Sri Lanka is an often overlooked gem in the Indian Ocean. It boasts dense rainforests, tropical beaches, breathtaking highlands, abundant wildlife and a diverse cultural history. Explorations will take us into the cultural triangle of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya. Highlights include a walk led by a primatologist, enigmatic 600 foot high Sigiriya Rock climb and famous Dambulla Cave Temple, with its recumbent 47 foot long Buddha. Transferring to the central hill country we enjoy stunning views from our comfortable accommodation. This is our gateway for tours through local villages and to tropical mountain forests. Spectacular waterfalls, rambling views and local tea estates are key attractions of this region. Travelling south west to the biodiversity hotspot of Sinharaja, we stay near a World Heritage tropical rainforest. A local naturalist will lead us through this fertile area which is high in endemic species, especially birds. Our final destination is the seaside colonial city of Galle, an old trading port, influenced by Portuguese and Dutch colonialists, now resplendent with rambling laneways, ancient mosques, grand mansions and museums. A local guide leads us through the Galle Fort; illustrating connections between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions. Your 15 days will be filled with the exotic landscapes, tastes and delights of Sri Lanka.
- Discover the national parks, wildlife, and 2,000 year old culture of this Indian Ocean jewel
- Search for slender loris, elephant and Sri Lankan leopard in Wilpattu NP
- Tour ancient ruins at Anuradapura
- Learn about monkey conservation in Polonnaruwa
- Climb the 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- View statues and frescos at the Dambulla Cave complex
- Spend time in the heart of Sri Lanka tea country
- Hike rugged & picturesque Knuckles mountain range
- Experience rich biodiversity in Horton Plains NP and Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve
- Delight in the historic city of Galle & walk the Dutch built Galle Fort
- Taste exotic meals, learn of legends, traditions & folklore, & witness cultural shows
Price: Twin share / person (ex Colombo) A$8,490
Single Supplement: A$1,720
Note: For single people who prefer to share, we will try to find a suitable roommate, but if this is not possible the sole-use surcharge will apply.
Minimum Group size: 8 guests
Special Interest: Birding, Wildlife, Botanical, Culture, History
Walk Rating: Easy to Moderate, 5-15 km per day with some challenging options.
Inclusions
- 14 nights twin share accommodation – 4-5 star hotels, plus simpler bungalows and eco lodges with private facilities.
- Meals include – 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, and 14 Dinners
- All transfers as listed in itinerary
- Entry fees to national parks, museums, safaris and sacred sites where noted
- Group tips for site guides, local drivers and porterage
- Australian group escort
- Professional Jetwing Adventure tour guide assisted when required by site guides
- Pre-departure material including background & personalised A-Z tour information and destination tour companion
Exclusions
- International airfares & taxes to start / from end of tour
- Passport & visa expenses
- Heavy or excess baggage
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses e.g. drinks (water, alcohol, tea & coffee), laundry, telephone, or optional tours / excursions
Phil Cullen
Phil Cullen is an avid bushwalker, historian, explorer by heart and accomplished photographer. A former ABC broadcaster, Phil has led tours in Australia, the Loyalty Islands, Cuba, Costa Rica and Guatemala. Phil lives on the Beechmont Plateau in South East Queensland and keeps himself busy bushwalking (including voluntary work with Wild Care and Parks Tasmania at Cradle Mountain), kayaking plus teaching media and communications students.