Excursion from Colombo to Bentota & Galle
ID: GYG829482-1316859
Category:
Country: Sri Lanka
Duration:
10:00 hours
Description
Explore the Madu River on a boat safari and visit a turtle hatchery on a day trip from Colombo. Discover the Lunuganga estate and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort.
Embark on a full-day adventure from Colombo to the Madu River, a turtle hatchery, and Lunuganga. Visit the historic city of Galle and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort.
Depart from Colombo and travel along picturesque coastal roads, with glimpses of the Indian Ocean shimmering in the morning sun. As you travel south, the urban landscape gradually gives way to lush greenery and charming villages, setting the stage for the day ahead.
Stop at the Madu River, a tranquil waterway that meanders through a rich ecosystem of mangroves and small islands. Embark on a boat safari that offers a unique perspective of this biodiverse habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant birdlife that calls this area home.
Next, your excursion takes you to a turtle hatchery, where you can learn about the vital conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered sea turtles. See various species of turtles, from tiny hatchlings to larger adults.
Continue to Lunuganga, the beautiful estate once owned by renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. This stunning property is a testament to Bawa's visionary approach to landscape and architecture, harmonizing the natural environment with carefully crafted gardens.
As you wander through Lunuganga’s lush grounds, discover meticulously designed gardens adorned with sculptures, water features, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Your guide will share stories about Bawa's life and work, offering insights into the philosophy that shaped his designs.
Travel to the historic city of Galle. Arriving in the late afternoon, find yourself enchanted by the well-preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the fort's cobblestone streets, and encounter a mix of colonial-era buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafes. The fort’s sturdy walls offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, where you can watch surfers catching waves and fishermen going about their day.
Don’t miss the iconic lighthouse and the Dutch Reformed Church, both of which reflect the rich history of this coastal town. Stroll through Galle Fort, stop to sample local delicacies, purchase handcrafted souvenirs, and learn about the fort's storied past, which includes influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonizers.
Highlights
- Discover the beauty of the Madu River on a boat safari through the mangroves
- Visit a turtle hatchery and learn about the conservation of endangered species
- Explore the Lunuganga estate, once owned by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa
- Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect from the sun
Carry water to stay hydrated
Camera is recommended for capturing the scenic views
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.