0%
Loading ...

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Idyllic Travel!  Learn more

Africa

Saint Helena Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Discover the enchanting islands of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha, where untouched landscapes and rich histories await your exploration. From the dramatic cliffs and vibrant wildlife of Tristan da Cunha, known as the world's most remote inhabited archipelago, to the captivating colonial charm of Saint Helena, a place steeped in the legacy of Napoleon, each destination offers a unique escape. Engage with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in their traditional ways of life, as you wander through lush gardens, hike scenic trails, and savor the exquisite flavors of island cuisine. Whether you're seeking adventure in stunning natural settings or tranquility in historic surroundings, these islands promise an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and connection.

On October 15, 1815, the British sent Napoleon Bonaparte into exile on Saint Helena, after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo
Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Saint Helenian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the upper third of the shield depicts a white plover (wire bird) on a yellow field; the remainder of the shield depicts a rocky coastline on the left, offshore is a three-masted sailing ship with sails furled but flying an English flag
Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha: islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, about midway between South America and Africa; Ascension Island lies 1,300 km (800 mi) northwest of Saint Helena; Tristan da Cunha lies 4,300 km (2,700 mi) southwest of Saint Helena
Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha map showing the various islands that comprise this UK territory in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Comprehensive Travel Guide to Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha

(British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean)

General Information

  • Location: South Atlantic Ocean
  • Status: British Overseas Territory
  • Capital: Jamestown (Saint Helena)
  • Population: ~5,600 (Saint Helena ~4,500, Ascension ~800, Tristan da Cunha ~250)
  • Currency: Saint Helena Pound (SHP) & British Pound (GBP)
  • Time Zone:
    • Saint Helena & Tristan da Cunha: GMT (UTC +0)
    • Ascension Island: GMT (UTC +0, no daylight saving)
  • Official Language: English
  • Driving Side: Left

Overview

Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha form one of the world's most remote British Overseas Territories. These volcanic islands, spread across the South Atlantic, offer a unique blend of history, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Saint Helena is known for being Napoleon's place of exile, Ascension serves as a strategic military and satellite tracking base, and Tristan da Cunha is home to the world's most isolated inhabited community.

Saint Helena

Key Facts

  • Capital & Main Town: Jamestown
  • Population: ~4,500
  • Famous For: Napoleon’s exile, rugged landscapes, endemic wildlife

How to Get There

  • Flights:
    • Weekly flights from Johannesburg (South Africa) to Saint Helena Airport (HLE).
  • By Sea:
    • RMS Saint Helena is no longer in service, but occasional cruise ships stop here.

Top Attractions & Activities

  • Napoleon’s Final Residence (Longwood House): The home where Napoleon spent his last years.
  • Jacob’s Ladder: A 699-step historic stairway offering stunning views.
  • Diana’s Peak National Park: The highest point on the island, with endemic flora and fauna.
  • St. James Church: Built in 1774, it’s the oldest Anglican church in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Jonathan the Tortoise: The world’s oldest living land animal (190+ years old).
  • Diving & Snorkeling: Explore shipwrecks and rich marine life.

Accommodation

  • Mantis St Helena Hotel (Luxury)
  • Farm Lodge Country House (Boutique)
  • Various guesthouses and self-catering options

Local Cuisine

  • Plo (Fish & Rice Dish): A traditional island meal.
  • Fish Cakes: Made with locally caught tuna.
  • Saint Helena Coffee: One of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world.

Ascension Island

Key Facts

  • Main Settlement: Georgetown
  • Population: ~800 (Mainly military & contractors, no permanent residents)
  • Famous For: Strategic military base, satellite tracking, green sea turtle nesting grounds

How to Get There

  • Flights:
    • RAF flights from the UK (Brize Norton) stop here en route to the Falklands.
  • By Sea:
    • Occasional supply and research ships.

Top Attractions & Activities

  • Green Mountain National Park: Lush greenery with hiking trails and stunning views.
  • Wideawake Fairs: Named after the local noddy terns, these are social events for the community.
  • Turtle Watching: Thousands of green sea turtles nest on the beaches from January to April.
  • Devil’s Ashpit & Comfortless Cove: Historic sites linked to past quarantine stations.
  • Golf Course: One of the world’s most remote golf courses, on volcanic terrain.

Accommodation

  • Obsidian Hotel (Main accommodation for visitors)
  • Self-Catering Guesthouses (Limited availability)

Local Cuisine

  • Mostly imported food, but fresh fish is common.

Tristan da Cunha (The World’s Most Remote Settlement)

Key Facts

  • Main Settlement: Edinburgh of the Seven Seas
  • Population: ~250
  • Famous For: Isolation, volcanic landscapes, rich marine life

How to Get There

  • No Airport: The only way to reach Tristan da Cunha is by boat.
  • By Sea:
    • Ships depart from Cape Town, South Africa (~6-day voyage, infrequent schedule).

Top Attractions & Activities

  • Volcano Hike: Explore the 2,062m high Queen Mary’s Peak (if permitted).
  • Wildlife Watching: Home to millions of seabirds, including the rare Tristan Albatross.
  • Rockhopper Penguins: Found along the rugged coastline.
  • Fishing: Tristan lobster is a delicacy.
  • Explore Inaccessible & Nightingale Islands: Uninhabited and protected for their biodiversity.

Accommodation

  • Guesthouses & Homestays: There are no hotels; visitors must pre-arrange accommodation with local families.

Local Cuisine

  • Tristan Lobster: A world-famous delicacy.
  • Local Potatoes: Nicknamed "Tristan Potatoes," they are a dietary staple.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

  • Saint Helena: Mild, subtropical climate. Best time: September – May.
  • Ascension Island: Hot and dry year-round. Best time: December – April (for turtles).
  • Tristan da Cunha: Cool and wet. Best time: December – March.

Connectivity & Communication

  • Internet: Limited and expensive in all three locations.
  • Phone Services: Satellite-based on Tristan da Cunha and Ascension; landline and mobile services on Saint Helena.
  • Postal Services: Available but slow due to infrequent transport links.

Travel Tips

Plan Well in Advance: Limited transport options mean bookings should be made months (or years) ahead.
Bring Cash: Cards are rarely accepted, especially in Tristan da Cunha.
Pack for All Weather: The South Atlantic can be unpredictable.
Respect Local Customs: These are small, close-knit communities with traditional lifestyles.

Conclusion

Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha offer some of the most unique and remote travel experiences in the world. Whether you're drawn by history, wildlife, or adventure, these islands promise an unforgettable journey—if you’re patient and resourceful enough to get there.

Travel Resources