Package Details

Embrace the dual soul of the island with "The Salt & Sun Canopy" by Ceylon Canopy Travels. This 8-day journey is a vibrant tapestry of experiences, weaving together the turquoise waters of the southern coast with the rugged wilderness of the deep south and the misty heights of the hill country.

From the mangrove tunnels of the Madu River and the historic ramparts of Galle to the thrill of tracking wild elephants in Udawalawe and the majestic views atop Ella Rock, this tour is for the spirited traveler. We conclude with a unique stay in Pinnawala, where you can wake up to the sight of elephants bathing in the river—a truly unforgettable finale.

Tour Plan

01 | Day 1 – Mangroves & Golden Sands | Bentota

• Meet & greet at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)
• Private transfer to the sun-drenched coastal town of Bentota
• Embark on a boat safari through the ancient mangrove tunnels of the Madu River
• Visit a cinnamon island and experience a traditional "fish therapy" session
  • [✔] Airport Meet & Greet
  • [✔] Private Bentota Transfer
  • [✔] Madu River Boat Safari
  • [✔] Overnight in Bentota

02 | Day 2 – Colonial Forts & Coral Reefs | Galle & Hikkaduwa

• Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort
• Walk the historic ramparts and visit the iconic Old Lighthouse and Dutch Church
• Afternoon snorkeling at Hikkaduwa Coral Reef to see tropical fish and sea turtles
• Evening relax by the Hikkaduwa beach strip
  • [✔] Galle Dutch Fort Tour
  • [✔] Old Lighthouse Visit
  • [✔] Hikkaduwa Snorkeling
  • [✔] Overnight in Hikkaduwa

03 | Day 3 – Giant of the Deep | Mirissa & Weligama

• Early morning boat expedition from Mirissa Harbor to spot Blue Whales and dolphins
• Visit the famous Coconut Tree Hill for a panoramic view of the bay
• Spend the evening at Weligama Bay, perfect for watching stilt fishermen or taking a surf lesson
• Seafood dinner by the beach under the stars
  • [✔] Whale Watching Expedition
  • [✔] Coconut Tree Hill Visit
  • [✔] Weligama Bay Sightseeing
  • [✔] Overnight in Mirissa

04 | Day 4 – The Elephant Sanctuary | Udawalawe

• Drive from the coast to the wilderness of Udawalawe
• Visit the Elephant Transit Home to see orphaned baby elephants being fed
• Afternoon 4x4 Jeep Safari in Udawalawe National Park, famous for its high density of wild elephants
• Evening relaxation in a jungle-themed lodge
  • [✔] Elephant Transit Home Visit
  • [✔] Udawalawe National Park Safari
  • [✔] Private Jeep & Driver Guide
  • [✔] Overnight in Udawalawe

05 | Day 5 – The Great Canopy Climb | Ella

• Travel from the plains to the mountain village of Ella
• Hike to the summit of Ella Rock for a challenging but rewarding "canopy" view of the southern plains
• Visit the Ravana Falls for a refreshing stop and photography
• Explore the lively Ella town center in the evening
  • [✔] Ella Rock Trekking
  • [✔] Ravana Falls Visit
  • [✔] Ella Town Exploration
  • [✔] Overnight in Ella

06 | Day 6 – Into the Mist | Ella to Nuwara Eliya

• Depart Ella for a scenic drive through the heart of the central highlands
• Stop at the Seetha Amman Kovil, a temple steeped in Ramayana legend
• Visit Lake Gregory for a relaxing stroll or a swan boat ride
• Enjoy High Tea at the historic Grand Hotel or explore the "Little England" town center
  • [✔] Scenic Highland Drive
  • [✔] Seetha Amman Temple Visit
  • [✔] Lake Gregory Sightseeing
  • [✔] Overnight in Kandy

07 | Day 7 – Cultural Heart to Riverside | Kandy & Pinnawala

• Drive from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy, visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic
• Explore the Gem Museum and enjoy a final shopping spree for Ceylon tea and spices
• Continue to Pinnawala for an evening at a riverside hotel
• Watch the sunset over the Ma Oya River, where elephants gather
  • [✔] Temple of the Tooth Visit
  • [✔] Kandy City & Gem Museum
  • [✔] Scenic Drive to Pinnawala
  • [✔] Overnight in Pinnawala

08 | Day 8 – The Gentle Giants | Departure

• Wake up to the sight of the herd walking down to the river for their morning bath
• Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage for the morning bottle-feeding session
• Final transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) via the highway
• End of an unforgettable island adventure
  • [✔] Elephant Riverside Viewing
  • [✔] Pinnawala Orphanage Visit
  • [✔] Final Airport Transfer
  • [✔] End of Tour

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