Nestled along Sri Lanka’s scenic southwestern coast, the Bentota River offers a captivating natural experience. Travelers can embark on a 2-hour river safari, seeing the area’s vibrant ecosystem. At just $35 per person, this tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with sightings of diverse wildlife, from crocodiles to exotic birds. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless experience, while the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provides flexibility. What awaits those who venture down the Bentota River?
Key Points
- Bentota River Safari is a 2-hour cruise offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like crocodiles, snakes, and birds in the natural river and lagoon environment.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off services from various locations in Bentota, Beruwala, Induruwa, and Aluthgama, ensuring a convenient start and end to the experience.
- Priced at $35.00 per person, the safari features live English and German-speaking guides and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary incorporates a break, photo stop, and guided tour, providing an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
- Comfortable clothing and accessories like hats, cameras, and water are recommended, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Activity Overview
The Bentota River Safari is a 2-hour activity that takes visitors on a cruise through the natural wonders of the Bentota River, lagoon, and reservoir.
Priced from $35.00 per person, the tour offers live English and German-speaking guides. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The experience focuses on spotting wildlife like crocodiles, snakes, bats, lizards, kingfishers, herons, and egrets, while cruising through the scenic mangroves.
Cruising through scenic mangroves, the Bentota River Safari offers the chance to spot crocodiles, snakes, bats, and a variety of birds.
The itinerary includes a break, photo stop, and guided tour, providing an immersive look at the region’s natural treasures.
Looking for more options in Aluthgama? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Tour Details
The Bentota River Safari offers visitors an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Bentota River, lagoon, and reservoir.
Guests can spot diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, bats, lizards, kingfishers, herons, and egrets. The safari cruises through scenic mangroves, providing opportunities to capture stunning photographs.
The itinerary includes a break time and a guided tour, ensuring a well-rounded and informative experience.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Bentota River Safari promises an unforgettable adventure along the tranquil waterways of this remarkable region.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
To make the Bentota River Safari as convenient as possible, the tour provides pickup and drop-off services from several locations.
Guests can be picked up from hotels in Bentota, Beruwala, Induruwa, and Aluthgama. There are three designated pickup and three drop-off points: Bentota, Beruwala, and Induruwa.
This allows for flexibility and ensures a seamless start and end to the 2-hour river safari experience. The tour provider aims to make transportation to and from the activity simple and accessible for all participants, minimizing any logistical hassles.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for the Bentota River Safari. These items will help visitors stay comfortable and prepared during the 2-hour cruise. Plus, there are a few restrictions to be aware of:
| What to Bring | Restrictions |
| — | — |
| Comfortable clothes | Not suitable for wheelchair users |
| Camera | Smoking not allowed |
| Water | |
The tour is not accessible for wheelchair users, and smoking is prohibited during the safari. Following these guidelines will ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on the Bentota River.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Feedback from past participants highlights the Bentota River Safari‘s appeal.
With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, the tour receives high praise. Guests emphasize the knowledgeable guides, successful wildlife sightings, and private tour experiences.
Testimonials describe the guides as friendly and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience. The scenic river, lagoon, and reservoir environment, along with the opportunity to spot diverse fauna like crocodiles, snakes, and birds, are the main draws.
Participants appreciate the included hotel pickup and drop-off service, making the tour convenient and accessible.
Exploring the Bentota River
As visitors embark on the Bentota River Safari, they have the opportunity to enjoy the natural splendor of the Bentota River, lagoon, and reservoir. The cruise offers a chance to spot an array of reptiles and birds, including crocodiles, snakes, bats, lizards, kingfishers, herons, and egrets. Guests can navigate through the tranquil mangroves and take in the scenic views. The safari itinerary includes a break time, photo stop, and guided tour, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.
| Wildlife Sightings | Vegetation | Scenic Views |
| — | — | — |
| Crocodiles | Mangroves | Bentota River |
| Snakes | Lagoon | Reservoir |
| Bats | Reservoir | Lagoon |
Spotting Wildlife Along the Way
While traversing the Bentota River, visitors can expect to witness an array of captivating wildlife.
The river safari offers opportunities to spot:
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Crocodiles basking on the riverbanks
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Snakes slithering through the mangroves
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Bats taking flight as the boat approaches
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A variety of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets, hunting and nesting along the river’s edge.
The knowledgeable guide provides expert commentary, helping guests understand the diverse ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
With a keen eye and patience, the river safari promises unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Highlights of the River Safari
The Bentota River Safari offers a captivating journey through a diverse and serene landscape.
Cruising along the river, guests can spot an array of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, bats, and a variety of vibrant birds like kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
The tour takes visitors through the tranquil mangrove forests, providing scenic views and a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the region.
Drift through tranquil mangrove forests, immersing in the natural splendor of the region and its captivating scenery.
With a knowledgeable guide providing commentary, the safari is both educational and enjoyable.
Visitors can also look forward to a break time and photo stop, making the most of this 2-hour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Tour Appropriate for Families With Young Children?
The river safari seems suitable for families with young children. It offers a guided tour, photo stops, and a break, which may accommodate their needs. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so families should consider that.
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat Tour?
Yes, life jackets are provided on the boat tour. The tour operator ensures the safety of all passengers by supplying life jackets for the duration of the river safari.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The activity overview specifies that visitors should bring along water, and doesn’t restrict bringing additional snacks or beverages.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the duration of the tour. Guests can request an extended safari at an additional cost, subject to availability and guide approval. The standard tour lasts 2 hours, but longer experiences can be arranged.
How Often Do the Boats Depart for the River Safari?
The boats depart for the river safari on a regular schedule, typically every 30 minutes to an hour. The specific departure times may vary depending on demand and weather conditions. Customers should check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date schedule.
The Sum Up
The Bentota River safari offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the region. With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as free cancellation, it’s a convenient and affordable way to explore the stunning mangroves and spot diverse wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this 2-hour river cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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