Southern Coast of Sri Lanka: a 8-Day Exploration

Starting in Colombo, we journey south to Balapitiya for a Madu Ganga river safari, seeking diverse wildlife and birds. We then explore cultural heritage at the Ariyapala Mask Museum. Arriving at our hotel, enjoy optional watersports or beach time.

Overnight in Bentota (with dinner included)

Venture early into Kanneliya Forest Reserve's emerald depths, where you will be discovering hidden waterfalls and vibrant wildlife. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Hikkaduwa's coral reefs: snorkeling or aboard a glass-bottom boat amidst marine life. As the sun sets, unwind on Hikkaduwa's golden beaches and swim in its turquoise waters.

Overnight in Hikkaduwa (with breakfast included)

Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Fort and Ramparts also known as the Dutch Galle Fort with a local specialist. Enjoy free time to wander the Fort's charming streets, absorbing its history and coastal atmosphere. Later, go on a sightseeing tour of the Galle town and market before retiring to your hotel.

Overnight in Galle (with breakfast and dinner included)

Enjoy a boat ride on Koggala Lake, observing birdlife and local fishing. Gain insights into southern Sri Lankan heritage at the Martin Wickramasinghe folk museum and ascend to the serene Japanese Peace Pagoda for panoramic sea views. Spend the rest of the day at the Unawatuna Beach or return to the hotel.

Overnight in Galle (with breakfast included)

Visit the Thelijawila Snake Farm, a conservation center dedicated to Sri Lankan snakes. Experience the views from Coconut Tree Hill and the unique Parrot Rock Bridge before enjoying free time to relax and rejuvenate on Mirissa Beach's golden sands and azure waters.

Overnight in Mirissa (with breakfast included)

Begin your exploration at Dondra Head, the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka. See the towering Dondra Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history. Then, witness the dramatic water eruptions of the powerful Blowhole, the longest in South Asia. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari in Yala National Park, in search of the elusive leopard and other fascinating wildlife.

Overnight in Yala (with breakfast and dinner included)

Begin your day with a visit to Tissamaharama, delving into its ancient history. Then, travel to Udawalawe and visit the heartwarming Elephant Transit Home, witnessing orphaned elephant calves during feeding and learning about their rehabilitation. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating jeep safari through Udawalawe National Park, a prime location for spotting majestic elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a vibrant array of birdlife in their natural habitat.

Overnight in Udawalawe (with breakfast and dinner included)

In the morning, we will begin our return to Colombo commencing with a visit to Ratnapura, the renowned 'City of Gems'. Delve into the fascinating world of gem mining, with an option to visit a working mine and the vibrant local market. Journey back towards Colombo, with a convenient stop at One Galle Face Mall for souvenir shopping. Your memorable south coast exploration concludes with a drop-off in Colombo.

End of Trip (with breakfast included)

Captivating riverine explorations : Navigate the intricate waterways of the Madu River and the Koggala Lake by boat, uncovering hidden islands and the secrets of their vibrant mangrove ecosystems.

Explore a biodiverse rainforest : Trek through the biodiverse rainforest of Kanneliya Forest Reserve, encountering waterfalls and unique flora.

Unique Conservation Efforts : Witness the rehabilitation of orphaned elephant calves at the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about Sri Lankan snake species and conservation efforts at the Snake Farm of Thelijawila.

Sri Lanka's Unique Folk Culture : Explore cultural traditions at the Ariyapala Mask Museum and the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum to gain insights into Sri Lankan folk culture.

Explore Vibrant Animal Life : Enjoy two thrilling wildlife safaris at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks seeing a diversity of wildlife including Leopards and Elephants.

Explore Natural Wonders : Witness the awe-inspiring power of the southern blowhole as it spouts a cascade of seawater high into the air. Snorkel through the Marine Sanctuary at Hikkaduwa, walk to the Parrot Rock Bridge in Mirissa and explore the Gem veins of Ratnapura.

Relax on Southern Beaches : Relax and rejuvenate on the beaches of Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Mirissa.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Explore the Old Fort and Ramparts also known as the Dutch Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Lighthouse and the old Dutch Hospital as part of your sightseeing.

Immersive Cultural Exploration: This trip goes beyond typical sightseeing, offering deep dives into Sri Lankan culture through visits to mask museums, ancient temples, and local villages, providing authentic insights into the island's traditions.

Diverse Natural Wonders: Experience the breathtaking variety of Sri Lanka's natural landscapes, from the serene mangrove forests of the Madu River to the lush depths of the Kanneliya rainforest and the golden beaches of Mirissa.

Wildlife Encounters: Witness the majestic elephants of Udawalawe, at the Elephant Transit Home and on thrilling jeep safaris at Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, creating unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka's incredible wildlife.

Unique Geographical Experiences: Stand at the Southernmost point of Sri Lanka and witness the power of the southern blowhole.

Inclusions

• 07 Nights in 4-5-star accommodation

• 7 breakfasts, 4 dinners

• Dedicated transportation

• Escorted by an Experienced Tour Leader

• Entrance fees to all sightseeing locations and the cost of activities

Exclusions

• International Flights and Visa Fees

• Meals, drinks, alcohol other than those listed as included in itinerary

• Optional activities

• Personal expenses

• Travel Insurance

• Tips and gratuities

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