Hiking in Sri Lanka
Hiking Sri Lanka provides a unique opportunity to explore its natural beauty up close with a wealth of cultural attractions, wildlife encounters, and stunning vistas along the way. The "Pekoe trail" recently hit National Geographic's 'Best of the World' list and is the focus of this tour, along with a number of smaller but rewarding treks whie you explore some of the highlights of the island.
All our tours can be customised to include preferences or other areas of the island.
Tour Details:
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From $1,798* per person twin share
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Private Tour for 10 nights 11 Days
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Car and Driver throughout the trip
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Bed and Breakfast Basis
* Pricing is dependent on dates of travel and room availability
Day 1: Airport / Negombo
Airport – Negombo approximate travel distance and time | 10km, 30min drive
Negombo is a vibrant coastal city located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, not far from the Airport. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and a network of picturesque lagoons.
The city has a rich history, with Portuguese and Dutch colonial influences evident in its architecture and culture.
Things to Do:
Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the sunset
Visit the Dutch Fort in Negombo for a glimpse into its colonial past
Discover the Negombo Fish Market for a bustling atmosphere and fresh seafood
Explore the Muthurajawela Marsh for bird watching and wildlife spotting
Overnight:
Negombo
Day 2: Hanthana
Negombo - Hanthana approximate travel distance and time | 82km, 2 hours
Nestled in the heart of the hill country, the Hanthana mountain range near Kandy unfolds as a captivating haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Blanketed in lush greenery, the undulating landscapes of Hanthana offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Things to Do:
Pinnawala (enroute). An elephant orphange where injured and orphaned elephants are re-habilitated
Visit the historical city of Kandy
Explore the hill country villages and local waterfalls
Overnight:
Hanthana
Day 3 & 4 : The Pekoe Trail (Hanthana-Galaha-Loolkandura)
Hanthana-Galaha - 4 to 6 hour trek depending on pace (23km hike).
Galaha-Loolkandura - 3 to 4 hour trek depending on pace (17km Hike)
Day 1 Beginning in the Hanthana mountain range, the trail takes you through meandering paths surrounded by dense forests and flourishing biodiversity. As you ascend, the cool mountain air carries the sweet aroma of tea leaves and wildflowers, creating a refreshing atmosphere overnight at Galaha
Day 2 Galaha to Loolkandura the landscape unfolds into a captivating panorama, offering glimpses of the surrounding hills and valleys. The challenging yet invigorating paths elevate the hiking experience, providing a sense of accomplishment and immersion in the natural beauty of the region.
Your vehicle will meet you at Loolkandura to transfer you to Nuwara Eliya
Overnight:
Galaha
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya
Loolkandura – Nuwara Eliya approximate travel distance and time | 66km, 2-hour 30min drive
Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England," is a tranquil hill station nestled in Sri Lanka's central highlands. With its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and colonial charm, Nuwara Eliya offers visitors a scenic retreat
Things to Do:
Hakgala gardens
Lake Gregory
High Tea the Grand Hotel
A round at the Nuwara Eliya Golf club
Overnight:
Nuwara Eliya
Day 6 & 7: Ella (Hill Country)
Nuwara Eliya - Ella approximate travel distance and time | 59km, 2-hours drive
Nestled amidst the lush hill country of Sri Lanka, Ella is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty and serene ambience. Surrounded by emerald, green tea plantations and embraced by misty mountains, Ella is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those yearning for a break from the heat and humidity of the low lands.
Things to Do
Little Adam's Peak a 1 hour accessible trek offering breathtaking views
Hiking to Nil Diya Pokuna which is an underground lake (1hour moderate hike)
Ella Rock (2-3 hour trek to the peak)
The Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering and an icon of Ella
Visit a tea estate
Overnight:
Ella
Day 8: Udawalawe
Ella - Buduruwagala approximate travel distance and time | 38km, 1 hours’ drive
Buduruwagala – Udawalawe approximate travel distance and time | 75km, 1-hours’ 30min drive
Udawalawe, nestled in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, is a charming city renowned for its proximity to the Udawalawe National Park. The city serves as a gateway to one of the island's premier wildlife sanctuaries, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Things to Do
Buduruwagala. 10th century colossal rock carving (enroute from Ella)
Wildlife safari in Udawalawe national park
Vist the Elephant transit home rehabilitating displaced and orphaned elephants
Overnight:
Udawalawe
Day 9: Sinharaja
Udawalawe - Sinharaja approximate travel distance and time | 89km, 3 hours’ drive
Sinharaja Forest Reserve, often referred to as Sinharaja Rainforest, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining primary rainforests in Sri Lanka. The reserve offers well-maintained trekking trails that take through different forest ecosystems. Guided nature walks provide insights into the rainforest's ecology and natural wonders. The rain forest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, housing a high percentage of Sri Lanka's endemic species, including birds, amphibians, reptiles, and butterflies making it a vital conservation area.
Overnight:
Sinharaja
Day 10: Colombo
Sinharajaya - Colombo approximate travel distance and time | 136km, 3 hours’ 30min drive
Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. This coastal city on the Indian Ocean offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, from the historic charm of colonial architecture to indulging in shopping at bustling markets and modern malls, with a vibrant food and nightlife scene there is a lot to do in this modern Asian city.
Things to Do:
Do a walking tour of the city with local guide
Shopping in the cities many malls
Enjoy the many restaurants & bars the city (perhaps join the Dodgy Bars tour of Colombo)
Overnight:
Colombo
Day 11: Transfer to the Airport
Colombo – Airport approximate travel distance and time | 38km, 1-hours drive
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight
Overnight:
None