You’ll touch down in Sri Lanka and from Colombo head straight to Negombo, a charming beach town on the palm-lined west coast, just a short drive from the airport. Your accommodation is conveniently located within walking distance of the beach and local eateries, giving you the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll or take a tuk-tuk ride to explore the town. Whether you choose to relax by the shore or soak in the local atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to ease into your Sri Lankan adventure.

This morning, you’ll leave the coast behind and journey into the heart of rural Sri Lanka, where a truly unique experience awaits. Your home for the next two nights is The Mudhouse, an eco-retreat nestled amidst lush forests and serene lakes. Designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, the thatched huts—crafted entirely from natural materials—are open to nature, offering an immersive stay for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

More than just a place to stay, The Mudhouse operates with a strong sustainable ethos. The retreat is run by locals, maintains a minimal environmental footprint, and sources its produce either from its own farm or nearby villages. It’s a magical and memorable escape, offering a rare chance to disconnect and embrace nature in its purest form.

Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on a day of adventure. At The Mudhouse, all local activities are included, giving you the freedom to choose your own pace.

Hop on a bicycle and weave through jungle trails, or grab a kayak and paddle across the tranquil lake. For history enthusiasts, the Paramakanda Rock Temple, just 2 km away, is a must-visit, as is the ancient site of Tonigala, home to intriguing rock inscriptions. Food lovers can step into the Mudhouse kitchen to master the art of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with the resident chef, while wildlife enthusiasts can join a guided bird-watching walk along scenic nature trails. However, you choose to spend the day, it’s all about immersing yourself in the beauty and serenity of rural Sri Lanka.

Today, you’ll journey from The Mudhouse to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest reserves. Less crowded than Yala yet equally rewarding, Wilpattu is a haven for leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and water buffalo.

In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through this vast wilderness before settling into your comfortable safari tent for the night. With a cozy bed and en-suite facilities, you’ll experience the charm of the jungle without giving up modern comforts.

The next few days will immerse you in Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. To make the most of the cooler morning hours, you’ll depart early from Wilpattu and head to Mihintale, a sacred mountain peak and revered pilgrimage site. This is believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, where the Indian monk Mahinda first introduced the teachings of the Buddha to the island. Climbing the stone steps to the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the chance to soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

From here, you'll continue to your next hotel, where you can refresh before setting out to explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Founded over 2,500 years ago, this UNESCO-listed site served as the capital of Sri Lanka for over a millennium. Wander through the vast archaeological complex, marvel at its towering dagobas, intricate temples, and the remains of the old Royal Palace—each telling a story of the island’s glorious past.

Today, your journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient past continues as you make your way to Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal capital.

On the way, you'll stop at one of the country's most iconic landmarks—the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Once home to King Kasyapa’s grand palace, this ancient citadel rises dramatically from the jungle. The climb to the summit is steep but well worth the effort, with breathtaking panoramic views awaiting at the top. Along the way, you’ll pass the famous frescoes, the impressive Lion’s Paw entrance, and remnants of the once-magnificent palace gardens.

After exploring Sigiriya, you’ll continue to your hotel near Polonnaruwa, where the rest of the day is yours to unwind at your own pace.

This morning, hop on a bike to explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa, once the bustling capital of ancient Sri Lanka. Cycle past well-preserved temples, intricate statues, and royal palaces that bring the island’s rich history to life.

After lunch at a small local restaurant, trade history for wildlife with a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park. Its open landscapes make it one of the best places to spot elephants, especially between June and September when herds gather by the lakes—an unforgettable sight.

After breakfast, you’ll leave Polonnaruwa behind and journey through lush countryside into Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country. Your destination is Ella, a charming mountain town famous for its breathtaking views, rolling hills, and vibrant hiking trails—a true paradise for nature lovers.

If you’d like to experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides, we can arrange for you to travel by train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. This picturesque journey winds through tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages, offering an unforgettable glimpse of Sri Lanka’s highlands. Just let your Travel Specialist know, and we’ll incorporate it into your itinerary!

This morning, wake up to breathtaking mountain views and the fresh, crisp air of Ella. Your time here is completely free for you to explore at your own pace, and with plenty of scenic trails to choose from, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country on foot.
For a gentle walk, head to Little Adam’s Peak, where you’ll pass through lush tea plantations and charming villages, rewarded with panoramic views at the summit. If you’re up for more of a challenge, tackle the four-hour hike to Ella Rock, a rewarding trek that takes you through dense forest and steep paths, offering spectacular vistas from the top. However, you choose to spend your day, Ella’s natural beauty won’t disappoint!

It's time to trade misty mountains for lush rainforest as you travel to Sinharaja, Sri Lanka’s last remaining tropical rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This pristine jungle is famed for its incredible biodiversity, home to nearly 300 species of birds, as well as rare reptiles, amphibians, and exotic plants found nowhere else on the island.

Your accommodation is a small-scale guesthouse nestled near the park’s entrance, offering a tranquil base for your rainforest adventure. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax—soak in the sounds of the jungle, explore the surroundings, or simply unwind in this untouched natural paradise.

This morning, set out on a guided trek through the lush Sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka’s last great tropical jungle. With routes from 4 to 14 km, your expert guide will help pick the trail and point out wildlife often spotted long before it’s visible.

Walk beneath towering trees, past carnivorous plants, and watch for colorful lizards and rare bird species hidden in the dense canopy. Return in the afternoon to your accommodation to relax and reflect on this incredible rainforest adventure.

After your rainforest adventure, it’s time to kick back and relax. Today, you’ll take a scenic three-hour drive to the charming seaside town of Mirissa on Sri Lanka’s south coast. With its golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and laid-back vibe, Mirissa is the perfect place to soak up the sunshine and reflect on your incredible journey.

You’ll have two nights here, giving you time to unwind by the ocean, sip on fresh coconuts, and enjoy the coastal serenity. If you’d like to extend your beach escape, just let your Travel Specialist know, and they’ll be happy to add extra time by the sea!

Between November and April, Mirissa becomes one of Sri Lanka’s top whale-watching destinations. The deep sea trench off the coast attracts these majestic marine giants, offering a fantastic chance to see them in their natural habitat.

Early this morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to Mirissa port, where you’ll set off on a half-day whale-watching excursion with a small group of international travelers. Keep your eyes peeled for blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth, as well as playful pods of dolphins that often swim alongside the boats.

After an unforgettable morning at sea, you’ll return to dry land and be dropped back at your hotel, where you can relax and relive the magic of your ocean adventure.

Today, you’ll bid farewell to the coast as your driver takes you from Mirissa to Colombo, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll have some time to unwind before diving into the vibrant energy of Sri Lanka’s capital.

Either this afternoon or tomorrow morning (depending on your preference and flight schedule), you’ll embark on a unique city tour by tuk-tuk! This exhilarating ride through Colombo’s bustling streets offers a dynamic and immersive way to experience the city’s rich history, lively markets, colonial architecture, and hidden gems—perfect for getting a real feel for Sri Lanka’s urban heartbeat.

The time has come to bid Sri Lanka goodbye. After two incredible weeks of adventure, culture, and wildlife encounters, we’re sure you’ll be heading home with unforgettable memories and a fantastic list of animal sightings. Your driver will take you to the airport in time for your international flight home—safe travels!