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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 St St Helena Landscape Umomos

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The Best Time to Visit St Helena


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.

St. Helena experiences summertime weather in February, with daytime highs of 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The island gets a lot of sunlight, which is ideal for outdoor activities. February is a great month for birdwatching since it offers the chance to see the island's native wirebird as well as other bird species. On boat tours, you might also see marine animals like dolphins and whales.

March is a pleasant and temperate month in St. Helena. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 24°C and 29°C, or 75°F and 85°F. As a result of the island's abundant sunshine, outdoor activities are ideal. Birdwatchers will get the chance to see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species throughout the month of March. On boat trips, you might also see marine animals like dolphins and whales.

St. Helena gets pleasant, warm weather in April. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 21°C and 27°C, or 70°F and 80°F. It's still great for outdoor activities even if it's a little cooler than the summer. Birdwatchers may see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species during the month of April. During boat excursions, marine life, such as dolphins and whales, may still be visible.

St. Helena experiences a beautiful and mild winter in May. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 18°C and 24°C, or 65°F to 75°F. Even though it's cooler than the summer, it's still pleasant for outdoor activities. With the chance to see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species, May is a good month for birdwatching. During boat excursions, marine life, such as dolphins and whales, may still be visible.

St. Helena experiences a pleasant and chilly winter in June. The usual range for daytime temperatures is 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). It is the coolest season of the year, making it ideal for vacationers who love chilly weather. The endemic wirebird of the island can be seen around June, making it a good time to go bird watching. While there is less marine life activity in the cooler months, boat excursions may still allow you to see dolphins and whales.

St. Helena gets cool winter weather in July, with daily highs between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). It's the coolest season of the year, making it perfect for vacationers who like more comfortable weather. With the chance to see the island's rare wirebird and other avian species, July continues to be a fantastic period for birdwatching. Dolphins and whales may still be spotted on boat excursions, despite the fact that marine life activity declines during the cooler months.

St. Helena gets cool winter weather in August, with daily highs between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). It's the coolest season of the year, making it perfect for vacationers who like more comfortable weather. Birdwatchers may see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species throughout the month of August. While there is less marine life activity in the cooler months, boat excursions may still allow you to see dolphins and whales.

St. Helena experiences pleasant, warm spring weather in September. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 18°C and 24°C, or 65°F to 75°F. Outdoor activities are great at this time of year. Birdwatchers may see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species throughout the month of September. Boat excursions could become more rewarding as marine life activity rises.

St. Helena has pleasant, warm spring weather in October. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 18°C and 24°C, or 65°F to 75°F. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Birdwatchers may see the island's endemic wirebird throughout October, in addition to other avian species. The increase in marine life activity may potentially be increasing boat excursions.

The weather in St. Helena is moderate and comfortable in November as summer approaches. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 21°C and 27°C, or 70°F and 80°F. Outdoor activities are great at this time of year. In November, there is a good chance to see the island's endemic wirebird as well as other bird species. The increase in marine life activity may potentially be increasing boat excursions.

St. Helena experiences warm, comfortable summer weather in December. Normal daytime temperatures fall between 24°C and 29°C, or 75°F and 85°F. The weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoors and going to the beach. Birdwatchers may see the island's endemic wirebird and other avian species throughout the month of December. The abundance of marine life may be at its greatest, making boat trips more enjoyable.

January – February: Best Time to Swim with Whale Sharks in St Helena

January and February are the hottest months in St Helena, with coastal temperatures reaching up to 32ºC. This is the best time to swim with whale sharks, as warmer waters trigger plankton blooms that attract large groups of these gentle giants. Sightings of up to 35 individuals are not uncommon, making this period ideal for marine wildlife experiences in St Helena.

March – December: St Helena Weather, Rainfall Patterns and Seasonal Wildlife

St Helena has a mild climate throughout the year, though rainfall is heaviest from late March to early May and July to September, peaking in April and August. The coolest months are June to September, with Jamestown temperatures still ranging between 15–26ºC. While whale sharks typically depart by May, the period from July to December offers chances to spot humpback whales, adding to the island’s diverse marine and wildlife viewing opportunities.

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.

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Why Natural World Safaris for your St Helena Safari?

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Remote by Nature

St Helena is one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth — and a perfect match for travellers seeking something truly different. We specialise in far-flung, wild destinations, and St Helena offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, unique biodiversity, and a sense of isolation that’s increasingly hard to find in modern travel.

Conservation Minded

Conservation Minded

We work only with trusted local partners who are actively involved in preserving the island’s rare habitats and endemic species. Whether you’re exploring cloud forests home to the St Helena plover or snorkelling with seasonal whale sharks, your journey directly supports conservation and community-led tourism initiatives.

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Tailor-Made Exploration

With limited access and infrastructure, travelling to St Helena requires insight and precision — and that’s where we come in. From guided hikes and marine adventures to historic insights and wildlife encounters, we build bespoke itineraries that connect you to the island’s wild heart and untold stories.