The Ultimate Adventure Through Sri Lanka
Get to the heart of Sri Lanka via jungle trails and wildlife reserves, hiking to spectacular viewpoints, rural villages and tropical beaches
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guidesAll accommodation
7 nights in hotels and eco-lodges, 2 nights glamping and 1 night in a mountain hutMeals
All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 8 dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenEquipment, Permits & Fees
All your cycling, surfing and yoga equipment; all park permits and entry feesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Clamber up the iconic Lion Rock of Sigiriya, tackle part of the long-distance Pekoe Trail, and hike to waterfalls near Kandy
Trek through remote, pristine forest in Gal Oya with the Vedda people – Sri Lanka's last indigenous community
Spot wild elephants bathing, practice yoga surrounded by exotic birds and ride the train to the tea hills of Nuwara Eliya
Unwind in hand-picked eco-lodges, wild glamping sites and hidden nature retreats, then learn to surf on the golden coast
Key Information
Day 1
Touchdown in Sri Lanka
Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, just a short drive away from Bandaranaike International Airport. Your host will collect you on arrival and transfer you to a comfortable beach hotel, the perfect place to recharge and relax by the pool after a long flight. Later this afternoon, meet your guide and fellow adventurers for a welcome briefing, and if you have energy head out for a short walk along the lively main street, getting acquainted with the vibrant local community.
Day 2
Pidurangala Rock: Sigiriya's most incredible viewpoint
Hiking
Driving
Rise and shine, ready to set off on the most incredible adventure through Sri Lanka. Pay a quick visit to the buzzing fish market of Negombo, watching fishermen returning from the sea with their catch of the day, before enjoying a scenic four-hour drive to Habarana, in the heart of the Cultural Triangle. Your base today is a peaceful retreat immersed in lush greenery. This afternoon you'll head out to climb Pidurangala Rock, one of Sri Lanka's most underrated gems. Navigate some steep steps and boulders, catching your breath at an ancient Buddhist temple on the way up. You'll reach the top just in time for sunset, with 360-degree views of Sigiriya fortress, the surrounding countryside and distant mountains, all bathed in a golden glow.
Day 3
Climb Lion Rock and head to remote Gal Oya
Cycling
Hiking
Driving
Wake at sunrise to beat the heat, heading out on two wheels to explore the backroads of Habarana and Sigiriya. Following quiet country lanes, pedal through rural communities and witness village life as you spot farmers working in their rice fields and kids walking to school. Out of the saddle, get ready to climb Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock. This majestic 5th-century fortress is Sri Lanka's most iconic UNESCO-listed landmark. Make a grand entrance through massive lion’s paws carved out of stone then tackle the 1200 steps all the way to the top, where dazzling panoramic views of lush Sri Lankan jungle await. This afternoon, rest your legs as you drive to remote Gal Oya, the most untouched of all of Sri Lanka’s wildlife sanctuaries. Your home for the next two nights is a spectacular glamping site nestled in wild Rathugala, a majestic mountain-locked village inhabited by the Veddas — the last indigenous people of Sri Lanka.
Day 4
Forest hike with the Vedda people
Hiking
Cocooned by pristine savannah, medicinal forests and mist-draped mountains, you'll awake to the sound of nature. Today, you'll join the indigenous leader of the Vedda people for an extraordinary experience among pristine forest teeming with wildlife. Hike amidst exotic flora, hear the calls of rare birds, and catch glimpses of elusive creatures including wild elephants. The Vedda people have lived, foraged and hunted in this region for centuries, so are adept at navigating the dense jungle, and they will provide valuable insight into the natural history and cultural heritage of this remote corner of Sri Lanka. Take a refreshing dip in a cool stream, a welcome respite from the tropical heat, before enjoying a traditional meal cooked on-site by members of the community. You'll then head back to your lavish glamping spot for the night.
Day 5
Elephant spotting and jungle yoga
Wildlife Watching
Driving
Yoga
Wake at dawn and spend the morning exploring Gal Oya's pristine wildlife sanctuary, which boasts over 150 vibrant species of birds and 32 species of mammals – including elephants, sloth bears, wild boars, water buffaloes, and deer. Setting off from Senanayake Samudra Reservoir, jump on a boat and enjoy the only wildlife tracking experience in Sri Lanka that takes place from the water. Explore the animals’ habitats, and with a little luck you may spot elephants feeding or bathing at the lake shore. Later in the day, you'll be driven to Kandy to check in at Polwaththa Eco-Lodge. Secluded in a pristine environment, this gives you a unique experience of life in the jungle. Both nature and the local community are at the heart of operations here, promoting authentic experiences and responsible tourism. Take some time to refresh, then enjoy a late afternoon yoga session on the wooden jungle shala, accompanied by the sound of monkeys and exotic birds.
Day 6
Forest hikes and waterfall dips
Hiking
Awake to birdsong in your cabin nestled deep in the jungle, and take a 10-minute walk through the forest to the yoga shala, roll out your mat, and say hello to the monkeys as you stretch into your (optional) morning yoga session. Fuel up on breakfast then set off on a hike, beginning from Kandyan forest gardens where villagers go about their daily chores. Depending on the season, you may be invited to visit their houses and see how they make treacle and jaggery (sugar blocks made from palm tree nectar). Walk amidst scented fruit trees and spice plants and end the trek with a picnic lunch and refreshing dip in the jungle waterfalls. Back at your lodge, relax for a few tranquil hours before tucking in an authentic Sri Lankan dinner, cooked in clay pots and served with a smile.
Day 7
Epic train ride to the tea hills of Nuwara Eliya
Train Ride
An early morning transfer will take you to Kandy's railway station, the start point of one of the world's most epic train journeys. Sit comfortably in your coach to experience the sweeping views of lush tea plantations, rolling hills, dramatic viaducts, verdant valleys and dense jungle – giving a smile to locals along the way. Historically, the train was used during colonial times to transport tea from the plantations to Colombo, but these days it’s used mainly by local commuters – as well as travellers, of course. Your host will book the best train class and time available, but it is not possible to block-book seats for groups in advance (in the unlikely event that there is no availability, you will travel by road instead). The total journey time is around 4-5 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the colourful panoramas. Jump off at Nuwara Eliya, the very heart of Sri Lanka's tea country, to visit one of the oldest and most renowned tea factories. Learn about the tea-making process and taste some of the finest brew in the world, before bedding down early to prepare for a remote trekking adventure ahead.
Day 8
Hike the Horton Plains and the Pekoe Trail
Hiking
Head to Horton Plains National Park and venture into Sri Lanka’s highest and most isolated plateau, hidden away in the Central Highlands. At an elevation of 2100m-2300m, this protected area is covered by montane grassland and cloud forest which is rich in endemic plants, insects and birds. Large herds of Sri Lankan sambar deer as well as elusive leopards are also occasionally spotted. Contemplate the scenic views from the 'World's End' viewpoint – a sheer drop of 1050m – before hiking a sizeable section of the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's newly launched long-distance trekking route, with plenty of stops to enjoy this unique natural environment. Descend via the famous Devil's Staircase as enjoy the views from the highest tea plantations in Sri Lanka. Your base tonight is a local guesthouse, a simple accommodation surrounded only by mountains, waterfalls and untouched greenery, totally cut off from any town by about 1hr drive or 3hr walk.
Day 9
From the highlands to the Indian Ocean
Hiking
Driving
Lace up your boots for a second day of hiking along the Pekoe Trail, following a mountainous path rarely explored by other travellers. Hike via remote tea plantations and see the friendly community busy with tea-picking. Next, zig-zag through an incredibly diverse landscape ranging from pine and eucalyptus forests, misty tea estates, leafy valleys and dense jungle trails. If you are lucky you may even spot some rare wildlife such as toque macaques, purple-faced langurs, Sri Lankan spotted chevrotain, or grizzled giant squirrels. With your trek over, relax into a four-hour drive south towards Talalla, Sri Lanka’s most peaceful protected beach and the gateway to a pristine cove of turquoise water fringed by lush jungle. Kick back into beach life on the golden sand, catch a sunset and enjoy a few drinks and dinner by the ocean.
Day 10
Surf Sri Lanka's Golden Coast
Surfing
Yoga
Your final day features an epic morning of surfing at picturesque Kadalana Beach, the perfect quiet spot to learn (or improve) your surf skills. Unlike many other surf spots in Sri Lanka, the area around Talalla has amazing surfing conditions for any skill level, year-round. Tuition will be tailored to your experience, so you're welcome to join even if you are a total beginner. Head back to dry land for a beach lunch and a few hours of relaxation or a massage at the hotel's spa, then join a final yoga session held in a tranquil open-air shala overlooking the ocean – the perfect way to contemplate the end of this incredible adventure.
Day 11
Goodbye paradise?
Driving
If you decide to leave today, you'll be transferred to the airport after breakfast in time for your flight home. Alternatively, you can opt to extend your Sri Lankan stay at Talalla Retreat or join one of their week-long yoga or surfing programs. If you fancy a longer adventure exploring two countries in one, check out our Ultimate Adventure in Sri Lanka and the Maldives – it takes just over an hour to fly between the two.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Bandaranaike International Airport
08:00 to 16:00 on Day 1
Ends
Bandaranaike International Airport
10:30 on Day 11
Transfers
Feel free to arrive at any time on Day 1 but be aware that three scheduled airport arrival transfers are included on Day 1 between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 from Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo to your beach hotel in Negombo. Your host will let you know your allocated pick-up time, provided you have supplied your flight details in advance. If you arrive outside of these hours (or arrive before Day 1), we recommend you book a private transfer with your host.
If you arrive on a very early flight check-in may not be available until 14:00 – so if you wish to access your room earlier, contact your local host to request an early check-in (fee applicable; subject to availability).
At the end of the tour, your host will transfer you back to Bandaranaike International Airport on Day 11, usually by 10:30.
If you would like to arrive early or extend your stay, your host can arrange private airport transfers and additional accommodation for an extra cost. See the Optional Extras section for details.
Travel options
There are regular flights to Sri Lanka from major airports across the UK and Europe, including direct flights from London to Colombo with SriLankan Airlines.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3 – Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 9
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 10
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 11
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage: a fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the island over the centuries. Though Sri Lankan food has some similarities with the South Indian cuisine, it remains distinctively unique. Contrasting flavours of coconut, chilli, curry leaves, cinnamon and garlic are dominant in the main dishes as well as the variety of deep fried tasty snacks. 'Rice and curry' is the Sri Lankan staple, which in reality means a huge variety of curries, dhal and vegetable dishes, often served with roti style flatbreads. There is also an abundance of fresh seafood and fish, usually cooked in curries with coconut and fresh herbs.
Vegetarians and vegan are well catered for along with most dietary requirements, just speak to your host upon booking.
What is the accommodation like?
Negombo
On the first night, you'll usually stay at the comfortable Camelot Beach Hotel, situated on the golden belt of Sri Lanka's west coast with the Indian Ocean glistening on the horizon. Accommodation is on a twin basis. The hotel has two outdoor pools, a bar, a restaurant and a spa, as well as direct access to the beach.
Habanara
You’ll spend one night at an off-grid retreat and wildlife sanctuary called The Other Corner in Habanara. Accommodation will be in twin-share chalets, huts or tree houses immersed in the greenery. There is also a pool and restaurant surrounded by the lush natural environment.
Gal Oya
You’ll spend two nights in a spectacular site called Wild Glamping Gal Oya. It's located near the Gal Oya National Park, a wildlife sanctuary boasting 150 species of vibrant birds and 32 species of mammals, including elephants. This wonderful site was built with the help of the local indigenous community during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and a lot of the villagers now work at the site and farm. The property was built using locally sourced materials and uses solar for most of the electricity. You'll stay in lavishly designed tented lodges and there is also a pool. The restaurant serves mouth-watering dishes prepared using fresh vegetables harvested from the local organic farm, and lake fish caught from the fresh waters.
Kandy
Spend two nights immersed in a pristine jungle environment at Polwaththa Eco Lodges. The local community are at the heart of operations here, with a strong focus on responsible tourism. The property purchases all ingredients from within 5km, and they also run their own reforestation program. Accommodation will be in twin-share cabins, lodges or huts built from a variety of resources found on the land (such as wood, clay and brick). You'll be totally at one with the forest, coexisting in harmony with wild boars, deer, porcupines, giant squirrels, monkeys, butterflies, bats, fireflies and over 60 species of birds.
Nuwara Eliya
You'll stay one night at the 4-star Galway Heights, featuring charming living spaces, stylish design and nestled among the rich greenery of the central hill country.
Ohiya
You'll spend one night at the simple but cosy mountain guesthouse Acacia Inn, in an untouched location surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. Far from everything, it's a pretty remote place, but that's the beauty of it! Accommodation will be in twin-shared or triple share rooms, with en suite bathrooms and hot showers. Beds come with fresh sheets, pillows and blankets.
Talalla Beach
The final two nights of the trip will be spent at the secluded Talalla Retreat on a pristine white-sand beach lapped by turquoise water, away from the busier areas of southern Sri Lanka. Accommodation is in twin-share rooms, which include open-air marble bathrooms, private patios, and great views of the lush gardens, pool or the Indian Ocean. The hotel's facilities include a 20m freshwater lap pool, three custom-built yoga pavilions, an Ayurvedic spa, and a gourmet open-air restaurant serving the freshest, healthiest meals with organic vegetables from their own garden.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price and request this at the time of booking. Please note that due to the limited size of some of the properties used, availability is restricted and it's only possible for nine nights of the trip: accommodation at Acacia Inn on Day 8 will be in twin or triple share rooms only.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This trip is designed for those of average to good fitness, but none of the activities are hugely strenuous.
No previous yoga or surfing experience is needed, as these activities will be also tailored to first-timers. You also don't need to be an experienced hiker, although you should be able to trek for up to 6 hours across uneven terrain or dense jungle. You should also feel comfortable riding a bike for a couple of hours along flat ground. You need only carry a small day rucksack with any personal belongings, water, snacks, suncream etc. Please note that the climb up to Sigiriya does involve some sections of steel stairs and metal staircases clinging on the exposed side to the rock.
There are a few long drives (up to 4 hours) and a long train journey (4-5 hours) but these will be a great chance to rest your legs while taking in dazzling views of Sri Lanka along the way. There are several early starts in order to avoid the heat and maximise the wildlife-spotting opportunities, so a sense of adventure and willingness here is key to enjoying the experience. However, there is also some leisure time built into the trip so you can fully enjoy the serene environment as you wish – reading by the pool, taking optional walks into local villages and slowing down to the pace of nature.
What if i need to skip an activity?
If you've never tried surfing or yoga, we recommend giving these a go, as tuition will be tailored to first-timers. However, we appreciate that yoga and surfing are not for everyone so if you prefer to opt-out from these activities, it's absolutely fine – you can just enjoy some extra leisure time in the jungle or on the tropical beaches.
What will I need to carry?
During the activities, you'll only need to carry a personal day rucksack with your essential items. Your main luggage will be transported or stored for you.
It may sound clichéd, but Sri Lanka is a year-round destination – although December to mid-April is considered to be peak season and will be a bit busier as a result.
Temperatures are fairly constant, with coastal regions enjoying average temperatures of 25-30°C, and the highlands 15-18°C. As this trip covers a lot of ground, it also straddles what have been considered different monsoon seasons (four, depending on which region you travel in). This means that throughout the year you are likely to encounter plenty of sunshine, some short, sharp downpours, fairly high humidity and plenty of blue skies, regardless of whether it has traditionally been called 'monsoon' or not. These categorisations are proving harder to predict, so an open mind and expecting every type of weather is a must! Rainproof gear is strongly recommended at any time of year.
Nature Immersion!
This is THE trip to join if you are looking to explore Sri Lanka's authentic natural underbelly. Think deep rainforest hikes, cloud forest treks through local villages, sleeping to the sound of the humming tropical environment around you in stunning off-the beaten-track locations 👌🏼 and non-stop wildlife spotting. The group leader, patient and level-headed Laki is the key asset to this trip who's experience and knowledge of the natural flora and fauna, wildlife and ecosystems you traverse through deepens your understanding of the country and how the locals and wildlife coexist. This trip is definitely for adventurers who are open minded and can embrace the 'group trip' mentality here, who don't mind very early starts, who are ready to try all the local foods (very important!), who take joy in appreciating and taking in their surroundings, and especially those who don't shy away from the physical challenge of hikes to some of the most stunning scenery Sri Lanka offers (prepare your knees and ankles!) I couldn't recommend this trip enough and had a spectacular time with group 17 😄, fellow curious minds buzzing to see what each day will bring!
Green as far as the eye can see
This is a difficult review to write because I can’t easily express how wonderful the trip was. It was like being immersed in a sea of green vegetation all the time - heaven. The itinerary was fantastic (although a fair amount of bus time and lots of pre-6am starts) and I really enjoyed the challenging hikes. But what made this holiday truly special were the people. The authenticity and hospitality of our hosts/guides; the kindness (and patience!) of our fabulous leader Laki; and the incredible friendships of everyone in Group 17. I’d rate this trip 11 out of 10.
I was concerned about going
I was concerned about going on my first group trip but this adventure exceeded all expectations. Sri Lanka is stunning, our guide - Laki - is passionate, organised and extremely knowledgeable, and I was fortunate enough to find myself in a group of fun, curious people. It was hard going at times, hot, humid and very physical, but the scenery, food and exciting activities more than made up for it. It's perfect for anyone who wants to travel sustainably and engage with local communities of Sri Lanka. I really recommend this trip and already look forward to booking another with Much Better Adventures in the future.
Mind blowing, full on, packed with experiences from dawn til dusk
This trip definitely lives up to its name. 10 amazing days in Sri Lanka, with the best people and the best guide. Wow!! What a country! We hiked through jungle to a savannah plateau, tracking elephants with the Vedda people. Scrambled up Pidurangala temple, climbed up to Sigiriyah fortress and winter palace. Hiked through cloud forest, montane forest, dry forest and the Devil's staircase, Pekoe Trail, through tea plantations. Cycled, surfed, swam under waterfalls and chilled out with yoga. We laughed a lot, l cried a bit. We got up at dawn to see birds, reptiles, monkeys galore, elephants, eagles, flowers, trees that bleed, grass so sharp it makes you bleed. By bus, train, jeep and tuk tuk. Great variety of places to stay, from the hum drum to the bare necessities. A family of 15, from different nations. Sri Lanka, Australia, UK, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland and Italy. Head of the family, our guide, Laki. The glue that kept us together for the duration, patient, knowledgeable, friendly, funny, with the best selfie skills.
Phenomenal experience in Sri Lanka.
From the moment you get out of the airport it couldn't be better organised or a smoother experience. You're met by Laki who is passionate, knowledgeable and good fun too.
Every place you stay is great, every time there is a transfer, it's seamless.
But the best part of it is the experience and the wide variety of them. The hike with the Vadda people was an incredible thing to be a part of, exploring the Pekoe trail for the stunning views and learning about the history of Sri Lanka, tea plantations, Sigiriya and much more. There wasn't a dull moment all trip.
I can't recommend it enough. Go and visit this beautiful country.
Had the time of my life!
The Sri Lanka tour was incredible. From climbing and seeing incredible views to cycling through villages and meeting local people. The accommodation was all unique and beautiful. Laki was an incredible host, his love for Sri Lanka and knowledge made the trip much more insightful. Iv experienced so much in such a short time and the group were so lovely.
Incredible trip to a beautiful country
We absolutely loved our trip to Sri Lanka with MBA! We saw so much beautiful scenery and wildlife and ate excellent food in great company. Laki was a superb guide, super knowledgeable which he was so willing to share with wonderful enthusiasm each and every day. There were lots of early mornings but every day it was worth it. We really felt like we saw and did so much more than would have been possible if we travelled on our own. Recommend taking proper walking boots as one of the hikes in particular is very rough underfoot. Managed with walking shoes but would have been better with something sturdier. Thank you so much MBA and all the fabulous local guides we met! Hannah & Jon
Sri Lanka 2025
I've been on many holidays in my lifetime and many varieties, but MBA tops all of them. The attention to detail, the love of the area you are exploring, the respect for the people and the culture, the depth of knowledge and eagerness to share and the care for every member in the group beats every trip experience I've ever had. With MBA absolutely everything is done for you, you just sit back and enjoy the journey, and you won't regret it, whatever adventure you choose. My most recent was Sri Lanka, and I would do it again, but there are so many others to experience, why stop there! Thank you Laki, Chami, Pasan and everyone on the support team for all the precious memories.
Adventure of a lifetime!
This was, without a doubt, the most incredible adventure we've ever experienced. The country is absolutely stunning, with its diverse landscapes and breathtaking wildlife and flora. What made it even more special was our guide, Laki. He knew every plant and animal we encountered, both in English and often in Latin! His deep love and passion for his country shone through in the endless stories he shared with us. Laki is a true advocate for sustainable tourism, and his enthusiasm was contagious.
His attention to detail and his ability to tailor the experience to our preferences made the trip even more unforgettable. He was incredibly attentive to our needs, always ensuring we had the best time possible.
The trip itself was perfectly planned, and we loved the pace—it allowed us to see and do so much. A big thank you to MBA for organizing such an amazing journey, but most of all, thank you, Laki, for your dedication to your guests. You truly made our time unforgettable.
Beautiful country
I would massively recommend this trip, it offers a variety of activities in beautiful locations that leads to novel adventures every day. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable and really make the trip feel unique. But be ready for early starts and close encounters with the Sri Lankan wildlife!
Excellent 👌
This was a great itinerary through Sri Lanka, the scenery, people, accommodation and wildlife were amazing. Laki was a great guide and knowledgeable making sure everyone was happy. Sri Lanka is definitely worth a visit.
Amazing, unforgettable experience
Highly recommend this trip. Got to see a huge variety of different places in Sri with very different ecosystems, nature and culture. Loved the hikes, and appreciated that they were more remote 'off the beaten track' than other tours I had looked at, and felt like an auth ntic experience. Accomodation in eco lodges were some of the best places I've ever stayed, absolutely beautiful. Also some more basic accomodation in more remote locations in the jungle and tea hills which whilst more basic, I loved just as much, as it allowed us to experience these truly amazing locations. The trip was very well organised. Laki, our tour leader was so informative and I learnt so much about the country and the people there. Also the local guides in each place were always great. All staff we came across were so friendly, helpful and just great and it really seemed to be an ethically organised trip, avoiding areas suffering from over-tourism, and thoughtful of both environmental and cultural conservation. Also a great group of people on the trip. So much fun and great memories. Loved it!
Wonderful adventure
The Ultimate Adventure Through Sri Lanka is exactly as it's titled, quite the ultimate adventure. Laki, our guide, was knowledgeable, thoughtful and sweet. We learned so much about Sri Lankan Culture while participating in a wealth of different activities from hiking to yoga and even surfing. I can recommend this trip enough!
Amazing Experience!
Wonderful holiday that can't recommend enough. Sri Lanka is such a beautiful country, with friendly and welcoming people. Was there last month and we experienced range of climates so be prepared for some horizontal drizzle and stiff breezes when you get up to Horton's Plain. Pekoe Trail was a highlight and wished I'd taken more time to appreciate the beauty of the mountains/scenery.
Lakshitha our guide was like a walking encyclopaedia (if you are a birder, you are in for a treat), and can't fault his care and attention to the group.
It's a big country so don't be surprised by some of the long drives, which actually went by very quickly, or we were all too shattered by the hiking and were all asleep!
Mixed range of accommodation, take ear plugs for the eco lodge (tin roof). I don't have problems with falling asleep but that place was problematic, loved the glamping and be prepared that the mountain guest house maybe cool and feel bit damp (it's high up in the mountains).
Expect to return to the country in the future to experience more of its wonderful scenery and history.
Amazing trip through a beautiful country.
It was my first visit to Sri Lanka and after this trip it won't be my last. Sri Lanka is stunningly beautiful and this trip takes you to so many places and there are many experiences which are off the usual tourist trails. Our guide Laki was so knowledgeable and the passion he has for his country came through as he guided us . I loved the fact we spent whole days hiking through beautiful forest and we cycled along peaceful back roads through villages with children waving and birds singing in the trees. Being in the rainforest listening to thd birds and watching the monkeys jump through thd trees is a memory I will treasure. I loved the birds and Laki made a special effort to ensure I got to learn the names of ones I spotted. If you like being in nature then this is the trip for you .
Excellent
A great itinerary. Great guide. Generally good accommodation and food. One exception which MBA need to address.
An unforgettable adventure!
Our packed journey through Sri Lanka allowed us to explore diverse regions and experience things we never could have on our own. The highlights included a memorable hike with the Vedda people and an incredible wildlife-watching excursion by boat—both of which gave us the chance to see elephants up close. Laki, our fantastic guide, went above and beyond to share the beauty, culture, and wonder of his country with us.
Amazing trip!
This was my second MBA trip and it was amazing! Laki is a wealth of knowledge so it is a wonderful trip if you are passionate about sustainable tourism. Also shoutout to the team from Paradise Islands Safari at Horton National Park for the bird watching!!
A full and fun packed
A full and fun packed itinerary with like minded people. Laki making sure that we experienced all that Sri Lanka had to offer and sharing his passion and knowledge for its flora and fauna.
Amazing Trip
I enjoyed every minute of my trip to Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 the scenery, people & wildlife were even more special than I thought they would be. Our tour leader Laki was fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble to keep his large group happy & on the move. We were 14 in total & Laki made sure each & everyone of us were having a great time.
The trip was super fun
The trip was super fun and we were a fantatsic group of like-minded individuals. Highlight was the glamping as well as the surfing lesson.
An Adventure to Remember!
This was an adventure of a lifetime! The 10 days we spent exploring Sri Lanka were nothing short of extraordinary. From the lush landscapes to the vibrant culture, every moment was filled with beauty and wonder. Our guide, Lakshitha, was truly exceptional. He went above and beyond to ensure the trip ran smoothly, always making sure we were happy - his passion and care shone through.
It was special to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. Every local we encountered was incredibly welcoming and open about sharing their culture and history. Their kindness added a unique richness to the experience, making us feel like we were part of something truly authentic.
The itinerary was well-planned and gave us a diverse taste of what Sri Lanka has to offer in a relatively short amount of time. Whether it was hiking in lush jungles, meeting indigenous tribes, relaxing on a stunning beach on the last day, or immersing ourselves in the rich history of the land, each day brought new and unforgettable experiences.
If you're looking for a trip that offers a deep and varied experience of Sri Lanka, with the perfect blend of hiking adventure, wildlife and cultural immersion, this is the one for you!
Thank you to all the guides, especially Lakshitha and Dulanjan!
Group 9 xx
The trip of a lifetime
This was the best most rewarding trip of my life. The itinerary was excellent, unique, off the beaten path just enough to truly immerse and experience Sri Lankan culture and incredible nature. Jaggy in particular was an amazing guide for us and I have to say despite my difficult dietary needs they were always met fully. The trip was so smooth and well planned, no delays, no cancellations, every car was on time, air conditioned bus, lovely accomodations with great variety of scenery and activities. I can't recommend this tour enough.
Jagwirth was incredibly knowledgeable about Sri Lankan history, culture and especially nature. I learned so much, all the whole challenging myself physically on the terrain. But all challenges were well interspersed with time to rest and relax in the sun and by the ocean or pool.
Incredible adventure
I couldn’t recommend this trip highly enough! It was a memorable 10 days spent travelling around and experiencing this beautiful country. Our guide Lakshitha was incredible throughout, going above and beyond to make everything run smoothly and secure us that all-important lime isotonic drink. Every local we met and encountered couldn’t have been more welcoming and passionate about the country. If you want a deep and varied experience of Sri Lanka in a short space of time, this is the trip for you.
Adventure trip of a lifetime
It totally recommend this trip and our guides Lakshitha and Dulanja. You'll be impressed by how much you can experience within 11 days.
The country is rich in history and nature and despite the recent hardships, the locals were always smiling and welcoming.
The itinerary is exactly as described but felt so much richer in reality than 'on paper'. I really appreciated the sustainability agenda of some of the resorts and I was deeply please to have met more than 20 locals including the indigenous tribe.
Prepare for lots of hiking, awe, fun and curry, of course!
Here some tips if you're coming from abroad:
- Sri Lanka has 4 climatic zones. You'll need raincoats, sweaters, shorts and many wicking shirts (You'll sweat a lot!).
- don't forget suncream and deed repellent
- try get a bottle with a purification filter. That can save you from carrying 2l of water every day
- you can exchange money and buy a sim card at the airport
- I was careful to not eat anything uncooked or -fried due to past experience although it looked delicious
- You'll enter many fragile ecosystems, so try avoid single use plastic and litter. Leave nothing but traces, take nothing but memories :)
Special thanks to Lakhi and Dula for their unconditional enthusiasm!
Wow!
Words can not describe how amazing this tour was. Our guide (Lakshitha) was first class, friendly welcoming and so knowledgeable. What stood out is the tour is not just doing the stands sites, you got to see the real/ true Sri Lanka - its beautiful landscape, wildlife and warm people.
Amazing Adventure
This was such a well put together trip, a great variety of activities and expereinces crammed in to get the most out of visiting this amazing country. Everything was extremely well organised and Jagath our guide did a great job and was full of knowledge.
This is an adventurous trip and there are some early starts and harder days, but its definitely worth it.
This was my first trip with MBA and I will definitely be booking future trips with them based on this expereince.
Sri Lanka & Group 8: GREAT!
If you are reading this review and wondering how this trip went for other people and if it's worth your time, let me start by saying: it absolutely is!
It is an incredible itinerary, with mixed types of activities: hiking days of varying intensity and in varying climates, surfing, relaxing ... eating amazing food (an essential for me). I'd say that level-wise, it is challenging yet accessible. By which I mean - it absolutely can be done, but it will ask that you challenge yourself a bit in terms of committing to a hike, and then you get to feel very proud afterwards.
The local host and MBA did a fantastic job putting the itinerary together, including a trek into the jungle that I believe only happens on this tour.
Throughout the trip we met fantastic and knowledgeable guides, hosts and naturalists, but all the way through we had our main guide Lakshitha to guide, support and motivate us. And he did all 3 so well! Super knowledgable, kind, and always smiling - nothing was too much of an ask.
Being in group 8, of course, helped - it is the best group that ever was.... but I do recommend this trip to any future group too, you will have an unforgettable time. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country, too, and it feels like a privilege to learn a bit more about it, and enjoy the days there.
Group 8 - Trip of a lifetime
The Ultimate Adventure Through Sri Lanka is an amazing trip. The Sri Lankan hosts and service providers provide a knowledgeable and varied insight into the geography, history and share their passion as naturalists.
Our lead host and guide, Lakshitha, made sure every moment of the trip was truly magical, awe inspiring and memorable.
The trip was made more special by the seven amazing people in the group. Our evenings were full of laughter, friendship and, of course, a few Lion beers.
To sum up, amazing people, amazing country, amazing itinerary, amazing Lakshitha, AMAZING Group 8!
Great and varied trip through
Great and varied trip through Sri Lanka! You get to see a lot of the country, and the wildlife watching, surfing and glamping site were particular highlights.
The group were brilliant, and after a lot of solo travelling it was great to meet up with and spend some time with everyone - a definite highlight of the trip. In particular, Lucky's enthusiastic personality was inspiring throughout the trip and helped make the long drives more bearable!
Itinerary Activities
- Visit the fish market of Negombo
- Guided hike up Pidurangala Rock
- Bike ride to explore the backroads of Habarana and Sigiriya
- Guided hike up Sigiriya (Lion Rock)
- Guided forest hike with the indigenous leader of the Vedda people
- Wildlife tracking by boat in Gal Oya
- 2 yoga sessions in the jungle
- Guided hike through the forest gardens of Kandy
- Train ride into the Nuwara Eliya tea hills
- Visit to a tea factory in Nuwara Eliya
- 2 days of guided hiking along the Pekoe Trail
- Surf lesson in Hiriketiya Bay
- Beachside yoga session
Guides
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Indigenous Vedda guide while hiking in Gal Oya
Accommodation
- 7 nights in hotels and eco-lodges
- 2 nights at a spectacular community glamping site
- 1 night in a remote mountain hut
Meals
- All (10) tasty breakfasts
- 5 picnic lunches
- 8 traditional Sri Lankan dinners
Transfers
- A scheduled arrival transfer from Colombo Airport between 08:00 and 16:00 on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport on Day 11
- All transfers during the trip
Equipment
- Cycling equipment
- Surfing equipment
- Yoga equipment
Permits
- All parks permits and entry fees
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. We recommend to tip the following for the whole trip:
- USD 30-35 for your your leader
- USD 10-12 for each member of the bus crew (usually 1 or 2 drivers)
- USD 45 activity guides - your leader will collect this in the form of a kitty and distribute it among the 25 local guides and assistants who provide their service during the trip (local hikes, bike ride etc.)
Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine, as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice. To secure your visa (Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA) apply via the official government website. Usually, the visa is granted within 48 hours of application. Make sure you print a copy or take a screenshot of the approval page for when you clear security on arrival.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Main luggage (a suitcase, backpack or duffel is fine but not too big as luggage will be packed on the bus with you)
- Daypack (30 litres - for daily essentials and overnight use on the Pekoe Trail)
CLOTHES
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirt (light long sleeved shirts and trousers are recommended for jungle hikes and safari)
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks (leech socks will provided when you hike along the Pekoe trail but you may want to bring an additional pair for the other jungle hikes)
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in)
- Sandals
OTHER
- Playing cards
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Headtorch or torch
- Reusable water bottle (x1 litre)
- Biodegradable wet-wipes
- Energy bars and snacks
- Water purification tablets/treatment system
Additional Night in Negombo Single Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Negombo Single Room
… Per night
Additional Night in Negombo Twin/Double Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Negombo Twin/Double Room
… Per night
Additional night in Talalla Single Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional night in Talalla Single Room
… Per night
Additional night in Talalla Twin/Double Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional night in Talalla Twin/Double Room
… Per night
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for 2025 departures)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for 2025 departures)
…
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for Jul-Aug 2024 departures)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for Jul-Aug 2024 departures)
…
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for Sep-Jun 2024 departures)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade (9 nights - price valid for Sep-Jun 2024 departures)
…
Private arrival transfer Bandaranaike Airport - Negombo (1 pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private arrival transfer Bandaranaike Airport - Negombo (1 pax)
… Per person
Private arrival transfer Bandaranaike Airport - Negombo (2+ pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private arrival transfer Bandaranaike Airport - Negombo (2+ pax)
… Per person
Private Departure transfer Talalla - Bandaranaike Airport (1 pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure transfer Talalla - Bandaranaike Airport (1 pax)
… Per person
Private Departure transfer Talalla - Bandaranaike Airport (2+ pax)
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure transfer Talalla - Bandaranaike Airport (2+ pax)
… Per person
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 494kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
On the trip you'll spend a day with the Veddas, the last indigenous people in Sri Lanka. Many Veddas nowadays have ventured into agriculture so traditional hunting is fading away, but the Veddas you'll meet still live following authentic traditions. Through this cultural exchange, you'll be playing an active part in the maintenance of indigenous culture through its celebration.
You'll also visit remote rural villages – a fantastic opportunity to learn about local culture, history, and the adaptation of remote communities to contemporary life.
We have selected a number of extraordinary accommodation providers who practise responsible tourism in the true sense of the word. Here, food is locally sourced, construction materials are mostly natural and have been chosen to respect the environment. Local operations are also managed by the communities themselves, a successful example of how community-based tourism can be beneficial when done sensitively.
If you wish to extend your Sri Lanka beach stay, we recommend adding extra nights at the Talalla Retreat – the ideal place to learn surfing or practice yoga (please see the Optional Extras for more info). The hotel also offers complete yoga and surf packages on request (check their website for further info). Alternatively, you can take advantage of the short direct flights from Colombo, and head out to the Maldives – see our alternative trip, The Ultimate Adventure in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The tap water in Sri Lanka is not always friendly on the stomach. You may find purified water in some of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. To avoid plastic waste where filtered water is not available, we suggest bringing water purification tablets (or an alternative purification system) for extra safety.
Your main luggage will be stored securely on the bus when you're on the move and you'll have access to it on a daily basis except for one night during the Pekoe Trail. If there's anything that you don't need with you during the tour you can also store excess luggage at your local host's office in Colombo. During the activities, you'll only need to carry a personal day rucksack with your essential items.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Wednesday 18th June 2025
to Saturday 28th June 2025
