Sri Lanka Adventure

Ayubowan! Your Sri Lankan adventure begins as you’re welcomed at Colombo airport and transferred to our beach-side hotel in Negombo. The afternoon is free for you to unwind by the Indian Ocean, wander the colonial-era streets, or sample fresh coconut or seafood from a local stall. In the evening, take it all in as you watch the sun dip below the horizon - a perfectly relaxed start to your trip.

At 6pm, the group will gather for a trip briefing followed by a welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Negombo

After a leisurely breakfast, we begin our journey inland, heading towards the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.

This afternoon we explore Ritigala - an ancient forest monastery tucked into the jungle and largely hidden from mass tourism. Take the time to walk all the way to the highest part of the complex - as you wander the mossy paths and timeworn ruins, you’ll feel the peaceful energy of this meditative site.

Distances: appx 3 km walk

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Sigiriya

We start early today to beat the heat and climb to the top of the mighty Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The path winds up 1,200 steps, but there’s plenty to take in along the way: remarkable frescoes, ancient engineering wonders and scenic spots to pause and catch your breath.  At the summit, we’re rewarded with breathtaking views.  After descending, we’ll return to the hotel for a chance to freshen up.

Later, we head out on safari in one of three nearby national parks, keeping watch for wild elephants and other iconic Sri Lankan wildlife. As the day winds down, enjoy a sundowner by the lake with the group.

Distances: 1,200 steps

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Sigiriya

This morning we visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, where centuries-old Buddhist statues and vivid murals await inside a sacred rock overhang. The climb will reward you with panoramic views of surrounding plains.

We continue on to Kandy and check in to our hotel. In the late afternoon we visit a local family in their home, where we'll enjoy some local snacks and get a peek into their everyday life. Afterwards, we all visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic together - a place of deep spiritual significance, where the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha is enshrined.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel, Kandy

Today, we step into the kitchen with a Kandyan family for a special, authentic food experience. As we learn the secrets of Sri Lankan spices and cooking techniques, we’ll prepare a curry feast together. After our efforts, we'll sit down to enjoy the delicious lunch we’ve created.

Later, we explore the city of Kandy - the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kings. Wander through Kandy’s lively local markets, taking in the colours, aromas, and rhythms of daily life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Kandy

All aboard one of the world’s most scenic train rides! From Kandy to Nanu Oya, we roll past lush tea plantations, misty mountains and hill villages on this magical journey. Arriving in the cool, highland town of Nuwara Eliya, we settle into our charming heritage hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Eliya

An early start takes us to Horton Plains National Park. Here we'll hike a 10 km circuit through highland forest and open plains, eating a packed breakfast along the way, before arriving at the stunning lookout known as World’s End. With luck, the skies will be clear enough for sweeping views across southern Sri Lanka.

After the hike, we travel on to laid-back Ella and check in to the hotel, with the afternoon free to relax at leisure.

Distances: appx 10 km hike

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel, Ella

This morning after breakfast we head out for an easy hike (2.5-3 km) to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views and enjoy the fresh, cool morning air. Next we visit the century-old and postcard-perfect Nine Arch Bridge - maybe see a passing train.

In the afternoon, we tour a local tea and coffee estate, learn about the process from bush to brew, and enjoy a tasting straight from the source.

The evening is yours to enjoy as you see fit.

Distances: appx 2.5-3 km hike

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel, Ella

Lace up your boots for Stage 15 of the Pekoe Trail. This approximately 10 km walk begins at a Buddhist temple in Makulella, where the river flowing through the valley cascades into Ravana Falls. The trail then takes us through forests, tea bushes and patches of jungle as we ascend Ella Rock and stop to admire the panoramic views.

The trail then descends to Kithal Ella Station, where the route follows the railway track for a stretch. We will likely encounter friendly vendors selling fresh fruit and snacks until the stage concludes at Ella Train Station.

After we've completed the trail, we head to Haputale for a restful evening.

Distances: appx 10 km hike

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Haputale

Today we tackle Stage 13 of the Pekoe Trail – a scenic 15 km trek where Sir Thomas Lipton once surveyed his tea empire. Walk through a cool, humid forest reserve towards the Thotalagala-Dambatenne Valley and spot Lipton's Seat in the valley ahead. Continue on and ascend to the mountain top - a plateau surrounded by verdant tea fields and small villages.

With spectacular views and a satisfying hike under your belt, we return to Haputale in the afternoon with some free time to relax and reflect.

Distances: appx 15 km hike

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Haputale

We journey south to Yala National Park and check in to Kithala Resort. In the afternoon we head out on a private jeep safari. This region is home to elephants, bears, buffalo, jackals, peacocks, wild boar, and the elusive leopard. With an experienced guide at the wheel, we have a good chance of some unforgettable wildlife sightings.

After the safari we head back to the resort and in the evening we will enjoy a relaxing dinner together.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Kithala Resort, Yala

Today we travel to the coastal city of Galle and explore its UNESCO-listed fort, built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch. As we wander the cobblestone lanes, we’ll discover hidden cafés, quirky boutiques, Portuguese-influenced architecture, and ocean views from the ramparts. Remarkably, this is still an inhabited living monument that represents 400 years of history.

The evening is free for you to further explore Galle - perhaps savour some local food at a restaurant, watch the sunset from a beach bar, or simply relax at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel, Galle

This morning we set off on a gentle adventure - first by kayak through peaceful mangroves, then by bike through quiet village lanes. After a home-style lunch, enjoy some free time before our final evening together.

Tonight is very special, as we are welcomed into a southern family’s home for a delicious local feast and a warm celebration of our journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Galle

After breakfast, we transfer to Colombo airport for our flights home. It’s been a rich, rewarding, incredible adventure - full of connection, culture, and natural beauty - and we part ways with memories to last a lifetime.

Meals: Breakfast

Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as planned, but please remember this is adventure travel and conditions can change unexpectedly. Weather, road conditions, vehicle issues, or the health of fellow travellers may require adjustments. We’ll do our best to keep things on track, but a flexible and easy-going attitude is essential for the best experience.

Occasionally, certain experiences or activities may need to be modified or skipped due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, refunds will not be provided for any missed components of the itinerary.