
St. Helena is a now-extinct volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It belongs to the United Kingdom and is located 1,950 kilometers from the west coast of Africa and 3,400 kilometers from the east coast of South America. Its inhabitants are descendants of Africans and European immigrants.
St. Helena, along with the Tristan da Cunha archipelago to its south, forms the British Crown Colony of St. Helena. It was here that Napoleon Bonaparte, famously exiled, remained until his death. In the living room of a villa on the island, Napoleon uttered what may be his final words to the British envoy to China, Amherst, who had come to admire his presence: "China is a sleeping lion. When it wakes, the world will be shaken."
The mild tropical maritime climate has no distinct seasons and little weather change. The hottest months are between January and March, and the coldest are between June and September. Overall, it's a pleasant year-round travel destination.
Heart-shaped waterfall
There is a natural wonder on St. Helena Island - the Heart-shaped Falls. Although it is just a waterfall, it is just as its name suggests. When viewed from a distance, the waterfall and the surrounding scenery form a "heart" shape, which makes tourists admire the wonders of nature. Many tourists travel long distances to come here to see its beauty.
Jamestown
St. Helena is the capital of the British overseas territory of St. Helena in the Atlantic Ocean and serves as the island's port. Its architecture is typical of the colonial period, with most of the buildings constructed from local volcanic rock. Small, delicate, and full of charm, they are a delight to behold.
Longwood Manor
Longwood was Napoleon's last residence, where he lived from December 1815 to May 5, 1821. Located on a plain six kilometers from Jamestown, the capital of St. Helena, Longwood was once the summer retreat of the Lieutenant Governor. It became Napoleon's final residence in 1815.
Recommended 2-day tour
Saint Helena is a remote British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, historically significant as Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile from 1815 until his death in 1821. It also played a key role as a stopover for ships traveling between Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The island is located about 1,950 km west of the southwestern coast of Africa. Access is primarily via the St Helena Airport with flights from Johannesburg or connecting via Ascension Island; previously, access was by sea via RMS St Helena. Local transport includes taxis, rental cars, and limited bus services.
Most outdoor sites are free to visit. Museums and historical houses charge a small entrance fee, payable onsite. Tickets are purchased offline at the entrance; online booking is usually not required.
Advance booking is recommended only for guided tours or visiting Longwood House, preferably a few days ahead.
3–5 days are ideal to explore the main historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and natural attractions.
Guided tours are available in English; audio guides are limited but may be offered at certain historical sites.
Night visits are generally limited; some special tours or events may be arranged seasonally, mainly during local festivals.
The island is rarely crowded due to its remote location. Weekdays are slightly quieter at tourist spots than weekends.
Main towns and historical sites are accessible; however, hiking trails and steep areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash (Saint Helena pounds or GBP) is commonly used. Some shops and hotels accept cards, but mobile payments are limited.
Vegetarian options are available; vegan or halal options are limited and may require advance inquiry.