Home to around 4,000 residents and situated 2,000km off the southwestern coast of Africa, the British Overseas Territory has enforced a strict policy since the onset of the pandemic and mask wearing may still be required in some areas.

St Helena, whose airport opened in 2017, will boost its accessibility with fortnightly flights from Johannesburg rising to a weekly service from 8 October. 

The island was previously only reachable by a five-day voyage from Cape Town and is home to the world’s oldest living animal – an 184-year-old giant tortoise named Jonathan.

Candice Buchan, head of Africa specialist operator Rainbow Tours, which offers several itineraries exploring St Helena, said: “This is a very exciting development. St Helena is completely unlike anywhere else and a wonderful choice for clients looking for somewhere a little different to explore.”