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Blue Star Travels

Surf, Safari & Highland Tour

Surf, Safari & Highland Tour

Option A – East Coast Surf & Wildlife

Route Recommended Travel Period: May – September

Experience the perfect blend of Sri Lanka’s vibrant surf culture, spectacular mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable wildlife encounters on this carefully crafted 12-day journey. Designed for active travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation, this itinerary combines the island’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites with scenic train journeys, tea-covered highlands, national parks, and world-class surf destinations.

Tour Itinerary

12 Days

11 Nights

Day 01 – Arrival → Negombo

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your chauffeur guide before transferring to the relaxed coastal town of Negombo. After checking into your boutique beachfront resort, enjoy the remainder of the day recovering from your international flight while embracing Sri Lanka’s tropical atmosphere. Spend the evening exploring the beach, strolling along the historic Dutch Canal, or enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the Indian Ocean as the sun sets over the coastline.

Day 02 – Negombo → Sigiriya

Travel inland through coconut plantations, rural villages, and fertile farming landscapes as you enter Sri Lanka’s famous Cultural Triangle. Upon arrival in Sigiriya, check into your nature-inspired resort surrounded by lakes, forests, and abundant birdlife. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, with optional wellness treatments or a guided nature walk available before sunset.

Day 03 – Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa

Begin the morning with a climb to the summit of the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Discover ancient royal gardens, frescoes, water gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. During the afternoon, continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where you may explore centuries-old temples, royal palaces, reservoirs, and impressive stone Buddha statues by bicycle or tuk-tuk. An optional village cooking experience offers an authentic introduction to traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

Day 04 – Sigiriya → Kandy

Leave the dry plains behind as you journey towards the cultural capital of Kandy through spice plantations and scenic countryside. Along the way, visit the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple before stopping at a traditional spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic herbs and healing traditions. In the evening, experience the spiritual atmosphere of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic during its ceremonial rituals before settling into your boutique accommodation in Kandy.

Day 05 – Kandy → Nuwara Eliya

Today’s journey takes you through the cool central highlands where waterfalls, rolling tea plantations, and mist-covered mountains dominate the landscape. Visit a working tea plantation and factory to discover the art of Ceylon tea production while enjoying a guided tasting experience. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, often known as “Little England,” enjoy its colonial charm with a leisurely walk around Gregory Lake or explore the town’s quaint cafés and gardens.

Day 06 – Nuwara Eliya → Ella

After a short transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station, board Sri Lanka’s world-famous hill-country train for one of the most spectacular railway journeys anywhere in the world. Travel through endless tea plantations, mountain tunnels, waterfalls, and mist-covered valleys before arriving in the charming town of Ella. After checking into your hillside retreat, enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Ella’s cafés, viewpoints, and mountain atmosphere.

Day 07 – Ella

Wake early to hike Little Adam’s Peak, where sweeping views stretch across Sri Lanka’s southern highlands. Continue to the famous Nine Arches Bridge before spending the remainder of the day enjoying Ella’s many outdoor experiences. Choose from ziplining, ATV adventures, tea estate walks, waterfall visits, or simply relax in one of the town’s many cafés while soaking in the mountain scenery.

Day 08 – Ella → Arugam Bay

Travel through changing landscapes towards the east coast, arriving at the vibrant surf town of Arugam Bay. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or enjoy an introductory surf lesson before experiencing the town’s lively café culture and relaxed beachfront atmosphere.

Day 09 – Arugam Bay

Enjoy a full day embracing Arugam Bay’s famous surf culture. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced surfer, today’s flexible itinerary allows you to enjoy surfing lessons, lagoon safaris, birdwatching, yoga sessions, cycling, or simply relaxing beside the Indian Ocean.

Day 10 – Arugam Bay → Udawalawe

Journey inland towards Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s finest wildlife destinations. During your afternoon jeep safari, search for wild elephants, crocodiles, water buffalo, deer, and numerous bird species across the park’s open grasslands and reservoirs.

Day 11 – Udawalawe → Galle

After breakfast, continue towards Sri Lanka’s southern coastline and explore the charming streets of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Wander through centuries-old colonial architecture, boutique shops, cafés, galleries, and oceanfront ramparts before enjoying a relaxing evening overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 12 – Galle → Departure

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Galle or shopping for souvenirs before your private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey.

Inclusion

  • 11 nights accommodation in carefully selected boutique, luxury, and eco-friendly hotels
  • Daily breakfast throughout the journey
  • Private airport arrival and departure transfers
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
  • Professional English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Scenic train journey seats reservation from Nanu Oya to Ella
  • Safari jeep arrangements
  • Entrance assistance for attractions mentioned in the itinerary
  • Surf lesson and equipment where included within the selected itinerary
  • Bottled drinking water throughout transfers
  • Government taxes and service charges

Exclusions

  • International airfare
  • Sri Lanka visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches and dinners unless specifically mentioned
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic beverages and additional refreshments
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Early check-in and late check-out charges
  • Camera or video permit fees where applicable

Tour Highlights

  • Relax along the tropical beaches and lagoons of Negombo
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Galle Fort
  • Experience authentic Sri Lankan village life and traditional cuisine
  • Visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy
  • Discover Sri Lanka’s famous tea country and enjoy a guided tea tasting experience
  • Travel on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Nanu Oya to Ella
  • Hike to Little Adam’s Peak and visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge
  • Enjoy optional adventure activities including ziplining, ATV rides, waterfall visits, and tea estate walks
  • Experience world-class surfing on either Sri Lanka’s east or south coast depending on the season
  • Enjoy wildlife safaris in Udawalawe National Park with excellent elephant sightings
  • Explore the colonial charm of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
  • Experience Sri Lanka’s changing landscapes from mountains and rainforests to beaches and wildlife reserves