Hike, Safari and Explore in Sri Lanka

Ayubowan! Your Sri Lankan journey begins in Negombo, a vibrant coastal town just a short drive from the airport in Colombo. On arrival, meet your host for your transfer to Jetwing Blue – the ideal spot to rest and reset after your travels. This contemporary beachfront hotel has direct access to the dazzling Indian Ocean, as well as two beautiful pools and a relaxing spa. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your own pace, and later meet up with your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome briefing. If time and energy allow, enjoy a gentle stroll along Negombo’s lively beach road for a glimpse of local life.

After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll begin your journey inland with a scenic drive to the cooler highlands of Kandy. Your base for the next three nights is Simpson’s Forest, a boutique heritage-style lodge tucked among tea estates and dense forest canopies, just outside Kandy. With sweeping views, characterful rooms, and a serene hill-country setting, it’s a peaceful retreat to unwind in between daily adventures. This afternoon, stretch your legs on the lodge’s Nature Trail – a gentle 2-hour hike which starts right at the lodge. Meandering through lush evergreen forest, a spice plantation scented with cloves and pepper, and a working tea estate, you can try your hand at traditional tea plucking. Along the way, you'll spot plenty of wildflowers, butterflies, and native plants, and drink in the incredible views over forested valleys from a quiet hilltop vantage point. Dinner is not included tonight, but you'll dine a la carte at the hotel’s restaurant – it's a celebrated spot that blends Sri Lankan and international flavors, with a side of panoramic views across the surrounding misty mountains. Expect beautifully prepared, seasonal dishes – a memorable introduction to the region’s culinary richness.

This morning, pull on your boots and set out on a guided Tamil village walk – a fascinating blend of gentle hiking and cultural immersion through the surrounding Meenawatte Estate. This 3–4 hour trail winds through tea and spice plantations, offering glimpses into daily life in Sri Lanka’s hill country. You’ll begin on a shaded trail of rolling terrain, passing clove trees, pepper vines, and tea bushes before reaching a nearby Tamil village tucked into the hills. Along the way, your local guide will share stories about the region’s agricultural traditions, Tamil heritage, and the rhythms of rural life. While the route includes some gentle climbs and descents, the pace is leisurely to allow you to soak in the views. Back at Simpson’s Forest, you can spend the afternoon unwinding – perhaps with a dip in the pool, a drink on the terrace, or a stroll through the lodge’s peaceful gardens. For those keen to see a little more, you may choose to join your guide for an optional visit to Kandy’s city center (around 45 minutes away). Explore its heritage charm and lakeside setting, browse local shops and markets, or pay a visit to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, said to house a tooth of the Buddha himself.

After breakfast, you’ll set off for your next hike – into the foothills of the Knuckles Mountain Range. Your day begins with a scenic one-hour drive from Simpson’s Forest Lodge, followed by a 30-minute tuk tuk ride through winding hill roads to reach the trailhead. The trail leads you deep into remote, rural Sri Lanka, through pine forests, across tea and spice plantations, and along jungle paths beside streams and rushing waterfalls. Then, the landscape shifts, and you'll walk among the rhythms of village life, with farmers tending rice paddies, water buffalo grazing, and children walking home from school. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local home, where you'll be warmly welcomed. Help prepare a traditional lunch over open fire, and share a simple but delicious meal with your hosts, perhaps with a bite of fresh fruit from the garden. Return to the lodge in the afternoon with time to unwind; take a swim in the pool, a quiet drink on the veranda, or simply soak up the views. Today is your final night in Kandy, as tomorrow you’ll set off early for one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic rail journeys through the highlands.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Kandy and hop aboard one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic train rides – the laid-back, scenic journey to Ella. Sit back, relax, and watch as the lush landscapes roll by. As you pull into the station at Ella, you’ll continue by road to your base for the next two nights: Anasa Wellness, a chilled hilltop retreat tucked away in the misty forests above Bandarawela. Anasa embraces minimalist design and natural textures – think polished concrete, local stone, and warm timber – and its rooms have large windows and private terraces that open onto sweeping mountain views. The spa and pool make it easy to switch into R&R mode. This evening, you can choose to dine a la carte at Anasa's restaurant, where bold Sri Lankan flavors meet tasty, seasonal ingredients, many sourced from the surrounding gardens.

Enjoy a slow morning at your boutique retreat, beginning your day with a rejuvenating yoga session (optional), then tucking into a tasty breakfast. Bask in the mountain views from the pool, unwind at the spa, or simply relax on your balcony surrounded by birdsong and forest – the quiet luxury of Anasa makes it a perfect base to relax before heading back out to explore. In the afternoon, you’ll head to the charming highland town of Ella, known for its lush scenery and laid-back vibe. Stop in at the Nine Arch Bridge, an iconic feat of colonial-era railway architecture, where you might glimpse a train chugging its way through along arches – a picture-perfect moment. Then it’s on to Little Adam’s Peak, one of the region’s most popular short hikes. The trail begins just outside Ella town, with a gradual incline through tea plantations and small villages. It typically takes about 45–60 minutes to reach the summit, which sits at an elevation of around 3,609 ft. The effort is well worth it: at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Ella Gap, the surrounding mountains, and the far-reaching southern plains – especially striking at sunset, when the sky turns gold and pink. After your descent, enjoy a free evening in Ella, where you can explore the town’s vibrant cafe scene or try one of the local restaurants for dinner. Later, you’ll return to Anasa for a restful night.

After breakfast, you’ll leave the highlands behind and make your way to the wild southeastern plains of Yala National Park. Tonight’s home? Ceylon Wild Safaris – a tucked-away jungle camp with just six safari-style tents, each with its own deck, plunge pool, and outdoor shower. It’s the perfect mix of off-the-grid adventure and laid-back luxury. In the afternoon, hop in your private jeep and head out into Yala Block 5 – a quieter corner of the park known for epic wildlife encounters without the crowds. With your expert naturalist guide leading the way, keep your eyes peeled for elephants, sloth bears, crocs, vibrant birdlife – and if you're lucky, a glimpse of the elusive leopard. As the sun sets, return to camp for a relaxed evening under the stars – where a surprise awaits for a special way to round off your day in the wild. Then drift off to sleep in your tent, with the sounds of the jungle all around.

Rise early for a final bush walk with your naturalist guide – exploring Yala’s wilderness quietly and on foot, spotting animal tracks, birds, and learning how to read the land. After breakfast, begin your journey south to the coast. En route, enjoy an authentic Sri Lanka buffet before stopping at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a government-run conservation center that rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves and prepares them for life back in the wild. Unlike many elephant attractions in Sri Lanka, this center prioritizes ethical care – touching the elephants is not permitted, nor are performances. You will observe the young elephants from a distance during their scheduled feeding, keeping human contact to a minimum to ensure a smooth reintegration into their natural habitat. Next, make a short detour to Mulkirigala Rock Temple. Often overlooked, you'll climb a series of stone staircases to reach hidden cave shrines, centuries-old frescoes, and large reclining Buddha statues. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the surrounding jungle and southern plains. In the late afternoon, you'll arrive at Ananya Beach Hotel, your base for the next three nights. This serene hideaway sits on a quiet beach near Tangalle, and our evening is free to unwind – swim in the pool, stroll along the shore, or relax as the sun sinks into the Indian Ocean.

After days of exploration, today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. With no activities scheduled until late afternoon, you’ve earned this chance to slow down and soak up the coastal calm. Lounge by the pool, take a stroll along the quiet beach, or simply relax in the comfort of Ananya Beach Resort – your boutique hideaway with warm Sri Lankan hospitality. As the day mellows, slip into a kayak and paddle out onto the calm waters of a nearby lagoon. Led by a local guide, paddle silently through golden reflections and tangled mangroves. Watch for flashes of color as kingfishers dart by, spot monkeys along the banks, and soak in the quiet magic of dusk settling over the water. It’s a serene way to wind down a day spent by the sea.

Start your day with an energizing surf lesson at the beautiful and quiet Kudawella Bay. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, the calm, consistent waves here provide the perfect playground – your expert instructor will tailor the session just for you. After catching some waves, unwind with a leisurely beachside lunch and enjoy some downtime by the pool or treat yourself to a soothing massage at the hotel spa. As the sun begins to dip, roll out your mat for a sunset yoga session. It’s the perfect way to stretch out and reconnect with body and breath, framed by the sound of waves and the soft hues of golden hour. Finally, gather for a special farewell dinner under the stars (weather permitting) at Ananya Beach Resort – a delicious way to toast the end of your unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your group transfer back to the airport in Colombo. This takes about 3 hours and is usually scheduled in the morning, letting you reflect on your memories of an incredible trip.