Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha are not typical island destinations; they are isolated volcanic outposts in the South Atlantic Ocean that offer a profound sense of adventure. For families willing to make the journey, these British Overseas Territories provide a safe, educational, and completely unique environment far removed from mass tourism. While the three islands are grouped administratively, they are geographically distinct, with Saint Helena being the most family-friendly and accessible via weekly flights.

The geography of Saint Helena is a lesson in contrasts. The coastline presents stark, barren volcanic cliffs, but a drive into the interior reveals lush, sub-tropical cloud forests and rolling green pastures. This variety creates distinct micro-climates, meaning families can experience bright sunshine on the coast and misty coolness in the hills on the same day. The island is famous for its "Post Box Walks," a network of nature trails where children can collect stamps at the summit of peaks like Diana's Peak and the Barn, turning hiking into an engaging scavenger hunt.

Wildlife encounters here are wild and authentic. The island's most famous resident lives at Plantation House: Jonathan the Tortoise, hatched in roughly 1832, is the oldest known living land animal. Children can view him and his companions in the paddock. Between December and March, the surrounding waters host congregating whale sharks. Conservation regulations allow for strictly controlled snorkelling trips, an unforgettable experience for older children and strong swimmers. Birdwatchers can search for the Wirebird, a plover found nowhere else on Earth.

History comes alive in the capital, Jamestown, a Georgian-style settlement squeezed into a narrow volcanic valley. Families can visit Longwood House, where Napoleon Bonaparte lived in exile until his death, featuring gardens and a museum that detail his final years. For active families, the challenge of Jacob's Ladder awaits-a steep stone staircase of 699 steps rising from the town floor to the fort on the hill. The local culture is warm and community-focused; "Saints" (the local people) are known for their friendliness, and the crime rate is exceptionally low, giving parents peace of mind.

Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha are significantly more difficult to visit. Ascension, accessible via limited military flights or ship, offers unique geology like the Green Mountain bamboo forests and nesting green turtles. Tristan da Cunha is the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, accessible only by a multi-day boat voyage, making it suitable only for the most intrepid families with ample travel time.

Practical travel requires planning. Flights to Saint Helena typically depart from Johannesburg. Driving is on the left, often on single-lane roads with passing bays, requiring patience and caution. The currency is the Saint Helena Pound (pegged to GBP), though British pounds are accepted. Internet access has impro