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When to Go to St Helena?

St Helena has a tropical climate, but this is heavily influenced by the South East Trade winds which keep the temperature mild and can lead to very changeable weather. The coastal areas are generally hotter and drier than the interior, with temperatures in the coastal capital of Jamestown ranging between 14-32ºC, and the central hill area around 4-6 degrees cooler.

There are no drastic weather patterns and therefore no distinctive seasons in St Helena. The hottest months of the year are between January and March, where temperatures in Jamestown average between 20-32ºC, and the coolest months are from June to September. The heaviest rainfall is experienced from late March to early May and between July and September, however this is variable across the island, with the interior receiving considerably more rainfall than the coast.

The main tourist season is November through to March when the days are mostly sunny and hot. April to October is generally wetter and cooler.

STH Peaks
STH St St Helena Landscape Umomos

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The Best Time to Visit St Helena

  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

In January, St. Helena gets mild, pleasant weather. The ideal range for outdoor activities and exploration is between 75°F and 85°F (24°C and 29°C), which is the normal range for daytime temperatures. You can see the island's birdlife, including the rare wirebird, in January. There are opportunities for dolphin and whale watching because of the marine life that is drawn to the warm seas.

January - February

While St Helena does not experience dramatic seasonal changes in weather, January and February are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures reaching 32ºC by the coast. This is also the best time to experience swimming with whale sharks, which are attracted to the increase in plankton and regularly appear off the coast of the island, sometimes in groups of up to 35 individuals.

March - December

St Helena has a mild and agreeable climate year-round, however the island experiences heavier rainfall from late March to early May, and from July to September, peaking in April and August. The coldest months are from June to September, although temperatures in Jamestown still usually range between 15-26ºC.

  • The best time to see whale sharks is during the hotter months of January and February when the higher sea temperatures correlate with plankton blooms and attract large numbers of whale sharks. This is the optimum time to see whale sharks, and they have usually left by May
  • If you want to see humpback whales travel between July and December.

Swimming with Whale Safaris


INO Indian Ocean Reunion Patrick Dykstra Swimming With Humpback Whales

Swimming with Humpbacks in the Cook Islands

An incredible opportunity to swim with humpback whales and other relaxed marine life in the crystal waters of Aitutaki, in the Cook Islands. Travel to the tranquil Aitutaki, with NWS' expert guides for one of the natural world's most unforgettable wildlife encounters. Humpback whales are by nature one of the most gentle and non-aggressive marine animals, ranging from 12 to 16 metres (39 to 52 feet) in length. Spend eight days on and around Aitutaki, exploring this tropical paradise, snorkelling off uninhabited islands abundant with sea life and relaxing on a private island offering barefoot luxury.

From 7730 per person
Dominica Patrick Dykstra Andrew And Whale Clear

Swimming with Sperm Whales in Dominica

A unique opportunity to swim with some of the most relaxed marine mammals in the world as they traverse the coastline of rugged Dominica.

From 7220 per person
Whale Sharks Djibouti Joshua Barton

St Helena Whale Sharks Safari

A pioneering safari to the remote South Atlantic island of St Helena, swimming with whale sharks and other marine wildlife and discovering the unique volcanic landscapes and history of the island.

From 4500 per person
Big Male B W

Swim with Killer Whales

An incredible ship-based safari with the unique opportunity to swim with, and be photographed alongside, killer whales (orcas) and humpbacks in the wild Norwegian waters. You’ll also have a chance to see the magnificent dancing Northern Lights.

From 5495 per person

Things to do in St Helena

Diana's Peak National Park

Hike to Diana's Peak, the highest point on the island, to take in sweeping views of St. Helena's verdant surroundings. Unique plants and animals can be found in the park.

Jacob's Ladder

For breathtaking views of Jamestown and the nearby coastline, brave the 699-step walk up Jacob's Ladder, a mediaeval staircase.

Forts and Historic Sites

Discover the past of the island by visiting ancient forts and locations like High Knoll Fort, Rupert's Valley, and Fort James.

Photography

With its spectacular vistas, brilliant fauna, and colourful buildings, St. Helena is a photographer's dream.