The unique geological history of the island of Saint Helena has created an impressive variety of landscapes within just 47 square miles: Jurassic-like forests, rolling pastures and craggy coastal cliffs. Amidst this, you’ll also encounter 500 plant and animal species found nowhere else on earth.
Abundant with hiking trails, Saint Helena offers walking routes exploring the full range of environments across the island. With few other hikers on these paths, a trip to complete some of the famous Post Box Walks would be perfect for anyone seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
What Are the Post Box Walks?
Established in 2002 by the St Helena Nature Conservation Group (SNCG), the St Helena National Trust (SHNT) and the Q5 Committee, the Post Box Walks were first introduced to celebrate 500 years since the island’s discovery. Today, the 21 Post Box Walks allow travellers to visit some of the island’s most stunning locations.
Each walk has a ‘post box’ at the end or the summit, where a visitor’s book and unique ink-stamp await hikers. Some people have even been known to return to Saint Helena to complete the Post Box Walks and secure their full set of stamps.
Here are five of the best, ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes and everything in between.
1. Diana’s Peak
At 823 metres, Diana’s Peak is the highest point on Saint Helena and ideal as an introduction to the island’s rich biodiversity. A walk through the lush cloud forest leads you up to a panoramic view of your surroundings, with endemic plant species such as tree ferns guiding your way. This hike is moderate, lasts for 2.5 hours and highlights the unique ecology that makes the island of Saint Helena so special.
2. Flagstaff
Flagstaff is the perfect entry-level walk for those who want to incorporate only a brief foray into nature within their trip itinerary. Traverse the Deadwood Plain, a major habitat for one of the island’s endemic bird species: the Saint Helena plover, known locally as the wirebird. Critically endangered, it’s the only endemic bird remaining and features in the national flag.
3. Blue Point
For anyone hoping to spot whales during their time on Saint Helena, the Blue Point walk might just be the solution. Hikers can enjoy popular views across South West Point, Sandy Bay, Perry Island and Castle Rocks. A great way to explore the intriguingly named ‘Gates of Chaos’, this walk takes hikers along the heavily eroded cliffs on the windward side of the island.
4. The Heart-Shaped Waterfall
During the rainy season, the heart-shaped waterfall on Saint Helena is a rewarding endpoint after a meandering 45-minute hike through the island countryside. It’s only during this season that visitors can witness the water cascading 295 feet down to the pool below. This side of Saint Helena feels almost untouched, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
5. Lot’s Wife’s Ponds
Hikers looking for a challenge during their stay on the island of Saint Helena should head for Lot’s Wife’s Ponds, named for the striking sea stack beside a series of natural rock pools. The trail follows a rugged path along the southern coastline, where basalt cliffs plunge into the Atlantic. Descending to the pools (with a bit of backward shuffling whilst holding onto a secured length of rope), you will be surrounded by some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on Saint Helena.
The tourism team on the island organise an annual Festival of Walking between December and February. Benefit from the expertise of local guides on the Post Box Walks during the festival, including conservationists and historians who will lead the way and share their knowledge of Saint Helena.
Explore our Saint Helena holidays experiences below to discover more about the types of tailor made journeys we can create for you at Steppes Travel. Then, get in touch with one of our experts to bring your trip to life.
