About this experience
Get ready for an adventurous and informative 12-hour tour! You will explore the diversity of Sri Lankan fauna and landscapes during a safari in Udawalawe Park—observe elephant families, deer, and birds. Travel on picturesque roads to the medieval Galle Fort, linked to Ceylon's colonial history. And in the gem mines, witness the process of creating precious gems—and in the end, you will cover all that is must-see in this part of the island.
What to Expect
Udawalawe Park Safari
The first stop of this big day is Udawalawe National Park, home to over 600 wild elephants, crocodiles, deer, buffaloes, peacocks, various reptiles, and birds. Witness the wildlife of Ceylon in their natural habitat during a 4-hour safari on an open jeep. We will stop at animal gathering spots for observations and photos, but the park itself will not disappoint—you will see landscapes of dry and wet zones of Sri Lanka. Along the way, you will also learn about the peculiarities of Sri Lankan elephants. A separate highlight will be a visit to the orphanage where baby elephants, left without parents, are raised.
Galle Fort—Traces of Colonial Sri Lanka
Strolling beyond the walls of the medieval fort on the shores of the Indian Ocean, you will learn about its Portuguese, Dutch, and English past, about the history and significance of the port city of Galle. White lighthouse, clock tower, granite bastions, and fort ramparts will serve as decorations to the narratives. This place—the largest fortress in Asia built by Europeans—will help you learn more about the centuries of colonialism on the island.
Treasures of Sri Lanka in Mines and Museum
The third theme of the journey will be minerals and precious gems. Visit the moonstone mining pits, the washing and storing site, and, most importantly, witness the process of processing moonstones and turning them into jewelry. In the museum near the mines, you will admire a collection of processed and untouched precious gems of Sri Lanka—sapphires, amethysts, alexandrites, and rubies.
Organizational Details
- Included in the price: transfer to/from the hotel, jeep rental, and entrance tickets.
- The excursion can start from the cities of Bentota, Ambalangoda, and Hikkaduwa. Transfer from other places in Sri Lanka is paid additionally (check in correspondence).
- Lunch at one of the coastal restaurants is not included in the price (average bill $10 per person).
- The excursion can also be arranged for more travelers: 3 people—330€, 4 people—380€, 5 people—425€.
- Depending on the location of your hotel, the order of locations on the route may vary.
- There are no age or physical fitness restrictions for the trip.
- The tour is conducted year-round.
- The tour will be guided by me or another guide from our team.
