August 4, 2022by Sasha Ella

Come out of exile and visit St Helena Island

The luxurious, boutique Mantis St Helena Hotel, centrally situated in Jamestown, is re-opening its doors on October 15 … which has historical significance as it was mid-October in 1815 (207 years ago) when Napoleon disembarked onto St Helena! It is also exactly five years since the inaugural Airlink flight to the Island and when the refurbished Mantis St Helena welcomed its first guests, along with Mantis chairman, Adrian Gardiner.

Mantis St Helena

Our hotel is the perfect place from where you can explore the Island, known for its beauty, incredible landscapes and hiking trails through jungles of fern and eucalyptus or woodlands of restored ancient endemic species, along sea cliffs and across arid red deserts. Diving enthusiasts will be in for a treat as they get to explore the numerous reefs, caves and wrecks.

There are many unique species on St Helena, 500 species of fauna, flora, invertebrate and fish not found anywhere else, including the endemic ground-nesting wirebird (known for its thin, wiry legs) the national bird, featured on the flag and coat of arms.

At only 121,7km², the Island may be small but it’s home to its own, ‘7 Wonders’. These include:

Jacob’s Ladder – built in 1829 this is an almost vertical climb of 699 steps that provides superb views of Jamestown and sea beyond
The heart-shaped waterfall – a heart-shaped cascade at the end of James Valley, a short walk from Jamestown
Diana’s Peak National Park – famous for its endemic plants, including the ‘blushing’ snail, it has some of the best views on the island. The peak itself is the highest point at 823 metres
High-Knoll Fort – a colossal citadel at 584 metres above sea level
Jonathon the Tortoise – who resides at Plantation House is a giant Aldabra tortoise who arrived in 1882 as a gift for the Governor. Celebrating his 190^th birthday this year, he is the oldest inhabitant on the Island and is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest living land animal in the world!
Longwood House – home to Napoleon during his exile, now a museum
Swimming with whale sharks – dolphins and whales are a common sight around St Helena but it is also the best place to see and snorkel with whale sharks

Why not visit the most remote distillery in the word? Sample the Tungi Prickly Pear Spirit, White Lion Rum, Juniper Gin or the Midnight Mist Coffee Liqueur. True coffee connoisseurs rave about the Island’s Green Tipped Bourbon Arabica bean which requires wet processing and harvesting to preserve its wonderful characteristics.

Or reach for the stars at Halley’s Observatory, the site where astronomer, Edmund Halley, visited St Helena in 1673 to study the skies. The location offers superb views and an area to star gaze in one of the least light-polluted skies.

St Helena Island has a plethora of things to do and see … it’s about exploring the past while enjoying the great outdoors.

Getting there

From October 8, Airlink has weekly flights between OR Tambo International and St Helena. Visit Airlink here to book online.

Where to stay

Mantis St Helena Hotel reopens on Saturday, October 15. It is a combination of a restored historic building (dating back to 1774) and a new contemporary wing and offers a total of 30 luxurious bedrooms, a restaurant, cocktail bar, guest lounge and two terraces. You can book directly via the Mantis website or email reservations on sthelena@mantiscollection.com. Book your stay 30 days or more before arrival and enjoy 15% off your booking!

Covid Protocols

All arrivals welcome. Covid-related restrictions will be dropped from August 8: No testing or quarantine required. However, due to the remote location and to keep the Island Covid-free, mask wearing is welcomed. Visitors are also encouraged to be vaccinated due to limited medical capacity.