Sri Lanka Summer Family Adventure
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Sri Lanka Summer Family Adventure
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Sri Lanka Summer Family Adventure

An idea for your holiday

This suggested itinerary balances exploration, downtime, and fun. It is perfect for families seeking a unique adventure from Easter through the summer holidays that will keep older kids and teens entertained and inspired. 

The trip takes you across the island to Sri Lanka’s east coast, which has a different climate from the rest of the country. It is at its best at this time of year. 

From wildlife safaris to cycling through ancient ruins, we’ve designed this trip at a pace that works for a family holiday, blending adventure with moments of relaxation. Carefully selected accommodation, with family-friendly rooms and facilities, ensures everyone feels at home while immersing in Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. 

Highlights  

  • Safari in Wilpattu National Park, searching for leopards, sloth bears, and exotic birds in peaceful surroundings.  
  • Cycle through the Cultural Triangle and climb Pidurangala Rock for breathtaking sunset views of the famous Sigiriya Rock.  
  • Unwind on Sri Lanka’s lesser-visited east coast beaches, with calm waters perfect for swimming and beach fun.  
  • Spot elephants and wildlife during a boat safari in Gal Oya National Park.  
  • Experience the art of tea-making at a social enterprise tea estate, with optional hikes and waterfall swims.  

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace, and style. Contact us today to learn more about how this suggested itinerary could inspire your holiday.

This is a sample itinerary which we will tailor to suit you. Prices are dependent on destination, flights & dates but ETG holidays always include the following:

  • International flights (if required)
  • Guides, drivers & their tips
  • Accommodation
  • Specified meals & snacks
  • Your immersive experiences
  • Internal & regional transfers

Get in touch with us for your bespoke proposal
or see more on our ETG Pricing Guide

Call for a bespoke proposal 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

Day 1: Depart the UK 

Begin your adventure with an overnight flight to Sri Lanka.

Day 2& 3  The Notary’s House

Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private chauffeur-guide and transferred to your boutique hotel, Notarys House, for a two-night stay. Ease into your holiday with a splash in the pool, a stroll through the beautiful grounds, or unwind and savour the warm hospitality. This is the perfect spot to relax and adjust to holiday mode. 

Days 4 & 5: Wilpattu National Park 

Head north to Wilpattu National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. Over two days, enjoy thrilling safaris in search of elusive leopards, sloth bears, and a dazzling variety of birds. Wilpattu’s quiet trails make it an excellent choice for families seeking a more peaceful wildlife experience without large crowds. 

Days 6–8: The Cultural Triangle 

Travel into Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle for three days of discovery. With your guide, explore ancient cities and rural villages and enjoy the area’s rich history and culture. 

Take a cycling tour along Sigiriya’s backroads, climb the neighbouring Pidurangala Rock for an unforgettable sunset, and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Beyond the famous sites, immerse yourselves in the rhythms of village life, sampling traditional dishes.

Days 9–11: The East Coast Beach 

Journey east to a tranquil stretch of Sri Lanka’s lesser-explored coastline, where you’ll settle into a luxury-tented beach property for three nights. This serene spot in Kalkudah Bay offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.

Relax by the saltwater pool, lounge on the beach, or watch local fishermen at work in the mornings. The calm seas in summer make it an ideal family getaway. 

Days 12 & 13: Gal Oya 

Travel to Gal Oya National Park from the coast for a two-night stay in a beautifully designed eco-lodge. The park is home to Sri Lanka’s largest lake, and boat safaris here allow you to spot Asian elephants and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitats. 

Days 14 & 15: Amba 

Continue westward to AMBA Tea Estate, a stunning social enterprise in the hills near Ella. Stay in a spacious family suite and enjoy onsite and nearby activities. Explore the estate with a farm tour, learn about tea production during an interactive experience, or cool off in nearby rivers and waterfalls. 

A highlight is walking a portion of the Pekoe Trail with a knowledgeable guide. This scenic trek includes visiting the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, which has breathtaking views of lush greenery and tea plantations. Along the way, you might meet tea pluckers and farmers eager to share stories or demonstrate their craft. 

Day 16: Train Journey to Kandy and Arrival at Ellerton 

Begin the day with one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, travelling from Ella towards Kandy. This iconic route takes you through lush tea plantations, misty hills, and vibrant villages, offering stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.  

Upon arrival, you’ll head to Ellerton in the Kandy Hills. Spend time exploring the countryside on bike trails, taking nature walks, or simply relaxing by the pool. Venture into Kandy for a tuk-tuk tour with your guide to discover the charm of Sri Lanka’s second city. 

Day 18: Fly Home 

Bid farewell to Sri Lanka as you catch your flight to the UK, taking home memories of an unforgettable family adventure.

Speak to an expert 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

Get in touch

Every holiday we create is unique. One of our team can talk you through your options...

Hotels & Villas
featured above

AMBA Estate

AMBA Estate, Ella

Rustic charm nestled in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Enjoy an authentic stay in the highlands whilst supporting a wonderful initiative.

Ellerton

Ellerton, Kandy

Lovely property perched atop a hill on the outskirts of Kandy in the lower central hills.

Gal Oya Lodge

Gal Oya Lodge, Sri Lanka

Surrounded by a startlingly beautiful national park, Gal Oya is an environmentally responsible all-natural lodge experience.

Karpaha Sands

Karpaha Sands, Pasikudah

Deluxe safari-style tents on a beautiful stretch of beach with quiet surroundings, great for pure relaxation.

Roo Mansala

Roo Mansala, Sigiriya

A small, boutique hotel in the Cultural Triangle with spacious rooms, fantastic views, and an ideal location for visiting the nearby sights.

Thamaravila

Thamaravila, Wilpattu

A private and peaceful hideaway with just five chalets spread over 9 acres of land, a 10-minute drive from Wilpattu National Park.

The Notary's House

The Notary's House, Pannala

A charming, calming six-bedroom lake-side hotel. Manicured gardens, coconut groves, headspace. The perfect place to ease into Sri Lanka

Experiences & Activities
featured above

Climbing Sigiriya and Cycling Tour

Climbing Sigiriya and Cycling Tour, Sigiriya

Conquer the mighty rock fortress and cycle through its shadow

Hospitality in the Hills

Hospitality in the Hills, Bandarawela

Enjoy a delicious lunch and contribute to life-changing opportunities for young Sri Lankans.

Jeep Safari & Park Walk at Gal Oya Lodge

Jeep Safari & Park Walk at Gal Oya Lodge, Gal Oya

Explore the Nilalaga area of the Gal Oya National Park by jeep and on foot.

Kayaking and Elephant Watching in Kalawewa National Park

Kayaking and Elephant Watching in Kalawewa National Park, Anuradhapura

Pekoe Trail

Pekoe Trail, Ella

Walking the Pekoe Trail provides the chance to see Sri Lanka's beauty, meet with local people, and learn about the culture of tea.

Tea and Coffee in the Hills

Tea and Coffee in the Hills, Ella

Explore the hill country of Sri Lanka by visiting artisanal tea and coffee farms.

Train through the hill country

Train through the hill country, Kandy

One of Asia's great train journeys, with spectacular views from start to finish.

Walking with the Chief Veddha at Gal Oya Lodge

Walking with the Chief Veddha at Gal Oya Lodge, Gal Oya

Wilpattu National Park Safari

Wilpattu National Park Safari, Wilpattu

Take a trip to Sri Lanka's largest National Park and immerse yourself in the wilderness.

~
Every ETG journey is unique.
Let us inspire you
~

Your next adventure starts with a conversation...

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