Galle and Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo

The Galle and Bentota Day-Tour from Colombo offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural attractions. Travelers can explore historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic waterways. With a range of included activities and free time, the tour caters to diverse interests. Whether one’s passion lies in history, nature, or simply experiencing the best of southern Sri Lanka, this day-long excursion promises an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This day tour from Colombo covers the highlights of Galle and Bentota, including a stop at a sea turtle conservation center and a boat cruise on the Madu Ganga.
• The tour lasts 12-14 hours and is priced between $54-$60 per person, with hotel pickup, drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a bottle of water included.
• Participants can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort, learn about cinnamon production, and observe baby turtles being released into the ocean at the turtle hatchery.
• The Madu Ganga boat cruise offers the opportunity to observe local wildlife and learn about the mangrove ecosystem.
• The tour offers flexibility with a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Galle and Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo is a 12-14 hour excursion that offers travelers a chance to explore the southern coastal regions of Sri Lanka.

Priced at $54-$60 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a bottle of water.

Highlights include a photo stop in Bentota, a visit to the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation project, a boat cruise on the Madu Ganga, and free time to explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.

Flexibility is key, with a reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Key Stops and Highlights

This day-tour hits several key stops along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Travelers will visit Bentota for a quick photo stop, then head to Kosgoda to explore a sea turtle conservation center. The highlight is a 105-minute boat cruise on the Madu Ganga, allowing visitors to witness mangrove forests and marshlands. Lunch is provided in Hikkaduwa, followed by time to explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour includes stops to learn about local cinnamon production and see turtle conservation efforts.

| Stop | Duration | Extra Fee |

| — | — | — |

| Bentota | 10 minutes | – |

| Kosgoda (Sea Turtle Conservation) | 45 minutes | $10 per person |

| Madu Ganga (Boat Cruise) | 105 minutes | $30 solo, $25 per person (2-3) |

Madu River Boat Safari

A highlight of the day-tour is the 105-minute boat cruise along the Madu Ganga, a picturesque river system and wetland.

Travelers explore the mangrove forests and marshlands, witnessing the diverse flora and fauna. The boat glides through narrow channels, providing a tranquil and immersive experience.

Along the way, guests learn about the region’s cinnamon cultivation and have the opportunity to sample the spice.

The Madu River boat safari offers a unique chance to observe local wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and potentially even the elusive otter.

This activity provides a serene and educational addition to the day’s adventures.

Cinnamon Garden Visit

Along the tour, guests have the opportunity to visit a cinnamon garden. Here, they’ll learn about the local cinnamon production process and sample the fragrant spice.

Cinnamon is a crucial ingredient in Sri Lankan cuisine and has been an important export for centuries. Guests can observe the harvesting, peeling, and drying of cinnamon sticks.

They’ll also discover the plant’s various uses beyond cooking, such as in traditional medicine and personal care products. This stop provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage and the economic importance of cinnamon to the island nation.

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Turtle Hatchery Experience

Why visit the turtle hatchery? The turtle hatchery offers a unique glimpse into local conservation efforts.

Discover a unique glimpse into local conservation efforts at the turtle hatchery.

Visitors can:

1. Discover several species of turtles, including green, hawksbill, olive ridley, and loggerhead turtles.

2. Observe baby turtles in incubation and hatchling pens, learning about the challenges they face.

3. Participate in the release of baby turtles into the ocean, contributing to the survival of these endangered species.

4. Speak with knowledgeable guides about the importance of turtle conservation and the hatchery’s role in protecting these marine creatures.

The $10 per person admission fee supports the hatchery’s vital work.

Galle Fort Exploration

Galle Fort stands as a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending European and South Asian architectural influences. Visitors can explore the well-preserved colonial buildings, ramparts, and cobblestone streets, seeing the fort’s rich history.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Photo Stop | Capture the iconic lighthouse and scenic vistas. |

| Fort Exploration | Wander through the fort’s winding lanes and discover its local shops, cafés, and historic sites. |

| Free Time | Enjoy unstructured time to explore the fort at your own pace. |

| Duration | Approximately 1 hour spent at the Galle Fort. |

The tour ensures ample opportunity to experience the fort’s unique charm and significance.

Included and Optional Fees

The tour includes several key inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking chauffeur/guide, a bottle of water, and entrance fees.

However, there are some optional activities that come with additional fees:

• Madu River boat safari: $30 for solo travelers, $25 per person for groups of 2-3

• Turtle Hatchery: $10 per person

These optional experiences allow travelers to further explore the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Guests should consider their interests and budget when deciding which activities to add to their Galle and Bentota day-tour from Colombo.

Important Information

Although the tour is open to a wide range of travelers, it may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities and transportation involved.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat for protection against the tropical climate.

The tour is rated highly overall, with strong scores for the quality of the guide and transportation.

However, as with any activity, it’s essential to consider personal limitations and health conditions before booking the tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and request modifications to the itinerary, such as adding or removing certain stops, or adjusting the duration of each activity.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided for the Tour?

The tour provides pickup and drop-off in a shared vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur/guide. The transportation is comfortable and efficient, allowing travelers to focus on the sightseeing experiences throughout the day.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Lunch Stop?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available during the lunch stop. The tour operator caters to various dietary requirements, ensuring all participants can enjoy a satisfying meal as part of the day’s activities.

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

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to confirm any specific policies or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Group Bookings?

The tour offers group discounts for bookings of 2-3 people. For larger groups, the price per person is reduced further. Customers can reserve the tour now and pay later to take advantage of the group savings.

The Sum Up

The Galle and Bentota Day-Tour from Colombo offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural attractions. With highlights like the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center, Madu Ganga boat cruise, and Galle Fort, it’s a perfect adventure for nature and history enthusiasts. The tour’s duration of 12-14 hours ensures an unforgettable experience for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: