Itinerary Highlights
- Witness the amazing annual Elephant Gathering at Minneriya National Park
- Climb to the summit of the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya rock, for truly awe-inspiring views
- Embark on a river cruise and a Jeep safari through Gal Oya, and enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by a local chef
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Private Transfers
- Breakfast
- Domestic Flights
- English Speaking Guide
- International Flights
8 nights from £4,632 per person
Jacob
Travel Specialist
The annual Elephant Gathering at Minneriya National Park is one of nature’s great spectacles, taking place during each dry season (July – September). Take your place to watch as many as 400 elephants gather here on this tour which combines amazing wildlife experiences at Minneriya and Gal Oya National Park with the cultural gems of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and the Dambulla Cave Temples.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Sri Lanka
Upon arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to your first accommodation. Relax and unwind at your hotel before your adventure begins.
Day 2 Visit the Elephant Foundation Programme
Habarana
Today, on your drive to Habarana, visit the Millennium Foundation Programme, a charity which was set up to care for native Asian elephants on the island and spread awareness and education on the treatment of these gentle giants.
Day 3 Minneriya National Park
Minneriya National Park
Today in the morning you will explore the Polonnaruwa ruins. Walk around the Monkey Kingdom of UNESCO Polonnaruwa at leisure. Explore multi-storied castles, temples and megalithic Buddha statues and while keeping an eye on its current inhabitants – the monkeys. Enjoy a big game drive in the Minneriya national park where you will witness “The Gathering” of hundreds of elephants to the Minneriya reservoir in search of water every year from June to August.
Staying at
Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
Day 4 UNESCO Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Habarana
After an early breakfast, climb UNESCO Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The ruins of the capital built by the parricidal King Kassapa I lie on the steep slopes and at the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high (the 'Lion's Rock', which dominates the jungle from all sides). A series of galleries and staircases emerging from the mouth of a gigantic lion constructed of bricks and plaster provide access to the site.
Staying at
Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
Day 5 Habarana to Gal Oya National Park
Gal Oya National Park
After a day of exploring, head out on a boat safari and keep an eye out for amazing wildlife. If you're lucky, you might spot elephants bathing in the lake in Gal Oya National Park. This is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the amazing landscapes and nature here, as you cruise through local villages and lush jungle.
Day 6 Gal Oya National Park Safari and Picnic
Gal Oya National Park
Today, explore the wonders of Gal Oya National Park. Our team will arrange for you to head out on a Jeep safari to explore the landscape, before enjoying a picnic lunch prepared for you by a local chef. Perhaps cool off after lunch with a dip in the river, before continuing your intrepid safari.
Staying at
Gal Oya Lodge
Day 7 Gal Oya National Park - Monkey Mountain Trek
Gal Oya National Park
Early morning trek to the top of Monkey Mountain with your in-house Naturalist.
Staying at
Gal Oya Lodge
Day 8 Gal Oya National Park to Kotugoda
Kotugoda
Today you'll catch a Cinnamon Air flight to Katunayaka, and then transfer onto Kotugoda where you'll check-in to The Wallawwa, one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful places to stay.
Day 9 Sri Lanka Departure
Head to the airport for your homebound flight, or continue your Sri Lankan adventure with a tailor-made extension.
Jacob
Travel Specialist
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Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
8 nights from £4,632 per person
