Sri Lanka Explorer: Beaches, Wildlife, and Culture
Let us help you plan the journey of a lifetime, from start to finish.
Overview
This 10-day adventure takes you from the beaches of Negombo and Mirissa to the wildlife-rich Yala National Park, the scenic highlands of Ella and Nuwara Eliya, and the cultural heart of Kandy. Enjoy safaris, stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks, all while staying in comfortable 3 to 5-star hotels. Perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
DAY 1: Welcome Guests at the Airport - Negombo
- Negombo is a coastal city situated near Bandaranaike International Airport. Known for its sandy beaches, bustling fish market, and colonial heritage, Negombo is a popular stop for travelers. The city is famous for its lagoon, Dutch canals, and vibrant fishing culture.
- Stay in Negombo, relax on the sandy beach.
Option: 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
DAY 2: Galle / Mirissa
Galle
Galle Fort in Sri Lanka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases the interaction between European architecture and South Asian traditions. It is also the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by Europeans.
Mirissa
Mirissa is a small town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beaches and laid-back vibe. It is a favorite destination for beach lovers and marine life enthusiasts.
What it is Known For
Mirissa is famous for whale watching, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. It is one of the best places in the world to see blue whales and dolphins. The town has a crescent-shaped beach, ideal for swimming and surfing. Mirissa’s nightlife is lively, with numerous beach bars and restaurants offering entertainment.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
Experience the beautiful sandy beaches and water activities.
DAY 3: Yala
- Arrive in Yala and begin your wildlife adventure. Yala National Park, one of the most visited and second-largest national parks in Sri Lanka, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Known for its diverse range of animals, particularly the elusive leopards, you’ll embark on a thrilling safari to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The park also offers opportunities to witness a variety of bird species and other wildlife like elephants, crocodiles, and wild boar.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
DAY 4: Yala
- Enjoy another early morning safari in Yala for more wildlife encounters. Afterward, transfer to Ella, a charming hill town nestled in the central highlands, offering breathtaking views and lush greenery. Ella is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat amid nature’s beauty.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
DAY 5: Ella
- Ella is a charming town in the Badulla District, nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its breathtaking views, verdant tea plantations, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and adventurers.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
DAY 6: Nuwara Eliya
- Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill station located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The city is famous for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and lush tea plantations.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
- Sightseeing: Flower Garden, Tea Plantation, Lake Ride.
DAY 7: Kandy
- Kandy is an important city in Sri Lanka due to its cultural and historical significance, and as a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. It was the last capital of the Sinhalese monarchy and is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred tooth of the Buddha.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
- Visit Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) and Peradeniya Flower Garden.
DAY 8: Pinnawala
- On the way to Colombo, visit the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawala. Pinnawala has the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. In 2023, there were 71 elephants, including 30 males and 41 females from 3 generations, living in Pinnawala. The orphanage was founded to care for and protect orphaned, unweaned wild elephants found wandering in and near Sri Lanka’s forests.
DAY 9: Colombo
- Situated on the west coast of the island, just south of the Kelani River, Colombo is a principal port on the Indian Ocean. It has one of the largest artificial harbors in the world and handles the majority of Sri Lanka’s foreign trade.
- Stay in 3 to 5-star hotels with B/B or H/B basis.
- Sightseeing: Lotus Tower, Port City.
- Shopping experience.
DAY 10: Departure
- Transfer to Katunayake Airport for departure.