Minneriya: Wild Safari and Polonnaruwa Sightseeing Day Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka’s Polonnaruwa and marveling at the majestic elephants of Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park – it’s all part of this immersive day tour. Priced at €87.17 per person, the small-group experience offers a chance to uncover centuries-old history and witness the island’s incredible wildlife up close. With hotel pickup, meals, and park entrance tickets included, it’s a hassle-free way to make the most of your time in this captivating destination. But the true allure lies in the unforgettable moments that await.

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Key Points

This 1-day tour offers a combined experience of exploring the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa and an exhilarating wildlife safari in either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.
The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, meals, park entrance tickets, and a small-group size of up to 6 participants.
Highlights of the Polonnaruwa sightseeing include visiting the Gal Viharaya, Vatadage, and Dalada Maluwa, showcasing the area’s rich history and architecture.
The 2-3 hour wildlife safari provides an opportunity to witness large elephant herds and diverse wildlife in the respective national parks.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and booking is available online with a meeting point on Google Maps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, named "Minneriya: Wild Safari and Polonnaruwa Sightseeing Day Tour," is priced from €87.17 per person and lasts for 1 day.

A one-day wild safari and sightseeing tour in Minneriya and Polonnaruwa, priced at €87.17 per person.

It’s a small-group tour limited to 6 participants. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited water, a 4×4 safari jeep with an English-speaking driver, free WiFi, park entrance tickets, and meals (breakfast and lunch).

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, and guests can check availability and book online.

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Itinerary and Activities

After breakfast, the tour begins with an exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa.

Visitors will discover the Gal Viharaya with its impressive rock-cut Buddha statues and the Vatadage, a historical structure.

The tour then moves to the Dalada Maluwa complex and other significant sites.

Following a delicious lunch, guests can choose between the Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for an exciting elephant safari.

Here, they’ll witness the vast elephant gathering and diverse wildlife, including baby elephants.

The tour concludes with a comfortable return to the starting point.

Polonnaruwa Sightseeing

Guests begin their Polonnaruwa sightseeing by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, seeing the ancient city’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Guests begin their Polonnaruwa sightseeing by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, seeing the ancient city’s rich history and architectural wonders.

They’ll visit the Gal Viharaya, admiring the impressive rock-cut Buddha statues, and the Vatadage, a historical structure offering insights into the city’s past.

The tour also encompasses the Dalada Maluwa complex and other significant sites, allowing guests to uncover the area’s cultural treasures.

After the exploration, guests enjoy a delicious lunch before transitioning to the wildlife adventure portion of the tour.

Minneriya or Kaudulla Elephant Safari

Following the Polonnaruwa sightseeing, guests then choose between Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for an exhilarating elephant safari. These parks boast some of Asia’s largest elephant gatherings, offering the chance to witness majestic herds and their playful young. The safari experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with these gentle giants, while also spotting other diverse wildlife. The activity provides a perfect blend of wildlife and nature, complementing the earlier historical exploration.

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Wildlife and Cultural Experience

The tour combines historical exploration with wildlife encounters, providing cultural insights and natural wonders.

Explore the vastness of Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, known as one of Asia’s largest elephant gathering sites. Witness elephants in their natural habitat, including baby elephants. The diverse wildlife on display offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.

Beyond the elephants, the tour also showcases the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, allowing visitors to explore the region’s rich history and architectural marvels.

This combined experience creates an immersive adventure into Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural treasures.

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Inclusions

The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off from Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

Travelers will have access to unlimited water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the journey. The 4×4 safari jeep is equipped with an English-speaking driver, and free WiFi is available for stay connected.

Unlimited water bottles, an English-speaking driver, and free WiFi ensure a comfortable and connected safari experience.

Entrance tickets to the safari park are included, as well as breakfast and lunch, providing a well-rounded experience.

This comprehensive package allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Suitability and Booking

This tour may not be suitable for pregnant women due to the adventurous nature of the activities involved. Those interested can check availability, select participants, and pick a date on the booking platform. The meeting point is available on Google Maps for easy access. To give you a better idea, here’s a table with key details:

| Feature | Details |

|———|———|

| Availability | Check online |

| Participants | Select number |

| Date | Choose preferred date |

| Meeting Point | Available on Google Maps |

Meeting Point and Directions

A convenient meeting point for this tour is located on Google Maps. The address is Minneriya National Park Office, Minneriya, Sri Lanka.

Visitors can easily find the location and meet the tour guide there. Parking is available on-site.

From the meeting point, the tour will commence with a pickup by the 4×4 safari vehicle. The driver will provide clear directions and instructions throughout the day.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point a few minutes before the scheduled tour departure time to ensure a punctual start. The tour guide will be waiting to welcome the group and begin the exciting adventure.

Common Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this tour is limited to 6 participants. This helps ensure a more personalized and intimate experience for each traveler.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

This tour does not offer the option to customize the itinerary. The itinerary is set and fixed, with no flexibility to change the activities or order of the day’s events. Participants must follow the predetermined schedule provided by the tour operator.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour package includes a delicious lunch, as well as unlimited water bottles, so there’s no need to pack extra provisions.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Tour?

Wear comfortable, light clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking. Bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a small backpack or bag to carry personal items. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning wildlife and scenery.

Is There Any Age Limit or Restrictions for Children?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not recommended for very young children. Parents should consider their child’s ability to enjoy the activities. Older children are welcome, but must be supervised at all times for their safety.

The Sum Up

The "Minneriya: Wild Safari and Polonnaruwa Sightseeing Day Tour" offers an unforgettable experience exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa and embarking on a thrilling safari to witness majestic elephant herds. With free hotel pickup and drop-off, meals, and park entrance tickets included, this small-group tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka.