Bentota: All Inclusive Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari

Bentota offers an all-inclusive tour that combines the historical significance of the Galle Dutch Fort with the natural beauty of the Madu Ganga River. At just $80 per person, this 8-hour adventure provides a hassle-free way to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife. With flexible booking options and a full refund policy, it’s an opportunity to discover the captivating blend of the region’s past and present.

Key Points

• This all-inclusive tour offers an 8-hour experience exploring the Galle Dutch Fort and Madu River Safari in Bentota, Sri Lanka.
• The tour is priced at $80 per person and includes private transportation, admission fees, and complimentary water and snacks.
• Flexibility is provided with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
• The itinerary highlights include the 14 bastions of Galle Fort, a boat ride through the Madu Ganga wetlands, and a visit to a turtle hatchery.
• The tour give you an immersive cultural and environmental experience, with a focus on the conservation efforts at the Kosgoda turtle hatchery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers an all-inclusive experience, taking visitors to explore the historic Galle Dutch Fort and embark on a captivating Madu River Safari.

Priced from $80 per person, the 8-hour tour includes private transportation, admission fees, and complimentary water and snacks.

This 8-hour tour includes private transportation, admission fees, and complimentary water and snacks, all for a starting price of $80 per person.

Guests can conveniently reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary covers key highlights such as the 14 bastions of the Galle Fort, a boat ride through the Madu Ganga wetlands, and a visit to a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

Tour Pricing

The tour is priced from $80.00 per person, offering an affordable opportunity to explore the historic Galle Dutch Fort and embark on a captivating Madu River Safari.

With a duration of 8 hours, the tour provides excellent value for money. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as complimentary water and snacks.

The booking process is flexible, allowing visitors to reserve their spot without upfront payment. On top of that, the tour’s cancellation policy is generous, granting a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policy. The tour offers:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Reserve now & pay later, allowing you to book your spot without upfront payment.

3. Booking flexibility, giving you the freedom to plan your trip without the burden of immediate payment.

This policy provides peace of mind, allowing you to secure your spot without financial risk.

With the option to cancel or postpone, you can book the tour with confidence, knowing you have the flexibility to adjust your plans if needed.

Itinerary and Highlights

After hotel pickup from Induruwa, Beruwala, Balapitiya, Bentota, or Kosgoda at 7:00 AM, the tour begins with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1588.

Highlights include the 14 bastions and unique architecture, as well as the Utrecht Bastion with its lighthouse and Protestant Church.

At noon, guests experience a scenic drive in Balapitiya before embarking on a Madu Ganga River Safari.

The safari explores a 915-hectare wetland, showcasing kraal fishing structures, wetland birds, and visits to Cinnamon Island and Temple Island.

The tour concludes with a stop at a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

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UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort

Built by the Portuguese in 1588, the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort boasts 14 impressive bastions and a unique architectural style.

The fort’s highlights include:

1. The Utrecht Bastion, which features a historic lighthouse (1883) and a Protestant Church (1775).

2. The intricate network of fortified walls and passages that showcase the fort’s strategic design.

3. The well-preserved colonial buildings and structures that provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s Dutch heritage.

Exploring this remarkable UNESCO site offers visitors a chance to step back in time and appreciate the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels.

Scenic Experience in Balapitiya

After exploring the captivating Galle Dutch Fort, the tour proceeds to Balapitiya, where travelers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. This coastal town offers a picturesque panorama, with its pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and tranquil lagoons. Visitors can witness the daily lives of the local fishing community, as they go about their activities along the shoreline. The scenic experience in Balapitiya provides a serene respite, allowing travelers to reconnect with nature and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

| Highlights | Landscapes | Activities |

| — | — | — |

| Pristine beaches | Swaying palm trees | Observing local fishing community |

| Tranquil lagoons | Coastal panorama | Exploring the serene surroundings |

| Picturesque vistas | Calm and peaceful atmosphere | Reconnecting with nature |

Madu Ganga River Safari

The tour’s next stop is the Madu Ganga River Safari, a 915-hectare wetland teeming with diverse wildlife and cultural experiences.

The safari features:

1. Visits to Cinnamon Island and Temple Island, offering glimpses into the local way of life.

2. Observation of traditional kraal fishing structures and the work of local fishermen.

3. Opportunities to spot a variety of wetland birds, including pond herons and kingfishers, in their natural habitat.

The serene boat ride through the Madu Ganga River provides a unique window into the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda

The tour then moves to the Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda, where the focus is on conservation efforts for endangered sea turtles. Visitors learn about the processes of protecting eggs and nurturing hatchlings. The hatchery showcases its vital work:

| Facility | Capacity | Purpose |

| — | — | — |

| Egg Hatchery | 5,000 eggs | Protect and incubate turtle eggs |

| Nursery | 200 hatchlings | Care for baby turtles until release |

| Release Site | – | Safely return hatchlings to the ocean |

After exploring the hatchery, the tour concludes with the return to the hotel, capping off a day filled with cultural, natural, and environmental experiences.

Common Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Families?

The tour appears suitable for children and families. It includes activities like the Madu River Safari and visiting a turtle hatchery, which should appeal to younger travelers. The itinerary and inclusions suggest a well-rounded, family-friendly experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour. Comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for the tropical climate and be prepared for potentially muddy or wet conditions during the river safari.

Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Local Crafts?

While the itinerary does not specifically mention stops for shopping or local crafts, visitors may have opportunities to browse and purchase souvenirs at the Galle Dutch Fort and during the Madu River Safari.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Customers can request customizations to the itinerary to fit their interests. The tour provider is typically open to modifications, such as adding stops for shopping or local crafts, though this may impact the overall duration and cost of the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

No special equipment is needed for the tour activities. Visitors should bring their passport or ID card, a charged smartphone, and be prepared to participate in the boat rides and visits to the historic sites.

The Sum Up

The Bentota all-inclusive Galle Dutch Fort and Madu River Safari tour offers an enriching 8-hour adventure for just $80 per person. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, marvel at the Madu Ganga wetlands, and visit a turtle hatchery, all while enjoying flexible booking and a full refund policy. It’s a hassle-free journey into Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: