The move forms part of a broader effort to raise global awareness of Saint Helena’s hiking offering, while improving access to accurate, user-friendly route information for visitors.

“Our island is genuinely unlike anywhere else, offering an extraordinary combination of volcanic scenery and rich biodiversity,” says Jonathan Passaportis, Head of Tourism for St Helena. “By improving free digital access to our trails, we’re making it easier for travellers to explore confidently and discover the scenery that makes St Helena so special.”

The Post Box Walks are the island’s established trail network, covering a wide range of difficulty levels and landscapes. Some follow coastal paths with views over the South Atlantic. Others cut through National Conservation Areas where less than 700 endemic St Helena plovers call home.

“A few walks directly through the island’s history, including routes near Longwood House, where Napoleon Bonaparte spent his years of exile, and others lead to East India Company coastal fortifications,” Passaportis adds.

Although routes are clearly signposted and graded for all skill levels, he highlights how getting accurate, up-to-date route information online for St Helena’s hiking network has historically been a challenge. By listing on Outdooractive, a leading digital platform for outdoor enthusiasts, the island’s trails are now searchable, mappable, and available offline, which matters when you’re somewhere this remote.

St Helena has always been a travel-list-topping destination for intrepid travellers, but Passaportis emphasises how the island’s remote location means we are often viewed as an untouched and difficult frontier.

“By showcasing our spectacular Post Box Walks on Outdooractive, we are quite literally placing our island into the hands of global hikers. This isn’t just about mapping routes; it’s about giving travellers the confidence to immerse themselves knowing they have world-class digital guidance in their pocket,” he concludes.

The routes are live now and free to access here.

Table of Contents

Johannesburg, South Africa: The third edition of the Seychelles Nature Challenge returns on Saturday,16 May 2026, with all-inclusive packages now available for professional and novice trail runners alike.

The 22 km technical course winds its way through Morne Seychellois National Park – the archipelago’s largest and most biodiverse protected area. With a 1,200 m elevation gain, runners traverse dense indigenous rainforest, rocky mountain paths, and pristine coastal trails on the island of Mahé, in what is becoming one of the most spectacular and sought-after races on the global trail running calendar.

A once-in-a-lifetime trail experience awaits. For seasoned trail runner, Paul Ingpen, the 2025 edition inspired new awe and wonder:

“Even after 40 years of travelling to run, ride and paddle my way through the world’s most remote wildernesses, I have never seen plants as tall, leaves as big, or shapes as varied as in this forest,” said Ingpen. “It may be the first time that I’ve run a race wishing time would slow down and the distance would extend.”

An unparalleled way to discover the island. For Stellenbosch-based trail runner, Shaundre Jacobs, who finished third in the ladies’ race in August 2025, it was the best way to experience Seychelles for the very first time:

“If you like the outdoors and exploring a new place, I suggest putting this race at the top of your list,” says Jacobs. “It’s the best way to explore the island, by foot. In this way, you take it all in through feeling and experiencing nature first-hand. Whether you are a beginner or expert trail runner, this race is for you. It will be the experience of a lifetime. Seychelles is not just a place; it is a feeling.”

Accessible to runners of all levels. Jacobs, who describes the event as “well-organised”, “well-marked” and “magically surreal”, believes anyone can enjoy the challenge – with a little preparation.

“If you are considering it, try and train in warm conditions and get some time in a sauna. The humidity is quite high and can catch you off guard,” explains Jacobs. “Hydrate well before, during and after the race, with water and electrolytes. Also, do lots of vertical training where you focus on power hiking. This will help prepare you for the vertical kilometres in the race – and reward you with astounding views.”

RACE DETAILS

The Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge 2026 takes place on 16 May 2026, starting at the Constance Ephelia Resort at Port Launay before heading into Mahé’s national park trails and finishing at Grand Anse Mahé.

The race entry fee includes a race bib and timing chip, race pack (including a t-shirt and other surprises), a finisher’s medal, refreshments and aid stations along the route and post-race recovery area and refreshments.

ALL-INCLUSIVE RACE PACKAGES

Comprehensive travel packages for South African runners are available through Ace Sport Travel, making it easy to experience this bucket-list event. Packages start from R49,990 per person, including 5 nights’ accommodation, breakfast and dinner daily, flights and transfers and race entry. Rates depend on accommodation selected (Constance Ephelia or Avani+ Barbarons), and single supplements apply. 

Price excludes the Seychelles Tourism Environmental Sustainability Levy, which amounts to approximately R121.00 per person per night, payable at the hotel upon check out.

For booking enquiries, please contact nadine@acetravel.co.za.

BOOK YOUR SPOT TODAY

Online entries are open, please visit https://racepass.com/za/tours/the-seychelles-nature-trail for more information.

For Christine Vel, Market Manager for Seychelles Tourism, it is a highlight on the organisation’s calendar:

“The 2025 event attracted 169 entrants from around the world, including 52 international athletes and 10 participants from South Africa alone,” says Vel.  “For 2026, we’re expecting an even larger field and are excited to cement Seychelles’ position as a premier destination for both luxury and adventure tourism, showcasing Seychelles’ extraordinary natural beauty to a globalaudience of outdoor enthusiasts.”

JAMESTOWN, ST HELENA – Adventure seekers and runners will have the opportunity to tick off a number of bucket-list moments in one go as St Helena Island hosts their first-ever Adventure Week from 15-27 February 2026.

“If you’ve ever wanted to visit the world’s most remote island, now’s the time,” says Minister Karl Thrower, Minister for Economic Development and Environment, St Helena Government.

“Adventure Week actually runs over two weeks, with the marathon on Sunday, 22 February. It anchors what promises to be an unforgettable calendar of events, including the chance to scale Jacob’s Ladder and experience peak whale shark season – which runs from December to May/June each year.”

The 42.2 km race will begin outside the Governor’s Residence, Plantation House (which is also home to Jonathan the tortoise, the world’s oldest living land animal at 193 years old) before taking runners through dramatic volcanic landscapes, protected forests, and cliff-edge paths overlooking the vast South Atlantic.

All races and event routes will finish on the Jamestown waterfront, passing beneath the island’s historic Arch. Built in 1832, The Arch once served as the main entryway from the sea, through which every arrival and all goods came onto St Helena. By ending at this iconic gateway, participants retrace the footsteps of centuries of visitors, making their finish a truly memorable part of island history.

“The route is designed to challenge and inspire in equal measure,” says Thrower. “It is an extraordinary way to experience St Helena’s beauty, diversity and adventurous spirit.”

For those not quite ready for a full marathon, there are other distances available on the day, opening up the event to runners, friends and family across all skill levels.

RACE DISTANCES

• Full marathon (42.2 km)
• Half marathon (21.1 km)
• 10 km run
• 5 km fun run
• 2.5 km complimentary walk/run for the kids

BUCKET-LIST EXPERIENCES

In addition to the four routes, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy:

• Boating, diving, snorkelling and guided swimming excursions in the pristine waters of St Helena’s Marine Protected Area (MPA)
• Whale shark encounters
• Post box walks (24 trails which criss-cross the island)
• Cultural tours led by local guides and historians that weave together history, food and wildlife stories
• The chance to conquer Jacob’s Ladder – and earn sweeping views across the Atlantic

For Thrower, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore what is still a remote and peaceful part of the world.

“St Helena holds a number of surprises for first-time visitors,” says Thrower. “Firstly, the water is clear – and surprisingly warm. You hear ‘South Atlantic’, and you think cold, wild and remote. Yes, it’s remote. But the visibility is incredible, and our water temperatures range from 19°C to 26°C. Another surprise? The incredible diversity of fauna and flora. St Helena (and its unique cloud forest) supports 502 endemic species (including the blushing snail, spiky yellow woodlouse and wirebird), making it the perfect destination for nature lovers, birders, walkers and hikers.”

ENTER TODAY

With limited entries available, organisers encourage early registration at: www.bikeruntri.co.za

ACCOMMODATION

Options vary, ranging from the 4-star Mantis St Helena to smaller boutique hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages. For more information, visit: www.sthelenatourism.com/plan-your-trip

FLIGHTS

Fly into St Helena with Airlink. The airline offers a weekly flight from Johannesburg to Jamestown on a Saturday. During the summer season (December–February), there is also aweekly flight to Jamestown from Cape Town every Tuesday. Visit: www.flyairlink.com

“Tick off your bucket-list,” says Thrower. “Join us for the world’s most

Flica, skippered by veteran sailor Rijk Kuttel, claimed overall victory and the coveted Governor’s Cup Trophy with a corrected time of 11 days, 23 hours, 21 minutes. In an exhilarating finish, Atalanta, co-skippered by Gerry Hegie and Heye Daun, secured Line Honours as first to cross the finish line.

“This race exemplified the true spirit of ocean racing – combining fierce competition with remarkable camaraderie,” said David Garrard, RCYC Vice Commodore and Race Chairman. “The fleet demonstrated exceptional seamanship throughout, facing everything from challenging light winds at the start to testing Atlantic conditions.”

Key highlights:

· Seven-year-old twins Peter and Vera Halling aboard Magic Dragon became the youngest competitors in race history, winning the Ambrose Family Trophy.

· A nail-biting final sprint between Flica and Atalanta created one of the closest finishes in the event’s 28-year history.

The eight-boat fleet experienced varying weather conditions during their 10- to 13-day crossing, showcasing both tactical decision-making and endurance. Upon reaching St Helena, competitors were welcomed as honoured guests, with Governor Nigel Phillips hosting a gala dinner at historic Plantation House.

“The hospitality shown by the Saints was extraordinary,” said Line Honours winner Heye Daun. “St Helena offers a special combination of sailing challenge and cultural experience that makes this race truly one-of-a-kind.”

During their island stay, crews explored Napoleon’s exile residence, hiked volcanic peaks, and enjoyed world-class snorkelling, cementing the race’s reputation as both a competitive event and an unforgettable adventure.

The island remains a bucket-list destination for many, explains Matt Joshua, Head of Tourism for St Helena. “It’s always a privilege to welcome visitors to St Helena, by boat or by air! We know the island has captured their hearts and we hope to welcome them – plus families and friends – back soon!”

Several key partners supported the race, including Groot Constantia Wine Estate – South Africa’s oldest wine estate, which provided commemorative individually-boxed bottles of prized wine – along with MACS Shipping, Zed Core, Southern Ropes, and Associated Rigging.

“The success of this race relies on our generous sponsors, who share our vision for adventure and excellence – a big thank you to each and every one of them,” noted Garrard.

Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for the 2026 edition. “We’re seeing growing international interest in this unique ocean racing challenge,” said Garrard. “The combination of competitive sailing, adventure, and the chance to visit one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands creates an irresistible draw for sailors worldwide.”

The next Cape to St Helena Race is scheduled for December 2026. For race information and entry details, visit www.capetosthelena.co.za.

We caught up with Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa, to find out what African destinations should be on your radar this year.

Phenomena Travel | Zambia

Phenomena tourism refers to any travel planned around extraordinary – often fleeting – natural events like eclipses, meteor showers or wildlife migrations. Africa offers up the Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa and the Zebra Migration in Botswana, but have you heard of the Kasanka Bat Migration in Zambia? The planet’s largest mammal migration happens between October and November each year, giving visitors a spectacular show as up to 10 million African straw-coloured fruit bats descend on the Kasanka National Park.

“It’s one of the natural world’s best kept secrets,” says Turner. “And combined with a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park, you’ll end up with two wildlife experiences that just can’t be matched.”

According to Turner, Proflight Zambia has increased their domestic network over the last few months and are also operating direct flights between Lusaka, Johannesburg and Cape Town – putting Zambia’s wildlife, waterfalls and hidden gems within easy reach of South African travellers.

“Zambia is visa-free for South Africans,” says Turner. “But the country has also just announced the waiver of visa requirements for nationals of an additional 53 countries, which is a real boost for tourism in the region.”

Sports Tourism | Seychelles

Sports tourism (travelling to participate in or watch a sporting event) is on the rise, with the latest Sports Tourism Global Market Report valuing sports tourism at USD 583.14 billion in 2024 – reflecting a compound annual growth rate of just over 11%.

Among this year’s sports highlights is a first for Africa: The 2025 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

“The Seychelles already has the best beaches in the world,” says Turner. “Why not make your way to Victoria in May 2025, when you’ll be able to experience the excitement and

gees of the FIFA Beach World Cup, beautiful weather (around 25 – 30°C) and all joys and surprises of one of the smallest capitals in the world.”

Responsible Tourism | Rwanda

Overtourism continues to be a massive problem worldwide, with international travel guide Fodors publishing both their ‘No List’ and ‘Go List’ for 2025. The ‘No List’ asks travellers to avoid crowded destinations like Barcelona, Mallorca, the Canary Islands, Venice and Lisbon, while the ‘Go List’ encourages travellers to seek out quieter destinations like (drumroll please) Hermanus in the Western Cape and Kigali in Rwanda.

“It’s fantastic to see South Africa on this list,” says Turner. “And Rwanda is a brilliant option for travellers keen to explore a central African gem – or those with gorilla trekking on their bucket list. Although South Africans require a visa, it’s free on arrival.”

Soft Travel | St Helena Island

Similar to slow travel or mindful travel, soft travel is an antidote to our busy, stressful lives. It swaps packed, pressured itineraries for slow trips that unfold organically, savouring simple pleasures and prioritising rest and wellbeing – and the chance to escape, reset and rediscover what’s important.

“St Helena Island is a bucket-list destination for many,” says Turner. “Visitors are attracted by the island’s history, heritage and unique ecosystems – but many are also looking for a real escape from everyday life. And it’s perfect for walking, birding and simply ‘being’, surrounded by nature and incredible scenery.”

Turner explains that Airlink currently has seasonal flights between Cape Town and St Helena (until the end of March 2025), which augment Airlink’s weekly Johannesburg to St Helena schedule.

Heritage Revolution | Ghana

Some of the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found in Africa, including Stone Town in Zanzibar, Tyfelfontein in the Kunene Region of Namibia, Aksum in Ethiopia, and the Amphitheatre of El Jem in Tunisia.

As heritage travel continues to grow in popularity, Ghana is just one example of an African destination working hard to spotlight its rich cultural heritage. Their “See Ghana, Wear Ghana, Experience Ghana” and “December in Ghana” campaigns have effectively showcased the country’s diverse attractions, from the Volta Region’s beaches to the historical sites of the Central Region and the Ashanti Kingdom – all holding massive appeal to modern travellers looking to immerse themselves in African music, history and cultural festivities.

Beyond the Safari in 2025

“According to a UN Tourism Report, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, South Africa, Tanzania, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Eswatini, and Seychelles are Africa’s leading tourism destinations, welcoming over 50 million visitors last year,” says Turner. “They are all worth a visit, and all promise transformative travel experiences. If you haven’t yet discovered the joy of African travel, maybe 2025 will be the year!”

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (Pty) Ltd (“FCTG”) in South Africa is wholly owned by Flight Centre Travel Group Limited – an Australian based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$3.7 billion and a current share price of AU$16.70 as of 22 January 2025. FCTG has two level 1 B-BBEE subsidiaries: FCTG Corporate and FCM Travel Solutions. FCTG consists of two leading brands: Flight Centre and Corporate Traveller. FCTG has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for 14 consecutive years.

Flights between South Africa’s “Mother City” and the South Atlantic Island will operate every Saturday until 29 March 2025.  They augment the weekly Johannesburg-St Helena schedule which will operate on Tuesdays for the duration of the summer season.

Prior to 2017, when commercial flights to St Helena’s newly built airport began operating, the only way to reach the island was a five-day sea voyage from Cape Town. Today, Airlink, puts this bucket-list destination in easy reach of visitors.

“It’s about a six-hour flight between Cape Town and Jamestown, with a brief re-fuelling stop in Walvis Bay,” says Airlink CEO and Managing Director, Rodger Foster. “For travellers with a keen sense of adventure and history, St Helena remains one of the most unspoiled, fascinating and unforgettable places to visit. It is a privilege to be entrusted with this route.”

Matt Joshua, Head of Tourism for St Helena says the seasonal Cape Town-St Helena route is invaluable for local residents with ties to South Africa, South African tourists, and international visitors from the UK, Europe and beyond.

“Cape Town is a launchpad for tourism. By linking the Mother City directly with St Helena, Airlink is providing a convenient and reliable service to a destination that holds a unique mystique for many,” says Joshua. “It really is a destination like no other.”

Lying in middle of the South Atlantic and once a critical port of call between Europe and Asia, St Helena is now home to nearly 4,000 residents – all ready to introduce visitors to the island’s extraordinary history, traditions, landscape, wildlife and nature. From unmatched walking and hiking trails to birding, diving, snorkelling and photographic expeditions, the island awaits – now only a flight away from Cape Town.

Discover the best rates and promotional fares by visiting the Airlink website at www.flyairlink.com or contacting an IATA travel agent. Your extraordinary Atlantic adventure begins with just one click – explore and book today for the best deals available!

The full schedule of flights can be found on www.flyairlink.com.