8-Day Sri Lanka Culture, Beach & Wildlife Adventure

Tour Overview

Duration: days / nights

Price: $

This 8-day itinerary offers a perfect combination of Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture, scenic beaches, and thrilling safaris, with the convenience of starting and ending at Bandaranaike International Airport. It provides an excellent introduction to Sri Lanka’s diversity, making it an ideal choice for any traveler looking to explore the island's wonders.

A perfect mix of Sri Lanka's rich culture, beautiful beaches, thrilling wildlife safaris, and vibrant city life. From the pristine shores of Bentota and Galle to the untamed wilderness of Yala National Park, you'll experience the best the island has to offer.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport - Colombo

• Arrival: You will be greeted at Bandaranaike International Airport by your driver and guide, who will assist with your transfer to Colombo.

• Sightseeing in Colombo:

  • Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a blend of modern architecture and traditional Buddhist elements.
  • Explore Galle Face Green, a popular open space by the sea where locals gather.
  • Take a stroll through Colombo’s Pettah Market for a glimpse of the bustling city life.

• Overnight Stay: Colombo

  • Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel or Boutique Accommodation

Day 2: Colombo to Bentota (Approx. 1.5-2 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, head south along the coastline towards Bentota, a picturesque beach destination known for its golden sands and turquoise waters.

• Beach Time:

  • Enjoy a relaxing day on Bentota Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or engaging in water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing.
  • Option to visit Bentota River, where you can take a boat ride to explore the serene environment.

• Overnight Stay: Bentota

  • Accommodation: Beachfront Resort

Day 3: Bentota to Galle (Approx. 1-1.5 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, travel to Galle, a charming coastal city known for its colonial architecture and stunning beaches.

• Explore Galle Fort:

  • Wander through the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and colonial buildings.
  • Visit the Dutch Reformed Church and the Galle Lighthouse for spectacular views of the ocean.

• Overnight Stay: Galle

  • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Galle Fort or Beach Resort

Day 4: Galle to Yala National Park (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, travel to Yala National Park, famous for its wildlife and safari experiences.

• Safari Adventure:

  • Enjoy an afternoon safari in Yala National Park, one of the best places to spot Sri Lanka’s wild animals, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
  • Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and lagoons.

• Overnight Stay: Near Yala National Park

  • Accommodation: Safari Lodge or Eco-Friendly Resort

Day 5: Yala National Park - Full Day Safari and Relaxation

• Morning: Embark on a morning safari for another chance to witness the rich wildlife of Yala, particularly the elusive leopards.

• Afternoon: After the safari, enjoy some leisure time at your accommodation, or visit nearby Kataragama for its spiritual and cultural significance.

• Overnight Stay: Yala

  • Accommodation: Safari Lodge or Eco-Friendly Resort

Day 6: Yala to Kandy (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, start your journey to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital.

• Kandy Highlights:

  • Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist temple housing a tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
  • Take a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake and explore the city’s beautiful surroundings.

• Overnight Stay: Kandy

  • Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel or Boutique Hotel

Day 7: Kandy to Colombo (Approx. 3.5-4 hours drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a sprawling garden known for its vast collection of plants, orchids, and trees.

• Afternoon: Begin your drive back to Colombo. On the way, you can stop at The Spice Gardens in Matale to learn about the spice industry and its significance to Sri Lanka’s economy.

• Evening in Colombo:

  • Explore the Colombo National Museum or indulge in shopping at Odel or Barefoot for souvenirs.
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of Colombo’s best restaurants.

• Overnight Stay: Colombo

  • Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Colombo

Day 8: Colombo to Bandaranaike International Airport (Approx. 45 minutes drive)

• Morning: After breakfast, you will have some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation before your transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight.

 

 

 

Inclusions

Package Includes:

• Airport transfers (to and from Bandaranaike International Airport)
• Private vehicle with an experienced chauffeur guide
• Accommodation in 3-star or 5-star hotels/resorts (as per package option)
• All specified meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) where applicable
• Sightseeing tours and entrance fees to cultural sites and parks
• 2 safari tours in Yala National Park
• Personalized travel itinerary

Additional Information

Optional Upgrades:

• Luxury options: Upgrade to a private villa, luxury resort, or boutique hotel.
• Water sports: Additional activities such as boat rides, diving, or snorkeling in Bentota or Galle.
• Guided tours: Private expert guides for an in-depth cultural and historical experience.