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Try The Best Sri Lanka Southern coast tour (Private Tour)
This is a 2 day in Sri Lanka allowing you to explore Yala national park on a full-day jeep safari. Exploring southern Sri Lanka tourist attractions such as Tnaglle beach, Hikkaduwa beach, and Galle is also a part of this ultimate 2 days Sri Lanka tour. This is a very popular activity among those travellers who can dedicate only a limited time to sightseeing during their holiday.
Ride a safari Jeep around Yala National Park, the second largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka. Yala is the best national park in the world to spot leopards. A professional guide shares knowledge of the animals that call this wildlife kingdom home, including roaming elephants and more leopards per area than anywhere else on the planet! Arrive before the crowds for better wildlife viewing at the park, with early morning pickup in Galle. Your return trip includes a lunch stop and an optional visit to Waurukannala Temple (additional expense).
Is This Trip Right For You?
- The entire trip is private (transfers and sightseeing), only you and your associates take part in the trip.
- This 2 days trip packs a lot in. It’s one of the most popular Sri Lanka tours, we run in our Original style, perfect for those, who look for a one-week trip and a desire to do the most with it. If you are after a more leisurely trip in Sri Lanka or a shorter trip please check our other tour itineraries.
- Sri Lanka can get extremely hot in the summer. While we aim to do our walking tours, city tours early in the morning or afternoon, when it’s cooler, remember to keep water on you and to bring a hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and anything else that will protect you from the sun.
- Part of travelling with Seerendipity means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. We visited a number of temples on this trip and to enter them you must have clothes that cover your wrists and below the knee. Same time you have to remove the head covers and shoes upon entering the temple. Please click here to know more about the rules and regulations pertaining to Sri Lanka temple visits.
Highlights
- All-inclusive full-day jeep safari at Yala national park in search of leopards, elephants, bears, crocodiles and other wild creatures hiding in the park.
- Guided walking tour of Galle Fort to witness the best-preserved dutch built medieval period Fort in Asia (UNESCO world heritage site), Here you encounter hundreds of mansions, houses, churches galleries and kilometres long rampart adjoining the Indian Ocean.
- See the stilt fishermen that are balancing on a pole planted on the sea bed and waiting for fish.
- Glass bottom boat tour in Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary to see coral reefs and exotic fish species.
- Visiting the Sea turtle conservation centre to learn about endangered sea turtles from the volunteers gathering here from all around the world.
- The Temple of Kataragama is the most sacred temple in southern Sri Lanka.
- See the gem museum and gem lapidary, and the art of gem mining in Sri Lanka.
- Visiting spice garden to see the trees and plants that produce spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, pepper etc.
- Explore the rich Faun and Flora of Bentota River on a boat trip. Visit Mangrove lagoon and witness crocodiles, lizards, birds and many other wild creatures.
- Visiting Mask museum and learning about mask carving and witnessing centuries-old precious artefacts.
Hotels
This tour can be booked with 4-star hotels, If you need any other category of hotels please inquire.
Trip includes
- 1-night accommodation in a standard tourist hotel on a H/B basis.
- 1 Dinner (on day 1) and 1 breakfast (on day 2) at the hotel.
- 1 Picnic lunch during the safari.
- Full-day safari at Yala national park
- Transportation in air-conditioned luxury, private vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide (please inquire about other languages).
- Galle Fort
- Kataragama/Katirakamum temple
- Mask Museum
- Sea turtle conservation centre
- Glass bottom boat tour at Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary
- Bentota River boat trip with visits to the mangrove lagoon
- Spice garden
- All entrance fees and activity costs as per the tour itinerary
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Highway toll
- All government taxes
Trip excludes
- Expenses of personal nature such as tipping, porters, laundry, telephones, etc
Cancellation policy
Cancel 24 hours prior to arrival for a full refund
Choose your payment method
We offer you mainly three payment options card payments, bank transfers or payment on arrival. You can choose whatever is the most convenient payment option for you. If you opt for payment on arrival we will collect a 10% advance payment from you as a guarantee, once the booking is confirmed.
Book now & pay later
Reserve your tour now and pay when you meet us. Send us the duly filled tour booking form, and we will arrange your tour you can make the payment as you meet us on the first day of the trip.
Traveler pickup is offered
COVID-19 Special information
- All customer touchpoints are frequently cleaned
- Social distancing is maintained in vehicles
- To reduce crowds, all tours are private
- Masks are required, please bring your own
- You must fill out a travel information form
- Temperature checks are mandatory
- You must book this activity online, as the ticket office is closed
Single supplement
The trip can be booked with a single room for the entire trip with a single supplement (please inquire about your chosen category of the hotel)
Additional info
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour
- All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to remove footwear and hats upon entering the temples, Dresscode, shoulders, and knees should be covered
- The duration of transfers is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
- This is a private tour/activity.
- You can reach us 24 hours a day through our hotline at 0094-77-4440977
Sri Lanka Southern coast nature tour
Itineraries
Day 1
Time : 6:00 am
Colombo / Yala
Meet and greet by Seerendipity tours representative (06.00) and drive for Yala. En-route visits,
Galle
The ancient port city of Galle has a history that stretches back hundreds of years. According to Sir James' tenant, Galle was the “Tarshish” referred to in the Bible as the port where ships trading with King Solomon obtained gemstones, ivory, spices and scented woods. Most certainly the place where the Galle fort now stands, as well as other areas in Galle all had historic connections which go back long before the Portuguese era. International traders, Persians, moor traders from the Persian Gulf, south Indian traders, Malay and a host of other nationalities lived and traded In Galle.
Sea turtle Conservation project
The first stop on this trip is the sea turtle conservation centre, which is run by a non-governmental organization. You can witness many species of endangered sea turtles here you will be educated about sea turtles by the volunteers gathering here from all around the world.
Madu River Estaury
Bentota river is one of the most popular attractions on the west coast and a popular river for boat trips. Here you can witness a large tract of mangrove forest as well as many species of animals such as crocodiles, monkeys, snakes, lizards etc.
Hikkaduwa beach and marine sanctuary
Glass bottom boat tour lasts about 30 minutes giving you the opportunity to witness the fascinating underwater world of Hikkaduwa, which is home to a large number of exotic fish species as well as a coral reef.
Kataragama temple
Kataragama temple is Held in awe by Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims. Kataragama, the domain of God Skanda (Lord Murugan Katirkaman, Kadirkamam, Subrahmanya, Kandasamy, Kadiradeva, Katiradeva, Katiravel, Karttikeya, and Tarakajith) located in the Deep South of Sri Lanka, adjoining the popular Ruhuna Yala National Park and ancient Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery, is a multi-religious sacred city that contains a Buddhist temple, Hindu shrine and Islamic Mosque. Kataragama, one of the solosmasthana (Sinhala: 16 principal sites of Buddhist pilgrimage), has been featured in history since the era of King Dutugamunu (161-137 BC), the Hero of the Nation. Mahawamsa, the great historical chronicle of Sri Lanka reveals the participation of warriors of the Kshatriyas clan from Kataragama on the occasion of the arrival of the Bo sapling of Bodhi Tree, under which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya (Gaya district of the modern Bihar state of India), was brought to the city of Anuradhapura 2,300 years ago.
Mask musuem
Just before the Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary, you will be stopping at the mast museum and Moonstone mines in Ambalangoda.
Stilt fishermen
An unique art of fishing practised only in southern Sri Lanka. The fishermen sit on a pole placed on the sea bed and keep fishing with their fishing rods while having a bird's eye view of the below water surface,
Over night stay in Yala
Day 2
Time : 5:00 am
Yala / Galle/ Colombo
Early morning leave for your full-day Safari at Yala national park.
Yala National Park
Yala is considered to be one of the oldest national parks in Sri Lanka same time it is the biggest national park in Sri Lanka with 97880 hectares extent. Initially, it was used as a hunting ground during British rule in Sri Lanka. It is said people had to pay for hunting in Yala. As the number of animals drastically reduced due to hunting, Yala is declared a national park in 1900 and became a safe place for animals.
Yala is the second biggest national park and is divided into 5 zones. Yala is holding a prominent place as far as biodiversity is concerned. Yala is famous for its high density of wildlife such as Leopards, Elephants, Deer, Wild boar, bears, monkeys etc.
Yala is considered to be one of the best places to witness leopards in the world. There were 17 ½ leopards in every 100 square kilometres in Yala national park. Block 1 of Yala National park could be home to the densest population of leopards in the world, the densities in this tiny area have maintained around a leopard every 2 sq. kilometres. Unlike most other national parks where leopards can be seen in the dark Sri Lanka leopards are on the move during the day as well. After the Safari leaves for the hotel in Colombo.
End of the tour
Amani Dharya– :
After reaching teh hotel bit early on the 1st day we had a leisure walk in the surrounding areas of our hotel with Sama. We were suprised to see the natural beauty of the area with huge lake full of water, rice paddies, stupas, temple and every where it is lush green vegetation. Our guide sam voluntarily organized it and we enjoyed the village tour lit.
Zieker zam– :
Travelling on a bumpy road in the wildlife reserve was a bit strenuous but it was a very different yet interesting activity. We were so lucky to see a large number of animals during the day. Our jeep driver was very experienced and it seems like he already knew where the animals are roaming in the park.
Tania gurang– :
The two days with an excellent blend of tourist places like wildlife reserves, pristine beaches, temples and beautiful village. Our guide Malan was very good and helpful.
Rosaenne– :
Ideal trip to enjoy Sri Lanka wildlife and beaches
Sam– :
Short and fully packed Sri Lanka tour. We are very fond of wild animals and wanted to visit Sri Lanka nationals park. Our wish was fully fulfilled, thanks seerendipity
Jorjie– :
Cannot fault Seerendipity from start to finish the booking process to your guide, location to name a few! If you have any doubt choose Seerendipity!
Cathrine– :
The 2 days trip was amazing! Hit many good spots, and everything was planned so smoothly. As a female traveller with 2 small kids we did not once feel unsafe – highly recommend!
Suzshman– :
Tour is interetsing. but fully packed and there is hardly anytime to relax.
Mark Neumann– :
Eine spannende Tour mit vielen Insights und witzigen Details. Genau das, was wir uns vorgestellt hatten. Da wir bereits gut informiert waren und english sprechen … erhielten wir einen tieferen Einblick in nature, tieren, Geschichte und Kultur. Rosha verfügt über ein profundes Wissen und schüttelt die eine oder andere Anekdote locker aus dem Ärmel. Sehr gut. Grazie!
Eddie– :
Excellent trip with lot of things to see and do
Ritshu– :
Fantastic Sri Lanka trip with ancient temples, forts, beaches, and wildlife parks. The walking tour of the fort was excellent. Plenty of opportunities to buy clothing and spices. well planned tour with excellent accommodation, food and nice guide
Emma muse– :
The south coast tour was great with a closer look at nice beaches and a lot of time for leisure. There should be a little bit more time to relax on the beach. The wildlife tour was also good. I never had such a nice experience watching at leopards so closely. Our jeep driver was very good and took us on an interesting jungle track and showed us a lot of animals.
Irfard– :
Excellent trip. Everything was perfectly organized with comfortable hotels, a good car and a wonderful guide. the beach was the best thing of the trip.
Alison– :
Although only a short trip, this Srilanka Tour was jammed packed with amazing sights and opportunities to see the hustle and bustle of every day life in the places we visited. It also gave us the opportunity to interact with the people, taste the delicious foods and learn a lot about each destinations. Highly recommended tour!
Tina– :
Well organised and tour leader Sam was the best. Totally made the trip with his knowledge, sense of humour and drive to provide us with the best experience.
Nizam– :
Sri Lanka’s southern tour was excellent. We were very happy with the program and it was consisting of a large number of important places like wildlife parks, temples, beaches, forts and many more. We were lucky to spot 2 leopard cubs and their mother in Yala, I never forget it. It was first seen by our jeep driver. I believe they have specially trained eyes to spot animals that are not clearly seen with naked eyes. Special thanks to our guide Jehan, he did a fantastic trip.
Jim lopez– :
Excellent trip, very well organized
Brendon– :
I had a great time on my first Seerendipity trip. It was a great family trip with sam. Our guide was very informative, kids friendly and very fun. activities are ideal for the members of our family. and the guide a good bloke. No problems
Melroy– :
Had an amazing trip. comfortable private car. Great guide. Gihan was informative and fun. The place we stayed at in Kandy was straight out of a movie. Loved the palace we stayed at. This trip gave me everything it said it would and more. Absolutely loved it!
jorge– :
Great Seerendipity trip around Srilanka’s south coast. Wonderful sights, great experiences, good food and well looked after.
Steven– :
Excellent service and trip throughout, very professional and very reasonably priced
Jerome– :
Very short trip of Sri Lanka but extreamly interesting with many dozens of interesting attractions.
Remoula– :
Would highly recommend. Our tour guide Sam was amazing, saw so much in the few days and had lots of fun. Perfect for everyone.
Sunederman– :
We were basically on a beach tour and decided to take this short trip to break the routine beach stay. It was fantastic with wildlife and cultural places.
Alexander– :
Wonderful trip with a wonderful local guide. Wouldn’t change a thing. Would love to travel with gihan again
Imran– :
Had an amazing time on this trip.
Stevanson– :
Excellent service and trip throughout, very professional and very reasonably priced
Rehana– :
Great Sri Lanka trip around sri Lanka’s southern part. Wonderful sights, great experiences, good food and well looked after.
Shankar pereira– :
We had a full day magical safari on a Jeep and really enjoyed it. Our guide picked us from Colombo and took us to the Yala Park. Along the way, we had looked into pristine beaches, Madu estuary, Galle fort and many other places. We were lucky to spot 2 leopards, dozens of elephants, a couple of deers, monitors, buffaloes, crocodiles and jackal and few other creatures. I think it is pretty easy to spot wild animals here, perhaps because the park is small compared to many other big players in Africa. However, It’s a nice well kept spacious park. If I ever return to Sri Lanka again I’ll make sure we get a few days to explore this area.
Stefan munsi– :
This 2 days tour was fantastic and mainly the wildlife tour was simply unforgettable. Pask was not crowded as usual. We saw elephants, leopards, mongooses, wild boar, water buffalo, crocodiles and lots of beautiful birds.
Dinesh dixit– :
Peaceful surrounding beautiful lake Nice sunset and add to it the excitement of leopard elephant and deer’s. Even though it was a full day safari, we were not lucky enough to spot a bear. Highly recommended the tour with seerendipity!
Neel sem– :
Excellent 2 days with Jagath, our driver/guide.
Illias mohamad– :
It is not long since the park is opened after the COVID-19 lockdown. We just concluded our safari trip and had a very memorable experience. Our guide Saman and driver Sakur was simply wonderful, kind and a very patient and good driver. He did a good job of staying away from the crowd as we took different routes where it was just us for most of the time. The result was an unforgettable experience…highly recommended.
christopher lemanski– :
Highly impressed with the trip arrangements. Very good guide and the tour was excellent with him. We were lucky to visit most major tourist places within 2 days. I hear that usually, tour operators offer Yala safari and Galle trip separately, however, we could visit both places in one trip and saved a lot of time and money too. Our driver was wonderful, the guides were perfect, food was great, We saw lots and lots of animals, especially 2 Leopards.
Peter thomas– :
Wildlife safari was excellent with plenty of time to search for animals. Our Jeep driver was good and he had an idea of where to go in search of animals. Good hotel withing the jungle, comfortable and good food too.
Robindro– :
Initially, we thought of doing a safari at Yala but my wife suggested me to book 2 days trip seerendipity so that we could also see other major tourist places in south. I’m glad we opted for it with seerendipity. Highly valuable trip with lost interesting places. We saw mant wild animals in the park such as leopards, elephants, many beautiful birds.
Jinsen amin– :
Despite the full day trip, we could see only 1 leopard that was on a tree, could not make an even a proper photo.
Meena sai– :
We saw many elephants but no leopard, they were hiding unfortunately
Andrea fishkal– :
It was great with a closer look at leopards. I never had such a nice experience watching at leopards so closely. Our jeep driver was very good and took us on an interesting jungle track and showed us a lot of animals.
Paul megran– :
A very knowledgeable and helpful guide, unfortunately, we had not seen a leopard
Thomas mahboob– :
The driver was good and the tour was good but the safari jeep was old did not like it much, Our guide Saman was excellent and he had a very comfortable sedan.
Edward– :
Excellent trip
Peter thomas– :
Excellent break for our beach holiday, a bit of nature, wildlife and culture. Nice hotel and good food. Our Guide Kusum was a very good and very funny guy.
Ponny ambla– :
An excellent trip worth every penny. Very good guide (Silva) with a lot of experience.
Gabriel– :
I’m glad we took teh 2 days Yala trip rather than other options. It has a nice blend of cultural, wildlife, beaches. I feel sorry that I could not spend a little bit more time on teh southern coast beaches. Our guide Charam was very good and helpful.
Trenze– :
Very good trip
Reema ali– :
We wanted to see leopards, that was our main intention and we were able to spot 2 leopards. We had seen many other wild animals such as elephants, deer, wild boar, jackal and many other creatures with leopard
Leonard james– :
Excellent trip, very well organized
Ranald kieser– :
We were staying in Bentota and we had already done the Bentota bot tour begore the 2 days trip. The local company was generous to refund us some money that they would spend for Bentota river trip because we did not want to do the Bentota river trip with them. Very good trip with wildlife, beaches, interesting landscape. Fernando was a very good guide and very knowledgeable.
Gonzales– :
Nice trip but we just missed the leopard pair
Klemens tower– :
Very well organized trip with very informative and experienced guide (Fernando)
Neil almeida– :
A very nice short trip
Zandra– :
Perfect match for our layover in Colombo
Olivier rima– :
Fully packed trip with many interesting activities, if there had been more time to leisure it could have been.
Nadia Mcenzie– :
Excellent 2 days trip, however, it is like being on a one week trip because we have seen a lot.
Sanella kohl– :
A fully packed trip with a large number of places to visit and activities to do, however, Fernando (our guide) is very experienced and knowledgeable guide completed teh trip with our any hitch.
Tearano paul– :
I never thought that we could have visited that much of places within 2 days. But our guide Dilva was very good and experienced managed to visit all places. very well organized trip.
Ralston– :
Fully packed 2 days trip, you have not time to waste
John Tiwari– :
Excellent beaches, wildlife reserve, boating, museums, Galle fort and everything is packed into 2 days. Excelklent vehicle, good guide, nice hotel and delicious food.
Mojgan– :
Excellent 2 days of our Sri Lanka trip with a nice and friendly guide/driver. Kusum was very polite and very caring and always assisting us to have a memorable trip. Yala safari was fantastic experince and the picknick local lunch (rice and curry) was delicious, which we had on the beach with our guide and jeep driver.
Schwanda Oduro– :
What was a majocal moment to see 2 leopards lying by the side of the road. Crocodile, elephants, deer, bear we were lucky to spot most animals in the park.
Melinda wilson– :
Very good choice for nature lovers.
Rashmus Ahamed– :
This was our first trip with Seerendipity and it was great experince
Bojan heider– :
We were very lucky to spot most major animals in the park before the lunch and leisurely make our return journey to the hotel bit early.
Kavini Walia– :
Excellent one day trip