2027 Sri Lanka Wildlife, Wonders & World Heritage Escorted Tour with Bucket List Travel

The Wonders of Sri Lanka

16-Day Escorted Tour | 23rd April – 8th May 2027

Escorted by Michelle from Bucket List Travel

Join us on an unforgettable 16 day escorted journey through the incredible island of Sri Lanka. From ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife and warm local hospitality, this carefully crafted itinerary showcases the very best this fascinating destination has to offer.

Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, venture on thrilling safaris through Yala and Minneriya National Parks, journey through the spectacular hill country on one of the world’s most scenic train rides, visit a traditional tea plantation, experience authentic village life, enjoy a hands on cooking class with a local family, explore the charming streets of Galle Fort, and relax in handpicked luxury accommodation throughout the tour.

Our 2026 Sri Lanka Escorted Tour was an outstanding success, with guests returning home full of wonderful memories and glowing feedback. It also sold out incredibly quickly, so we encourage you to secure your place early to avoid missing out on what promises to be another unforgettable Bucket List Travel adventure.

Europe Christmas Market
Europe Christmas Market

Itinerary

Day 1 | Auckland - Singapore - Colombo - Negombo

Your adventure begins with your flight from Auckland to Colombo via Singapore. On arrival, you’ll be met by your local guide and transferred to the beautiful coastal town of Negombo, where you’ll settle into the 5-star Jetwing Blue for a relaxing two-night stay, the perfect place to unwind before your Sri Lankan adventure begins.

Day 2 | Negombo

Enjoy a leisurely morning before exploring the highlights of Negombo on a guided city tour. Visit the colourful Angurukaramulla Temple, the impressive St. Mary’s Church, and the historic Dutch Fort, gaining an insight into the city’s fascinating culture and colonial history. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers over a special Welcome Dinner at the hotel.

Day 3 | Negombo - Dambulla - Kandalama

Travel into Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, stopping to explore the spectacular Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave shrines, statues and colourful murals. Continue to the tranquil village of Kandalama, where you’ll spend the next three nights at the iconic 5-star Heritance Kandalama, a stunning Geoffrey Bawa-designed hotel nestled amongst lush forest overlooking the lake.

Day 4 | Kandalama – Sigiriya – Hiriwadunna – Kandalama

Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular attractions. Wander through ancient gardens, admire the famous frescoes, and take in breathtaking views from the summit. This afternoon, experience authentic rural Sri Lankan life with a Hiriwadunna Village Safari, including a traditional bullock cart ride and a peaceful catamaran cruise across the picturesque lake.

Day 5 | Kandalama–Minneriya–Kandalama

Enjoy a leisurely morning before setting out on an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park. Famous for its incredible wildlife, the park is home to one of the world’s largest gatherings of wild Asian elephants, along with deer, monkeys and a wonderful variety of birdlife. This is an unforgettable opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife in its natural habitat.

Day 6 | Kandalama – Matale – Kandy

Journey into the beautiful hill country, stopping at a traditional spice garden in Matale to discover Sri Lanka’s famous spices and their uses. Continue to the cultural city of Kandy, where you’ll visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the country’s most important Buddhist sites. This evening, enjoy a colourful traditional cultural performance before settling into your accommodation for the next two nights.

Day 7 | Kandy – Peradeniya – Kandy

Experience genuine Sri Lankan hospitality with a visit to a local family home, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes during a hands on cooking class before enjoying the delicious meal together. Later, wander through the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, home to thousands of exotic plant species. This evening, discover the highlights of Kandy on a city tour, including panoramic views from Upper Lake and a visit to the vibrant local markets.

Day 8 | Kandy – Gampola - Nuwara Eliya

Travel through the breathtaking hill country to the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, known as Sri Lanka’s Little England. Along the way, visit a local village school for a heartwarming cultural experience before discovering the island’s famous tea heritage with a visit to a working tea factory and tea plantation, where you’ll even try your hand at tea plucking. Finish the day with a delightful High Tea at the iconic Grand Hotel before checking into your luxurious mountain retreat.

Day 9 | Nuwara Eliya

Enjoy a relaxed morning before visiting Ambewela Farm, affectionately known as Little New Zealand. Set amongst rolling green pastures, this picturesque dairy farm is famous for its Friesian and Ayrshire cattle and premium dairy products. Learn about its unique New Zealand connection before returning to your hotel to enjoy dinner.

Day 10 | Nuwara Eliya – Yala

Board one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic train journeys from Nanu Oya to Ella, travelling through beautiful tea country and mountain landscapes. On arrival, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and picturesque Ravana Falls before continuing to Yala. Settle in for a two night stay at the luxurious 5 star Jetwing Yala, surrounded by wilderness near the national park.

Day 11 | Yala

Set out on an unforgettable jeep safari through Yala National Park, one of the best places in the world to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard in the wild. Keep an eye out for elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, buffalo, peacocks and an incredible variety of wildlife as you explore this spectacular national park. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities at your luxury resort.

Day 12 | Yala – Weligama

Travel along Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coastline, stopping at Weligama to see the famous traditional stilt fishermen, one of the country’s most iconic sights. Continue to the historic city of Galle, renowned for its charming Dutch colonial architecture, cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the next two nights at the luxurious 5 star Weligama Bay Marriott Resort and Spa, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 13 | Weligama

Step back in time as you explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial charm, ocean views, boutique shops and fascinating history. In the afternoon, unleash your creativity during a hands on batik and tie dye workshop, where you’ll create your own colourful keepsake to take home as a special reminder of your Sri Lankan adventure.

Day 14 | Weligama – Colombo

Travel to Colombo, stopping along the way to visit a sea turtle conservation hatchery, where you’ll learn about the important work being done to protect these incredible marine creatures. Arrive in Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital and enjoy a stay at the luxurious 5 star Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 15 | Colombo

Explore the highlights of Colombo on a guided city tour, visiting the impressive Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Hall, the scenic Galle Face Green waterfront and the beautifully restored Old Dutch Hospital precinct. Finish with time to soak up the sights, sounds and shopping opportunities at the bustling Pettah Market before enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

Day 16 | Colombo - Singapore - Auckland

After breakfast, bid farewell to Sri Lanka as you’re transferred to Colombo Airport for your journey home via Singapore. Relax and reflect on the unforgettable memories, incredible wildlife, rich culture and warm hospitality you’ve experienced throughout your Sri Lankan adventure.

Inclusions

  • Return flights from Auckland with Singapore Airlines
  • All scheduled activities
  • All accommodation
  • Transfers in Sri Lanka
  • All breakfasts & dinners
  • Local tipping
  • Fully escorted group travel with a Bucket List Travel team member

Pricing

Twin Share: from $12,944 pp    |     Solo: from + $3,500 pp
Pricing based on 8 paying passengers

Maldives Island add-on options available! 

After exploring the culture, wildlife and landscapes of Sri Lanka, why not unwind in paradise with a few relaxing days in the Maldives? With crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and luxurious overwater villas, it’s the perfect way to finish your holiday. We have a range of Maldives add on packages available and would be delighted to help you create the perfect ending to your journey.

 

Terms & Conditions apply

Don’t miss out! Fill in the booking form to secure your spot!

Call us to chat about it on 09 426 1490