Bentota Beach, River Mangroves Lagoon, Wildlife Tour

The Bentota Beach, River Mangroves Lagoon, and Wildlife Tour is a captivating experience that blends the serenity of a river cruise with the vibrancy of diverse wildlife. As guests embark on this guided journey, they’ll observe fascinating creatures like crocodiles and monkeys amidst the lush mangroves. But this tour offers more than just nature; it also allows visitors to explore the area’s rich cultural heritage, including a visit to an ancient Buddhist temple and an herbal garden.

Key Points

• Guided wildlife experience along the Bentota River, including observation of crocodiles, monkeys, giant lizards, and various birds.
• Includes a 2-hour boat cruise and a visit to an ancient Buddhist temple and an herbal garden.
• Priced from $30.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited to small groups of 6 participants, with convenient transportation options available from Colombo or Western Province.
• Offers a tranquil and immersive exploration of the Bentota River’s diverse ecosystem and natural biodiversity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Bentota Beach and Wildlife Tour offers a guided wildlife experience along the Bentota River, priced from $30.00 per person.

The 2-hour tour is limited to small groups of 6 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

Visitors can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and book their spot without payment.

This tour combines scenic river cruising, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration, making it an ideal introduction to the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

Itinerary and Activities

Starting at Aida Gems & Jewellery in Bentota, the tour takes visitors on a boat cruise along the Bentota River to observe the diverse local wildlife. During the 2-hour journey, guests can spot crocodiles, monkeys, giant lizards, and an array of birds like sea eagles and egret herons. The tour also includes a visit to the ancient Buddhist temple of Kande Vihara and an exploration of an herbal garden featuring indigenous spices and medicinal plants. Optional car transfers are available for those requiring transportation to and from the Western Province.

| Activities | Duration |

| — | — |

| Boat Cruise & Wildlife Viewing | 2 hours |

| Visit to Buddhist Temple | – |

| Herbal Garden Exploration | – |

Wildlife and Natural Habitat

Visitors on the Bentota Beach and Wildlife Tour can experience the lush habitats of the Bentota River, which serve as home to a diverse array of local wildlife.

Giant crocodiles bask in the sun while sea eagles soar overhead. Curious monkeys and agile monitor lizards scurry through the mangroves, and egret herons wade in the shallows.

This eco-system is teeming with life, offering travelers a chance to connect with the region’s remarkable biodiversity. From the tranquil boat, guests can observe this natural wonder and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of the Bentota River’s ecosystem.

Guided Boat Cruise Experience

Although the tour begins at Aida Gems & Jewellery in Bentota, the main highlight is the leisurely boat cruise along the Bentota River.

Aboard a small, slow motorboat, guests embark on a 2-hour journey to observe Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. With a skilled guide on board, they’ll spot crocodiles, monkeys, monitor lizards, and an array of birdlife.

The tranquil waterways provide a serene backdrop as the group explores the mangroves and passes an ancient Buddhist temple. Life jackets are provided, ensuring a safe and comfortable adventure amidst the rich ecological habitat of the Bentota River.

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Ancient Buddhist Temple and Herbal Garden

After the serene boat cruise along the Bentota River, the tour takes visitors to an ancient Buddhist temple, Kande Vihara. This 10th-century shrine offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can explore the temple’s intricately carved statues, intricate murals, and the surrounding tranquil grounds.

Next, the tour visits an herbal garden showcasing indigenous spices and medicinal plants. Guests learn about the region’s traditional herbal practices and their uses in Ayurvedic medicine.

This integrated experience provides a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural wonders of the Bentota region.

Transfers and Accessibility

The tour offers convenient transportation options for guests. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5-hour drive from Colombo to Bentota.

Alternatively, the tour provides a 20-minute transfer from Western Province. Guests simply need to select their preferred pickup location during booking. Transfers are included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless experience.

Upon arrival at the starting point, travelers will find Aida Gems & Jewellery, the designated meeting spot. From there, the guided river cruise and wildlife viewing adventure begins.

The tour’s accessibility and transportation arrangements make it easy for guests to enjoy the stunning Bentota riverscape.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of essential amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

These include:

1. A slow motorboat cruise along the Bentota River, providing a leisurely and immersive way to observe the local wildlife.

2. Life jackets provided for safety and comfort during the boat ride.

3. An English-speaking guide who shares their expertise on the area’s biodiversity and points out key wildlife sightings.

While the National Park entrance fee is included, food and drinks aren’t provided.

Tips are optional, allowing guests to show their appreciation at their discretion.

Customer Feedback and Testimonials

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Bentota Beach and Wildlife Tour, with the tour earning an impressive 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the skilled guide’s eagle-eye for spotting wildlife, creating a relaxed atmosphere even during travel warnings. One customer described the experience as "enjoyable and fun," praising the tour’s ability to connect visitors with the region’s rich biodiversity outside the typical mass tourism offerings.

The tour’s small group size, free cancellation policy, and included National Park entrance fee also received positive mentions, making it an attractive option for those seeking an immersive nature experience in Bentota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Family-Friendly and Suitable for Children?

Yes, the wildlife tour is family-friendly and suitable for children. The small group size, safety equipment, and guided activities cater to a range of ages, making it an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

How Much Luggage Can We Bring on the Tour?

The tour allows participants to bring a reasonable amount of luggage, such as a small backpack or handbag. Larger suitcases or heavy items are not recommended, as there’s limited space on the boats. Guests should pack light for a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participants?

The tour is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. There are no special requirements to join the wildlife tour, which provides a leisurely boat cruise along the river to view the local flora and fauna.

Can We Customize the Tour to Our Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to meet guests’ specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and tailor the itinerary to focus on areas of particular interest, such as wildlife, culture, or photography.

What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot without payment and pay later, providing flexibility for potential changes in plans.

The Sum Up

The Bentota Beach, River Mangroves Lagoon, and Wildlife Tour offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Guests can expect a guided boat cruise along the Bentota River, spotting diverse wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys amidst the lush mangroves. The tour also includes visits to a Buddhist temple and herbal garden, providing a well-rounded exploration of the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: