South Coast Discovery

DAY 1 DEPART THE UK

Depart London Heathrow on your direct flight to Colombo.

DAY 2-5  BENTOTA

Transfer in a chauffeur-driven vehicle to Bentota where you will spend the next four nights. Bentota is a thriving resort with plenty of water sports, nightlife, bars, great dining, and peaceful beaches.

Take a beautiful boat trip along the Madhu Ganga, lined with mangroves. Watch out for river life including lizards, birds of prey, and the odd crocodile.

DAYS 6-8 THE GALLE COAST

Galle is the capital of southern Sri Lanka and a cosmopolitan cultural highlight. A history rich with diverse cultural influences and plenty of sights (such as the 17th-century Dutch fort) makes Galle a popular stop for those seeking to learn about Sri Lanka’s colourful past. There are fabulous beaches close by, such as Thalpe, Koggala, and Unawatuna.

During your stay there will be a day spent on a tour of the local countryside. Explore the Kapu Ela river with a naturalist guide watching birdlife, water monitors, and the endangered purple-faced monkey. This is followed by a tuk-tuk ride or a leisurely bike tour to traditional villages where you can learn how to make a traditional Sri Lankan egg hopper breakfast.

DAYS 9-13 THE DEEP SOUTH

The south-east coast of Sri Lanka extends from Matara to Hambantota, and it’s the perfect destination for rest. This part of our tour is all about enjoying the "deep south" beaches with their lush vegetation, idyllic villages, and palm-fringed white stretches of sand.

During your stay, there will be time to explore the Bundala National Park biosphere with 200 species of birds and nesting grounds for four species of marine turtle. You will also have time to take an exciting whale watching safari off the shore of Mirissa.  

We also include some low key experiences in which you explore the forgotten crafts and skills of inland Tangalle. We don't want to tell you more here, but this is a very special experience and only for a very select few!

DAY 14 & 15 COLOMBO

You’ll transfer back to Colombo, a vibrant city with Portuguese, English, and Dutch influence. Start your exploration with a sunset through Colombo’s suburbs and the countryside beyond. Pass paddy fields and waterways and finish off with a puja ceremony at the Kelaniya temple. The following day, a unique tea excursion at the Dilmah Tea Lounge includes a tour and gourmet high tea. Learn about tea mixology and don’t forget to try a tea-inspired cocktail before you leave. In the afternoon, a 3-4 hour Colombo city walk will reveal Colombo’s cultural highlights: explore heritage 17th-century buildings from the time of Dutch and British reign. Avoid the crowds of tourists and head to the marketplace at Pettah.

DAY 15 RETURN HOME

Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

• International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
• Accommodation as described
• Privately guided tours and transfers
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
• Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
• 24-hour in-country backup while away
• Your dedicated travel expert in the UK