Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha travel tips
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha travel tips: Lush volcanic island; Ascension, barren volcanic rock; Tristan da Cunha, isolated archipelago.
Districts 🌎
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha travel tips. Here is a list of all the districts of the Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.
Saint James’
Longwood
Saint Paul’s
Blue Hill
Levelwood
Alarm Forest
Half Tree Hollow
Sandy Bay
Ascension
Tristan da Cunha
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Jamestown
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 SH,
ISO alpha-3 SHN
Currency
Badge | Pound
CODE | SHP
NUMBER | 654
SYMBOL | £
FRACTION | penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +290
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks |
Location
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha is a British Overseas Territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It consists of three main islands and several smaller islets. Here is the location and brief description of each of the main islands within the territory:
Saint Helena: Saint Helena is the largest and most populous island in the territory. It is situated approximately 1,930 kilometers (1,199 miles) west of the southwestern coast of Africa. The island is known for its rugged terrain, historical significance, and unique flora and fauna. The capital and administrative center of the territory is Jamestown, located on Saint Helena.
Ascension Island: Ascension Island is located about 1,600 kilometers (994 miles) northwest of Saint Helena. It is a volcanic island known for its barren landscape, volcanic peaks, and the presence of the United States Air Force’s Ascension Island Auxiliary Airfield. Georgetown is the main settlement on Ascension Island.
Tristan da Cunha: Tristan da Cunha is the most remote inhabited island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is situated approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,491 miles) southwest of Saint Helena. Tristan da Cunha is an isolated volcanic island, and it is known for its small, close-knit community. The main settlement on the island is Edinburgh of the Seven Seas.
Currency
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha is a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean.
The official currency used in this territory is the Saint Helena pound (£), which is abbreviated as “SHP.”
The currency is issued and regulated by the government of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha.
It is used for all financial transactions within the territory.
Please note that while the Saint Helena pound is the official currency, the currency symbols and denominations may vary slightly from those used in the United Kingdom.
Languages
The languages spoken in Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, vary depending on the island within the territory:
Saint Helena: The official language of Saint Helena is English. English is used for government, education, and official communication on the island. However, Saint Helena also has its own unique English-based creole language known as “Saint Helenian English” or “Saint Helenian Creole,” which is sometimes spoken in informal settings.
Ascension Island: English is also the official language of Ascension Island. As with Saint Helena, English is used for official purposes, but you may hear residents using informal English or accents influenced by their diverse backgrounds.
Tristan da Cunha: Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited island in the territory, is home to a small community of English speakers. English is the primary language spoken on the island, and there is no native language specific to Tristan da Cunha.
Climate 🌡
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha varies among the three main islands within the British Overseas Territory due to differences in location, topography, and oceanic influences. Here’s an overview of the climate on each of these islands:
Saint Helena:
Saint Helena has a subtropical marine climate, characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year.
The island experiences relatively constant temperatures, with average highs ranging from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F) and average lows from 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F).
Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, and the island’s lush green landscape is maintained by this consistent moisture. Rainfall can occur in the form of mist or drizzle.
Saint Helena is influenced by the South Atlantic High, which contributes to the stability of its climate.
Ascension Island:
Ascension Island has a warm desert climate, characterized by high temperatures and low rainfall.
The average daily temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F). It can be hot and dry, especially during the southern hemisphere summer.
Rainfall on Ascension Island is extremely limited, and the island is arid. Precipitation mainly occurs in the form of short-lived showers or occasional thunderstorms.
The island’s climate is influenced by the South Atlantic trade winds.
Tristan da Cunha:
Tristan da Cunha has a cool oceanic climate, with relatively mild temperatures.
Average highs on the island range from 11°C to 15°C (52°F to 59°F), while average lows vary from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F).
Tristan da Cunha experiences relatively high rainfall throughout the year, with frequent drizzle and overcast conditions. Rainfall is evenly distributed, contributing to the island’s lush vegetation.
The climate is strongly influenced by the cold waters of the South Atlantic, which surround the island.
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Unique Isolation:
Discover the remote charm of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha, isolated gems in the South Atlantic.
Saint Helena’s Rich History:
Explore Saint Helena’s historic sites, including Napoleon’s exile home and the charming capital, Jamestown.
Ascension’s Volcanic Landscapes:
Witness Ascension’s otherworldly volcanic landscapes, from Green Mountain to the desolate lava fields.
Tristan da Cunha’s Secluded Beauty:
Immerse yourself in Tristan da Cunha’s untouched nature, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Transportation:
Limited transportation options; rely on infrequent flights or sea voyages. Unique challenges due to remote locations. Plan accordingly. View Guide.
Adventurous Activities:
Dive into water sports, trekking, and wildlife encounters for an adventurous experience across all three territories.
Wildlife Encounters:
Encounter diverse marine life, bird species, and unique flora, making these islands a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Enjoy your time in Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha!
The best of the best
The cuisine of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha reflects the unique cultural and geographical influences of the islands within this British Overseas Territory. Each of the three main islands has its own distinct culinary traditions.
Fishcakes
A popular dish made from locally caught fish, often served with a spicy sauce.
Plo
A traditional dish consisting of corned beef, onions, and rice, cooked together.
Tungi
A dessert made from sweet potatoes, sugar, and spices.
Here are some typical foods and dishes associated with each of the islands:
Ascension Island:
Grilled or Roasted Fish: Freshly caught fish, often prepared with simple seasonings and grilled or roasted.
Seafood Pasta: Dishes featuring locally caught seafood, including fish and lobster, served with pasta and sauces.
BBQ: Barbecue is popular on Ascension Island, with various meats, including lamb and chicken, cooked on open grills.
Tristan da Cunha:
Lobster: Lobster is a prized delicacy on Tristan da Cunha, often prepared grilled or in creamy sauces.
Fish Stew: A hearty stew made from locally caught fish, potatoes, and vegetables.
Homemade Bread: Freshly baked bread is a staple on the island.
Potato Dishes: Given the abundance of potatoes on Tristan da Cunha, various potato dishes are common.
Locally sourced and fresh ingredients, particularly seafood, play a significant role in the diet of residents.
Transportation 🚥
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