Negombo/Colombo:Private Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari

Sri Lanka boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. One way to experience this captivating blend is through a private tour from Negombo or Colombo to the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort and the serene Madu River. This full-day adventure promises a seamless journey, allowing travelers to enjoy the country’s architectural heritage and explore its diverse wildlife. From the fort’s impressive ramparts to the river’s mangrove-lined channels, this tour unveils the country’s remarkable treasures.

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Key Points

Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, a historical site showcasing European and South Asian architecture, during a private tour from Negombo or Colombo.
Set out on a Madu River boat safari through mangroves, observing diverse wildlife and traditional fishing methods, as well as visiting cultural sites.
Discover the efforts to conserve endangered sea turtles at a turtle hatchery located on the tour itinerary.
The 9-hour tour includes transportation, boat charges, entrance fees, refreshments, and taxes, with hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations.
The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a private visit to the Galle Dutch Fort and a Madu River Safari, priced at Kč 2,994 per person.

A private visit to the Galle Dutch Fort and a Madu River Safari, priced at Kč 2,994 per person.

It lasts 9 hours and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve now and pay later.

Pickup is included from select hotels, and the itinerary covers the fort, river safari, and a turtle hatchery visit.

The package includes transportation, boat charges, entrance fees, refreshments, and taxes.

Lunch and gratuities aren’t included. Visitors should bring their passport/ID and a charged smartphone.

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Pickup and Itinerary

Pickup for the tour is included from hotels in Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Negombo, Wattala, and Katunayake.

The day begins with a 6:00 AM hotel pickup, followed by a 9:00 AM visit to the Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Around noon, the group departs for Balapitiya, where they’ll enjoy a 2:00 PM Madu River boat safari.

The tour then visits a turtle hatchery at 4:30 PM before returning to the hotel around 5:00 PM.

Transportation, boat charges, entrance fees, and refreshments are all included, though lunch and gratuities are not.

Galle Dutch Fort Highlights

Built by the Portuguese in 1588, the Galle Dutch Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases a unique blend of European and South Asian architecture. The fort features 14 impressive bastions, including the Utrecht bastion which houses a lighthouse. Within the fort’s walls, visitors can admire the Baroque-style Protestant church built in 1775. The fort’s impressive architectural elements are highlighted in the following table:

| Feature | Description |

| ——- | ———– |

| Bastions | 14 formidable bastions line the fort’s walls |

| Lighthouse | Situated atop the Utrecht bastion |

| Church | Baroque-style Protestant church built in 1775 |

This well-preserved colonial landmark offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Madu River Safari and Turtle Hatchery

After visiting the historic Galle Dutch Fort, the tour continues to Balapitiya where guests embark on a captivating Madu River Boat Safari.

The 915-hectare coastal wetland is home to diverse wildlife, including pond herons and blue kingfishers. The cruise through the mangroves offers opportunities to observe traditional fishing methods.

Guests also visit Cinnamon Island and Temple Island.

The tour then stops at a turtle hatchery, where visitors learn about conservation efforts for endangered sea turtles.

The safari and hatchery provide a fascinating glimpse into the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

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Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes transportation by private vehicle, as well as boat charges for the River Safari and entrance fees for the Turtle Hatchery.

Includes private vehicle transportation, boat charges for River Safari, and entrance fees for Turtle Hatchery.

Fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees are also covered. Complimentary refreshments and water are provided, and all government taxes are included.

To make the most of the experience, guests should bring:

Passport or ID card
Charged smartphone
Appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes

Lunch at a local restaurant and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.

Visitors should be prepared to cover these additional expenses during the day.

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Exploring the Galle Dutch Fort

As visitors step through the grand archway of the Galle Dutch Fort, they’re immediately transported to a bygone era, where the impressively preserved ramparts and bastions stand as a testament to the fort’s storied past.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort was originally built by the Portuguese in 1588, before being expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Guests can marvel at the unique blend of European and South Asian architecture, including the iconic lighthouse and Baroque-style Protestant church.

Exploring the fort’s 14 bastions offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial history and the strategic significance of this coastal fortress.

Discovering the Wonders of the Madu River

Following their visit to the captivating Galle Dutch Fort, travelers embark on a serene boat safari along the Madu Ganga, a 915-hectare coastal wetland teeming with diverse wildlife.

The Madu River safari offers a unique opportunity to:

Cruise through the mangrove-lined waterways, spotting pond herons, blue kingfishers, and observing traditional fishing methods.
Visit Cinnamon Island and Temple Island, learning about the local culture and ecology.
Gain insights into the conservation efforts for endangered sea turtles at the nearby turtle hatchery.

With the included boat charges and entrance fees, this immersive experience allows visitors to fully discover the wonders of the Madu River.

Sustainable Tourism and Sea Turtle Conservation

Alongside the captivating Madu River safari, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the critical efforts to conserve endangered sea turtles at the nearby turtle hatchery.

At the hatchery, guests can observe the rehabilitation process and understand the threats facing these marine reptiles, including habitat loss and poaching.

The hatchery plays a vital role in protecting sea turtle populations by incubating eggs and releasing the hatchlings into the ocean.

Visiting the turtle hatchery supports sustainable tourism and raises awareness about the importance of conservation, allowing travelers to contribute positively to the region’s environmental initiatives.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary, visit duration, and add/remove activities based on your interests and requirements.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Boat for the Madu River Safari?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private boat for the Madu River Safari. This allows you to have a more personalized and exclusive experience on the river. Private boat bookings can be requested when making the tour reservation.

What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is also advisable to protect against the sun during outdoor activities.

Are There Any Additional Stops or Activities That Can Be Added to the Tour?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops or activities, such as visiting a tea plantation, exploring a spice garden, or stopping at a local market. Travelers should discuss any desired changes with the tour operator.

Can I Pay for the Tour in a Currency Other Than Czech Koruna?

Yes, the tour can be paid for in several currencies. While the listed price is in Czech Koruna, travelers can also pay in Euros, US Dollars, or other major currencies. The exact exchange rate will be provided at the time of booking.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Negombo or Colombo offers a remarkable opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the captivating history of the Galle Dutch Fort and embark on a serene river safari, discovering diverse wildlife and contributing to sustainable tourism efforts, including sea turtle conservation. It’s a seamless and memorable experience that showcases the best of Sri Lanka’s cultural and environmental treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: