Wanderfully Sri Lanka with Kiawna

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Your adventure begins in Negombo with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take a leisurely stroll along the seaside to observe local fishing activities or explore the beautiful countryside by renting a bicycle from your hotel reception. Later, join your fellow travelers for dinner and drinks at one of the nearby beach bars or pubs to get acquainted. Spend the night at a hotel near the beach, offering easy access to the vibrant coastal scene.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a beachfront hotel in Negombo.

Meals: No meals included today.

Please ensure you attend the welcome meeting at 6 pm, where we will gather important insurance and emergency contact details. If you anticipate arriving late, kindly inform your travel agent or hotel reception. Look for details about the meeting location at reception or in the lobby. This meeting is essential for a smooth start to your Sri Lankan journey.

Begin your day with a visit to the bustling fish market in Negombo, offering a lively glimpse into local culture with its vibrant array of seafood. From there, journey to Dambulla, the second-largest city in the Matale District. One of the highlights today is an optional excursion to the awe-inspiring Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend the ancient rock fortress, perched atop a towering 200-meter-high rock formation (a remnant of an extinct volcano), and explore the fascinating palace ruins and surrounding gardens. Don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless! In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your tour leader, where you can savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Visit to Negombo Fish Market

Optional Add-On Activity (extra cost):
– Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress entrance fee (USD 35)

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 3.5 hours.

This morning, consider visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient temples nestled within five caves beneath an imposing rock overhang. Marvel at the intricate paintings, statues, and wall murals that adorn this fascinating site before continuing your journey to Kandy. En route, stop at a local spice garden in Matale to learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned spices. Upon arrival in Kandy, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. Consider participating in a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of the delicious local dishes you’ve come to enjoy.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a multi-share hostel in Kandy.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Visit to a spice garden in Matale

Optional Add-On Activities (extra cost):
– Entrance fee for Dambulla Cave Temples (USD 7)
– Cooking demonstration and dinner in a local home in Kandy (USD 12)

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 2.5 hours. Please note that during your stay in Kandy, travelers sharing the same booking may be accommodated in separate rooms due to the hostel’s single-gender dormitory setup.

Start your morning with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage to rejuvenate your body and mind. Kandy offers a variety of attractions, including a picturesque lake, charming old shops, bustling markets, and excellent dining options, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely day exploring. Once the capital under the last Sri Lankan king, Kandy resisted European control for centuries longer than coastal areas. Stroll through town to soak in the sights, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, explore the revered Temple of the Tooth, or attend a traditional cultural dance performance.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a multi-share hostel in Kandy.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Optional Add-On Activities (extra cost):
– Entrance fee for Botanical Gardens in Kandy (USD 10)
– Cooking class in a Sinhalese home in Kandy (USD 12)
– Entrance fee for Temple of the Tooth in Kandy (USD 7)
– Admission to a cultural dance performance in Kandy (USD 7)

Bid farewell to Kandy as you embark on a scenic train journey to Ella, renowned for its breathtaking views of lush green landscapes and majestic mountains. Ensure you secure a window seat to fully appreciate the picturesque route. While onboard, indulge in delicious treats from the onboard vendors to enhance your travel experience. Upon arrival in Ella, consider visiting a local tea factory or relaxing at one of the many vibrant bars in town. Later, seek recommendations from your tour leader for the best nightlife spots, perhaps enjoying live music and delicious cuisine at a nearby restaurant with newfound friends.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 6 hours by train. Please note that train tickets are subject to high demand. In the event we are unable to secure tickets, an alternative private vehicle will be arranged for your journey.

Today, embark on a half-day trek to Ella Gap, immersing yourself in the lush green mountains and invigorating fresh air on the way to the famous Ella Nine Arch Bridge. During the trek, take a break at a small village and enjoy a delicious spicy curry lunch prepared by a local family. Connect with your gracious hosts over a meal and indulge in steaming Ceylon tea. This experience offers insight into the local lifestyle and provides an opportunity to hear captivating stories from the villagers. After the hike, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore Ella on your own.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.

Included Activities:
– Trek to Ella Gap
– Visit to Nine Arch Bridge
– Lunch at a Local Family Home

Leave Ella this morning in a private vehicle bound for Tissamaharama. Upon arrival, embark on an exhilarating 4WD safari through Yala National Park, where you’ll have the chance to encounter native wildlife such as elephants, leopards, and aquatic birds. Be sure to have your camera ready and stay hydrated during this unforgettable experience.

After the safari, unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Consider venturing out with your travel companions to sample local delicacies like appa (hoppers), kottu roti, and parippu (lentil curry) at nearby eateries.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Tissamaharama.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Wildlife safari in Yala/Udawalawe National Park

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 3 hours. Please note that due to the impact of overtourism in Yala National Park, we may visit a less-touristed section called Block 5 or Veheragala. Alternatively, if necessary, we may visit Udawalawe National Park, known for its wild elephant population and other wildlife.

Today, travel west in a private vehicle to Unawatuna, a picturesque beach destination known for its vibrant local restaurants and bars. En route, make a stop in Galle for a guided walking tour led by your local leader, and perhaps enjoy lunch to recharge. Upon arrival in Unawatuna, take advantage of free time to explore the area and its surroundings at your leisure.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Unawatuna.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Guided walking tour of Galle

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 3.5 hours.

Today is dedicated to beach relaxation! Grab your favorite book, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen as you unwind on the warm sands of Sri Lanka. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider booking an optional whale-watching tour or exploring the city’s hidden gems by bicycle. After enjoying a mesmerizing sunset, indulge in the diverse culinary offerings at the beachfront restaurants and bars.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Optional Add-On Activity (extra cost):
– Whale Watching in Mirissa (available from November to March, USD 70)

Special Information:
The cost of transportation for the whale-watching activity will depend on group size and will be communicated by your tour leader on the day of booking.

Bid farewell to Unawatuna and travel to Galle, where you’ll board a local train bound for Colombo. Upon reaching Sri Lanka’s capital, embark on a city walk with your leader, exploring local shops and notable landmarks. Discover the diverse array of temples and churches nestled side by side, showcasing architectural beauty and harmonious coexistence of different belief systems. Tonight, enjoy free time with the option of joining an optional group dinner suggested by your leader to celebrate the end of your journey together. Afterward, venture out to find the perfect spot for a farewell toast.

Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.

Meals: Breakfast included.

Included Activities:
– Guided market visit in Colombo
– Local train ride from Galle to Colombo

Special Information:
Travel time today is approximately 4 hours. Please note that seating on the local train is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed in advance. During peak travel periods, alternative transportation via bus may be used due to ticket availability constraints.

Savor your final breakfast of string hoppers and strong black coffee this morning and share memories and amazing photos with your new-found adventure buddies. With no scheduled activities, our journey together concludes here – but depending on your departure time you may wish to explore a little more before bidding the group farewell.

Meal: Breakfast