Wildlife, Beaches & Culinary Experiences
Wildlife, Beaches & Culinary Experiences
Duration: 9N 10D
Experience the best of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, pristine beaches, and culinary delights on this ten-day journey. This itinerary combines thrilling safaris, coastal adventures, and immersive cultural experiences to offer a balanced and unforgettable travel experience. Each day is carefully planned to maximize exploration, relaxation, and local engagement.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Negombo / Overnight in Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and meet your private driver for a short transfer to Negombo, approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beaches or taking a short boat ride along the Negombo Lagoon. Enjoy a calm evening settling in and preparing for the adventures ahead. Overnight stay is arranged in Negombo at a beachfront or lagoon-side hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Yala National Park / Afternoon Safari / Overnight near Yala
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive of approximately five to six hours to Yala National Park, passing small towns and picturesque landscapes. Arrive in time for an afternoon jeep safari, exploring the park’s diverse habitats and spotting elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. Evening at leisure allows rest after the day’s travel and wildlife adventure. Overnight accommodation is arranged near Yala for convenience and comfort.
Day 03: Full-Day Safari in Yala / Overnight near Yala
Spend the entire day on guided jeep safaris through Yala National Park, observing elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, and an incredible variety of bird species. Stop for lunch in designated park areas while enjoying panoramic views of forests, lagoons, and grasslands. Learn from expert guides about wildlife behavior, conservation efforts, and park ecology. Overnight stay remains near Yala, providing easy access for early morning or late afternoon safaris.
Day 04: Drive to Mirissa / Whale and Dolphin Watching / Overnight in Mirissa
After breakfast, drive approximately three to four hours to the southern coastal town of Mirissa, famous for its marine life and golden beaches. Embark on an early morning or late morning whale and dolphin watching excursion with experienced guides, observing blue whales, sperm whales, and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Evening at leisure allows relaxation on the beach or a sunset stroll along the coast. Overnight stay is arranged in Mirissa, near the beach for convenience.
Day 05: Beach Day / Optional Snorkeling or Surfing / Overnight in Mirissa
Spend the day enjoying the sun, sand, and sea of Mirissa Beach, with options for snorkeling, surfing, or stand-up paddleboarding for the adventurous. Relax at beachfront cafés or take short walks along the coastline, capturing photographs of the scenic surroundings. Evening at leisure provides time to enjoy local seafood or a sunset view over the Indian Ocean. Overnight stay continues in Mirissa.
Day 06: Culinary Experience: Cooking Class and Local Market Visit / Overnight in Mirissa
Begin the day with a guided visit to a local market, learning about fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients used in Sri Lankan cuisine. Participate in a hands-on cooking class where you prepare authentic dishes under the guidance of skilled chefs. Taste your creations for lunch and gain insight into local culinary traditions and techniques. Overnight stay remains in Mirissa, allowing for rest and leisure by the beach.
Day 07: Drive to Galle / Explore Galle Fort and Colonial Streets / Overnight in Galle
After breakfast, drive approximately one hour to Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage city on the southern coast. Explore the historic Galle Fort, walking along cobbled streets, visiting colonial-era buildings, lighthouses, and artisan shops. Learn about Dutch and Portuguese influences on architecture, urban planning, and local culture. Overnight stay is arranged in Galle or a nearby coastal hotel, providing convenient access to the fort and beaches.
Day 08: Coastal Leisure / Optional Water Sports / Overnight in Galle or Nearby Coastal Town
Enjoy a day of relaxation along the southern coast, with options for snorkeling, surfing, or boat trips to nearby beaches. Spend time at leisure visiting local cafés, beachside bars, or exploring small coastal villages. Capture photographs of dramatic coastal cliffs and golden sands while soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. Overnight stay remains in Galle or a nearby coastal town for flexibility and comfort.
Day 09: Drive Back to Colombo / Explore City Highlights / Overnight in Colombo
After breakfast, drive approximately three to four hours back to Colombo, passing lush landscapes and towns along the way. Explore city highlights such as Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, Pettah Market, and colonial landmarks with a professional guide. Evening at leisure allows shopping, dining, or a final stroll along the city’s waterfront. Overnight stay is arranged in Colombo for easy access to the airport the following day.
Day 10: Airport Transfer
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo for your onward flight. Reflect on a journey filled with wildlife encounters, coastal adventures, and culinary discoveries across Sri Lanka. The tour concludes with memories of rich experiences, scenic landscapes, and cultural immersion.
Inclusions
- Accommodation with daily breakfast as per the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
- English-speaking guide for cultural and heritage sites
- Jeep safaris in Yala National Park (afternoon and full-day)
- Whale and dolphin watching tour in Mirissa
- Visit and entrance fees to Galle Fort
- Culinary experience including local market visit and hands-on cooking class in Mirissa
Exclusions
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, or phone calls
- Optional activities not mentioned under inclusions, such as surfing, snorkeling, or other water sports
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Any additional services or activities not mentioned under inclusions