Mirissa/Weligama/Galle: Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour

The Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour offers a compelling way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning southern coastline. Priced at $57 per person, this tour promises a captivating mix of natural beauty, culture, and conservation efforts. From a serene boat safari on the Madu Ganga River to a visit to a local cinnamon garden and the Turtle Hatchery, the itinerary is designed to provide travelers with a well-rounded experience. But the highlight of the tour might just be the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, where an expert guide’s commentary brings the history and charm of this remarkable site to life.

Key Points

• A coastal day tour that covers Galle and Bentota, priced from $57 per person with free cancellation and the option to pay later.
• Highlights include a Madu Ganga River boat safari, a cinnamon garden visit, a turtle hatchery, and a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.
• Includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off in specified areas.
• Offers good value for money, with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 12 traveler reviews.
• Suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups, with recommendations to bring cash and consider the tour during periods of strong waves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the scenic southern coast of Sri Lanka. Priced from $57 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour covers highlights like the Madu Ganga River boat safari, a visit to a cinnamon garden, the Turtle Hatchery, and the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Transportation in an air-conditioned car and an English-speaking guide are included.

While food and drinks aren’t part of the package, travelers can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan lunch during the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

The Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour offers an engaging itinerary that showcases the region’s natural and cultural highlights.

Guests will be picked up from their hotels in the specified areas and embark on a coastal drive. They’ll experience a serene Madu Ganga River boat safari and explore a local cinnamon garden to learn about its production.

Guests are picked up from their hotels and embark on a coastal drive, experiencing a serene Madu Ganga River boat safari and exploring a local cinnamon garden.

Visiting the Turtle Hatchery allows them to meet various turtle species and understand conservation efforts. Lunch features authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in Hikkaduwa or Galle.

The tour culminates with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a historic landmark.

Inclusions

The Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour includes several key features to enhance the overall experience.

The tour features an English-speaking chauffeur/guide to provide expert commentary throughout the journey. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in specified areas ensure a seamless experience. Comfortable air-conditioned transportation is provided for the duration of the tour.

The tour also includes:

• Madu River Boat Safari at $30 for solo travelers and $25 per person for groups

• Turtle Hatchery Ticket at $15 per person

• Food and drinks not included, allowing for flexibility in dining options

Traveler Reviews

Based on the 12 reviews, the Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5.

Travelers praised the tour’s English-speaking guide, rating them 5 out of 5. The transportation was also well-received, with a 4.6 out of 5 rating.

The tour’s English-speaking guide received a 5 out of 5 rating, and the transportation was also well-received with a 4.6 out of 5 rating.

While the value for money was rated 4 out of 5, reviewers highlighted the smooth drives, great food, and memorable boat rides.

The feedback suggests the tour is suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups of friends, but a need for clearer pricing on additional products at stops was noted.

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Recommendations and Tips

Recommended for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups of friends, the Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour offers an opportunity to experience the scenic coastal regions of Sri Lanka.

To make the most of the tour, visitors should:

• Bring cash for additional expenses at the various stops along the way.

• Consider this tour when swimming isn’t possible due to strong waves, as it focuses on beach activities.

• Provide feedback on any pricing discrepancies for additional products or services at the stops.

• Expect a smooth drive, delicious local cuisine, and a memorable boat ride on the Madu River.

Madu Ganga River Boat Safari

As part of the Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour, travelers can enjoy a boat safari on the Madu Ganga River.

This serene waterway is home to a diverse ecosystem, including mangrove forests, islands, and abundant wildlife. The boat tour provides a unique opportunity to explore this natural wonderland. Guests can spot unique bird species, observe traditional cinnamon peeling, and visit a river-based temple.

The boat safari is a highlight of the tour, offering a peaceful and immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s coastal environment. The additional cost of $30 for solo travelers and $25 per person for groups is well worth the memorable experience.

Turtle Hatchery Visit

Travelers can visit a turtle hatchery as part of the Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour. The hatchery provides an opportunity to learn about sea turtle conservation efforts and observe various turtle species up close.

Visitors can:

• Meet hatchling turtles and learn about the different stages of their life cycle.

• Understand the threats faced by sea turtles, such as habitat loss and poaching.

• Discover the hatchery’s role in protecting turtle eggs and releasing the hatchlings into the ocean.

• Participate in the symbolic release of baby turtles, a meaningful experience for nature enthusiasts.

Exploring Galle Fort

Why is the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort a must-visit destination on the Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour?

As the last stop, the fort offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Visitors can wander the well-preserved 17th-century ramparts, marvel at the Dutch-influenced architecture, and browse the charming boutiques and cafes.

The guided tour provides insights into the fort’s history and significance. Highlights include the lighthouse, the old Dutch hospital, and the stunning views over the Indian Ocean.

With ample time to explore, travelers can enjoy the fort’s timeless ambiance and gain a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

Common Questions

What Is the Duration of the Day Tour?

The day tour lasts for 1 day, as stated in the "Valid for 1 day" section of the tour overview. The full itinerary and activities are designed to be completed within a single day.

Can Children Participate in the Tour Activities?

Yes, children can participate in the tour activities. The tour is suitable for families and includes activities like the Madu River boat safari and visiting the Turtle Hatchery, which are appropriate for children.

Are There Any Additional Stops or Activities Besides the Highlights?

The tour appears to focus on the key highlights mentioned, but the details don’t indicate any additional stops or activities. Travelers may want to inquire about the possibility of customizing the itinerary if they’re interested in other experiences along the coast.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity in the Itinerary?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specify exact time allocations for each activity. However, based on the highlights, it seems the day tour provides a balanced experience, with stops at the Madu River, Cinnamon Garden, Turtle Hatchery, and Galle Fort.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

Yes, the tour offers a 5% discount for bookings, making the price $57 per person. Plus, group rates are available, reducing the cost to $25 per person for groups. Free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options are also offered.

The Sum Up

The Galle & Bentota Coastal Day Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the serene Madu Ganga River to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that showcases the best of the southern coastline. With an insightful guide, comfortable transportation, and diverse activities, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous yet enriching day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: