Understand

Saint Helena, an uninhabited island when discovered by the Portuguese in 1502, became a strategic rest stop for ships traveling to and from the East. But its true claim to fame came when it became the exile home of the infamous Napoleon Bonaparte. His grave, surrounded by a beautiful flower-filled glade, is a testament to his time on the island. However, his remains have been moved to Les Invalides in Paris. You can still visit Napoleon's residences, The Briars and Longwood House, where he spent his final days. Aside from its historical significance, Saint Helena also boasts the grandest house on the island - the governor's residence. With its 18th-century English charm, the house is a sight to behold. And on its grounds, you'll find remarkable land tortoises, including Jonathan, the world's oldest living vertebrate, estimated to be between 180 and 190 years old. The island's unique flora and fauna are another draw for visitors. While some endemic species have sadly become extinct, there are still remnants of the island's unique biodiversity. Cabbage trees, gum trees, and the rare local ebony can be spotted across the island. Thanks to the efforts of locals, the ebony, once thought to be extinct, is now being propagated and planted throughout the island. You can also explore the native forests on High Peak and Diana's Peak, offering stunning natural beauty. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the Saint Helena Wirebird, the island's national bird. With its distinctive long beak and legs, this land bird can be found in open areas like Deadwood and Prosperous Bay Plain.

Map & Climate