Sri Lanka & The Maldives, From Colombo to North Malé Atoll

In the heart of Ceylon and a trip extension to the Maldives 4^*

On arrival at the airport you will be greeted by our representative with a shell necklace. You will be given a complete travel pack, including a map of Sri Lanka and all the useful information for your stay.

You will then be transferred to your hotel in Negombo to relax after the flight.

In the evening, you can explore this charming coastal town: stroll through the lively streets, explore the famous fish market, admire St Mary's Church and the Dutch Fort, or visit the colourful Angurukaramulla Temple. A delicious dinner of local seafood is the perfect way to round off this immersive experience.

Highlight: Visit Negombo (approx. 3-4 hours) surrounded by beaches, culture and colonial heritage.age.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Negombo.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you will head towards Dambulla with an unforgettable stop on the way: the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This sanctuary offers a unique and moving experience with orphaned elephants which you can see feeding, bathing in the river and interacting freely with their keepers. A highly emotional moment that will delight young and old alike (visit duration: approximately 2 to 3 hours).

After settling into your hotel in Dambulla, prepare for another marvel: the famous Sigiriya Fortress, also known as Lion Rock. This spectacular site, perched 200 metres high, houses the remains of an ancient royal palace, millennia-old frescoes and hanging gardens. The climb is challenging but well rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and an immersion in the fascinating history of Sri Lanka (Full visit: approximately 2.5 to 3 hours).

Dinner and overnight at hotel in Dambulla.

After breakfast, the day begins with a gentle immersion into the Sri Lankan countryside on the Hiriwaduna Village Trek, near Sigiriya. This authentic journey takes you through lush rice fields, peaceful paths, small lakes and traditional villages. Guided by a passionate local, you'll have a real encounter with the country's culture: interaction with the locals, demonstrations of handicrafts and rides in an oxcart or boat, depending on the season... a charming and simple experience (duration: approx. 2 to 3 hours).

In the afternoon, head to the ancient royal capital of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive location is an open-air museum with its sacred stupas, majestic temples and ancient pools. You'll walk in the footsteps of kings and pilgrims of the past in a place steeped in spirituality and history (duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace).

Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Dambulla.

After breakfast, depart for Kandy, the cultural capital nestled in the heart of the mountains. On the way, stop at the Matale Spice Garden, a fragrant and enriching experience. Here you will discover the secrets of Sri Lanka's ancient spice culture: cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg... all accompanied by amazing demonstrations, a relaxing head and shoulder massage and an immersion in the world of local medicinal plants (visit lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours).

On arrival in Kandy, check into your hotel and in the evening set off to explore the country's spiritual jewel: the Temple of the Tooth Relic. This iconic UNESCO-listed sanctuary houses a precious tooth of the Buddha. Amidst traditional ceremonies, ritual music and a serene atmosphere, you will experience a powerful moment rich in spirituality and history (visit duration: approximately 1 to 1.5 hours).

Dinner and overnight at hotel in Kandy.

After breakfast, set off for an unforgettable day in the heart of Sri Lanka's mountainous landscapes. The highlight of the day? The train journey between Nanu Oya and Ella, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. This trip will take you through breathtaking panoramas: hills carpeted with tea plantations, misty forests, sparkling waterfalls, and quaint little villages… a moment of pure poetry! (Duration: approximately 2h30 to 3h).

Upon your arrival in Ella, a charming town nestled in the heights, settle into the hotel and, at the end of the day, take a walk to an iconic site: the Nine Arches Bridge. This gem of colonial engineering stands majestically amidst lush jungle and verdant hills. A magical place, perfect for photography enthusiasts and beautiful sunsets (Visit: approximately 30 min to 1h).

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Ella.

After breakfast, head southeast towards Yala, with an essential stop at the Ravana Falls along the way. Nestled in the mountains of Ella, this spectacular waterfall offers a refreshing moment and a superb backdrop for your photos.

Check into the hotel in Yala, then prepare for an unforgettable adventure: a jeep safari in Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic. Accompanied by a qualified wildlife guide, you will encounter extraordinary fauna: leopards, elephants, crocodiles, peacocks, buffaloes and a variety of birds in a wild environment that combines savannah, forests and wetlands. An exhilarating experience that blends adrenaline and wonder (safari duration: approximately 3 hours - usually in the late afternoon).

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Yala.

After breakfast, head towards Bentota, the coastal gem of the southern coast. On the way, delve into history with a visit to the magnificent Dutch fort of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through its cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings, discover its ramparts overlooking the ocean, the iconic lighthouse, the reformed church, and its charming shops. A true journey back in time, with a touch of tropical bliss (Duration: approximately 1 to 2 hours).

After settling into your hotel in Bentota, the day continues with a quiet encounter with nature: a boat safari on the Madu River. Navigate through lush mangroves and peaceful islets, encountering birds, monitor lizards, crabs and other small wonders of this preserved ecosystem. A moment of pure escape on the water. (Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours).

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bentota.

After a final breakfast in Sri Lanka, it's time to head to the airport for a new adventure… off to the Maldives!

Upon arrival in the Maldives, a warm welcome awaits you at the airport with our local representative. You will then be transferred to a little corner of paradise: the Canareef Maldives Resort, accessible by domestic flight and speedboat, or speedboat only, depending on the schedule.

Once at the resort, settle into your villa and let yourself be lulled by the idyllic atmosphere of the Addu Atoll: pristine white sandy beaches, endless turquoise lagoons, and the soothing sound of the waves.

All-inclusive package: Delight in delicious and varied cuisine, refreshing drinks, and exotic specialities in a relaxing setting.

🏖 Let go: Relax on the beach, enjoy a cocktail by the water, explore the resort's facilities or simply enjoy this haven of peace at your own pace.

The Canareef Resort is the perfect blend of comfort, nature, and serenity, to beautifully start your beach holiday in the Maldives.

Overnight at Canareef Maldives Resort.

Note: Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the flight for a smooth departure.

These days are yours… Leave stress behind and immerse yourself in the Maldivian way of life.

Start each morning with a delicious and colourful breakfast, combining tropical fruits, pastries, hot dishes, and refreshing juices, all with an ocean view.

Throughout the day you can enjoy the all-inclusive package, with a variety of buffets, chef's specials, gourmet snacks and exotic cocktails to tempt your taste buds.

Total relaxation or activities à la carte:

• Indulge in a spa treatment
• Relax by the pool
• Explore the beach or indulge in water sports such as snorkelling, paddle boarding or jet-skiing (activities are at an additional cost).

Unwinding in paradise: Stroll barefoot on the white sand, dive into the crystal-clear waters, watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand or enjoy the evening entertainment, with its live music and relaxed atmosphere.

These three days are a dreamlike interlude: it's up to you to choose the pace, between relaxation and adventure.

Overnight stays at Canareef Maldives Resort.

After a final breakfast overlooking the lagoon, it's time to say goodbye to this slice of paradise. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport by a domestic flight combined with a speedboat.

Important: Ensure you are at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for a smooth return.

From the majestic temples of Sri Lanka to the idyllic beaches of the Maldives, the wild nature, vibrant culture and warm hospitality throughout the tour will leave you with memories to treasure.

• Flight times and hotel names will be given when the voucher is sent, i.e. a maximum of 48 hours before departure.
• For people booking the ‘hotel only’ package (without international flights), please let us know your flight details as soon as possible using the contact form located in ‘Help and Contact’ at the bottom of the page, so that we can organise your transfers.
• In accordance with the amendments to the Tourism Law issued by the Maldivian government, applicable to all travellers arriving in the Maldives, the ecological tax payable by travellers on arrival at hotels (including tourist resorts, tourist hotels, tourist guest houses, tourist ships) is US$12.00 per person per day.
• Return airport/hotel transfers are provided.
• The flight between Colombo and Malé is included.
• Allow for tips for drivers and guides.