Lanka Wild Coast and Hill Excursion

15 Nights / 16 Days

Colombo - Hikkaduwa - Galle - Rekawa - Tangalle - Yala - Ella - Nuwara Eliya - Horton Plains - Kandy - Negombo - Colombo

Tour Overview

A reverse-direction grand circuit beginning on the south-western coast and moving inland through wildlife country and the highlands – featuring a rare Rekawa turtle nesting visit, Tangalle’s slow coastal luxury, two full days in Yala and a cultural highland arc from Ella through Nuwara Eliya to Kandy before a final lagoon farewell at Negombo.

Tour Highlights

  • Hikkaduwa coral reef snorkelling
  • Galle Fort guided heritage walk and rampart sunset
  • Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project evening guided visit (seasonal)
  • Tangalle secluded beach stay with lagoon kayaking and sunset yoga
  • Yala two-day private safari – leopards, elephants and birdlife
  • Ravana Falls en route stop and Ella mountain lodge
  • Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak hike, Ella
  • Working tea estate guided tasting, Nuwara Eliya
  • Horton Plains – World’s End and Baker’s Falls
  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and cultural performance, Kandy
  • Royal Botanical Gardens and artisan workshops, Kandy
  • Negombo lagoon farewell and seafood dinner

Your Daily Path

Day 01 - Colombo - City Arrival

Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Private transfer to boutique city hotel. Time to unwind. Optional sunset walk by the ocean at Galle Face Green. Overnight in Colombo.

Day 02 - Colombo to Hikkaduwa - Coastal Energy

Drive to the south-west coast. Check in to beachfront boutique hotel. Afternoon relaxation or optional snorkelling over coral reefs. Evening beachside dining. Overnight in Hikkaduwa.

Day 03 - Hikkaduwa to Galle - Heritage Coast

Short coastal drive to Galle Fort. Walk through cobbled streets lined with colonial architecture, cafes and art spaces. Sunset along the ramparts. Overnight in Galle.

Day 04 - Galle to Rekawa - Turtle Coast Experience

Drive along the southern coastline to Rekawa. Check in to quiet beachfront eco-retreat. Evening guided visit to Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project to witness sea turtles nesting (seasonal, respectful observation). Overnight in Rekawa.

Day 05 - Rekawa to Tangalle - Slow Coastal Living

Short drive to Tangalle. Relaxed beach day on secluded golden shores. Optional kayaking in lagoons or cycling through coastal villages. Sunset yoga or meditation by the ocean. Overnight in Tangalle.

Day 06 - Tangalle - Coastal Wellness and Nature

Morning at leisure with ocean views. Optional visit to hidden coves or blowholes. Afternoon Ayurvedic relaxation or spa ritual. Evening quiet beach time under the stars. Overnight in Tangalle.

Day 07 - Tangalle to Yala - Wildlife Transition

Drive inland to Yala National Park. Afternoon jeep safari tracking elephants, leopards, crocodiles and birdlife. Overnight near Yala.

Day 08 - Yala - Deep Wildlife Experience Day

Early morning safari at the best time for wildlife movement. Return for rest and lunch. Optional evening nature walk outside the park buffer zones. Overnight near Yala.

Day 09 - Yala to Ella - Into the Hills

Scenic drive to Ella via Ravana Falls. Check in to boutique hill lodge with panoramic views. Evening at leisure with cool mountain air. Overnight in Ella.

Day 10 - Ella - Adventure and Views

Visit Nine Arch Bridge. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak for sweeping views. Optional ziplining or waterfall dips. Evening cafe culture. Overnight in Ella.

Day 11 - Ella to Nuwara Eliya - Highland Escape

Drive through misty tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya. Visit a working tea estate for guided tasting. Evening stroll around Gregory Lake. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 12 - Nuwara Eliya - Highland Nature Day

Early morning excursion to Horton Plains National Park. Walk to World’s End and Baker’s Falls through cloud forest. Afternoon relaxation in cool climate. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 13 - Nuwara Eliya to Kandy - Cultural Heart Arrival

Scenic drive to Kandy. Visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Evening cultural performance or lakeside stroll. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 14 - Kandy - Craft and Heritage Day

Visit Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya. Explore spice gardens and artisan workshops featuring batik and wood carving. Experience local daily life and traditions. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 15 - Kandy to Negombo - Return to Coast

Drive to Negombo. Afternoon at leisure or lagoon boat ride through mangroves. Farewell seafood dinner by the ocean. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 16 - Negombo - Departure

Relaxed morning by the beach. Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport and departure.

INCLUSIONS

  • Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout
  • Experienced English-speaking chauffeur-guide
  • All entrance fees for listed attractions
  • Airport arrival and departure transfers
  • Bottled water throughout the journey
  • Yala safari jeep and park entrance fees (2 days)
  • Horton Plains National Park entrance fees

EXCLUSIONS

  • International and domestic flights
  • Accommodation (bookable separately or through Luxury Lanka Holidays)
  • Meals unless specified in daily notes
  • Personal expenses and shopping
  • Gratuities for guide and hotel staff
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities marked within the itinerary
  • Visa fees
  • Rekawa turtle nesting visit (seasonal, respectful observation)
  • Zipline or waterfall dip at Ella (optional, payable locally)