South Coast of Sri Lanka

Arrive in Colombo and travel south to Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage city where history and charm meet by the sea. Inside its 17th-century fort, cobbled streets wind past Dutch mansions, old churches, spice stalls, and colourful cafés. Join a private walking tour to discover the stories of Portuguese and Dutch rule, and sample local flavours at family-run rice and curry stalls or stylish cafés. In the evening, stroll the ramparts with locals and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.
For a deeper cultural option, you can visit a market with a local family to select fresh ingredients and prepare traditional southern Sri Lankan dishes in their home.

Accommodation: Fort Bazaar, a stylish heritage boutique hotel tucked inside the 17th-century walls of Galle Fort.

Venture into the wild southeast of Sri Lanka to Yala National Park, a landscape of forests, open grasslands, lagoons, and rocky outcrops. Spend your days on guided safari drives, where you may spot elephants wandering through the bush, deer grazing by waterholes, and colourful birds flitting between the trees. If luck is on your side, you could catch a glimpse of the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, a rare and striking presence in this untamed wilderness. The sun-dappled landscapes, the calls of birds, and the quiet thrill of the safari combine to create an unforgettable sense of nature.

Accommodation: Uga Chena Huts, a luxurious jungle retreat set between forest and sea.

Travel along the south coast to Tangalle, where golden beaches meet the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean. Spend your days wandering along soft sands, swimming in turquoise waters, or simply relaxing under swaying palms. A short walk or cycle ride leads to nearby fishing villages, where you can watch fishermen bring in their catch, meet local craftspeople, or sip fresh king coconut from roadside stalls. The pace here balances tranquillity, natural beauty, and glimpses of everyday coastal life.

Accommodation: The Last House Tangalle, a serene beachfront retreat of barefoot luxury and tropical charm on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

Your journey ends back in Colombo, with time to enjoy the city in new ways. Wander through colonial landmarks, colourful markets, and quiet temples tucked behind busy streets. Choose to explore further with a vintage jeep ride or a visit to an Angampora martial arts school, where an ancient Sri Lankan tradition is kept alive.

Stop for Lamprais, the Dutch Burgher community’s signature banana-leaf parcel of rice and curry, and, if you wish, finish with a street food tour that brings Colombo’s bold flavours to life.

Accommodation: Maniumpathy House, a beautifully restored colonial manor converted to a boutique hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for a final stroll, a little shopping, or simply relaxing at your hotel before you say farewell to Sri Lanka.