How to Spend 2 Full Days on St Helena During Peak Season with Two Flights a Week
St Helena Island is a unique and remote destination, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals. During peak season, the island enjoys two flights a week, typically arriving on Tuesday and Saturday.
If you’re flying in on a Saturday and leaving on a Tuesday, you might be wondering how to make the most of your limited time. While some of the more traditional tourist sites like Napoleon’s House and the Plantation House Tour are closed over this period, don’t worry! There’s still plenty to see and do that’s just as exciting—if not better!
Arrival on Saturday: Settling In and Exploring Jamestown
Once you arrive at St Helena Airport, you’ll need to get to your accommodation. If you’re not already staying in Jamestown, it’s a great idea to catch a taxi there. Jamestown is the heart of the island, and spending some time exploring it will help you get your bearings and soak in the local atmosphere.
Things to Do in Jamestown:
Explore the historic streets – Take a slow walk through town and admire the unique blend of colonial-era and modern architecture.
Visit the Castle Gardens – A peaceful, green oasis in the middle of Jamestown, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Check out the shops – There are a few local stores where you can browse for souvenirs, crafts, or even some locally produced coffee.
Mingle with the locals – St Helenians are friendly and always happy to chat. You’ll get some great insights into island life just by striking up a conversation with someone on the street.
Sunday: Exploring the Countryside – Blue Hill, Sandy Bay, and Longwood
Since most businesses are closed on Sundays, it’s a perfect day to explore the island’s natural beauty. Arrange a taxi in advance and embark on a scenic adventure through some of St Helena’s most picturesque areas.
Suggested Itinerary for Sunday:
Start with a drive to Blue Hill – One of the least populated districts on the island, offering breathtaking landscapes and complete tranquility.
Sandy Bay for dramatic scenery – Home to some of the most stunning rock formations on the island, including the famous ‘Lot’ and ‘Lot’s Wife.’
Longwood for history and views – Although Napoleon’s House might be closed, the district itself offers incredible viewpoints and open landscapes that are well worth the visit.
Afternoon relaxation at Skipps on the Seafront – After a long day of exploring, head back to Jamestown and spend your afternoon at Skipps, a local spot right on the seafront for some beer on tap.
Enjoy a soft-serve ice cream while watching the sunset – One of the simplest yet most rewarding ways to wrap up your Sunday is to grab an ice cream and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Monday: Hiking and Nature Walks
Monday is an excellent opportunity to experience some of St Helena’s incredible hikes. While there are many options, the combination of Plantation Forest, Mackintosh Postbox Walk, and High Peak is both achievable and rewarding.
Morning: Plantation Forest and Viewing Point
Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Plantation Forest, leading up to a beautiful viewing point. This is an easy walk that showcases some of St Helena’s lush greenery and offers great photo opportunities.
Midday: Mackintosh Postbox Walk
Make your way to Casons in Blue Hill and take on the Mackintosh Postbox Walk. This new addition to the island’s postbox walks is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
Mackintosh Hike
A short and relaxing hike through Mackintosh soothes the sole
Afternoon: High Peak Walk
After completing the Mackintosh Postbox Walk, take a stroll along the main road to the entrance of High Peak. This is another short but rewarding postbox walk, offering panoramic views of the Blue Hill district on one side and Sandy Bay Beach on the other.
Important Notes to Remember:
Book a taxi in advance – St Helena doesn’t have ride-hailing apps, so make sure to schedule transportation to and from your destinations.
Inform someone at your accommodation where you’re going – Safety first! Let someone know your plans, especially if you’re heading out for a long walk.
Be prepared for the weather – Depending on the season, conditions can change quickly. Bring a light jacket and good walking shoes.
Get a local SIM card – This will make it much easier to contact your taxi driver when you need a lift back.
Final Thoughts
Even though some of the traditional tourist attractions might be closed during your stay, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on St Helena. With breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and unique experiences, your two full days on the island will be packed with adventure and unforgettable moments. Enjoy your trip!
