Sri Lanka

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to the coastal town of Negombo, a relaxed place to ease into the rhythm of Sri Lanka. Spend your first full day exploring the old Dutch Fort area, local streets, fishing-town life, and the country’s layered colonial history before the journey begins properly.

Travel north into Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, beginning with the ancient capital of Anuradhapura and its sacred Buddhist sites. From Habarana, explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress, experience rural village life in Hiriwadunna, visit the medieval ruins of Polonnaruwa, and head into Minneriya National Park by jeep in search of elephants, deer, and birdlife.

Journey south through Dambulla, where cave temples are filled with murals and Buddha statues, before continuing via a spice garden to Kandy. Here, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, stroll through Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and explore the markets and local life of Sri Lanka’s cultural hill capital.

Board one of Sri Lanka’s great rail journeys into the hill country, travelling past tea plantations, misty peaks, and small mountain stations. Visit a tea factory to learn how Ceylon tea is grown and processed, then spend time in Nuwara Eliya, with its cool climate, colonial-era buildings, local market, lake, and highland scenery.

Explore the historic ramparts, colonial architecture, boutique streets, and ocean views of Galle Fort before continuing along the south coast. Stop at Coconut Tree Hill, settle into a beachside stay near Ahungalla, cruise through the mangroves of the Madu River, and visit a turtle hatchery working to protect endangered sea turtles.

At Khustai National Park, the focus turns to wildlife and living traditions. The park is home to the reintroduced Przewalski’s horse, the world’s last remaining wild horse species, which we look for in its natural steppe habitat. The following day brings a local Mini Naadam festival, with wrestling, archery and horse racing in a smaller, more intimate setting than the national festival.

Return to Colombo for a final look at the capital’s contrasts, from colonial architecture and modern city life to colourful markets and civic landmarks. Later, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

All scheduled transport within Sri Lanka, including private road transfers between Negombo, the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Yala, Udawalawe, Mirissa, Galle, Ahungalla, Colombo, and the airport.

Guiding
Personally guided by throughout, regional drivers, site guides where required, and safari guides in the national parks.

Activities & Sightseeing
Included visits and experiences as outlined in the itinerary, including, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Hiriwadunna village experience, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, Kandy, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Nuwara Eliya, Galle Fort, Madu River, and Colombo.

Safaris
Jeep safaris in the National Parks, with opportunities to see elephants, leopard, birdlife, crocodiles, deer, and other wildlife.

Train Journey
The scenic train journey into Sri Lanka’s hill country, travelling through tea plantations, misty peaks, and mountain stations en route to Nuwara Eliya

International Flights
Flights between New Zealand and Sri Lanka are not included unless specifically stated in the final booking details.

Meals Not Specified
Meals not listed as included in the final itinerary are at travellers’ own expense.

Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is required and is not included.

Sri Lanka Visa / ETA
Any required Sri Lanka visa or ETA costs are not included.

Personal Expenses
Laundry,  alcoholic drinks, extra snacks,  room upgrades, and personal purchases are not included.

Optional Activities
Any optional activities not listed as included in the final itinerary are at travellers’ own expense.

Tips & Gratuities
Tips for local guides, drivers, hotel staff, safari guides, and service providers.