The Ultimate 19-Day Sri Lanka Family Grand Tour: Dolphins, Safaris & Coastal Bliss

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where your private family guide awaits. Transfer to the nearby coastal town of Negombo to shake off the jet lag by the hotel pool and enjoy a fascinating evening stroll through the lively local fish market.

Overnight:

Negombo

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Head north to the pristine, off-the-beaten-path peninsula of Kalpitiya. Over three glorious days, take a boat ride to watch pods of wild spinner dolphins jumping through the waves. Older kids can try beginner-friendly kite surfing, while parents enjoy peaceful lagoon boat rides and uninterrupted beach time.

Overnight:

Kalpitiya

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Travel inland for a thrilling morning jeep safari through Wilpattu National Park, renowned for its dense jungle and leopard population. Continue past the ancient UNESCO ruins of Anuradhapura before settling into your lush nature base in Habarana.

Overnight:

Habarana

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Beat the heat with an unforgettable family climb up the colossal Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunset. Earlier in the day, slow down with a peaceful catamaran ride across a lotus-filled lake, followed by a walk through a traditional village and an authentic, hands-on Sri Lankan family lunch.

Overnight:

Habarana

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Visiting:

Sigiriya

Enjoy a relaxed morning by the pool. In the afternoon, gear up for an open-top jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, globally famous for its massive, free-roaming herds of wild Asian elephants.

Overnight:

Habarana

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Marvel at the ancient statues hidden inside the Dambulla Cave Temple and learn how tropical spices are grown at a Matale Spice Garden. Wind your way into the historic city of Kandy for an evening of culture, featuring a spectacular fire-dancing performance.

Overnight:

Kandy

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Walk among giant bamboo at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Next, challenge the family to climb the winding, panoramic Ambuluwawa Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views. Continue your scenic drive past the roaring Ramboda Falls into the misty climate of Nuwara Eliya.

Overnight:

Nuwara Eliya

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Over two days in the cool alpine air, show the kids how tea is made at a working Ceylon plantation and enjoy a peaceful family walk along the shores of Gregory Lake. Wake up early for an invigorating hike across the dramatic landscapes of Horton Plains, and treat the kids to a delightful visit to a local strawberry farm.

Overnight:

Nuwara Eliya

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Board the legendary hill-country train to Ella—a mesmerizing, kid-approved journey through lush valleys. In Ella, walk out to witness the architectural marvel of the Nine Arches Bridge, admire the cascading Ravana Falls, hike Little Adam’s Peak, and let teens and adults get their adrenaline pumping on the Flying Ravana Zip Line.

Overnight:

Ella

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Descend from the mountains into the untamed wilderness of Yala National Park. Embark on an exhilarating evening jeep safari to spot wild elephants, crocodiles, spotted deer, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Overnight:

Yala National Park

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Travel along the coast, stopping at the natural wonder of the Hummanaya Blowhole and the highly photogenic Coconut Tree Hill. Spend two days in Weligama, renowned for its calm, beginner-friendly surf breaks—the perfect place for the kids to take a surf lesson while parents relax.

Overnight:

Weligama

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Journey up the coast to explore the historic, boutique-lined cobblestone streets of the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort. Stop at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to see adorable baby sea turtles before settling into the golden shores of Bentota.

Overnight:

Bentota

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the beach. As the afternoon cools down, hop on a boat for a fascinating safari down the Madu River, weaving through dense mangrove tunnels.

Overnight:

Bentota

Meals:

Bed & breakfast

Transfer to the vibrant capital of Colombo. Enjoy a relaxed city tour checking out colonial architecture, with time for last-minute souvenir shopping before your comfortable, seamless transfer back to the airport.

Overnight:

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Meals:

Bed & breakfast