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Highlights
A taste of your adventure…
Sigiriya
Ceylon tea
Leopards of Yala
Yala safari
Sacred Sri Lanka
Galle
Highlands of Sri Lanka
Colombo contrasts
Wild Encounters
About Your Journey
Ancient wonders, spectacular wildlife and the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka.
Discover the many treasures of Sri Lanka on a journey rich in culture, history and natural beauty. Explore ancient Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, experience the colour and traditions of Kandy, travel by train through the lush highlands to Nuwara Eliya and wander among famous Ceylon tea plantations. Add thrilling wildlife safaris, historic Galle and vibrant Colombo for an unforgettable taste of this fascinating island.
Itinerary
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Depart Auckland on Singapore Airlines, connecting in Singapore for your flight to Colombo. Arrive late this evening and transfer to Negombo for a two night stay.
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Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure to explore Negombo’s restaurants, boutiques and historic churches, perhaps take a sailing canoe ride on the lagoon, or simply unwind at the resort.
Included: B D
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Travel inland to Dambulla, your base for the next three nights and perfectly placed for exploring Sri Lanka’s extraordinary Cultural Triangle.
Included: B D
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Visit the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rising dramatically above the surrounding landscape. Choose how far you wish to climb or explore the beautiful gardens and museum at ground level, followed by a private cooking demonstration and meal.
Included: B D
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Explore the ancient UNESCO listed city of Polonnaruwa, including the Royal Palace ruins and impressive Gal Vihara. Later, head into Minneriya National Park on a jeep safari in search of Asian elephants and other wildlife.
Included: B D
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Journey into Sri Lanka’s beautiful central highlands, stopping at a Matale spice plantation to discover the herbs and spices grown in the region. Continue to Kandy for a two night stay surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes.
Included: B D
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Explore UNESCO listed Kandy on a guided sightseeing tour, including the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya and sacred Temple of the Tooth. This evening, experience the colour and energy of a traditional Kandyan cultural show.
Included: B D
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Travel through Sri Lanka’s scenic central highlands to Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by rolling tea country and mountain scenery. Stay Nuwara Eliya 2 nights.
Included: B D
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Discover the famous tea country surrounding Nuwara Eliya, with its rolling plantations and waterfalls. Tour a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea production before enjoying a cup overlooking the beautiful plantations.
Included: B D
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Travel south towards Yala, stopping in scenic Ella to see the striking Nine Arches Bridge. Continue to Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s great wildlife destinations, for a two night stay.
Included: B D
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Head into Yala National Park on a guided jeep safari in search of elephants, crocodiles, buffalo and abundant birdlife, with the hope of spotting one of the park’s elusive leopards.
Included: B D
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Travel to historic Galle on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Discover a city shaped by centuries of colonial history, with its UNESCO listed fort, distinctive architecture and atmospheric streets.
Included: B D
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Explore Galle Fort on foot, walking its historic ramparts and streets. See landmarks including the Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Fort Clock Tower, Meera Mosque and lighthouse, with time to enjoy a refreshing King Coconut or cup of Ceylon tea.
Included: B D
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Travel towards Colombo, stopping at the Tsunami Memorial Museum in Hikkaduwa. On arrival, discover the capital on a sightseeing tour featuring Independence Square, Cinnamon Gardens, Gangaramaya Temple and the Colombo National Museum.
Included: B D
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Enjoy your final day at leisure before dinner at the hotel. Later, transfer to the airport for your overnight journey home.
Included: B D
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Fly via Singapore to Auckland, arriving home late this evening.
Sri Lanka – colourful, captivating and full of surprises.
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise’s exceptional planning takes care of every detail – international flights, quality accommodation, transfers, sightseeing, scenic rail travel and safari experiences – so you can simply relax and discover Sri Lanka. From ancient Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa to Kandy’s cultural treasures, the tea country of Nuwara Eliya and historic Galle, this journey reveals the remarkable diversity of the island. Wildlife encounters in Minneriya and Yala National Parks add another dimension, creating a wonderfully varied adventure through Sri Lanka’s culture, landscapes and history.
Inclusions & Activities
Airfares: Return Economy class airfares Auckland to Colombo and internal Sri Lanka flight to Negombo
Accommodation: 15 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Ceylon Tea plantation, Yala National Park and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Gillian Scott, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Gillian Scott
Gillian is an adventurous, creative Tour Leader at Travelwise whose love of travel, sport, and storytelling brings energy and inspiration to every tour. She’s the perfect guide for travellers who want fun, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 3: A more active touring style with longer days and greater physical activity. Suitable for travellers confident walking longer distances, managing steps and varied terrain, keeping pace with busier sightseeing days, and managing variable temperatures, especially in much warmer, humid climates. A good choice if you prefer: A fuller, more immersive experience, high levels of daily activity.
Departure: 18 September 2027
Other Notes:
Deposit: $2,000 pp
Balance Payment Date: 15 July 2027
Bookings may still be available after this date. Please contact us for availability.
Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this tour and must be in place by the final payment date. We recommend arranging cover when you pay your deposit, so you are protected from the time of booking. Please ask us if you need assistance arranging insurance.
