Highlights
- Follow a treasure hunt through the historic fortified city of Galle
- Meet rescued sea turtles at the Rekawa Hatchery
- Go whale watching on your own private catamaran
- Hike along the paths and bridges of the enchanted Sinharaja Forest
- Learn to surf in the protected waters of Weligama Bay
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Dikwella | Dikwella |
| Day 2 | Sri Lankan Mask Carving Workshop, Galle Fort Treasure Hunt | Dikwella |
| Day 3 | Koggala Lake Boat Ride, Cinnamon Island Visit, Evening Sea Turtle Watch | Dikwella |
| Day 4 | Cycle Through the Southern Countryside | Dikwella |
| Day 5 | Set Sail on a Whale Watching Tour | Dikwella |
| Day 6 | Discover the Sinharaja Rainforest | Dikwella |
| Day 7 | Learn to Surf the Waves of Weligama Bay, Afternoon Snorkeling Excursion | Dikwella |
| Days 8-9 | Beach Days in Dikwella | Dikwella |
| Day 10 | Transfer to Colombo, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Dikwella
Day 2: Sri Lankan Mask Carving Workshop, Galle Fort Treasure Hunt
Today masks are used for Sri Lankan performances and rituals, but ancient beliefs tell of their healing and protective powers. Learn fascinating, age-old techniques from your host in Kolam today, where masks are still traditionally made from a light wood called kaduru. Follow your host's guidance as together you mold your creations using sustainable resources such as recycled paper, kithul (treacle), kurundu (cinnamon), clay, broken tiles, beeswax, and even cow dung. Older children can practice carving the masks with adult help, while younger ages can opt to paint their own colorful creations.
Afterward, you'll head to the UNESCO-listed city of Galle, where you can explore 300-year-old fortifications surrounded on three sides by the Indian Ocean. Kids can learn more about Galle's swashbuckling past in an adventurous way with a treasure hunt that starts near the entrance at the Moon Bastion. Together you'll explore the fort's many atmospheric corners and alleys as you hunt for clues, discovering a new topic at each stop and finishing the experience with a lot of new knowledge and a nice cold treat!
Day 3: Koggala Lake Boat Ride, Cinnamon Island Visit, Evening Sea Turtle Watch
Start your day with a relaxing boat ride on Koggala Lake, which is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife. Look carefully and you might see a monkey or crocodile trying to hide from sight. Stop at Cinnamon Island, where you'll see how cinnamon is harvested, dried, and ground, and try some cinnamon tea.
This evening, head to Rekawa, where you'll learn about the endangered sea turtle species that return to their Sri Lanka birthplace to lay their eggs. The community-based Nature Friends of Rekawa's turtle nest protectors patrol the beaches to protect nests until hatchlings emerge. The nest protectors also organize nighttime Turtle Watches to educate the public and raise money to continue their program. Tonight, if a sea turtle swims ashore and lays her eggs, you'll be able to watch—a sight not to be missed.
Day 4: Cycle Through the Southern Countryside
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Set Sail on a Whale Watching Tour
Whale and dolphin watching is one of Sri Lanka's most popular activities, and the waters around Mirissa offer some of the best in the country. Opt for a private whale watching excursion today for a memorable day spent on the water. Leaving bright and early, your chef will prepare breakfast as you sail, and afterward, you'll be invited to the bow and upper decks for the best views of these incredible creatures. Then it's on to Weligama Bay, where the yacht anchors near the Snake and Taprobane Islands—a lovely spot for the whole family to enjoy lunch and some swimming and standup paddleboarding.
Day 6: Discover the Sinharaja Rainforest
Day 7: Learn to Surf the Waves of Weligama Bay, Afternoon Snorkeling Excursion
Today you'll head to a secluded part of Weligama Bay, where you'll find a welcoming surf school nestled among the palms. Away from the hustle and bustle of the western coast, you'll be greeted with warm smiles as you prepare for a family surf lesson. Kids as young as eight can try their hand at catching a wave in a safe and fun environment, learning the basics on the beach before progressing to the open water. After the lesson has finished, rest your board on the warm sand and enjoy a refreshing drink under the shelter of a traditional beach hut.
The south coast offers some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, as well as some of the island's clearest waters for snorkeling and diving. After lunch, explore more of the colorful underwater world with an afternoon of snorkeling, taking your time as you paddle through schools of iridescent fish and their lush habitats.
Days 8-9: Beach Days in Dikwella
Day 10: Transfer to Colombo, Depart
After a final morning at the beach, it's time to bid Sri Lanka farewell as your driver transfers you to the airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels and ayubowan (the traditional Sri Lankan blessing of long life).
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