A journey that moves through Sri Lanka’s most varied landscapes – from the colonial fort of Galle and the surf beaches of the south coast through Yala’s leopard country and up into the tea-covered highlands before descending via the famous mountain railway and connecting the Cultural Triangle’s ancient cities. This is the itinerary for the traveler who wants to experience the full range of what Sri Lanka is capable of.
Arrive in Colombo and transfer south to historic Galle. An evening exploration of the fort’s cobbled streets and a walk along the ocean ramparts at sunset sets the tone for the journey ahead. Overnight in Galle.
Continue to Weligama or Hiriketiya on Sri Lanka’s vibrant south coast surf scene – two of the island’s most popular surf towns with consistent breaks for beginners through to experienced surfers. Overnight on the South Coast.
A full leisure day on the southern coastline with beach relaxation, optional snorkeling, paddleboarding or a guided walk through nearby coastal village communities. Overnight on the South Coast.
Morning coastal drive to Yala – Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destination. An afternoon jeep safari with specialist naturalist guides covers the park’s coastal lagoons and dry forest in the hours when leopards are most active. Overnight near Yala.
Dawn safari in Yala before the long scenic drive northward through the southern plains and into the hill country toward Nuwara Eliya. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Explore the cool climate landscapes of Sri Lanka’s tea country – plantation walks, factory tours and panoramic viewpoints across a highland landscape that looks nothing like the tropical island most travelers imagined. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Board the famous railway at Nanu Oya for the scenic descent to Ella – considered one of the world’s most beautiful railway routes, a slow journey through waterfalls, cloud forest and tea plantation that delivers travellers to the southern highlands with the day still ahead of them. Explore Nine Arches Bridge and the surrounding estate scenery. Overnight in Ella.
Continue through scenic landscapes to Kandy – the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and stroll around Kandy Lake in the evening. Overnight in Kandy.
Journey to the Cultural Triangle and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress – the 5th-century royal palace and the defining image of Sri Lanka. The summit delivers a panorama across the surrounding plains that justifies every step of the ascent. Overnight in Sigiriya.
Afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park, where elephant gatherings of extraordinary scale occur during the June-to-September season. Overnight in Sigiriya.
Return to the west coast via the countryside landscapes and coastal lagoons south of the capital. A final evening of relaxation along Sri Lanka’s western coastline. Overnight near Colombo.
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.
