Private Galle and Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo

This private day-tour from Colombo offers an enriching 12-hour adventure through Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders. From spotting sea turtles to cruising through mangroves and exploring the historic Galle Fort, the itinerary promises a well-rounded exploration. With convenient hotel transfers and a personalized experience for up to three people, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the highlights of the Galle and Bentota regions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this day-trip could be the perfect way to learn about the beauty and heritage of this captivating island nation.

Key Points

• This private day-tour from Colombo offers a full-day excursion to explore the highlights of Galle and Bentota, including a turtle conservation site and Madu Ganga mangrove cruise.
• The tour is priced at $160 for up to 3 people and includes pickup, an English-speaking guide, and a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.
• Highlights of the itinerary include learning about local turtle species, experiencing a cinnamon plantation, and enjoying a 2-hour boat safari through the Madu Ganga mangroves.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation from Colombo, and cancellations are eligible for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
• Recommended items for the tour include comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and cash for additional expenses like the turtle hatchery entrance fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The private Galle and Bentota Day-Tour from Colombo offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Priced from $160 for up to 3 people, the 12-hour tour includes pickup from Colombo and an English-speaking guide.

Highlights include visiting a turtle conservation site, cruising the Madu Ganga mangroves, and exploring the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s Itinerary Highlights cover a diverse range of activities and attractions.

Visitors will start by exploring the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation project, learning about local turtle species.

Next, they’ll embark on a 2-hour Madu Ganga boat cruise, navigating the mangrove forests and marshlands.

Guests will then visit a cinnamon plantation to experience the production process firsthand.

The highlight is the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort, where they’ll have an hour to freely explore the historic site.

Finally, the tour returns to Colombo, the main stop after the day’s adventures.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes private hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking chauffeur/guide, and a water bottle.

Additional costs include the Turtle Hatchery Entrance fee of $10 per person and the Madu River Boat Safari, which is $30 for solo travelers and $25 per person for groups of 2 or more.

Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, insect repellent, cash, a scarf, a charged smartphone, and binoculars.

Pets, oversized luggage, drinks in the vehicle, alcohol, glass objects, surfboards, fireworks, and nudity aren’t allowed on the tour.

Important Information

Guests are advised to come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect themselves from the tropical sun.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential to shield from the tropical sun.

They’ll also want to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, and insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes. Cash is recommended for any additional expenses like the turtle hatchery entrance fee.

Guests should avoid bringing pets, oversized luggage, drinks, alcohol, glass objects, surfboards, fireworks, and nudity, as these items aren’t allowed on the tour.

The experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, allergies, or recent surgeries.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback

Based on the single review provided, customers have given the Private Galle and Bentota Day-Tour a perfect 5/5 rating.

One reviewer, Brittney from the United States, booked the tour in December 2023 and praised its professionalism, stating, "The tour was nice. The professionalism is impeccable!! I loved it."

This positive feedback suggests the tour delivers a high-quality experience that meets or exceeds customer expectations.

With a 100% satisfaction rate from the sole review, the tour appears to be a reliable and enjoyable option for those seeking a private day trip from Colombo to explore Galle and Bentota.

Exploring Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation

After exploring the captivating Galle Fort, the day-tour takes visitors to the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation site.

Here, guests can:

Learn about the different species of sea turtles, witness the release of baby turtles, and tour the hatchery to observe their development.

1. Learn about the different species of sea turtles found in Sri Lanka, including the Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Loggerhead turtles.

2. Witness the release of baby turtles into the ocean, a heartwarming experience that highlights the conservation efforts.

3. Tour the hatchery and observe the various stages of the turtles’ development, from eggs to hatchlings.

4. Engage with the knowledgeable staff and understand the importance of protecting these endangered marine creatures.

Discovering Madu Ganga Boat Cruise

After exploring the Galle Fort, the day-tour takes visitors on a captivating Madu Ganga boat cruise.

The Madu Ganga is a complex estuarine system of mangroves, small islands, and waterways. Guests board a traditional wooden boat and glide through the tranquil waterways, taking in the lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife.

The boat cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the natural beauty and unique ecosystem. Visitors may spot birds, monitor lizards, and even the elusive Sri Lankan mangrove crab.

The Madu Ganga boat cruise is a serene and informative experience, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich ecological heritage.

Experiencing Cinnamon Garden and Galle Fort

The day-tour now takes visitors to explore the Cinnamon Garden and the historic Galle Fort.

At the Cinnamon Garden, guests can:

1. Observe the cultivation and processing of Ceylon cinnamon, a prized spice.

2. Learn about the history and economic importance of this fragrant crop in Sri Lanka.

3. Interact with local farmers and artisans to understand traditional cinnamon production methods.

4. Browse and purchase unique cinnamon-based products and souvenirs.

Next, the tour ventures to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, where visitors can freely explore the well-preserved colonial architecture, bustling streets, and vibrant local markets.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, you can typically customize private tours to include additional stops. The tour provider may be able to accommodate special requests, though there may be an additional cost for the customization. It’s best to discuss your preferences with the tour operator.

Is the Tour Accessible for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour can accommodate individuals with disabilities, but it’s best to discuss any special needs with the tour provider in advance. They’ll work to ensure the experience is accessible and comfortable for all participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options Available?

The tour doesn’t specifically mention dietary restrictions or options. However, travelers should feel free to inform the tour provider of any dietary needs in advance, and they’ll do their best to accommodate.

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

While you can bring your own food and drinks, the tour provider recommends against this as the vehicle’s space is limited. They provide a complimentary water bottle and encourage passengers to purchase refreshments at the tour stops.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you need to reschedule, you’ll need to cancel and book a new reservation, as this tour doesn’t offer rescheduling options.

The Sum Up

The Private Galle and Bentota Day-Tour from Colombo offers an enriching 12-hour experience, showcasing Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural highlights. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour includes visits to the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation, a scenic boat cruise through the Madu Ganga mangroves, and a tour of the historic Galle Fort. Priced at $160 for up to three people, this guided tour guarantees a delightful and personalized exploration of Sri Lanka’s captivating sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: