Gather the family for an action-packed trip across spiritual Sri Lanka. Search for leopards in Wilpattu National Park, cycle backroads to discover ancient Buddhist cities in Polonnaruwa, and raft the white waters of the Central Highlands. Blessed with sun-soaked beaches, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for a family adventure.
Day 1 – Trip starts in Negombo
Our tour starts today in Negombo, a coastal town that’s famous for its fishing industry and golden sands. Head down to the water to catch the sunset and spot locals bringing in the day’s catch.
Day 2 – Jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park
Leaving Negombo, travel north following the coastal road to Wilpattu National Park. Swap the bus for jeeps and head out on an afternoon safari through the park, hoping to spot Sri Lanka’s most elusive resident, the leopard, alongside elephants and sambar deer.
Day 3 – Canoe and tuk tuk to Habarana, cycling tour of ancient Polonnaruwa
Head inland to Habarana, the cultural hub of Sri Lanka. Ride tuk-tuks to a community vegetable garden, followed by a serene canoe ride on the village lake. Journey on to Polonnaruwa to explore the ancient city by bicycle and on foot, taking in the spectacular ruins of the Royal Palace and its Audience Hall.
Day 4 – Climb Lion Rock and explore Kandy’s markets
Climb Sigiriya ahead of the crowds. Rising dramatically from the central plains, the ruins of this fifth-century Sky Fortress are one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. Leaving Sigiriya, drive to Kandy to wander through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens and take a short walking tour through narrow streets lined with old buildings and colourful markets.
Day 5 – Drive to Kitulgala for white water rafting and jungle walks
Drive to Kitulgala. Set amongst the fertile and lush western highlands, the Kelani River offers some of the best white-water rafting in the country. Cover a section of the river through several rapids. In the evening, there is a chance to join an optional trek across the river and through the jungle to a hidden waterfall.
Day 6 – Drive to coastal town of Hikkaduwa
Head to the lively tourist town of Hikkaduwa on the coast of the Indian Ocean. The rest of the day is left free to relax and enjoy the beach.
Day 7 – Morning surf lesson, free afternoon at beach
Enjoy the ambience and turquoise waters of Sri Lanka’s southern coast. In the morning, have a surf lesson in Weligama, tailored for beginners or more advanced surfers. Other activities include snorkelling trips or a visit to the city of Galle and its historic colonial fort.
Day 8 – Free morning at the beach, train to Colombo, continue to Negombo
Enjoy more time at the beach in the morning. In the afternoon, take a local train to Colombo as you make your way along the west coast, soaking up views of the Indian Ocean. Make the final part of the journey by bus, returning to the small town of Negombo.
Day 9 – Trip ends in Negombo
The trip ends in Negombo. There are no activities planned today, allowing for free departure at any time.