Sri Lanka 2-Day Tour: Explore Hikkaduwa, Galle & Yala

Set out on a captivating 2-day tour to explore the southern gems of Sri Lanka. From the stunning beaches of Hikkaduwa to the historical Galle Fort and the wildlife-rich Yala National Park, this compact itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. Discover the country’s natural and cultural wonders, enjoying a world of serene landscapes, colonial architecture, and thrilling wildlife encounters. Get ready to uncover Sri Lanka’s hidden treasures and create lasting memories.

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Key Points

This 2-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring the natural and cultural highlights of southern Sri Lanka, including Hikkaduwa beaches, Galle Fort, and Yala National Park.
The tour is priced at €201.37 per person and includes private transportation and an English-speaking guide, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Day 1 features a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, a Madu River boat safari, and a tour of the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fortress, followed by an overnight stay near Yala National Park.
Hikkaduwa’s idyllic beaches, known for their palm-fringed sandy shores and calm waters, provide opportunities for beach strolls, snorkeling, and surfing.
The Yala National Park safari promises thrilling wildlife encounters, with a high probability of spotting leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour offers an immersive experience in the southern region of Sri Lanka.

Priced from €201.37 per person, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and highlights like Hikkaduwa’s beaches, Galle Fort, Yala National Park, and a boat safari on the Madu River.

The itinerary covers Sea Turtle Conservation, stilt fishing, and more.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the natural and cultural wonders of southern Sri Lanka over the course of two days.

Looking for more options in Hikkaduwa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Hikkaduwa to Galle to Yala

The first day of the tour begins with a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre in Hikkaduwa. Guests will then embark on a Madu River boat safari, exploring the mangrove ecosystem and observing the traditional stilt fishing practice. Next, they’ll venture to the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fortress, a well-preserved colonial site. The day culminates with a stay in Tissamaharamaya, situated near Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserve.

| Activity | Duration | Location |

|———-|———-|———-|

| Sea Turtle Conservation Centre | 1 hour | Hikkaduwa |

| Madu River Boat Safari | 1-2 hours | Madu River |

| Galle Dutch Fortress | 1-2 hours | Galle |

| Overnight Stay | 1 night | Tissamaharamaya |

Exploring Hikkaduwa’s Beaches

Visitors to the Sri Lanka 2-Day Tour begin their journey by relaxing on the idyllic beaches of Hikkaduwa. This coastal town is known for its palm-fringed sandy shores and calm, azure waters.

Travelers can spend the morning strolling along the beach, taking in the sights and sounds of the laid-back seaside atmosphere. Those seeking more adventure can try snorkeling or surfing, as Hikkaduwa is a renowned surf spot.

After a leisurely beachside morning, the tour continues to the historic Galle Fort, providing a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich colonial heritage.

Visiting Galle Fort

After relaxing on the beaches of Hikkaduwa, the tour continues to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich colonial heritage.

Wandering through the fort’s winding streets, visitors can admire the well-preserved Dutch-colonial architecture, visit ancient mosques and churches, and browse local shops and cafes.

The fort’s sturdy ramparts provide panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, making it a photographer’s delight.

This unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Galle Fort a must-see destination on any Sri Lankan adventure.

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Yala National Park Safari

Next, participants journey to Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife-viewing destinations. Here, they embark on an exciting safari to spot the park’s diverse fauna. The experience is truly captivating, with possibilities of encountering sloth bears, crocodiles, and the elusive leopard. Yala boasts the highest density of leopards in the world, making it a prime destination for big cat enthusiasts. The safari provides an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

| Activity | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Yala National Park Safari | 3-4 hours | Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles |

| Boat Safari on the Madu River | 1-2 hours | Mangrove ecosystem, birdlife |

| Stilt Fishing Demonstration | 30-60 minutes | Traditional fishing technique |

| Sea Turtle Conservation Centre | 30-60 minutes | Learn about turtle conservation efforts |

There's plenty more to explore in Hikkaduwa

Madu River Boat Safari

The Madu River boat safari provides an enchanting opportunity to explore the region’s lush mangrove ecosystem.

Gliding through the serene waterways, travelers can spot diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monitor lizards, and migratory birds.

The tour includes a stop at a cinnamon plantation, where visitors can learn about the traditional cinnamon peeling process.

Passengers may also have the chance to visit a small island inhabited by a Buddhist temple and a fishing community.

This tranquil boat ride offers a unique glimpse into the natural wonders and local culture of the Madu River area.

Sea Turtle Conservation Centre

The Sea Turtle Conservation Centre offers visitors a chance to learn about the plight of these remarkable marine creatures and the efforts to protect them.

Guests can observe baby turtles in various stages of development and even witness the release of hatchlings into the ocean. The centre rescues injured turtles, nurses them back to health, and releases them when they’re ready.

Visitors gain insight into the challenges sea turtles face, such as poaching, habitat loss, and plastic pollution.

The centre’s educational programs aim to promote conservation and responsible tourism to ensure the survival of these endangered species.

Experiencing Stilt Fishing

Experiencing stilt fishing is a highlight of the two-day tour.

Experiencing stilt fishing is a highlight of the two-day tour.

Perched precariously on wooden poles jutting out of the ocean, stilt fishermen display their unique and ancient fishing technique.

Visitors can:

Observe the fishermen deftly casting their lines into the waves.
Understand the history and cultural significance of this traditional practice.
Capture stunning photos of the picturesque scene against the backdrop of the serene coastline.
Interact with the fishermen and learn about their daily lives and challenges.

The stilt fishing experience offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich maritime heritage and the resilience of its coastal communities.

Common Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour package doesn’t include meals, so there aren’t any specific dietary restrictions. Travelers can choose their own meals based on their preferences and dietary needs during the included activities and free time.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 3 Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended to 3 days. Travelers can add an extra day to explore more of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural attractions, such as visiting Udawalawe National Park or the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

Can I Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Instead of the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre?

Yes, you can visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery instead of the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre. The tour itinerary can be customized to include the Kosgoda hatchery, which is another popular turtle conservation site in the region.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Larger Group?

Yes, there’s a group discount available. The tour provider offers a per-person price reduction for larger group sizes. The exact discount amount depends on the total number of participants in your group.

Can I Arrange a Private Transfer to My Accommodation on the Last Day?

Yes, you can arrange a private transfer to your accommodation on the last day. The tour package includes pick-up and drop-off service, so they’ll be happy to accommodate your request for a private transfer to your hotel at the end of the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day tour in southern Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and wildlife encounters. Travelers will explore the stunning beaches of Hikkaduwa, enjoy the colonial legacy of Galle Fort, and embark on a thrilling safari in Yala National Park, all while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the island nation.

You can check availability for your dates here: