Longwood House

Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha is a British Overseas Territory, and entry requirements depend on your passport nationality. Check your specific requirements on the Saint Helena destination page at Yoogo before you book.

The Saint Helena pound (SHP) is the local currency and is pegged one to one with the British pound sterling, which is also accepted. Card acceptance is limited, so bring enough cash, and note that Saint Helena pounds cannot easily be exchanged once you leave.

Saint Helena is very safe, with a small, friendly population and very little crime. The greatest care is needed on steep coastal paths and around the sea, where currents can be strong, so follow local advice when walking or swimming.

The island has a network of narrow, winding roads, and hiring a car is the most flexible way to explore. A local bus service runs on some routes, and taxis are available, while Jamestown itself is easily covered on foot.

The island has a mild climate all year, with the warmest, driest weather from January to April. Whale shark sightings are most likely between December and March, making the early months especially rewarding for marine wildlife.

English is the official and everyday language across all three islands, spoken with a distinctive local accent known as Saint Helenian. Visitors will have no difficulty communicating.

No special vaccinations are required for Saint Helena, though routine immunisations should be up to date. Medical facilities are limited, and serious cases may require costly evacuation, so comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised.

Tipping is not a strong local custom and is never expected. Rounding up a bill or leaving a little for particularly good service is appreciated but entirely optional.

Mobile and internet coverage has improved with the arrival of a subsea cable, though connections can still be slower and pricier than you may be used to. Check roaming arrangements before you travel, as options for visitors remain limited.

Islanders, known as Saints, are famously warm and it is normal to greet people you pass. Life is unhurried and community minded, shops may keep short hours, and a friendly hello is always welcome.