








Trip summary statistics
12days
Wildlife & Culture of Sri Lanka
Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Gal Oya National Park, Yala National Park, Galle
Ascend UNESCO-listed Sigiriya with your guide to see ancient murals and breathtaking views.
Walk with a Vedda tribal chief to uncover medicinal plants and ancient jungle traditions.
Spot swimming elephants and crocodiles on Sri Lanka’s unique lake safari, guided by experts.
Search for the elusive leopards on guided jungle safaris in Yala National Park.
Experience local life with a home-cooked meal in Galle, arranged by your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
ColomboGet In and Get Some Rest
- Airport Meet & Greet
- Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
Colombo to SigiriyaA Journey Back in Time
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Colombo - Sigiriya [via Anuradhapura & Kaludiya Pokuna] - Vehicle/Guide
SigiriyaIt’s All Ancient History
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress Experience (3 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide
Sigiriya to KandyA Change of Scenery
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Sigiriya - Kandy [via Dambulla Rock Cave Temple (4 hrs)] - Vehicle/Guide
- 1/2 Day Spices of Kandy (1.5 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide
KandySights and Insights
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- City Tour & Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (3 hrs) - Private
- Hoppers for Barhoppers (2 hrs) - Private
Kandy to Gal Oya National ParkExplore with an Expert
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Kandy - Gal Oya National Park [3.5 hrs] - Vehicle/Guide
- A Walk of Discovery with Vedda Chief (3 hrs) - Vedda Chief
Gal Oya National ParkCall of the Wild
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Wildlife Jeep Safari & Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Guide
- Wildlife Boat Safari (3 hrs) - Private
Gal Oya National Park to Yala National ParkClose Encounters
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Gal Oya National Park - Yala National Park [3 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
- Afternoon Jungle Safari
Yala National ParkRelax and Recharge
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Daily Activities at Kulu Yala Camp
Yala National Park to GalleNurtured by Nature
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Morning Jungle Safari at Kulu Yala Camp
- Yala National Park - Galle [4 hrs] - Vehicle/Guide
GalleA Walk Through the Past
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Afternoon Galle Fort Walking Tour (2 hrs) - Guide
- Supper with a Southern Blend (3hrs) - Vehicle/Guide
Galle to ColomboBon Voyage
- English Speaking Private Guide - Chauffeur
- Galle - Colombo [Airport - 2 hrs 45 mins] - Vehicle/Guide
COLOMBO

Get In and Get Some Rest
For your added comfort, your English speaking chauffeur guide will be waiting for you outside the customs area with a sign with your name on it, and accompany you to your accommodation.
A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel in Colombo.
Where you’ll be staying
Junior Suite with Ocean View & Balcony
COLOMBO TO SIGIRIYA


A Journey Back in Time
Transfer from Colombo to Sigiriya located at the heart of the Cultural Triangle with a private vehicle and English speaking chauffeur guide. En route, you will stop at Anuradhapura and Kaludiya Pokuna. First, explore the archaeological site of Anuradhapura, the city of Kings. Not many places in the world can claim to have been continuously inhabited for over two millennia. Even to this day, the city of Anuradhapura is a sacred pilgrimage site to many. You will have the chance to see the sacred fig tree (Sri Maha Bodhi), said to have a branch, grown from the traditional Sri Maha Bodhi in India, from which the Buddha gained enlightenment. During your stay, you will also visit other city highlights including dagobas (Buddhist stupas) that stand as majestic as they did during the reign of the Kings. Later, you will discover the hidden archaeological site of Kaludiya Pokuna. Depending on the timing of the day, you may experience monks take a vow of silence and have minimum interaction with people. Take time to explore at your leisure before continuing to Sigiriya. This private tour includes an English speaking chauffeur guide and entrance fees.
Where you’ll be staying
Paddy Dwelling
SIGIRIYA


It’s All Ancient History
Step back in time and discover one of Sri Lanka’s crown jewels as you explore the marvelous rock fortress of Sigiriya with your private guide. The site was the domain of King Kashyapa whose goal was to build an impregnable fortress and a heavenly abode within it. Upon reaching this awe-inspiring natural wonder proudly soaring over the Sri Lankan countryside, start the climb of 1200 steps before you reach the top. On your way admire the famous Sigiriya frescoes depicting wasp-waisted buxom maidens bearing flowers. Head to the nearby Mirror Wall for an opportunity to see ancient graffities dating as far back as the sixth century. When you reach the top of the Fortress, take in the most scenic bird’s-eye view of the leafy emerald meadows and villages beneath you. Begin exploring the ruins of the structures that once graced this area; take your time and enjoy one of the world’s best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning. Your Sigiriya discovery takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the pace you wish to ascent. Climbing to the top may be strenuous for some travelers, but your reward is an unforgettable experience and stunning views from the top. After the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Paddy Dwelling
SIGIRIYA TO KANDY



A Change of Scenery
Transfer from Sigiriya to Kandy with a private vehicle and your English-speaking chauffeur guide. En route you will visit the famous Dambulla Rock Cave Temples. The cave temples complex that lies atop a massive hill on the edge of the town is one of the eight UNESCO world heritage sites in the country and is renowned for its unique mural paintings and sculptures. The Cave Monastery, home to Buddhist monks, is covered with exquisite 2,000 year-old murals depicting the life of Buddha. Explore this mystical site accompanied by your guide and feel a close connection to the civilizations that have thrived in this area over the millennia. Make sure to take in the incredible vistas of the surrounding countryside. Upon the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred to your hotel in Kandy.
Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Pepper and Turmeric; these names not only make one think of delicious food but also relate to the age of discovery and to the 500 turbulent years in the history of Ceylon under the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Today’s trip to the authentic local markets will provide you with a genuine and rewarding Sri Lankan experience. The spice selection is top notch, and with the help of your guide you can pay a fair price. For the adventurers and lovers of local food, make a stop inside the market at the Midlands CafÉ, a noted classic renowned for its loafs of bread served alongside delicious curries and accompanied by a strong cup Ceylon tea. Before leaving the market be sure to browse the wide array of exotic fruits; a local favorite is the wood apple with its fermented smell, mixed with tamarind. Also look for jack fruit, rambutan, mangosteen and many more, including impressive, fresh picked bananas. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room
KANDY



Sights and Insights
Kandy belongs to the fabric of legends. While Sri Lanka was under the Portuguese and Dutch rule, the Kings of Kandy remained defiant and independent. It was much later during the British rule that Kandy finally fell to the biggest empire in the world. Accompanied by your private chauffeur guide, venture off into the streets of Kandy, experiencing its rich culture and exploring the vibrant local markets. Today Kandy has grown to a sizeable city that still retains touches of its colonial history in buildings such as the Queen's hotel, a beautiful 19th century neoclassical beauty. Wander around the Kandy Lake and the town’s characterful neighborhoods and get a feel for this wonderful place. Continue to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic which is, without a doubt, the city’s biggest pride and one of the world’s holiest Buddhist shrines. Head inside this religious complex and feel in awe of its spiritual magnetism. Upon the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred to your hotel.
Sip, savor, and explore Kandy’s hidden bar gems on a private tour, sampling traditional Sri Lankan arrack, flavorful snacks, and the city's authentic evening scene. You'll be picked up from your accommodation by your private driver and guide to begin with a stroll through Kandy's lively streets, stopping to sip on local favorites at curated selection of vintage pubs and lively, tucked-away bars. Sample arrack, a traditional Sri Lankan spirit cherished by locals, or opt for a refreshing local beer. Complementing the experience, you'll savor crispy hoppers—a beloved Sri Lankan snack made from coconut milk and rice flour—served with spicy lunu miris, a flavorful blend of chili and onion sambol. Conclude with a return transfer back to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room
KANDY TO GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK


Explore with an Expert
A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer between Kandy and Gal Oya. The approximate travel time is three hours and 30 minutes.
Gal Oya Lodge is near one of the last remaining communities of the Vedda people, the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. Today, the village Chief will take you on a walk through the jungles of his ancestors. Discover and learn about local nature as he brings the forest alive by explaining his tribe’s use of medicinal plants, ancient hunting grounds and cave dwellings, while providing a fascinating insight into how the hunter-gatherers lived in the jungles of Gal Oya.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow (Non A/C)
GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK



Call of the Wild
Gal Oya National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s undiscovered natural treasures. Within the park exist herds of elephants, wild boar, four species of deer, jackals, sloth bears, marsh mugger crocodiles and an array of rare exotic birds. Set out by jeep, with an expert naturalist, and ride into the forgotten Nilgala section of the park, once protected by ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife in this unique ecosystem. You can also experience the safari by foot or hike through the park with an expert naturalist. This option offers a chance to see wildlife really close up and explore the hidden corners of the park. Entrance fees and snacks are included.
Embark on a truly unique half day wildlife adventure on the breathtaking Gal Oya Lake. Accompanied by an expert guide, set out on a boat safari to experience the serene beauty and abundant wildlife of this iconic lake. Glide across the placid waters of the lake, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot crocodiles basking on the banks, deer grazing near the shore, and elephants gracefully swimming between islands or cooling off in the shallows. Keep an eye out for rare endemic birds as they soar above or perch in their natural habitats, providing exceptional moments for wildlife enthusiasts. As your journey comes to an end, soak in the serene surroundings one final time, leaving with cherished memories of this magical experience.
Where you’ll be staying
Bungalow (Non A/C)
GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK TO YALA NATIONAL PARK

Close Encounters
A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer from Gal Oya National Park to Yala National Park. The approximate travel time is three hours.
This afternoon, embark on a jungle safari with an experienced wildlife guide at the Yala National Park. Your wildlife guide will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the untamed Sri Lankan jungle.
NOTE: PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.
Where you’ll be staying
Tent
YALA NATIONAL PARK

Relax and Recharge
Today, join a jungle walk led by the experienced wildlife guides at the Kulu Yala camp, and set out to explore the riches of the Yala National Park. The trail provides a rare opportunity to learn interesting tips on the art of tracking, animal behavior, and offers a unique perspective for birding as well as photography. Key wildlife attractions include leopard, sloth bear, Asian elephant, spotted deer, sambar deer, and an array of birdlife.
Kayaks are also provided at your camp, so that you can get out on the water for a couple of hours of exercise and experience a different perspective of the nature at Yala.
Where you’ll be staying
Tent
YALA NATIONAL PARK TO GALLE


Nurtured by Nature
Set out on an early morning drive with an experienced wildlife guide at the Yala National Park, hoping for animal sightings. This is the best time to capture some amazing photographs with the available natural light. Keep your camera ready!
NOTE: PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.
A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer from Yala National Park to Galle. The approximate travel time is four hours.
Where you’ll be staying
Bazaar Bedroom
GALLE



A Walk Through the Past
There are places that truly capture the imagination of travelers, and the alluring coastal town of Galle is one of them. This port city in southern Sri Lanka is one of the island’s ‘must-see’ stops, and its Old Town and Fortifications have earned it the UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition. This afternoon, enjoy a private walking tour accompanied by a local guide and discover the true face of Galle. The walls that envelope the fort have kept the inner city protected from years of turmoil and conquest, making Galle into a synthesis of the country’s history. From Muslim gem traders and Portuguese adventurers to savvy Dutch privateers - and let’s not forget the English - they all made the city their home at some point in history. Take in Galle’s unique atmosphere as you stroll through the historic town with your guide. Feel as if you have been transported back in time as you stop by Galle’s charming shops and admire its beautifully restored colonial mansions.
Sri Lankan cuisine is heavily influenced by its Indian neighbor. However, this island to the southeast of the continent draws on its colonial past as well as local flora and fauna to create its own definitive twist with international inspiration added in. This evening, discover classic Sri Lankan cuisine in an unforgettable setting as you depart for a local home where a quintessentially southern family awaits to host you for a dinner that is prepared with love and the hospitality for which Sri Lankans have become known. Apart from baked or curried fish, and the homemade Kadey Paan (bread), coconut will be the central ingredient to your meal in dish like coconut roti, coconut sambol, and pani pol (coconut and treacle) for dessert. Your hosts will delight in showing you the many uses of this ingredient in the Sri Lankan kitchen as your meal is prepared throughout the night.
At the end of this experience, you will be transferred back to your accommodations.
Where you’ll be staying
Bazaar Bedroom
GALLE TO COLOMBO
Bon Voyage
A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer between Galle and the International Airport in Colombo. The approximate travel time is two hours and 45 minutes.
COLOMBO






Galle Face Hotel
The Galle Face Hotel is situated in the heart of Colombo, along the seafront and facing the famous Galle Face Green. The hotel embraces Sri Lanka’s rich history and legendary traditions, and for many no visit to Sri Lanka would be complete without staying at this majestic hotel. The property was originally built in 1864 and it has been recently restored back to its former glory. For generations, guests have come back again and again, seduced by the nostalgic charm of the hotel’s beautiful rooms. Distinctive comforts with subtle embellishments make your stay an experience to look forward to and the hotel is renowned for presenting some of Colombo’s finest cuisines in unique locations throughout the property, be it elegant afternoon teas at The Verandah or an innovative modern menu at the ‘1864’.
SIGIRIYA





Jetwing Vil Uyana
Jetwing’s most ambitious project, Jetwing Vil Uyana, is located within 2 miles of Sigiriya, the ‘8th Wonder of the World’. In this ground-breaking undertaking, Jetwing Hotels created a private nature reserve consisting of a wetland system, complete with lakes and reed beds, making this property a true nature lover’s paradise. From the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya and bordering ancient kingdoms to the abundance of natural reserves, you will find yourself in perfect proximity to some of the greatest experiences in Sri Lanka. Spread over 28 acres, the unique placement of dwellings and other buildings allows as much space as possible for nature to thrive. Be sure to sign up for the night trail experience in search of the elusive Loris. The accommodation is both stylish and comfortable, designed to easily blend in with the eco-system. Don’t be deceived by the outward appearance of rural simplicity: this is a sumptuous, world-class eco-resort.
KANDY






Elephant Stables
The Elephant Stables is a beautiful Colonial period bungalow on a hill overlooking Kandy. Located on a private road, only a short drive away from Kandy’s historic city center, The Elephant Stables is a haven of serenity in the heart of Sri Lanka’s picturesque Hill Country. The property was formerly the home of Adigar Sir Cuda Ratwatte, who was a Ceylonese nobleman, and the first person from Kandy to be awarded a knighthood by the British. He was also the uncle of Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Mrs Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first woman to be elected the head of government in the world. Historic associations play a large role in the make-up of The Elephant Stables. It has been lovingly restored with a combination of original mid-century planter’s furniture and chic interiors to enable guests to feel the ambiance of a Ceylon Planter’s bungalow while enjoying all the luxuries of an up-market, boutique property.
GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK





Gal Oya Lodge
Discover an ancient land untouched by time at Gal Oya Lodge; a unique Sri Lankan ecolodge spread across 20 acres of lush, private jungle. At the heart of the design lies its philosophy to bring you closer to nature and to protect the local environment. The concept lives in every detail, from the undisturbed lush forest to the natural materials used to create the spacious bungalows. The lodge uses appropriate technology and recycling to preserve precious natural resources such as water and energy. Gal Oya Lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool seamlessly integrated into the scenic landscape. The friendly locally-recruited staff are keen to share with you the stories and hospitality of the region, while the naturalist guides are sure to contribute to your visit by vividly bringing to light the secrets of the surrounding natural world.
YALA NATIONAL PARK
Kulu Yala Tented Camp
Kulu’s Yala camp features a perfect location to explore the multiple sectors of the vibrant Yala National Park. The camp’s paradigm is to seamlessly blend a definitive Sri Lankan wildlife experience with exceptionally comfortable accommodations, while minimizing the ecological footprint. The tailor-made, mobile safaris include customized tents that are finessed with thoughtful touches. The guides are professionally trained naturalists who have spent years learning the intricacies of the jungles. Kulu Safaris is the first operator to establish and practice environmentally conscious camping. They have adopted a strict “no-plastic” policy, use renewable energy to as great an extent as possible, and have implemented an eco-friendly waste-management system. The passionate staff of Kulu Yala Tented Camp will show off the best Sri Lanka has to offer with their innate warmth, sincerity, and efficiency.
GALLE








Fort Bazaar
Begin your Galle quest at Fort Bazaar, a handsome merchant’s home-turned-boutique hotel. Positioned on Church Street within the UNESCO-listed 17th century fort, this spa hotel in Galle promises serenity, high-end service and gourmet modern dining. Fort Bazaar features 18 stylish guestrooms and fresh, contemporary interiors invoking a Middle Eastern vibe. Escape Galle’s delightful chaos at Fort Bazaar’s Z Spa where peace reigns and luxurious, revitalizing treatments await. The Fort Bazaar hotel makes for a welcoming retreat from the bustling cobbled streets of Galle Fort.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.









