounters. Its remoteness makes it feel like you’ve truly stepped off the beaten track.
How do you get to St Helena?
The easiest way to reach St Helena is by air, with weekly flights from Johannesburg in South Africa. These take around six hours, and many visitors choose to combine their holiday with time in South Africa. Previously, the island was only accessible by sea, and cruise stopovers are still possible.
What is the best time to visit St Helena?
St Helena is a year-round destination, but the most popular months are between October and May when the weather is warm and relatively dry. Whale sharks are often spotted between January and March, while hiking is especially good during the cooler months of June to September.
What can you do on holiday in St Helena?
Popular St Helena activities include hiking the island’s rugged trails, swimming with whale sharks, diving in clear waters, and exploring Napoleonic history. You’ll also find friendly local communities, endemic birdlife, and excellent stargazing.
Is St Helena good for wildlife lovers?
Yes, absolutely. St Helena is home to many unique species found nowhere else in the world. The marine life is a major draw, with whale sharks, dolphins, and a variety of tropical fish. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting the endemic wirebird and other rare species.
What is the culture like on St Helena?
The island has a welcoming, close-knit community with a mix of British heritage and island traditions. English is the main language, and visitors often enjoy local hospitality, home-cooked food, and cultural events. It feels both familiar and wonderfully different at the same time.
Where should I stay on St Helena?
There are no large resorts here, but you’ll find comfortable guesthouses, boutique hotels, and self-catering cottages. Many are family-run, offering a personal touch and plenty of local insight. Accommodation is mostly based in Jamestown or the surrounding countryside. See St Helena Accommodation
How long should I spend in St Helena?
Most travellers stay for a week to ten days, which allows enough time to explore the island’s key sights, enjoy several hikes, and relax into the slower pace of life. Some stay longer, particularly if they want to dive or immerse themselves in the local culture.
Is St Helena good for history enthusiasts?
Yes. The island is famously known as Napoleon’s place of exile, and you can visit Longwood House and his tomb. There are also forts, Georgian buildings in Jamestown, and stories of shipwrecks and maritime history stretching back centuries.
Is St Helena suitable for adventurous travellers?
Definitely, its remote location, rugged landscapes, and adventurous activities like hiking, diving, and 4x4 exploring make it a destination for those seeking something different. It’s a holiday that feels like a true discovery, far from the usual tourist trail.
Is St Helena a good destination for diving?
Yes. St Helena has some of the clearest waters in the South Atlantic, with visibility often over 30 metres. Divers can explore volcanic reefs, caves, and wrecks, encountering everything from butterflyfish and grouper to whale sharks in season. With little current and uncrowded sites, it’s an excellent destination for both beginners and experienced divers.
