Sri Lanka Encompassed

Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

Enjoy a guided city tour of Colombo before heading to Negombo. Visit the seaside and observe fisherman sorting through their haul ashore. Board a boat to glide along the Dutch canal and get a closer look at the lives of the locals. With evening free time, explore the stunning Portuguese and Dutch architecture.

Begin the day traveling to the Dambulla province and visit the cave temple before before enjoying the rest of the day free. Join an optional safari to see elephants or watch the sun set over the lake. Travel through the countryside to Sigiriya in Dambulla, the central province of Sri Lanka. Visit the the World Heritage Site of the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla. In the evening, try to catch a beautiful sunset over the Kandalamma Lake or go on a safari.

Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Built in the fifth century, this rock fortress boasts well-laid out gardens, caves, monasteries, and palaces with beautiful wall motifs. Afterwards, enjoy a walking tour of a local village to learn about residents' way of life while getting a chance to try the local cuisine at lunch in a community hut. In the afternoon, opt to go for a tour of Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, where you can cycle through the ruins.

En route to Kandy, drive through the Knuckles Mountain Range and visit a spice plantation upon arrival where students of Ayurveda will explain different uses for each herb. Stop for lunch at G Adventures supported-Sthree Craft Shop and Cafe. Take a guided visit to the famous Temple of the Tooth. In the evening, opt to attend a Kandyan Cultural Dance.

Spend the morning free in Kandy to visit the Ayurvedic Centre for massage or wander the Royal Botanical Gardens. Then, enjoy a guided village walk to gain insight into Sri Lankan rural daily life. Discover unique local experiences, from visiting a working cattle and goat farm to enjoying refreshing herbal drinks at a local woman's cottage. After lunch, drive to Digana for some time to rest. Later, learn how to cook Sri Lankan curries infused with authentic local spices while helping out with dinner. Accommodations at a nature resort are simple and authentic.

Enjoy a free morning of exploration before transferring to Nuwara Eliya. In the afternoon, explore a traditional tea plantation in the central highlands. Gain insight into the process of growing tea and its effect on the Ceylon region. The town, also known as 'Little England', offers a lot of options for visitors. Explore the nature trails, visit the plantations, or go golfing or horseback riding.

Spend a free morning hiking in the Horton Plains Nature Reserve or strolling local markets. Later, hop on the local train and take the scenic route to Ella. Use free time to explore the area. Opt to stay close to the city, wandering local markets or head further afield. There's a 9km (6 mi) trek in the Horton Plains Nature Reserve. Wander around Victoria Lake and take in the views.

Enjoy a free day in the charming town of Ella. Opt to tour the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, hike to Little Adam's rock, admire views of Ella Rock, or simply relax and wander around town.

Enjoy a free morning. In the afternoon, travel to Yala National Park and enjoy a safari.

Enjoy one last morning visiting Yala NP then bid farewell and travel south to idyllic Mirissa Beach.

Take a day trip to Galle and tour the colonial city and historic fort before returning to Mirissa.

Enjoy a free day in peaceful Mirissa. Opt to relax on the beach or take a surfing lesson.

Depart at any time.

Hotels (13 nts).

Private van, boat, scenic local train.