Is This the Most Drone-Friendly Island in the World? 🤔

Have you ever found yourself frustrated by the never-ending drone regulations in popular destinations? Many stunning locations around the world come with tight restrictions, requiring special permits, registrations, or even prohibiting drones altogether.

But what if there was a place………..

where you could fly your drone with ease while capturing breathtaking landscapes without the stress of heavy regulations?

Welcome to St Helena Island, a hidden gem in the South Atlantic Ocean that might just be the most drone-friendly island in the world. From dramatic coastlines and lush valleys to historic sites and untouched wilderness, this remote island is an absolute dream for aerial photography and videography. Whether you're a hobbyist, travel vlogger, or professional content creator, here’s why St Helena should be at the top of your list for epic drone shots.

Even in the forests, its easy to capture great shots

I myself, fly drones on St Helena and its a really epic experience!!

Follow the rules and you be fine, not as harsh as anywhere else!

1️⃣ No Stress About Airspace Rules ✈️

One of the biggest challenges of flying a drone in many places is navigating complex airspace regulations. From restricted zones to strict altitude limits, it often feels like you need a legal degree just to take off. But on St Helena, drone flying is refreshingly simple—as long as you follow a few basic guidelines.

• Minimal Airspace Restrictions – Unlike many tourist destinations where drone pilots need permits, St Helena has a straightforward approach. The island’s airspace is mostly unrestricted, allowing for creative freedom without jumping through endless hoops.

• Follow the Drone Map – The only major restrictions are near the airport, a points with antennas for the airport. The local authorities have a colour-coded drone map outlining the safe zones, ensuring responsible flying without unnecessary limitations. Check it out!

• Notify the Airport – The only real requirement? If you’re flying your drone near the airport zone (Yellow Zone) , a quick call or email to St Helena Airport will ensure that your plans align with local safety guidelines.

Compared to places like Europe or the USA, where many national parks and urban areas have outright drone bans, St Helena offers a hassle-free experience that lets you focus on what matters—capturing stunning aerial footage.

2️⃣ No Crowds, Just Pure Scenic Views 🌿🏝️

If you’ve ever tried to get a perfect aerial shot in a crowded city or busy tourist spot, you know the struggle. Whether it’s people walking into your frame, security personnel stopping you, or fellow drone pilots competing for airspace, it can be frustrating.

But on St Helena, none of that is a problem.

• One of the Least Crowded Places on Earth – With a population of just 4,000 people and very few tourists at any given time, you’ll rarely find yourself competing for a good flight spot.

• Locals are Supportive – Unlike other places where people might see drones as a nuisance, St Helenians love seeing aerial footage of their island. Many are curious and welcoming, often asking to see your footage rather than complaining about drone noise.

• Endless Open Landscapes – Want a dramatic cliffside sunset shot? Or perhaps a bird’s-eye view of a shipwreck? You can fly your drone without worrying about people getting in the way, giving you complete creative freedom.

This means no stress, no interruptions, and no awkward encounters—just you, your drone, and stunning scenery.

3️⃣ Every Corner is a New Adventure 🌋🌊

One of the best things about St Helena is its diverse landscapes. Unlike larger destinations where you need to travel for hours to find variety, this small island packs an insane amount of scenery into a compact area.

What Kind of Drone Shots Can You Get?

🚁 Dramatic Coastlines – St Helena is famous for its rugged cliffs and crashing waves. Fly over Lot’s Wife’s Ponds or Sandy Bay Beach for some of the most jaw-dropping aerial shots imaginable.

🌿 Lush Green Valleys & Forests – From Diana’s Peak National Park to the rich greenery of Green Hill, you’ll find endless opportunities for vibrant, jungle-like drone footage.

🏰 Historical Ruins – St Helena is home to centuries-old forts, stone buildings, and Napoleonic sites. Aerial shots of High Knoll Fort or Longwood House offer a blend of history and scenic beauty.

🏜️ Mars-Like Terrains – Head towards South West Point, for the Blue Point Postbox Walk or the Sandy Bay Ridges, where the landscape shifts to something that looks almost extraterrestrial.

🐢 Wildlife Shots – If you’re lucky, you might capture aerial footage of whale sharks (in season), dolphins, or even Jonathan the Tortoise (from a respectful distance, of course!).

Everywhere you turn, there’s something new to capture, making St Helena an absolute paradise for drone pilots.

Aerial Shots of South West Point Coastlines

Bonus: The Golden Hours Here Are Unreal 🌅✨

Any drone pilot knows that the best footage comes during golden hour—just after sunrise and before sunset. On St Helena, golden hour is next-level spectacular.

• Unobstructed Sunrises & Sunsets – No high-rise buildings or city pollution, just pure, vibrant skies.

• Crystal-Clear Waters – The island’s surrounding ocean takes on deep blues and turquoise hues, adding an extra layer of beauty to your footage.

• Perfect Lighting Over Unique Landscapes – With rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and untouched beaches, the way light hits St Helena’s scenery is simply magical.

Whether you’re flying at sunrise over the island’s highest peaks or catching the last rays of daylight over the coastline, your drone footage will be next-level.

Should You Fly Your Drone Here? Absolutely! 🔥

If you’re a content creator, drone enthusiast, or just someone who loves capturing unique landscapes, St Helena should be on your bucket list. Here’s why:

✅ Minimal Restrictions – No complicated drone laws, just simple guidelines to follow. ✅ No Crowds – Fly without interruptions or distractions. ✅ Epic Variety of Landscapes – From cliffs to forests to ruins, all within a short distance. ✅ Supportive Locals – No one’s going to give you a hard time about flying a drone here. ✅ Breathtaking Views – Perfect conditions for capturing cinematic footage.

So, what do you think? Would you fly your drone on St Helena?