Staying Connected on St Helena: Where to Buy a SIM Card and How It Works
Mobile Phones should be unlocked for easier setup
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful and remote island of St Helena, you’re probably wondering how you’ll stay connected while you’re here. Whether it’s to check in with loved ones back home, share your island adventures on social media, or simply use WhatsApp to communicate with your accommodation or taxi service — a local SIM card is the best way to stay online during your visit.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting a local SIM card on St Helena and how it works.
Where to Buy a Local SIM Card on St Helena
Local SIM cards are easy to find once you arrive on the island. You can purchase them from:
Shops in Jamestown – Several general stores around the capital stock local SIM cards, so you can pick one up while exploring town.
SURE Customer Services Office (Jamestown) – The main telecommunications provider on the island is SURE. Their office is conveniently located in the heart of Jamestown and provides SIM cards as well as helpful staff who can assist with setup if needed.
St Helena Airport – For those who want to get connected as soon as they land, there’s good news. The Rose & Crown shop at the airport also sells local SIM cards, so you can sort it out before you even reach your accommodation.
How Much Does It Cost?
A local SIM card costs approximately £16, and this includes £10 of call credit. Once activated, this credit can be used to make phone calls locally or internationally. But if you’re like most travelers, you’ll probably prefer to use the credit for mobile data.
Using Your SIM Card for Data (WhatsApp, Email, Maps, etc.)
Most visitors choose to convert their credit to data, which is ideal for:
Using WhatsApp to call or message friends and family
Accessing email or browsing the internet
Checking maps or online guides when exploring the island
Converting your credit to data is very simple. When you buy your SIM card, it comes with a leaflet of instructions explaining how to activate the SIM and how to convert your call credit to data. The steps are quick and user-friendly — even if you're not tech-savvy!
Our Top Tip for Visitors
We highly recommend converting your credit to data, especially if you’ll be out and about exploring the island. Most accommodation providers have Wi-Fi, but access can be limited or slower in more remote areas. Having mobile data means you can use WhatsApp, access tour info, or contact your tour guide or taxi while on the go — a real bonus when traveling around the island.
A Few Things to Note
The SIM cards are pay-as-you-go and do not require a contract.
Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks before inserting the SIM.
SURE is currently the only telecommunications provider on the island, so all SIM cards and services will go through them.
Stay Connected with Confidence
St Helena may be one of the most remote islands in the world, but that doesn’t mean you need to be offline during your visit. With a local SIM card, you can stay connected, informed, and ready to capture every unforgettable moment.
Need help arranging airport pick-up or a tour? You can always message us directly — once you’re connected with your SIM, we’re just a WhatsApp away!
