Wild Wild Sri Lanka

Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted by our LHO guide and transferred to Negombo, just a short 30-minute drive from the airport. Check-in at our accommodation is usually at 3 pm, but we’ll always do our best to arrange an earlier check-in for those of us arriving early. Our LHO Team Leader will meet us at the check-in to assist with any needs. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner hosted by our LHO Team Leader, where we’ll have the opportunity to meet our fellow adventurers and learn about the exciting experiences ahead. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Negombo.

Distance: 2.1 KM | Ascent: 250 M | Descent: 250 M | Max Altitude: 349 M

Start our day with a visit to the bustling Negombo fish market, a vibrant place where local fishermen bring in their fresh catches of the day. It’s a sensory experience, with the lively atmosphere of vendors and the colorful array of fish. This visit provides a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals and their fishing traditions.

After our market visit, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Sigiriya, approximately 4 hours away. The journey takes us through lush green landscapes, dotted with small villages, rice paddies, and coconut plantations, giving us a taste of Sri Lanka’s rural beauty.

In the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating climb up Pidurangala Rock. This massive rock formation, adjacent to the more famous Sigiriya Rock, offers a less crowded but equally rewarding climb. The hike to the top, though challenging at times, is worth it for the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the iconic Sigiriya Rock. Watching the sunset from here is breathtaking.

Dinner will be served at our accommodation, providing an opportunity to hear about the exciting adventures planned for the following day and ask any questions. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Sigiriya.

Cycling Distance: 10 KM | Trekking Distance: 4 KM | Ascent: 200 M | Descent: 200 M | Max Altitude: 200 M

After breakfast, we’ll set off to cycle through the back roads of Sigiriya, taking in the beautiful countryside. Our morning adventure includes a climb up the iconic Sigiriya Rock, an ancient fortress with impressive frescoes and water gardens. After descending, we’ll enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the lush scenery.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting safari. This park is renowned for its large herds of elephants, and we’ll have the chance to spot these majestic creatures along with other wildlife in their natural habitat. Dinner will be served at our accommodation, offering another chance to reflect on the day’s adventures. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Sigiriya.

After breakfast, we’ll visit the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning rock paintings and Buddha statues. The temple complex is set within five caves, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s religious history.

Following our temple visit, we’ll drive to Kandy, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. The scenic drive takes us through rolling hills and vibrant green tea plantations. In Kandy, we’ll visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, an important pilgrimage site that houses a relic of Buddha’s tooth. Dinner will be served at our accommodation, where we can unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Kandy.

After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Kandy to Ella. This 7-hour journey offers breathtaking views of lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages. The slow pace of the train allows us to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and capture unforgettable photographs.

Upon arrival in Ella, we’ll have time to relax and soak in the serene mountain atmosphere. Dinner will be at a local restaurant, where we can savor local cuisine and discuss the day’s experiences. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Ella.

Trekking Distance: 15 KM | Ascent: 550 M | Descent: 550 M | Max Altitude: 1,141 M

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a guided trekking trip through Ella’s stunning landscapes. Our trek will take us to Little Adam’s Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. We’ll continue to the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel nestled in the lush greenery.

Our trek will extend to Demodara, a quaint village known for its railway spiral. This 15-kilometer trek will provide plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the region. After a fulfilling day of exploration, dinner will be served at a local restaurant. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Ella.

Trekking Distance: 12 KM | Ascent: 300 M | Descent: 300 M | Max Altitude: 1,400 M

After breakfast, we’ll prepare for an immersive trekking experience as we start the Pekoe Trail, Stage 12. The Pekoe Trail is a long-distance trekking route that traverses through Sri Lanka’s central highlands, offering breathtaking views of tea estates, mountains, and rural villages. This one-night, two-day trekking trip begins today, covering approximately 12 kilometers of moderate difficulty. The trail takes us through scenic tea estates, forests, and rural villages, offering a rich tapestry of Sri Lankan landscapes.

We’ll have lunch along the trail, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Dinner will be served at the Remote Trekker’s Bungalow, where we can relax and share stories from the day’s journey. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Ohiya.

Trekking Distance: 15 KM | Ascent: 400 M | Descent: 400 M | Max Altitude: 1,200 M

After breakfast, our trekking adventure continues with Pekoe Trail Stages 11 and part of 10, covering around 15 kilometers of moderate difficulty. The trail offers diverse scenery, from dense forests to open grasslands, providing a rewarding hiking experience.

We’ll have lunch along the trail before transferring to Kitulgala, a drive of approximately 3.5 hours. Kitulgala is famous for its lush rainforests and adventure activities. Dinner will be served at our accommodation, where we can rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Kitulgala.

Trekking Distance: 5 KM | Ascent: 150 M | Descent: 150 M | Max Altitude: 200 M

After breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the Kitulgala rainforest. Our guided trek will take us through dense jungle, along riverbanks, and to hidden waterfalls, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Lunch will be served between our trek and our exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the Kelani River. Our expert guides will teach us the basics of rafting before we embark on an exciting journey down the river. The Kelani River is known for its gentle to moderate rapids, making it a thrilling yet safe adventure for all.

In the evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner with a bonfire, sharing stories and memories of our journey. This final gathering will be a special time to celebrate our adventures and the friendships we’ve made. Tonight, we will stay at our accommodation in Kitulgala.

After breakfast, transfers will be arranged according to departure times. We’ll head to the airport for our flight back home, a drive of approximately 3 hours. Until we meet again, safe travels!