The island of Saint Helena, situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, is a British Overseas Territory. The island is quite small in area (121.8 km²), but due to its mountainous terrain, distances within the island can be quite long. The island is of volcanic origin, although the last volcanic eruption took place 7 million years ago. Its nearest neighbours are the small British island of Ascension, 1,300 kilometres to the north-west, and Angola on the African mainland, some 1,860 kilometres to the east. Rio de Janeiro in Brazil lies 4,000 kilometres to the west. Saint Helena has a population of only around 4,400, and the capital is Jamestown, situated in an narrow valley. The island has a distinctive culture, influenced by both Africa and Britain. British culture, however, leaves the strongest mark of all – people drive on the left here and speak English. Saint Helena’s economy relies on subsidies from the United Kingdom, and the public sector employs a large proportion of the island’s population. In addition, fishing and agriculture provide some employment. For example, the island produces one of the world’s most expensive coffees. Tourism is on the rise, but remains fairly limited due to the island’s remote location and the scarcity of flights.
Climate: Saint Helena has a subtropical climate, which means mild temperatures throughout the year. In summer – that is, from around January to March – the temperature is usually around 25–28 °C. In winter – roughly from June to August – the weather cools down, and daytime temperatures are often around 20–22 °C. August in particular is cooler, and nights can be around 12–15 °C. Rain can fall throughout the year, but the weather varies across different parts of the island due to differences in altitude. It is generally warmer on the coast, whilst higher-altitude areas are cooler and cloudier. For tourists, Saint Helena is a pleasant destination, as the climate is generally warm but not too hot.
Security: Saint Helena is a very safe destination, where the normal precautions are advisable.
Visa: Most Westerners such as EU citizens do not require a visa for Saint Helena, but an entry fee of 20 pounds must be paid in cash upon arrival on the island. Please note that entry requirements may change without prior notice. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
Currency: Saint Helena’s currency is the Saint Helena pound (SHP). The currency cannot be exchanged outside the island, so it is advisable to bring British pounds (GBP) in cash, which are accepted on the island as such. Foreign bank cards do not, in practice, work on the island, but we recommend downloading the St Helena Bank’s ‘St Helena Tourist Card’ app, which allows you to make payments without cash. There are no ATMs on the island. Euros and US dollars can be exchanged at the Bank of St Helena.
Vaccinations and malaria: No specific vaccinations are required for Saint Helena, but please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date. There is no malaria or yellow fever on Saint Helena.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
