Ladder Hill Fort
Conquer the 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder or drive up for breathtaking views from Ladder Hill Fort on remote St. Helena.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Ladder Hill Fort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer the 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder or drive up for breathtaking views from Ladder Hill Fort on remote St. Helena.
"Ascend 699 steps for epic views or drive up for a scenic reward at Ladder Hill Fort!"
👟 Conquer the Steps
Bring water and wear good shoes if you plan to climb all 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder!
🚗 Drive for Views
Don't feel pressured to climb! The drive up Ladder Hill Road offers equally stunning scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jacob's Ladder Staircase
Jamestown to Ladder Hill Fort
Ascend 699 steps for breathtaking views of Jamestown and the South Atlantic. A true test of endurance!
Ladder Hill Fort
Top of Ladder Hill
Historic fort offering panoramic vistas. The perfect reward after conquering the ladder or a scenic drive.
Jamestown's Colorful Streets
Jamestown
Explore the capital's vibrant, 'Wotalotigot' hues. Admire them from above or wander through the charming streets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb (or Drive!)
St. Helena's Remote Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Conquer the Steps
Bring water and wear good shoes if you plan to climb all 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder!
🚗 Drive for Views
Don't feel pressured to climb! The drive up Ladder Hill Road offers equally stunning scenery.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The views from the top are incredible. Perfect for photography enthusiasts!
✈️ Plan Your Travel
St. Helena is remote; flights are weekly from Johannesburg. Book well in advance!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Conquer the Steps
Bring water and wear good shoes if you plan to climb all 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder!
🚗 Drive for Views
Don't feel pressured to climb! The drive up Ladder Hill Road offers equally stunning scenery.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The views from the top are incredible. Perfect for photography enthusiasts!
✈️ Plan Your Travel
St. Helena is remote; flights are weekly from Johannesburg. Book well in advance!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the dramatic ascent of Jacob's Ladder and the rewarding panoramic views from Ladder Hill Fort. The unique, remote location of St. Helena adds to its allure. While the climb is a significant challenge, the option to drive up offers accessibility. Some find the journey to the island itself to be a considerable undertaking.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ladder Hill Fort and Jacob's Ladder are located on the remote island of St. Helena. The primary way to reach the island is via a weekly flight from Johannesburg, South Africa, operated by Airlink. Once on the island, Jamestown is the capital, and Jacob's Ladder ascends from there. You can either climb the 699 steps or drive up Ladder Hill Road to reach the fort and the village of Half Tree Hollow.
St. Helena is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, making it challenging to access. Travel requires significant planning due to limited flight options.
While taxis are available, renting a car can offer more flexibility for exploring the island. For reaching Ladder Hill Fort, you can either walk or drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required to climb Jacob's Ladder or visit Ladder Hill Fort. Access to the staircase and the fort area is generally free.
Jacob's Ladder is accessible at all times, though climbing at night is not recommended due to safety. Ladder Hill Fort is also generally accessible during daylight hours.
No, there is typically no entrance fee for Ladder Hill Fort. It's a historical site open for visitors to explore and enjoy the views.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The time it takes to climb Jacob's Ladder varies greatly depending on fitness. Some visitors can complete the 699 steps in around 7-10 minutes, while others may take longer.
Jacob's Ladder is considered a strenuous climb due to its 699 steps and steep incline, with an average incline of 39-41 degrees. It's a significant physical challenge.
While there aren't extensive facilities directly at the top of the ladder, the village of Half Tree Hollow is located there, offering some local amenities.
The views from Ladder Hill Fort are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Jamestown, the coastline, and the vast South Atlantic Ocean.
Yes, you can drive up Ladder Hill Road to reach the top, bypassing the 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder. This is a popular alternative for those who prefer not to climb.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of Jacob's Ladder and Ladder Hill Fort offer incredible vantage points for photographing Jamestown and the surrounding landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warm glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
Remember to hydrate well and wear appropriate footwear. The steep incline is a significant factor, so be prepared for a demanding climb. The drive up offers a less intense but still scenic alternative if you're looking for a more relaxed experience. 📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of Jacob's Ladder
While the climb is rewarding, the option to drive up Ladder Hill Road provides an equally stunning perspective for those who prefer to conserve their energy. Community Insights:
Travelers often debate whether the climb or the drive offers a better experience. Some relish the accomplishment of conquering the steps, while others appreciate the ease and accessibility of the road.
Ladder Hill Fort: A Strategic Vantage Point
Today, it serves as a popular viewpoint, allowing visitors to appreciate the island's layout and the vastness of the South Atlantic Ocean. The fort itself is a piece of history, and exploring its grounds provides a sense of the island's past. Visitor Experience:
Many visitors find the fort to be the perfect destination after either climbing Jacob's Ladder or driving up the hill. It's a place to catch your breath, take in the scenery, and reflect on the unique setting of St. Helena.
St. Helena: An Island Apart
Travel Logistics:
Access to St. Helena is primarily through a weekly flight from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit