Sri Lanka Southern Coast, Wildlife & Yala Safari – 7 Days




Duration
7 days
Max Group Size
10
Departure Type
Guaranteed
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Physical level
easy
Operated In
English, French, German, Spanish
Age Requirement
1 - 90 Ages
About this tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s south, where nature, culture, and wildlife come alive in breathtaking harmony. Your adventure begins at Madu River, a pristine wetland ecosystem dotted with 64 small islands, mangrove forests, and traditional fishing communities. A boat safari here reveals both rich biodiversity and the tranquil rhythm of local life.
Continue to Ambalangoda, the home of Sri Lanka’s world-famous mask-making tradition. At the Mask Factory, you’ll witness master artisans carving and painting vibrant wooden masks—treasured pieces that tell stories of folklore, rituals, and performance art.
Next, visit a Turtle Hatchery, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles. Here you can observe hatchlings and learn about vital efforts to protect these gentle marine creatures before they are safely released back into the ocean.
Step into history at Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander its cobblestone streets, admire Dutch colonial architecture, and soak up the unique blend of European and South Asian influences that make this fort an iconic cultural treasure.
In Meetiyagoda, discover the world’s rare moonstone mines, where stones with a distinctive blue sheen are carefully unearthed. Moonstones are believed to bring luck and prosperity and remain an integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural identity and jewelry-making heritage.
Relax by the golden shores of Mirissa, a coastal paradise famed for its palm-fringed beaches, whale-watching excursions, snorkeling adventures, and vibrant nightlife by the ocean.
Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are rehabilitated and prepared to return to the wild. This heartwarming experience offers a close connection to Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts.
Finally, immerse yourself in the wild wonders of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier safari destination. Traverse diverse landscapes in search of majestic elephants, elusive leopards, sloth bears, and a dazzling array of birdlife—all in their natural habitat.
This tour blends natural beauty, cultural discovery, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, offering you the very best of Sri Lanka’s southern treasures.
Brief of tour:
This tour offers a perfect blend of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, rich culture, and wildlife experiences, creating unforgettable memories across the island’s southern treasures
Route
- 1Colombo Bandaranaike International AirportAsiaSri LankaGampahaStart
- 2NegomboAsiaSri Lanka
- 3GalleAsiaSri Lanka
- 4MirissaAsiaSri Lanka
- 5UdawalawaAsiaSri Lanka
- 6TissamaharamaAsiaSri LankaHambantota
- 7ColomboAsiaSri Lanka
- 8Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)AsiaSri LankaEnd
What makes this tour special
Itinerary
Day 01 BIA - Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to the coastal town of Negombo, located just 45 minutes away. After your journey, relax and unwind at your hotel, surrounded by tropical gardens and a peaceful atmosphere. Spend the rest of the day at leisure by the pool or beach, preparing for the exciting adventures ahead.
📍 Overnight Stay: Hotel in Negombo 🍽️ Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Planned Excursions and Experiences – Negombo Arrival
• Warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport by our friendly representative
• Scenic transfer from Colombo Airport to your beach hotel in Negombo
• Leisure time to relax after your flight and enjoy the hotel facilities
• Evening briefing with your tour guide about the upcoming journey
• Relaxation and overnight stay at the hotel
• 📍 Overnight Stay: Hotel in Negombo
Day 02: Colombo – Mirissa
Today after breakfast begin the adventure. Set out on a scenic drive south toward Mirissa, enjoying the lush landscapes and coastal views along the way.
Madu Ganga Boat Cruise – Explore the second-largest wetland in Sri Lanka, spread across 900 hectares with 64 islands. Glide through mangrove forests, swampy marshlands, and calm waterways. Spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and unique plant species. This serene cruise provides an ideal introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich natural biodiversity.
Galle Fort – Step into history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and fortified by the Dutch from 1649. Wander through cobbled streets, admire Dutch colonial architecture, visit quaint boutique shops, and experience the blend of European and South Asian heritage preserved for over 400 years.
Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines – Discover the mystique of Sri Lanka’s rare blue moonstones. Learn about their history from ancient civilizations, including the Romans and Greeks, and see how skilled artisans transform them into exquisite jewelry cherished worldwide.
Ambalangoda Mask Workshop – Dive into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural traditions with a visit to the mask-making center. Watch artisans carve and paint wooden masks used in rituals, dances, and festivals, and gain insight into the symbolism behind each design.
Turtle Hatchery Visit – Experience a heartwarming encounter with endangered sea turtles at a conservation center. Observe different stages of their growth—from eggs to hatchlings—and understand the efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
After an exciting day of culture, wildlife, and scenic beauty, continue to Mirissa, a coastal paradise known for its golden beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Take time to relax by the beach or enjoy a peaceful evening at your hotel. Overnight: Mirissa Hotel
Planned Excursions & Experiences:
Transfer to Mirissa – Start your journey with a scenic drive along the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Galle Dutch Fort – Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its cobbled streets,
Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines – Visit the world-famous moonstone center
Madu Ganga Safari – Enjoy a boat tour through the wetlands, surrounded by mangrove forests
Castle Farm Ahungalla & Ambalangoda Mask Factory – Discover local culture through traditional farming and witness the art of mask-making by skilled artisans.
Evening Planning Session – Discuss the next day’s activities with your tour guide.
Relax & Overnight Stay – Unwind at your hotel in Mirissa, soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere. Overnight: Mirissa Hotel
Day 03 – Mirissa: Whale & Dolphin Adventure
Wake up early and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime marine adventure from Mirissa, one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations. Cruise into the deep blue sea and witness the majestic Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, Bryde’s Whales, and even playful dolphin pods performing acrobatics on the waves. Along the way, spot flying fish, turtles, manta rays, and other fascinating marine life. The excursion includes a comfortable boat ride with snacks, allowing you to relax while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
After your sea adventure, head to Unawatuna, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous beaches. Stroll along golden sands, swim in turquoise waters, or simply unwind amid the lush palms and scenic coastline. Later, visit Weligama, where the iconic stilt fishermen demonstrate their centuries-old fishing technique—a truly unique cultural experience and a photographer’s delight.
End the day back in Mirissa, enjoying a leisurely evening at your hotel and reflecting on an unforgettable day of wildlife encounters and coastal beauty.
Overnight Stay: Mirissa Hotel
Plan for tour itinerary Activities:
• Transfer to Mrissa Excursion for Whales and Dolphin watching in the morning
• Lover Paradise of Coconut hill visiting
• Visit Stilt fishermen of Weligama
• Enjoy afternoon beach relax
• Evening plan to Next Day activities with tour guide.
• Relax on hotel Overnights Stay at Hotel
• Overnight’s Stay at hotel.
Day 04 – Udawalawe via & Tissamaharama: Elephant Encounter & Safari Adventure
Today, immerse yourself in one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable wildlife experiences. Begin with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe, a sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned and injured baby elephants. Watch as playful juveniles are fed and nurtured, learning about their journey back to the wild and the vital conservation efforts that protect these majestic creatures.
In the afternoon, embark on an exciting safari through Udawalawe National Park, a lush habitat teeming with wildlife. Spot majestic elephants, diverse bird species, and other fascinating creatures in their natural environment. For adventure enthusiasts, optional camping experiences are available to connect even deeper with the beauty of the park.
After a day of heartwarming encounters and thrilling wildlife spotting, relax at your hotel near Tissamaharama, reflecting on an unforgettable day of nature and conservation.
Overnight Stay: Hotel near Tissamaharama
Plan for tour itinerary Acuities:
Transfer to Udawalawe. Watch baby elephants being fed milk at the elephant transit home
Game drive to Udawalawe National Park
Evening plan Next Day activities with tour guide.
Relax on hotel Overnights Stay at Hotel
Overnight’s Stay at Tissamaharama
Day 05 : Full-Day Private Safari at Yala National Park
Start your day with an early morning adventure as you embark on a full-day private safari through Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary. Renowned as the best place on earth to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, Yala offers a rare opportunity to witness these majestic predators in their natural domain. With the world’s highest leopard density, this park truly allows you to experience the thrill of seeing the "Lords of the Jungle" up close.
As you journey deeper into the wilderness, encounter a variety of wildlife including elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, wild boar, sambar deer, and golden jackals. The park’s diverse habitats of lagoons, grasslands, and dense scrub jungle create a haven for both mammals and reptiles, including crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and giant monitor lizards roaming freely.
Yala is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 130 recorded species. Watch in awe as peacocks fan their vibrant feathers, painted storks gather at tranquil lagoons, and raptors like the crested serpent eagle soar above. During the migratory season, flocks of waterfowl including pintail ducks and whimbrels add to the park’s rich avian spectacle.
Along the park’s southeastern edge, the rugged coastline becomes a nesting ground for endangered olive ridley and leatherback turtles, adding yet another dimension to this extraordinary ecosystem.
With a full day dedicated to this adventure, immerse yourself in the rhythm of the wild—where every turn of the jeep offers the possibility of an unforgettable encounter. Conclude the day with memories of breathtaking wildlife sightings and return to your hotel near Yala for a restful evening.
Overnight Stay at Hotel near Yala.
Planned Excursions & Experiences –
Early morning departure for a full-day private safari in Yala National Park
Enjoy an adventurous game drive with opportunities to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife
Return to the hotel after the safari
Overnight stay at hotel near Yala
Day 06: Colombo –
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel, you will begin your journey to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant commercial capital. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery and take in the beautiful landscapes of this wonderful island. Depending on your schedule and interests, you may have the opportunity to explore some of Colombo’s highlights, including the historic Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, Galle Face Green, and the bustling streets of the city.
Upon arrival in Colombo, you will be transferred to your hotel. over night stay colombo hotel .next day Transfer Colombo International Airport, stay at last night’s Colombo
Planned Excursions & Experiences – Colombo City Tour & Departure
Colombo City Tour – After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel, explore the vibrant city of Colombo and discover its fascinating blend of history, culture, and modern life.
Gangaramaya Temple – Visit one of Colombo’s most iconic Buddhist temples, known for its unique collection of religious artefacts and beautiful architecture.
Dutch Hospital & Colombo Fort – Explore the beautifully restored Dutch Hospital complex and the historic Colombo Fort area, where colonial heritage meets modern city life.
Shopping Experience – Enjoy some last-minute shopping at Colombo’s vibrant markets, shopping centres, or modern malls, where you can find souvenirs, local handicrafts, tea, spices, and other Sri Lankan products.
Next Day Departure – At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey, taking home wonderful memories of your Sri Lankan adventure.
Day 07: Colombo – Airport Departure
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Colombo International Airport for your onward flight. Depending on your departure time, you may choose to leave earlier to explore a few Colombo highlights—such as its vibrant cityscape, colonial landmarks, and lively markets—before proceeding to the airport.
Your journey with us concludes here. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight with unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka.
Planned Excursions and Experiences – Departure Day
• Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before check-out
• Transfer from the hotel to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) according to your flight schedule
• Farewell to beautiful Sri Lanka and its unforgettable memories
• Tours End – Safe travels and we hope to welcome you again soon!
Trip includes
Included
Accommodation
We provide Accommodation for 04 Nights (in different cities as per the itinerary) on Luxury Hotels star hotels
accommodation
Guide
We provide you with a guide service English speaking guide who will also act as your driver.
We offer expert site guides (in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya cities) to explain our guests anything they need to know
•Reliable, Experienced and friendly with excellent knowledge about nature, an ancient archeological and cultural sites
• On day to day basis monitoring and communicating with drivers and guests for smooth operation
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Meal
We will provide BB meal plans in the hotels which you will be spending the night in Break Fast & dinner included.
According to Booking entitle B|B Nicely proved by the hotel basis in the price.
This tour offers Vegetarian and Halal food options on request. Simply let our Customer Support team know the food option that you prefer.
Transport
We provide our valued clients with good-quality, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, including cars, vans, and buses. Free Wi-Fi is available in the vehicles, and baby seats can be provided upon request.
·Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our priorities. Our tours are operated by experienced and professional drivers.
Safari Jeep
Safari jeep fees are not included in the tour package and will be charged separately.**
This applies to safaris at Yala, Wilpattu, and Minneriya National Parks
Include Service This Tour
Accommodation 04 Nights for star classes hotel Though the tour
Air-conditioned vehicle with fuel
English speaking chauffeur guide other
Food Bed & Breakfast included
All parking and highway charge where applicable All taxes
Bottled water
Airport pickup and drop-off
Free Entrance Spice Garden / Gem Museum / Wood Carving center / Tea Factory & Plantation
Good to Know – Yala Safari
Yala National Park is famous for its rich wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes.
Safari sightings are not guaranteed, as animals move freely in their natural habitat.
Early morning safaris are recommended for the best chance of seeing wildlife and enjoying cooler temperatures.
You may have the opportunity to see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, wild buffalo, deer, monkeys, and many species of birds.
Please wear comfortable, light clothing and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and drinking water.
Binoculars and a camera are highly recommended for wildlife viewing and photography.
Please follow the instructions of your safari guide and maintain a respectful distance from animals.
The safari duration may vary depending on park conditions and wildlife activity.
During dry or rainy periods, some areas of the park may be difficult to access.
We recommend keeping your schedule flexible to enjoy the best possible safari experience.
Important: Wildlife sightings depend on nature, so seeing a leopard or other specific animal cannot be guaranteed.
Excluded
Flights
🛫 Flight Ticket Assistance
•We help you find and book the most suitable international and domestic flights.
•Access to competitive airfares through our partnered airline agents.
•Hassle-free coordination with your tour start and end dates.
Note: Flight ticket costs and visa fees are not included in the tour price unless otherwise stated. These services are available upon request during your booking process.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is not included in the package; we highly recommend arranging suitable coverage for your safety and peace of mind throughout the tour
Additional Services
Optional services we will arrange for you!
• Whale Watching Experience – USD 70 per person (including tickets & snacks)
• Full-Day Safari Adventure – USD 250 (Jeep, tickets & snacks included)
• Half-Day Safari Experience – USD 160 (Jeep, tickets & snacks included)
• Dolphin Watching Tour – USD 140 (Boat, tickets included) – customizable as per your preference
• Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the season and availability.
Availability
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Make this journey exclusively yours
By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:
Personal
Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
Protected
Travel withing your own bubble.
Professional
Access our Travel Specialists insider knowledge.
Privacy
Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
Why book with TravelShop Booking
Cancellation Policy
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