Sri Lanka’s Big Five with Kids

06 Nights / 07 Days

This 7-day family-friendly trip is an optimal package; it includes everything families, as well as kids, would love to do. IIt offers the opportunity to view Sri Lanka’s “Big Five” on safari in the famous Minneriya or Yala National Parks, including elephants, leopards, and sloth bears, to name but a few, as well as cultural interest in sites such as the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, and village activities like canoeing, bullock cart ride, etc. The time spent at the beautiful Bentota Beach will make this trip both adventurous and relaxing, giving you the chance to make the most of your family time.

Day 01 – Arrival & Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and receive a warm welcome from your guide. Take a short drive to Negombo and settle into your hotel. Relax by the beach or hotel pool, unwind after your flight, and enjoy the tranquil coastal setting. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 02 – Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage & Sigiriya

Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to feed and watch elephants bathe in the river. Continue to the Cultural Triangle region and check into your hotel in Sigiriya. End the day with a sunset climb up Pidurangala Rock for panoramic views. Overnight in Sigiriya.

Day 03 – Sigiriya & Village Experiences

Climb the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional bullock cart ride and a catamaran experience through village waterways. Savour a villagestyle lunch and soak up local culture. An optional Ayurvedic head massage is available in the evening. Overnight in Sigiriya.

Day 04 – Dambulla & Spice Gardens / Kandy

Take a short visit to Dambulla Cave Temple to see colourful Buddha statues and marvel at the rock temple. Stop at a spice garden in Matale to learn about aromatic spices. Arrive in Kandy for the evening and enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 05 – Kandy Exploration

Visit Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens to see orchids, palms, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Walk around Kandy Lake and explore the local markets. Stop at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to witness its spiritual significance. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 06 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Train & Tea Factory)

Board the scenic train from Kandy to Nanu Oya, passing rolling hills and tea plantations. Visit a working tea factory and enjoy a tasting session. Explore Gregory Lake and enjoy the cool mountain air. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 07 – Ella & Mountain Views

Drive to Ella and visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge. Take an easy hike up Little Adam’s Peak for breathtaking vistas. Relax at your lodge and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Overnight in Ella.

Day 08 – Scenic Drive to Yala

Take a scenic drive to Yala, passing through rural villages and rolling landscapes. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Overnight near Yala National Park.

Day 09 – Safari & Mirissa

Go on an early morning jeep safari in Yala National Park to spot elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and maybe a leopard. After lunch, drive to Mirissa for a beachside stay. Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 10 – Beach Day / Optional Excursions

Spend a relaxing day on Mirissa Beach. Optional activities include whale watching (December–April) or a trip to Galle Fort to explore colonial architecture, the lighthouse, and ice cream cafés. Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 11 – Departure

Drive along the southern expressway to Bandaranaike International Airport. Optional stop at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery on the way. Depart Sri Lanka with wonderful memories.

Itinerary Highlights :

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO)
  • Minneriya National Park safari (elephants)
  • Yala National Park safari (leopards, sloth bears, elephants)
  • Village bullock cart & canoe experience
  • Mirissa whale & dolphin watching (seasonal)
  • Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
  • Relaxing beach stays in Bentota.

Inclusions:

  • Accommodation in family-friendly hotels
  • Meals on Half Board basis (Breakfast + Dinner)
  • Professional chauffeur guide
  • 500 ml water per person per day
  • Entrance fees to all included sites
  • Transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Government taxes

Exclusions:

  • Meals not mentioned
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities
  • Insurance and visa fees

Plan Your Tour