Hike, Ride & Paddle Sri Lanka

From

£1,890

Duration

15 days

Style

Difficulty

Overview

Get ready for a two-week thrill ride across Sri Lanka, where you’ll be mixing sun-soaked beach days, cultural deep-dives and action-packed adventures. Kick things off on the coast in Negombo, unwinding by the beach before plunging into ancient caves, climbing rocks at sunrise and exploring temples tucked into lush green hillsides. It’s a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration, easing you into island life with a big splash of history and local flavour. And best of all, you’ll be out and about and keeping active so you can tuck into Sri Lanka’s short-eats guilt-free!

From the incredible views of Knuckles Mountain to the mystical heights of Adam’s Peak, this journey is packed with epic treks and memorable moments. Add in a wild safari in Udawalawe, tea tastings in colonial towns and chilled-out beach days in Unawatuna, and you’ve got a trip that’s a bit of everything: culture, adventure and pure relaxation. This is the ultimate Sri Lankan adventure—action-packed, unforgettable and with plenty of downtime to soak it all in.

What's Included?

  • Airport Transfers & Local Transport
  • Expert Local Guides
  • 12 Nights in a Hotels & Guesthouses
  • 1 Night Wild Glamping
  • 1 Night in Farmstay
  • 14 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches & 9 Dinners
  • Park Fees & Permits
  • Sightseeing, Entrance Fees & City Tours
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Soft Drinks, Alcohol or Drinking Water
  • Tips for Guides
  • Personal Equipment & Clothing
  • Souvenirs

Trip Highlights

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: An iconic landmark in Sri Lanka and climbing to the top is a must! The ancient frescoes and jaw-dropping views make every step worth it. Whether you’re into history or just love a great view.
  • Knuckles Mountain Trek: Two days of hiking through lush forests and remote villages in Sri Lanka’s rugged highlands. It’s challenging but totally rewarding – think epic views, fresh air and glamping in the heart of nature.
  • Adam’s Peak: The night climb is tough (so is the early start) but watching the sunrise from the summit is unforgettable. 
  • Udawalawe National Park: Elephants, elephants and more elephants! A safari here gets you up close to these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Daily Itinerary

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Touchdown, grab your bags, and let the adventure begin. Our team will meet you at the airport and whisk you off to Negombo—a laid-back coastal town just north of Colombo. Think golden sands, vibrant fish markets and small fishing boats bobbing in the water. Take it easy today; stroll the beach, sip a fresh coconut or just relax by the pool. It's the perfect spot to shake off that jet lag and ease into island life. You’ve got two weeks of activity ahead, so why not start with a bit of beachy bliss? Meals Included: None

Start the day on the water as you hop on a boat to explore Negombo Lagoon. You’ll cruise through a colourful maze of fishing boats and catamarans, soaking up local life as it happens all around you. After the lagoon, hit the road towards Sigiriya with a pit stop at the Dambulla Cave Temples. These stunning temples are tucked inside ancient caves and packed with giant Buddha statues and vibrant murals. It’s a short drive, but full of fascinating sights. By the time you reach Sigiriya, you'll be buzzing with the first taste of Sri Lanka’s history and culture. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

It’s an early start today, but trust us—it’s worth it! You’re hiking up Pidurangala Rock at sunrise, and the views are off the charts. From the top, you’ll have an epic vantage point of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. After a hearty breakfast back at your hotel, you’ll have some chill time before heading out again in the late afternoon. As the sun sets, take a walk around a nearby lake where you’ll meet a local farmer who’ll tell you about the harsh realities of farming on the fringes of dense jungle. End the day with a delicious home-cooked dinner at the farmer’s village before returning to the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Today, you’re off to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress—one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks. Climb the winding staircase to the top, where ancient frescoes and jaw-dropping views await. After lunch, you’ll hop on a bike to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Cycle past ancient ruins, royal palaces, and colossal statues, all while enjoying the breeze on your face. It’s an easy ride, perfect for cruising at your own pace but can get pretty warm! This is where history meets adventure, and it’s a perfect way to see these incredible UNESCO sites up close. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Get ready to roll up your sleeves! Today, you’re heading to a charming local farm near the Victoria Reservoir, where you’ll get stuck into rural life. Whether it's helping out with the cows or learning to make incense sticks, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. In the evening, you’ll join your hosts for a hands-on cooking class where you’ll whip up traditional Sri Lankan dishes bursting with flavour. Dinner’s served family-style, and it’s all about that laid-back, homey vibe. Forget fancy (and perhaps cutlery); this is all about great food, good company, and the simple joys of life. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Rise and shine, because you'll be able to help around the farm and one thing about farming is universal - no lie-ins! Today’s then going to be all about hitting the trails in the stunning Knuckles Mountain Range. You’ll start off trekking through rice paddies, villages, and terraced hillsides before the path gets steeper and the views get better. With every step, you’ll feel the temperature drop as you enter the lush, misty forests of Knuckles. Five and a half hours later, you’ll arrive at your glamping spot— tents but with all the creature comforts you could need, tucked away in a remote village. Tonight, kick back, enjoy a hearty meal, and get some well deserved sleep! Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

It’s another day of trekking, but this time you’re diving deep into the cloud forests of Knuckles. The morning starts with a challenging climb, but don’t worry—you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views that will make every step worthwhile. You’ll pass through tiny villages, navigate tea plantations, and get to grips with the lush, diverse landscapes of this UNESCO-listed mountain range. It's another 5-6 hours today and after a packed lunch, meet your vehicle and head to Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. Expect an afternoon of laid-back vibes, with time to explore Kandy’s colourful streets or just relax at your guesthouse. Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Today, you’ll lace up your boots again. This time for a hike through the rolling hills of Hantana, offering stunning panoramas of the countryside and Kandy nestled in the valley below. In the afternoon, dive into the bustling heart of Kandy with a visit to the famous Temple of the Tooth—a must-see for any visitor. Wander the local markets and bazaars, picking up trinkets and tasting local street food. From ancient history to modern-day hustle, Kandy’s got it all. Meals Included: Breakfast

All aboard! This morning you’re taking one of the most scenic train journeys through lush tea country, rolling past emerald-green plantations and misty hills. You’ll hop off at Watawala for a short stroll through a tea plantation to your next adventure spot: Kitulgala. Here, you can opt for an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting session down the Kelani River, where splashes, laughs, and a few thrills await. If that's not your thing, just kick back and relax! End the day at the base of Adam’s Peak, ready for the big climb ahead. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Get your torches ready; it’s an early (we’re talking 2 a.m.) start for the climb up Adam’s Peak. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a bit of a pilgrimage at certain times of year (full moon in December and May) and as you ascend in the dark, you might be joining other people making the same journey to catch the sunrise at the top. The views are magnificent and the sense of achievement is off the charts. After descending, you’ll head to Nuwara Eliya, where you can unwind with a tour of a local tea plantation and factory. Sip on fresh brews and soak up the colonial vibes of this charming town. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, it’s time to head south to the wilds of Udawalawe National Park—famous for its elephant population. We've got a bit of time in the car today. First as we drive the four hours or so to get to the national park. And then in the afternoon, you’ll jump into a jeep for a safari, where you’ll spot these gentle giants, along with a variety of other wildlife, from water buffalo to crocodiles. It’s a safari experience that’s all about the thrill of the chase (photographically speaking!), so keep your camera handy and your eyes peeled for those elusive big tuskers. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Today is all about connecting with nature. Start the day with a peaceful paddle on the lake, where you can spot birdlife and soak up the serene surroundings. Then, pay a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are nurtured before being released back into the wild. It’s an inspiring place founded by the Born Free Trust that’s doing amazing work. In the afternoon, you can choose to head back into Udawalawe for a second optional safari, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil setting of your lodge. Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Hit the road to Galle, where history comes alive within the walls of its Dutch Fort. Wander along cobblestone streets, poke around quirky little shops, and soak up the colonial charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort’s ramparts offer stunning ocean views and make for the perfect spot to reflect on your adventures so far. Wrap up the day with a stroll along the beach or an ice-cold drink (ours is a Lion thanks) in one of the fort’s cozy cafes. It’s a laid-back day that’s all about soaking up the sights, sounds, and stories of Sri Lanka’s coastal past and perhaps even joining in with a game of cricket. Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks, so today is all about R&R. Unawatuna’s sandy shores and turquoise waters await. Whether you want to snorkel, swim, or just park yourself on a sun lounger with a book, the day is yours to unwind. The beachside cafes offer up everything from fresh seafood to classic Sri Lankan curries, and there’s no better way to wrap up your trip than with a sunset stroll along the beach. Unwind, relax, and let the island vibes do the rest. Meals Included: Breakfast

All good things must come to an end. After a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to head back to the airport for your flight home. Hopefully it’s been an epic two weeks of adventure, culture, and incredible experiences. Until next time, Sri Lanka! Meals Included: Breakfast

Where We'll Stay

We’ve taken on the tough task of staying at some of the best hotels and guesthouses around the world to hand-pick those that we think you’ll love. For this trip, we‘ve carefully selected a range of accommodation options, offering a mix of locally-owned guesthouses and scenic hotels that we’re sure you’ll love.

While we can’t promise the exact accommodations each night, we can guarantee that every place will be clean, comfortable and ready to welcome you after your day of adventure.

You’ll also have some special experiences on this trip, including a hands-on farm stay and wild but comfortable glamping in Knucles. 

Like the sound of this trip, have a question or want to check something before you book? Maybe even have a great idea to customise this itinerary? Get in touch and start your adventure!

Interactive Route Map

Check out the interactive map of this trip below. You can simply zoom in and have a look at the route.

Or, if you’re wanting to get a feel for the route or to dive into the daily details then click on any of the steps and you’ll be redirected to our Polarsteps page.

What is Polarsteps?

We’ve loaded all of our itineraries onto Polarsteps. It’s an app that can help you plan, track and relive your travels. We’ve used it to display our trips in all their glory but anyone can easily create on-the-go mementos of their adventures. 

Carbon Emissions

This trip emits approximately 444 kg of carbon per person. This includes emissions from transport, accommodation, food, activities, and the operations behind the scenes to run the trip.

What does this mean?

This is roughly the same as driving a typical petrol car about 1,420 miles.

It’s equivalent to the carbon emissions from heating an average UK home with a gas boiler for about 19 days during winter.

Our Approach

We recognise the significant carbon emissions from international travel, but we believe that the positive impact on the countries and communities we visit outweighs these challenges. We provide this estimate to help you make informed decisions about your carbon footprint and consider any offsets you may wish to support.

More Information

What's the fitness level required for this trip?

We grade all of our trips to try and make it easy to understand the fitness levels required. These are broad guidelines however so you’re welcome to chat to us about any specific concerns you might have.

You’ll find more information about these levels here and you can find the difficulty rating for this specific trip at the top of the page.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes, it is. We run adventurous trips and it’s mandatory that you have suitable travel insurance in place to cover overseas medical treatment as well as evacuation or repatriation.

We can’t recommend which provider you use but the main things we’d encourage you to look out for is that you’re fully covered for the activities you’re taking part in (i.e., covers you up to the altitude you’ll be trekking at) and that it covers cancellation in the event that illness or other circumstances prevent you from travelling.

How much should I tip in Sri Lanka?

Tips are not included in any of our trips. They are entirely discretionary but in most cases are expected by the teams that will be looking after you. We know it can be daunting to work out exactly what to give so whilst this guideline hopefully helps, please remember that it’s a completely personal choice and you should feel free to tip more or less based on the quality of service that you receive.

Guide: $10-20 USD per day

Drivers: $5-10 USD per day

Again, tipping is not compulsory and please only do so if the service you’ve received warrants it. It’s hugely appreciated and a way for the teams looking after you to supplement their income.

How do I find out which hotels, meals and activities are included?

Unfortunately we can’t provide an exhaustive list of everything included in the ‘What’s Included’ section of this page as we include a whole bunch of stuff on our trips!

If it’s in the itinerary and we’ve not explicitly said that it’s an optional activity, then yes – it’s almost certainly included. If you’re not sure, please ask.

The meals that are included are all listed on the daily itinerary.

For the accommodation, we’ve got a shortlist of properties that we use. You can get a sense of the types of accommodation we use higher up the page in the ‘Where We’ll Stay’ section. We cannot guarantee any specific properties for your trip as it’s based on availability. If you are wanting to specifically request a property then please get in touch as we’re able to customise our trips.

Which airport do I need to fly into and out of for my trip to Sri Lanka?

Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport is the only airport that our trips in Sri Lanka start and finish at. The airport code is CMB.

What are your payment terms and is my booking financially protected?

Yes, absolutely. Here’s a link to where you can read more about how we are an ABTOT member and have an ATOL licence and what this means for your financial protection when booking a trip with us.

Deposits vary from destination to destination and from trip to trip. Generally speaking we require a deposit of 25%. This amount may be higher for certain trips where more services that usual need to be booked and paid for in advance (such as gorilla permits in Rwanda). Deposits are non-refundable.

Balance payments are required up to 70 days prior to travel.

If you need to cancel your booking, the following fees will apply based on the time before your scheduled departure:

  • Immediate loss of deposit (25% of total cost) upon cancellation.
  • 50% of the total cost if cancelled after the balance is paid and up to 45 days before departure.
  • 75% of the total cost if cancelled 30 to 45 days before departure.
  • 100% of the total cost if cancelled within 30 days of departure.

These fees compensate for expenses and bookings made on your behalf in anticipation of your trip.

Can I customise this trip in any way?

We list a range of itineraries on our website to give you ideas and inspiration and to act as a starting point for planning your adventure.
Each of our itineraries are customisable. This might mean:
  1. adding in extra days or cutting out a day here or there;
  2. squeezing in other destinations or removing them;
  3. starting or finishing the trip in a different place;
  4. staying in a hotel or guesthouse that we don’t list as an option.
There’s really no limit to how customisable a trip is. However it’s important to be aware that we’ve spent a huge amount of time building, refining and travelling on these trips to make sure they maximise your time, budget and experience of each of the destinations we offer.

What if someone under the minimum age wants to travel?

It might not be an issue. Some destinations such as Rwanda have firm rules in place about how old people should be in order to visit the gorillas. In other destinations it’s more of a guideline.

Please do contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

What information will I receive after I book?

After you book, we’ll get to work confirming that the dates you’ve selected are completely available.

There are extremely rare circumstances that may mean we’re unable to confirm your booking. These circumstances are limited to events beyond our control or not being able to secure the services that you wanted to book.

In the extremely rare event that we’re unable to confirm your booking you will be offered an alternative itinerary or a full refund without any fees. Please do not book any non-changeable travel plans until you receive the confirmation from us. This will be within 72 hours.

A detailed Trip Dossier will then be sent to you after you make your booking. It’ll contain all the information you might need to help you pack and get prepared for your trip, including information on visas, vaccinations, packing and training.

We encourage you to refer to the UK Government’s official travel advisory service when planning your trips. You can find the FCDO advice here.

And when you travel, we work closely with local experts to put together the best itineraries. We’ve worked with them exhaustively to provide safe adventures at great value. They know their destination better than we ever could so you’ll be in good hands! You can read a bit more about why we will only ever have locally-led trips here.

Book Now

Whether you’d like more information about this itinerary or to customise it to exactly what you want to do, drop us a line and let us know your plans!

Trip Snapshot

Destination

Min Age

12+

Difficulty Rating