Sri Lanka & Maldives 2026

Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka

Fly from Auckland via Singapore, arriving late evening at Colombo International Airport. A short transfer takes you to your beachside hotel in Negombo, where your room awaits. (2 nights)

Day 2 – Negombo

Ease into the journey in this relaxed coastal town. Explore the old Dutch Fort, stroll the markets, or simply unwind on the beach.

Day 3 – Anuradhapura & Habarana

Travel north to explore Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital. Wander among sacred stupas, monasteries, and the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Continue to Habarana, your base in the heart of the Cultural Triangle. (3 nights)

Day 4 – Sigiriya Rock & Hiriwadunna Village

Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress for sweeping views and a dose of ancient royal intrigue. Later, visit Hiriwadunna village by bullock cart and catamaran, ending with a traditional lunch prepared by local hosts.

Day 5 – Polonnaruwa & Minneriya Safari

Discover the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, known for its striking stone carvings and serene Buddha statues. In the afternoon, set out on a wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park — famous for its large herds of elephants.

Day 6 – Dambulla Cave Temples, Spice Garden & Kandy

Visit the remarkable cave temples of Dambulla, then stop at a spice garden in Matale to learn about Sri Lanka’s age-old herbal traditions. Arrive in Kandy in time for a cultural performance by the lake. (2 nights)

Day 7 – Temple of the Tooth & Botanical Gardens

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, then wander the lush Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a relaxed city tour of Kandy’s highlights, markets, and hidden corners.

Day 8 – Scenic Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Board one of the world’s most beautiful train rides, winding through misty hills and tea plantations. Visit a tea factory en route before arriving in charming Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England.” (1 night)

Day 9 – Nuwara Eliya to Yala

Explore Nuwara Eliya’s colonial gardens, lakeside charm, and bustling market before continuing to Yala, home of the elusive leopard and stunning dry zone landscapes. (1 night)

Day 10 – Safaris in Yala & Udawalawe

Start early with a sunrise safari in Yala National Park. After lunch, continue to Udawalawe for a second wildlife safari — a great place to see elephants up close. (1 night)

Day 11 – Elephant Transit Home & Hiriketiya

Visit the Elephant Transit Home, where rescued young elephants are rehabilitated for return to the wild. Then head to Hiriketiya, a lively beach town on the southern coast. (1 night)

Day 12 – Galle Fort & Coconut Tree Hill

Wander the ramparts and laneways of Galle Fort, then stop at scenic Coconut Tree Hill before settling into your beach hotel in Ahungalla. (2 nights)

Day 13 – Madu River & Turtle Hatchery

Enjoy a serene boat safari on the Madu River through mangrove forests and cinnamon farms. Later, visit a turtle hatchery supporting conservation of endangered sea turtles.

Day 14 – Colombo City Tour & Flight to Maldives 

Journey to Colombo for a short city tour before your evening flight to the Maldives. Highlights include Independence Square, colonial buildings, and colourful markets.

5-nights in the Maldives 

Fly just 90 minutes to the Maldives for a laid-back escape. Stay 1 night in Male the 4 nights on a locally inhabited islands  — immerse yourself in real island life. Explore traditional fishing villages, cycle through lush island interiors, swim in warm turquoise waters, snorkel vibrant reefs, and soak up the gentle rhythm of paradise.