Sustainable Sri Lanka
Nature, Wildlife & Heritage Tour
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon your arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will receive a warm traditional welcome from your private chauffeur-guide. Leave the bustling city behind and transfer to the rural sanctuary of Anamaduwa to check into your eco-lodge, relax, and soak up the serene countryside ambiance.
Immerse yourself in authentic rural Sri Lankan life. Begin with a tranquil early morning bird-watching trail, followed by a peaceful kayaking session on a local lake. Later, cycle through scenic village paths interacting with locals, and wrap up your day learning traditional culinary secrets during an open-fire cooking masterclass.
Journey into the Cultural Triangle. En route to Habarana, stop to explore the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient Buddhist murals and statues carved deep inside towering rock cliffs. Settle into your charming accommodation in Habarana for the evening.
Scale the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, early in the morning to admire the ancient frescoes and spectacular summit vistas. Treat yourself to a soothing herbal foot massage to rejuvenate after the climb, and spend the afternoon on an exciting 4x4 jeep safari tracking wild elephant herds in Minneriya National Park.
Travel South towards the central highlands. Stop at Nalanda Gedige, a unique ancient stone temple displaying a rare blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Continue to the historic hill capital of Kandy to visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, before transferring to your scenic retreat in nearby Digana.
Embark on an unforgettable trek into the rugged terrains of the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO world heritage conservation area. Hike along pristine trails cutting through mist-covered cloud forests, cascading streams, and dramatic valleys while taking in panoramic vistas of the central hills.
Spend a day living like a local. Explore the laid-back pathways of Digana, and trek out to find a hidden jungle waterfall for a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters. In the evening, enjoy a hands-on traditional Sri Lankan cooking lesson from local hosts followed by a beautiful community dinner.
Head deep into the wild east to Gal Oya, one of Sri Lankaโs most pristine and least-visited national parks. Check into your isolated eco-lodge surrounded by nature, disconnect from the outside world, and listen to the soothing evening sounds of the undisturbed wilderness.
Experience an extraordinary boat safari on Sri Lanka's largest reservoir, looking out for elephants swimming between islands. In the afternoon, embark on an immersive walk through the forest alongside the chief of the indigenous Vedda community to discover their ancient hunter-gatherer heritage and jungle survival skills.
Drive to the breathtaking hillside paradise of Koslanda. Flanked by forest reserves and rolling rubber plantations, spend your afternoon on an intimate guided nature walk to explore your lush immediate surroundings, discover hidden streams, and breathe the crisp mountain air.
A completely free day dedicated to relaxation and unhurried exploration. Lounge by the infinity pool overlooking the hills, read a book amidst natural forest sounds, or opt for a private trek down to a spectacular, private cascading waterfall nestled deep inside the estate.
Descend to the semi-arid plains of Yala National Park. Check into your safari campsite or wilderness lodge, and set out for a thrilling afternoon 4x4 game drive. Keep your eyes sharp for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bears, majestic elephants, and vibrant coastal bird species.
Journey to Sinharaja Rainforest, a pristine tropical jungle and biodiversity hotspot. After dusk falls, equip your torches and head out on an exclusive guided night trail with an expert naturalist to spot rare nocturnal endemics like tree frogs, tarantulas, sleeping birds, and glowing fungi.
Explore the depths of Sinharaja on a morning rainforest trek, admiring ancient giant trees and spotting colorful mixed-species bird flocks. In the afternoon, leave the jungle behind and drive to the golden southwestern coast of Bentota to spend your final evening relaxing by the beach.
Bid farewell to beautiful Sri Lanka. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Colombo for a brief metropolitan city exploration or last-minute souvenir shopping before heading directly to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight back home.
Tour Highlights
- Anamaduwa Retreat: Unwind with birdwatching, rural kayaking, village cycling, and an open-fire cooking class.
- UNESCO Cultural Icons: Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and see Kandyโs Temple of the Tooth Relic.
- Digana & Knuckles Hiking: Trek the mist-veiled Knuckles mountain paths and swim in a hidden jungle waterfall.
- Gal Oya Boat Safari: Experience a unique reservoir boat cruise and meet the indigenous Vedda community forest guides.
- Yala Big Cat Safari: Track leopards, elephants, and sloth bears during an exciting 4x4 afternoon game drive.
- Sinharaja Biodiversity: Explore the premier rainforest via daytime hikes and an adventurous guided nocturnal trail.
- Bentota Coastal Finale: Finish your journey relaxing by the golden beach sands of Sri Lanka's southwest coast.
Inclusions
- Handpicked Accommodation throughout the tour
- Meals on HB Basis (Daily Breakfast + Dinner)
- Private Air-conditioned vehicle for the entire journey
- Professional English-speaking chauffeur guide
- Entrance tickets to all sights and safari activities specified
- All applicable government taxes and service charges