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 meet your guide for a warm welcome. Transfer to Negombo and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or lagoon. Enjoy a peaceful evening and dinner at your hotel.
Day 02 – Pinnawala & Sigiriya
After breakfast, transfer to Sigiriya, stopping optionally at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to see elephants bathing and being fed. Arrive at your hotel in Sigiriya and check in. Enjoy a relaxed evening at the hotel or take a short walk nearby. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Day 03 – Sigiriya & Village Experience
Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress early in the morning and admire the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, enjoy a village tour including a bullock cart ride, a catamaran trip, and a home-cooked lunch. Visit Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for a jeep safari to spot wild elephants. Return to Sigiriya for overnight.
Day 04 – Dambulla & Trincomalee
Visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple after breakfast and marvel at its ancient murals and Buddha statues. Continue your journey to Trincomalee on the East Coast. Check in at your beachfront hotel at Nilaveli or Uppuveli. Spend the evening relaxing by the sea.
Day 05 – Pigeon Island Snorkelling
Take a boat trip to Pigeon Island Marine Park for snorkelling among colourful coral and tropical fish. Return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon by the beach. Enjoy swimming or walking along the sandy shore. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.
Day 06 – Trincomalee Highlights
Visit the historic Koneswaram Temple and enjoy the dramatic Lover’s Leap viewpoint. Explore the Kanniya Hot Springs and experience the unique thermal waters. Spend the late afternoon relaxing at the beach or by the hotel pool. Overnight in Trincomalee.
Day 07 – Leisure & City Exploration
Enjoy a relaxed morning at the beach with optional whale-watching (seasonal). Later, explore Fort Frederick and other historical sites in Trincomalee city. Stroll along the coastline and take in the laid-back atmosphere. Return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 08 – Transfer to Pasikudah
Drive along the scenic coastline to Pasikudah and check in at your beachfront resort. Spend time relaxing at one of Sri Lanka’s calmest bays. Swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay in Pasikudah.
Day 09 – Pasikudah Leisure & Water Sports
Enjoy a full day at leisure on the pristine Pasikudah beach. Optional water sports include jet skiing, paddleboarding, snorkelling, or catamaran sailing. Take a peaceful walk along the white sand during sunset. Return to the resort for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 10 – Pasikudah to Kandy
After breakfast, drive through Mahiyanganaya and enjoy scenic views of the hill country. Arrive in Kandy and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Attend a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show in the evening. Overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 11 – Hill Country & Train to Ella
Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Transfer to Ella via the picturesque train journey (subject to availability). Relax in the cool mountain climate and explore the charming town. Overnight stay in Ella.
Day 12 – Ella & Departure
Visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls in the morning. Transfer to Colombo and explore city highlights, including Galle Face, Independence Square, and Dutch Hospital. Enjoy some shopping before your airport transfer. Depart with memories of Sri Lanka’s cultural and coastal wonders.
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