5 Essential Things No One Tells You Before Visiting St Helena
St Helena Island is one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands, a tiny volcanic paradise in the South Atlantic Ocean.
If you’re planning to visit, you’re in for an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and a welcoming local community. However, as a visitor, there are certain things you won’t realize until you arrive—things that can make or break your trip.
To help you prepare, we’re sharing five crucial things no one tells you before you come to St Helena. These insights will ensure you arrive with the right expectations and avoid surprises along the way. From how to get around to staying connected, here’s everything you need to know before stepping foot on the island.
Jamestown - The Captial
Jamestown has a slow pace about it, but on a Thursday is when the hustle and bustle happens - Shopping Day!!
Island Time is Real ⏳
One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive on St Helena is that life moves at a different pace. There’s no rush, and everything operates on what locals fondly call “island time.”
What Does Island Time Mean?
Businesses close early: Many shops and government offices shut their doors by 4 or 5PM, and some close at 1PM on Wednesdays or weekends.
Restaurants require reservations: Unlike in big cities where you can walk into a restaurant anytime, many eateries on St Helena require pre-booking, especially in the evenings.
Taxis aren’t always readily available: If you need a ride, book it in advance. Unlike larger destinations with on-demand taxis, availability is limited here. However during the day time, a taxi can be found behind the Tourist Office on the Taxi Stand.
Plans can change based on weather or availability: Boat trips, hikes, or tours might be rescheduled at short notice, so flexibility is key.
How to Adapt to Island Time
Plan your shopping trips and errands in advance.
Always check opening hours before heading out.
Pre-book meals at restaurants, especially for dinner.
Arrange taxis ahead of time, outside off normal daylight hours.
Embrace the relaxed pace—it’s part of the charm!
Wi-Fi is Not like elsewhere
In the modern world, we’re used to having fast and cheap internet at our fingertips. However, on St Helena, Wi-Fi is a different.
The Reality of Internet on St Helena
Unlimited broadband: Internet is provided through a the Fibre Optic Cable, making it faster and slightly cheaper then what it used to be.
Limited free Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi spots are few and far between. Some accommodations may offer it, but not all. Mobile Data is available with a local sim card, which can be purchased at the St Helena Airport Shop after coming through arrivals.
Streaming: Watching Netflix or YouTube in high definition is possible, however with mulitple devices at the same time, be aware some buffering MIGHT happen.
Mobile data isn’t unlimited: Local SIM cards offer data packages, but they’re costly and have limits.
What You Can Do Instead
Download maps, books, and entertainment before you arrive.
Let family and friends know you’ll be offline more than usual.
Embrace the digital detox—explore the island, interact with locals, and enjoy the moment!
If you need Wi-Fi, check in with your accommodation to see what’s available
You Can’t Just ‘Pop Over’ ✈️
Unlike most destinations with frequent flights, St Helena is not a place you can visit spontaneously. Maybe only if your already in Johannesburg Airport, and have an extra few hundred pounds in change!
Flight Limitations
Flights are limited: Currently, there are only a couple of flights per week from Johannesburg, South Africa.
No last-minute trips: If you don’t plan ahead, you might have to wait weeks for an available flight.
Booking in advance is essential: Seats fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Weather can delay flights: The island’s airport is notorious for occasional weather-related delays.
How to Prepare
Book your flights well in advance.
Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your visit.
Allow for potential delays when scheduling onward travel.
Consider travel insurance in case of unexpected disruptions.
4. Cash is King 💷
In a world where credit and debit cards are widely accepted, St Helena remains largely a cash-based society.
What You Need to Know About Money on St Helena
Card payments are hit or miss: Some places accept international debit/credit cards, but many do not.
ATMs are none-exsistant: There is only one main bank on the island, the Bank of St Helena but NO ATMs.
The local currency: St Helena has its own currency (SHP), but British Pounds (GBP) are also accepted.
Bank Of St Helena & Tourist Card/App: The local Bank, BANK of ST HELENA has a Tourist Card, that can be downloaded as an app and when purchasing items in the shops or paying for a meal at a restaurant. The Tourist App/Card can be downloaded and pre-loaded with money before your travel.
What You Should Do
Bring enough cash to have on hand if needed.
If using a card, check with businesses in advance to see if they accept it.
Download the Bank Of St Helena Tourist Card.
You’ll Leave Feeling Like Family 🤗
St Helena is not just a travel destination—it’s a community that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Why St Helena Feels Like Home
Friendly locals: The people of St Helena, known as “Saints,” are warm, hospitable, and always ready to chat.
Small-town atmosphere: Everyone knows everyone, and you’ll likely be greeted by name after just a few days.
Shared experiences: Whether it’s a hike, a tour, or a night out, you’ll find yourself forming bonds with both locals and fellow travelers.
You’ll want to return: Many visitors fall in love with the island and come back time and time again.
How to Make the Most of It
Engage with locals—ask questions, listen to stories, and enjoy their hospitality.
Take part in community events or gatherings.
Be open to making new friends; you may just gain a second family!
Visiting St Helena is a unique experience unlike any other. While the island’s remote location and slow pace may take some adjusting, they also make it a rare gem in today’s fast-moving world. By understanding and preparing for these five key aspects of life on St Helena, you’ll ensure your visit is smooth, enjoyable, and truly memorable.
So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to fall in love with St Helena—where time slows down, Wi-Fi disappears, and strangers become lifelong friends. 🇸🇭❤️
