BirdLife South Africa will be taking intrepid birders and naturalists on three exciting adventures to St Helena Island in early 2026.

  • This is what you can expect: See the Wirebird St Helena’s only endemic land bird.
  • Discover a unique island: Spectacular scenery, home to endemic plants, animals and the last natural cloud forest on British soil.
  • Step back in time – Explore Napoleonic history, colonial forts, a Boer War prisoner-of-war cemetery and Jamestown’s Georgian architecture.

Flock to St Helena Island 2026

BirdLife South Africa is delighted to announce three new tours to St Helena Island!

The dates:

Group 1 (4 nights)

Leave Cape Town (Tuesday 27 January 2026), return to Johannesburg (Saturday 31 January 2026)

Group 2 (4 nights)

Leave Cape Town (Tuesday 03 February 2026), return to Johannesburg (Saturday 07 February 2026)

Group 3 (5 nights)

Leave Cape Town (Tuesday 10 February 2026), return to Johannesburg (Sunday 15 February 2026)

NOTE:

Domestic flights will be for your own arrangements, and are not included in the tour price.

NB: all departures are subject to a minimum group size of 10 people travelling together in economy class both to St Helena and back.

Itinerary Please note that these activities are subject to change based on a variety of factors.

Uncover Unique Wildlife

Enjoy a dedicated Wirebird and Conservation Tour led by experts from the St Helena National Trust.

 

Marine Safari Adventure Along St Helena’s Coast

Cruise the island’s leeward shores guided by the St Helena National Trust on a spectacular Marine Safari. Spot seabirds, dolphins, and dramatic geological formations while uncovering the stories behind military fortifications. Expert guides from the St Helena National Trust will be onboard to share insights into the island’s remarkable birdlife.

 

Step into History

Visit key historical sites:

  • Longwood House, where Napoleon lived in exile
  • The Briars Pavilion and Napoleon’s Tomb
  • High Knoll Fort and Ladder Hill
  • Boer and Zulu prisoner heritage sites

 

Island Discovery

Journey through St Helena’s rugged landscapes and rich heritage on a guided half-day tour. Highlights include panoramic views from Ladder Hill and High Knoll Fort, a visit to Plantation House—home to Jonathan the Tortoise, the world’s oldest known living land animal—and scenic stops at Blue Hill, Sandy Bay, Bellstone, and Longwood. A perfect introduction to the island’s natural beauty and colonial history.

 

Authentic Island Culture

Be hosted in local homes like Wranghams, a beautifully restored 18th-century house and coffee plantation. Connect with islanders through shared meals and stories.

 

Leisure & Local Flavours

Stroll through Historic Jamestown, browse the Arts & Crafts Shop, and sample delicious island cuisine—prepared by top local chefs and home cooks alike.

 

Comfortable Stay

Relax at the charming Mantis St Helena Hotel.

 

Optional Adventures

Try the legendary Jacob’s Ladder challenge—699 steps to panoramic views!

GROUP 1 (4 nights)

Depart from Cape Town: Tuesday, 27 January 2026

Return to Johannesburg: Saturday, 31 January 2026

Price*: From R67 000 per person sharing a Contemporary Twin or Double Room

Room supplement per person sharing*:
Heritage Room from R700
Heritage Suite from R1050

Single supplement*:
Contemporary Room from R6900
Heritage Room from R8950
Heritage Suite from R9650

GROUP 2 (4 nights)

Depart from Cape Town: Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Return to Johannesburg: Saturday, 07 February 2026

Price*: From R67 000 per person sharing a Contemporary Twin or Double Room

Room supplement per person sharing*:
Heritage Room from R700
Heritage Suite from R1050

Single supplement*:
Contemporary Room from R6900
Heritage Room from R8950
Heritage Suite from R9650

GROUP 3 (5 nights)

Depart from Cape Town: Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Return to Johannesburg: Sunday, 15 February 2026

Price*: From R72 000 per person sharing a Contemporary Twin or Double Room

Room supplement per person sharing*:
Heritage Room from R860
Heritage Suite from R1290

Single supplement*:
Contemporary Room from R8600
Heritage Room from R11 200
Heritage Suite from R12 000

FLYING TO ST HELENA ISLAND

AirLink is the only airline which flies from South Africa to St Helena Island.

The most popular route is from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Saint Helena Airport in Jamestown.

A second flight from Cape Town, runs for an approximate six week period from January to February during peak season.

On average this flight takes 6 hours 32 minutes one way.

Flights to St Helena often include a stop at Walvis Bay for refueling, the return flight to Johannesburg is non-stop.

Airlink operates modern 98-seat Embraer E-190 jetliners on this route.

Hold Baggage

Visitors luggage allowance is 20kg

Carry on Baggage

One piece per passenger, not exceeding 8kg

  • Travel insurance is compulsory. For travel to St Helena, you’ll needmedical insurance covering at least £175,000, including emergency medical evacuation.
  • NB: Insurance is not included in your tour price and you will be asked for a copy of your policy prior to ticketing

For a quote, please visit:

Travel Insurance Consultants

Website: www.tic.co.za

Or Call them on: Call us: 0860 100 484 (RSA) or +27 (0)11 521 4000

BLSA logo St Helena

To book your place, please contact Clare Neall at BirdLife South Africa on Tel. (011) 789 1122 or clare.neall@birdlife.org.za