Compare Simply Sri Lanka by Intrepid Travel vs Sri Lanka Untouched Wildlife by SkyHaven Tours
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 20 days |
| Price From | $ 652 | $ 2,200 |
| Price Per Day | $ 82 | $ 110 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Basic | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities | N/A |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
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| Description |
Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating cultures, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches and this eight-day experience will introduce you to the most memorable. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, climb Lion Rock at Sigiriya, and explore the monkey-filled mangrove forests of Unawatuna. We’ve sorted the nitty gritty so you can focus on soaking up Sri Lanka at your own pace, with plenty of optional activities and the guidance of your local leader to help you out when you’re not sure where to start. Are you an independent traveller who wants to explore Sri Lanka with like-minded people and a local? This is your trip. |
A wild and untamed Sri Lanka filled with natural wonders The natural world and those animals and plants which call it home seem increasingly under threat from the ravages and enterprise of mankind. Sri Lanka, however, is a world leader in conservation with 13% of the country having protected status as either National Parks, reserves, sanctuaries and jungle corridors. Unlike the rest of the world this isn’t a recent attitude and as long ago as the 3rd century BC Buddhists monks established the world’s first wildlife sanctuary on the island. In the jungles you can still encounter majestic herds of elephants and playful troops of monkeys, waterfalls plummet down from the highlands which are home to hundreds of species of exotic bird and from the golden beaches Blue Wales and Sea Turtles can be seen in the clear turquoise waters. If you wish to really explore this diversity hotspot, this is the trip for you. |
Day 1 Negombo
Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, located close to the international airport. You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. Those arriving early can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and perhaps feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.
Day 2 Dambulla
After breakfast, leave Negombo and drive approximately 4.5 hours to Dambulla, arriving just after midday. In the afternoon you may like to relax at the hotel after check-in, or take an optional visit to a nearby wildlife reserve – a jeep safari excursion that takes you into elephant country. Which park is available to visit depends on the season, but both Minneriya and Kaudulla are within easy reach of Dambulla. Another option is the nearby Dambulla Caves with their magnificently decorated interiors.
Day 3 Sigiriya - Kandy
Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes). This ruined fortress is one of Sri Lanka's premier sights. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with astounding views. Make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear, as this is a very steep climb with some uneven slopes. Those unable to climb to the top can explore the gardens at the base of the rock and still get some fantastic shots of the fortress from below. Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Kandy (approximately 3 hours). On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch. In beautifully located Kandy, visit the Dalada Maligawa (aka Temple of the Tooth), Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist site, and mingle with the white-clad pilgrims who come here to worship.
Day 4 Kandy
The morning is yours to explore Kandy, a pleasant city surrounded by lush countryside. It’s home to a picturesque lake, old shops, a bustling market and some great restaurants. It was once the capital under the last Sri Lankan king, and the area managed to resist European control for hundreds of years, long after the coastal areas surrendered. Perhaps walk through the town to take in the sights of Kandy – explore the citadel, or take a nature walk at Udawattakele Sanctuary, close to Kandy, which offers the chance to see flowers, birds and monkeys in 160 acres of tropical rainforest. Regroup for today’s lunch, which is sure to be one to remember! Visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant, a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment to women from local communities while training and empowering them. Here you’ll enjoy some truly delicious Sri Lankan dishes while learning about the important work they do. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries.
Day 5 Unawatuna
Journey south in a private vehicle to Unawatuna (approximately 6 hours). This fantastic stretch of beach has plenty of local restaurants and bars to relax in. There are no included activities today, so you'll have free time to explore Unawatuna and its surrounds. Perhaps take a walk through the monkey-filled mangrove forest off Galle–Matara road or unwind with an indulgent massage.
Day 6 Unawatuna
Sleep in, relax on the beach, work on your tan or grab a cocktail under the shade of a beachside restaurant. Feel like something a bit more active? Today is a good opportunity to pop into nearby Galle for some sightseeing. The city is a memorable collection of Dutch-colonial buildings with boutique shops and cafes to visit. Walk around the perimeter of the Galle fort and cool off with an icy ginger drink in a cafe, then mosey on back to the beach for some more chillaxing.
Day 7 Colombo
Leave Unawatuna behind and make the journey to Galle, where you'll jump on a train to Colombo (approximately 4 hours). On arrival in Sri Lanka's capital, head out on a city walk with your leader. On your way, visit local shops and do some sightseeing. If you're lucky enough to be in Colombo on a Saturday, visit Good Market, a local market full of stalls showcasing social enterprises and responsible businesses. Tonight is free, but your leader will suggest an optional group dinner for your final night together.
Day 8 Colombo
Have string hoppers and a super-black coffee for breakfast, then pull your saddest face as our trip comes to an end.
Day 1: Arrive Sri Lanka
Arrive at Colombo International airport and transfer to the nearby beach resort of Negombo for Relaxation Overnight in Negombo
Day 2: Wilpattu National Park
After breakfast drives north along the coast road to the WillPattu National Park in time for lunch (4 hours). and join Afternoon jeep safari and 2 overnights in the Park.
Day 3,4: Full Day Jeep Safari
Full day jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park.
Day 5: Anuradhapura Sighseening
After breakfast drive to Anuradhapura.The birthplace of Sinhala civilization & one of the world’s largest archeological sites. It is considered as the greatest monastic city of the ancient world, & was founded in the 5th century BC.then drive to Sigiriya for Overnight
Day 6,7: Minneriya & Kaudulla National Park Jeep Safari
Full day jeep safari in the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Park (famous for large herds of wild elephant)
Day 8: Climb Sigiriya Lion's Rock
After Breakfast drive to Climb the Lion’s Rock at Sigirya then Drive to to Kandy en route visit Dambulla Cave Temple. after lunch continue to Temple of the tooth relic, afternoon Drive to Nuwara Eliya for overnight
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya Sightseening
After Breakfast Visit Gregory Reservoir ,Working Tea Factory.Visit near by Ramboda Waterfall. and walk around the tea estate and see St. Clair’s falls.lunch in Nuwara Eliya, free afternoon for sightseeing. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Day 10: Horton Plain National Park
Early morning trek into the Horton Plains National Park to see the amazing view at “World’s End”and the unusual flora/fauna of this special Park. catch the 3:00 PM train on the scenic route to Ella.Overnight.
Day 11: Leisure in Ella
Visiting the Ravanna Waterfalls and Climbing Little Adam’s peak,Ella Rock, Nine Arches Bridge Demodara. Later visit Lipton Seat. Afternoon Drive to the Tissamaharama Lake District Near the Yala National Park for Overnight.
Day 12,13: Yala National Park Jeep Safari
Early in the morning We will take you to Yala National Park for a jeep Safari. It is home to the world’s highest density of leopards, as well as a wealth of other species
Day 14: Morning Game Drive in Yala
After half day safsri in Yala National park Searching WildLife drive to the Mirissa beach Resort for Overnight
Day 15: Whales & Dolphin Watching
Today We will arrange a sea safari for Blue whale & Dolphin watching. Option to experiance night snorkeling in this Stunning Beach destination. Overnight in Mirissa
Day 16: Sinharaja Rainforrest
After Breakfast drive to the Sinharaja Rainforest to join afternoon forest trek or relax
Day 17: Guided Trekking in Sinharaja Rainforest
Full day for expertly guided trekking following different themes.
Day 18: Sightseening in Galle
Today morning drive to UNESCO world heritage of galle for Sightseening. Galle is blessed with stunning white sandy beaches,Dutch colonial buildings and have and oppertunity to enjoy a number of adventure activities and water sports.
Day 19: Sea Tutrle Hachery
Full Day Exploring the Colorful Colonial city of Galle plus visit to a Turtle hatchery. Option to enjoy snorkeling,Diving and many water sports. Overnight in Galle
Day 20: Deaparture
Airport Drop Off. End of Tour
