Wild Encounters Sri Lanka & The Maldives

Arrival into Colombo International Airport - Negombo

Day 1: Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport - Negombo

Arrival into Colombo International Airport
Excursion: Welcome to Sri Lanka! A representative will meet you at the arrival lounge of Colombo International Airport to welcome you to Sri Lanka and answer any questions you may have about your trip.


Transfer from Colombo International Airport to Negombo
Car Transfer: Transfer to Negombo, a popular beach destination on the West coast, close to the airport and the city of Colombo. Estimated travel time: 15 minutes


At leisure in Negombo
Excursion: Soak up the sun and relax on the golden sand of Negombo beach. Though it isn't as paradisaical as some of Sri Lanka's other beach locations, it is perfectly spacious and tranquil. Find a beach spot and head in the water for a refreshing dip. If you would prefer to do some exploring, the town has an interesting old quarter so you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the colonial streets and Dutch fort to get a sense of the history of the place - which was once one of the most important sources of cinnamon. The South of Negombo town gives a beautiful insight into the area's history and the daily routine of its people. The old streets evoke a historic charm and there is a cheerfulness from the colourful boats clustered together on the sand. For a glimpse of coastal Sri Lankan life, you may want to wander down to the Negombo fish market and witness the energetic buzz of a traditional fishing port; locals call it 'Lellama'. While you walk on the beach, you can watch fishermen untangle their fishing nets. Negombo is well known for its traditional fishing industry which relies on the network of Dutch canals connecting to Negombo lagoon. You can approach the market from Munnakare Bridge, which boasts wonderful views. In the evening, the beach road in Negombo comes alive as locals and tourists head to the many bars, pubs and seafood restaurants in this area. Why not join them for an ice cold beer (or two)?

Afternoon Safari At Yala National Park

Day 2: Yala

Transfer from Negombo to Yala
Car Transfer: You will be transferred from the coastal city of Negombo to Yala, the most visited and the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Estimated travel time : 4 hours - mostly on the highway with one rest/refreshment stop.


Afternoon safari at Bundala National Park
Excursion: Bundala National Park was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and re-designated to a national park on 4 January 1993. The national park is situated 245 km southeast of Colombo and approximately 30km from Yala National Park. In 1991, Bundala became the first wetland to be declared as a Ramsar site in Sri Lanka and then in 2005 it was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO - the fourth biosphere reserve in Sri Lanka. Bundala National Park is an internationally important wintering ground in Sri Lanka for migratory water birds. It harbors around 197 species with almost half of them being migrant birds. The highlight for most is the Greater Flamingo which migrate in large flocks, often over 1,000 individuals, from Rann of Kutch of India. Other water birds which are present in large numbers include Lesser Whistling Duck, Garganey, Little Cormorant, Indian Cormorant, Grey Heron, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill Asian Openbill, Painted Stork, medium sized waders, Tringa subspecies, and small waders, Charadrius subspecies. Black-necked Stork, Lesser Adjutant and Eurasian Coot are rare birds that also inhabit this national park. This safari lasts approximately 3 hours (from 3pm to 6pm).

Day Out In The Wild

Day 3: Yala

Full day safari in Yala National Park
Excursion: Spend a full day exploring Yala National Park, whose vast landscape comprises of grassy plains, forest, rocky scrub land, lagoons and a coastline. This variety of environments allows Yala to support a diverse range of animals and bird life, ensuring that your day in the park is a rewarding experience and provides a magnificent exhibition of Sri Lanka’s native wildlife. Yala is considered as one of the best places to see leopards in the World and so undoubtedly spotting one of these elusive creatures will be one of your challenges for the day. Since most other jeeps leave the park after the morning safari and only return in the afternoon, you are likely to have the game reserve to yourself for a number of hours in the middle of the day. In a quieter environment the animals are likely to be more at ease, giving you a greater chance to catch a sighting of the more mysterious animals, like the majestic leopard. You can enjoy a picnic breakfast, lunch and refreshing beverages throughout the safari, which will run from 06:00 to 18:00.

At Leisure At Cinnamon Wild - Afternoon safari in Yala National Park

Day 4: Yala

At leisure at Cinnamon Wild Yala
Excursion: Enjoy some time at leisure at Cinnamon Wild Yala. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or arrange some activities with the hotel. You could take part in a kayaking trip on Yoda Lake, tour a local beekeeping estate or plan another game drive in Yala National Park. Alternatively, there are plenty of nearby villages to explore - you can organise bike rental or a guided tour with your lodge.


Afternoon safari in Yala National Park
Excursion: Take an afternoon game drive in Yala National Park and get a taste of the untamed world of Sri Lanka’s most impressive wildlife. Located in Sri Lanka’s South East and hugging the coast of the vast Indian Ocean, Yala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and has been a declared national park since 1938, one of the first in the country. It is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka owing to its impressive array of wildlife, including the world’s largest concentration of leopard endemic to the region, Asian elephants, sloth bears, peacocks and saltwater crocodiles. As well as its grand spectacle of wildlife, Yala is the site of a series of beautifully preserved ancient temples, which offer a glimpse into the world of a lost civilisation. Among these stands the Rock Temple and the Monastic settlement of Sithulpawwa, an important pilgrim site that is said to have housed around 12,000 inhabitants around 2,000 years ago.

5 Hours Extended Safari At Udawalawe National Park

Day 5: Udawalawe

Transfer from Yala to Udawalawe
Car Transfer: Estimated travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes


Extended safari at Udawalawe National Park
Excursion: Udawalawe is an important habitat for Sri Lankan Elephants, which are relatively easy to see in its open environment. Many elephants are attracted to the Park because of the Udawalawe reservoir which provides a reliable source of water. It is believed that there is a herd of about 250 elephants that are permanently resident here. Udawalawe is also a good birdwatching site. Endemics such as Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Brown-capped Babbler and Sri Lanka Junglefowl are among the breeding resident birds. White Wagtail and Black-capped Kingfisher are rare migrants here while a variety of water birds also visit the reservoir, including cormorants, the Spot-billed Pelican, Asian Openbill, Painted Stork and Black-headed Ibis. The open parkland attracts birds of prey such as White-bellied Sea Eagle, Crested Serpent-eagle, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Booted Eagle, and Changeable Hawk-eagle. Landbirds are in abundance too and include the Indian Roller, Indian Peafowl, Malabar Pied Hornbill and Pied Cuckoo. On this extended safari, we venture deep in to the jungle, primarily focusing on spotting elephants and birds but if you are lucky, you may also come across one or two leopards too. There has been an increased number of leopard sightings in the recent past although they are still rare due to their impressive ability to camouflage. Duration: Approximately 5 hours, from 1pm to 6 pm.

Kalametiya Lagoon Bird-watching Catamaran Tour - Galle

Day 6: Kalametiya - Galle

Transfer from Udawalawe to Tangalle
Car Transfer: You will be transferred from the wildlife haven of Udawalawe to Sri Lanka's Southern coastal city, Tangalle. Estimated travel time: 2 hours


Kalametiya Lagoon bird-watching catamaran tour
Excursion: Today you will go on a bird-watching boat tour at Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary. This is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in Sri Lanka and home to approximately 150 species of birds. On the catamaran, you will cruise around the waters of the sanctuary before having the opportunity to climb rocks and go on a jungle walk. This tour is designed to give you the maximum opportunity to spot as many species of birds as possible! Duration: Approximately 3 hours, from 3pm to 6pm.


Transfer from Tangalle to Galle
Car Transfer: Drive along the coastal belt of Southern Sri Lanka as you enjoy a scenic route through villages and suburban areas until you arrive at the historic city of Galle. Estimated travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Whale Watching Off Mirissa - City Cycling & Galle Fort Visit

Day 7: Mirissa - Galle

Transfer from Galle to Mirissa
Car Transfer: Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour


Whale watching off Mirissa
Shared Excursion: Between November and April, the Indian Ocean is warm and calm, offering the perfect conditions for whale watching. Set your alarm clock or request an early wake up call, as a morning of whale watching awaits you. In the waters just off the coast of Mirissa you'll have the chance to spot majestic blue whales, sperm whales, a range of dolphin species and the occasional sea turtle. The boats depart between 6.30am -7am. Duration: Approximately 3 to 5 hours depending on the sightings/conditions. N.B - This tour is also available on a private basis for an additional fee.


City cycling & Galle Fort visit
Excursion: Galle is the administrative capital of Sri Lanka's Southern province and the fourth largest city in the Country. This city has particular historical importance as before the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, Galle was the main port on the Island. The Dutch quickly realised the value of its position and the City reached the height of its development in the 18th century. Galle is the best example of a fortified city built by the Portuguese in South and Southeast Asia, showing the interaction between Portuguese architectural styles and native traditions. The Galle fort, which you will visit during this excursion, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. For today's cycling trip, you will be briefed by your English-speaking local guide before riding into Galle city. Your first stop will be Galle Fort itself and you will stop to learn more about the monuments within the Fort. This includes the Dutch Reformed Church, the National Maritime Museum, the Meera Mosque and the Galle Lighthouse. You will have time at leisure within the Fort so that you can revisit sites that are of particular interest to you or so that you can explore independently before cycling out of the so-called new entrance which was constructed in 1873. After leaving the Fort, you will then have a chance to see the City itself in more detail and make stops at local markets to perhaps peruse souvenirs or try some Sri Lankan food. You can pick up some refreshments in the markets before continuing on to Murugan Hindu Temple. Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours. We recommend starting this tour in the afternoon around 1pm.

International Flight From Colombo To Male (Maldives) - Domestic Flight From Male International Airport To Villa Airport Maamigili - Initial Meeting With Our Maldives Dive Team

Day 8: Malé International Airport - Ari Atoll

Transfer from Galle to Colombo International Airport
Car Transfer: You will travel along the Galle-Colombo highway to the Airport and we will ensure you arrive in good time for your onward flight. Estimated travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes


International flight from Colombo to Male (Maldives)
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: After checking in at Colombo airport, you will board your flight to the Maldives. You will fly West across the Indian Ocean, enjoying wonderful views if it is a clear day, before touching down in Male Airport. N.B. If you would prefer for us to arrange this flight for you then please let us know and we can do so. Estimated flight time: 1 hour


Meet our representative at Male International Airport
Excursion: On arrival, proceed through immigration then security/customs. Once you have cleared customs, you will pass through a double sliding door into the main arrival area, which is where our representative will meet you. He/she will provide a trip briefing and assist you with your onward transfer. A 24 hour local mobile number will be provided to you should you need assistance at any point in your trip. N.B. Please do not attempt to bring alcohol or religious items into the Maldives as these will be held at customs until your departure.


Domestic flight from Male International Airport to Villa Airport Maamigili
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: A shared 20 minute domestic flight. N. B - Domestic flight transfers will be as closely aligned as possible with your international flight arrival/departure timing. Check-in times and safety procedures apply as per your International flight check-in. Any excess luggage (over 20 kg per passenger) will be charged at US$1.00 per kg, which can be paid in cash or by credit card direct to the airline carrier at the domestic terminal. Excess luggage may be subject to delay as it may have to be accommodated on a separate flight due to weight restrictions. Hand luggage allowance is 5 kg. Please note that if the flight is full you may be requested to step on the luggage scales in order that both passenger and luggage weight is evenly distributed throughout the aircraft. Baggage allowance is not applicable for infants. Transfer rates are subject to increase if fuel surcharge increase.


Speedboat transfer from Maamagili to Dhangethi Island
Shared Boat Transfer: Our representative will assist you to get on board the speedboat to Dhangethi Island. Estimated transfer time: 20 minutes


Initial meeting with our Maldives Dive Team
Shared Excursion: Settle in after taking your first steps on the sands of this tropical paradise. The dive team will meet you to discuss the plans for the next days ahead and complete registration. Please remember to bring along your dive card, dive log and referral documentation.

1st Morning dive in the Ari Atoll - Day 1 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island

Day 9: Ari Atoll

1st Morning dive in the Ari Atoll
Shared Excursion: Experience the underwater marvels of the Indian Ocean - many of the best dive sites in this area of the World are situated in the Ari Atoll. Your dive guide will recommend the best sites to visit based on your interests and experience. You will see stunning coral formations, incredible underwater colours and a huge variety of fish life. There are also regular manta ray and whale shark sightings it this part of the Indian Ocean which is why so many people keep coming back for more visits. Popular dive sites include Broken Rock, Protected Marine Area Kudarah Thila, Panettone and Angaga Thila - speak to your guide on arrival and they can explain the highlights of each. Includes - Two tanks with two dives/weights, boat fees and dive guide. N.B - Standard dive departures are between 08:30-09:30am. Boat departs to the dive site, you will have your first dive followed by a 60 minute surface interval before your second dive and finally, return to the Island. This structure allows dive sites to be further afield for the first dive and closer to the Island for the second dive, making the most of the time available. Times and dive sites are always subject to change due to weather, ocean and current conditions.


Day 1 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island
Excursion: Today you will have free time to explore this beautiful island paradise. Take a visit to Bikini Beach where you can snorkel in the house reef - sometimes turtles can be seen here! It is only 2 minutes walk to the village so easily accessible and the beach is cleaned daily so you will be able to relax on the pristine white sand.

2nd Morning dive in the Ari Atoll - Day 2 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island

Day 10: Ari Atoll

2nd Morning dive in the Ari Atoll
Shared Excursion: Today you will get back into the Ocean for your second dive here. There is so much to discover underwater in the Ari Atoll that no two dives will be the same. Includes - Two tanks with two dives/weights, boat fees and dive guide. N.B - Standard dive departure would be between 08:30-09:30 AM. Boat departs to dive site, first dive, 60 minute surface interval, 2nd dive and return to island (this allows dive sites to be further afield for the first dive and closer to the island for the second dive without wasting time travelling to and from the island). Times and dive sites are always subject to change due to weather, ocean and current conditions.


Day 2 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island
Excursion: This is your second day of free time in this place - we would recommend trying out some watersports! From May to October it is kite surfing season and there are some excellent conditions for this sport to be found here. Paddle boarding, windsurfing, jet-skiing are just a few examples of the activities that are offered on the island. You can book many of these direct with your hotel on arrival.

3rd Morning dive in the Ari Atoll - Day 3 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island

Day 11: Ari Atoll

3rd Morning dive in the Ari Atoll
Shared Excursion: The South Ari Atoll is famous among divers for its volume of pelagic species. It is not uncommon to see manta rays, whale sharks, hammerheads, guitar sharks, turtles, grey reef sharks and eagle rays all within a few days of diving - as this is your third dive, we hope that you have already had the chance to see a vast array of marine animals. South Ari Atoll is also home to frogfish, zebra morays, nudibranchs, blueline snappers and hundreds of other colourful fish species - make sure you take your underwater cameras! Includes - Two tanks with two dives/weights, boat fees and dive guide. N.B - Standard dive departures are between 08:30-09:30am. You will usually visit two sites within the time allotted to this activity with a 60 minute surface interval between them. Times and dive sites are always subject to change due to weather, ocean and current conditions.


Day 3 At Leisure in Dhangethi Local Island
Excursion: This is your third free day in Dhangethi Local Island and hopefully you have already had the chance to explore the island and interact with the local people. If you have not yet made it to Shopping Street to pick up a locally crafted souvenir then this may be a chance to do so. If you would prefer to spend some more time in the water, you can book onto a night fishing excursion or a tour that offers snorkelling with whale sharks which are spotted here all year round. If you would like to do some more diving then you can not find a better place as Dhangethi has over 50 dive sites! Enjoy!

Speedboat transfer from Dhangethi Island to Dhigurah Island - Meeting with our Maldives Dive Team

Day 12: Ari Atoll

Speedboat transfer from Dhangethi Island to Dhigurah Island
Shared Boat Transfer: You will be assisted to get on board the speedboat to be transported to Dhigurah Island. Estimated transfer time: 10 minutes


Meeting with our Maldives Dive Team
Excursion: You will meet again with our specialist dive team to discuss future diving excursions. This may be because you have moved locations and so will be exploring a different part of the Maldives or because you have requested additional guidance/recommendations. Please ensure that you bring relevant documentation to the meeting including your dive card and dive log.

4th Morning dive in the Ari Atoll - Day 1 At Leisure in Dhigurah Island

Day 13: Ari Atoll

4th Morning dive in the Ari Atoll
Shared Excursion: There are so many dive sites on offer in the Ari Atoll that it can be hard to decide which ones to visit - as this is your fourth dive, we hope you have been able to experience many of the sites on offer. Our helpful dive masters are available to discuss with you what you may want to see or do next. Here is a list of a few of the sites in the area for you to consider: 7th Heaven Kuda Rah Thila Hukuru Elhi Faru Rheeti Thila Maaya Thila Fish Head Includes - Two tanks with two dives/weights, boat fees and dive guide. N.B - Standard dive departures are between 08:30-09:30am. Times and dive sites are always subject to change due to weather, ocean and current conditions.


Day 1 At Leisure in Dhigurah Island
Excursion: Today you have free time to explore the island or just chill out. We would recommend booking a local tour to a sandbank where you can enjoy a picnic and take a stroll.

5th Morning dive in the Ari Atoll - Day 2 At Leisure in Dhigurah Island

Day 14: Ari Atoll

5th Morning dive in the Ari Atoll
Shared Excursion: You will be fast becoming an expert of the seas here in the Ari Atoll. You probably have noticed that this atoll does not have long stretches of barrier reef but instead has underwater islands known as thilas. These thilas are located within the diving area around the Atoll where the tide changes and so gives divers great access to an array of diverse sea life. Please discuss with your dive guide any requirements that you have for the day e.g. if there is a particular type of sea creature that you have not yet seen that you would like to so that they can make recommendation - of course, there is no guarantees where wildlife is concerned but they will certainly do their best to make sure you visit the best spots for the greatest chance to see them. Includes - Two tanks with two dives/weights, boat fees and dive guide. N.B - Standard dive departures are between 08:30-09:30am. Times and dive sites are always subject to change due to weather, ocean and current conditions.


Day 2 At Leisure in Dhigurah Island
Excursion: This is your second free day on this beautiful local island. Why not book a whale shark safari or go snorkelling with manta rays? This is the perfect place to get close to nature. There are also some fantastic tropical forest walks nearby which you can explore independently.

Domestic Flight From Villa Airport Maamigili To Male International Airport - See You Soon Have A Safe Flight Back Home

Day 15: Malé Atoll

Speedboat transfer from Dhigurah Island to Maamagili Island
Shared Boat Transfer: You will be assisted to get on board the speedboat to be transported to Maamagili Island. Estimated transfer time: 15 minutes.


Domestic flight from Villa Airport Maamigili to Male International Airport
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: A 20 minute shared domestic flight to Male International Airport. N. B - Domestic flight transfers will be as closely aligned as possible with your international flight arrival/departure timing. Check in times and safety procedures apply as per your International flight check in. Any excess luggage of 20 kg per passenger will be charged at US$1.00 per kg, which can be paid in cash or by credit card direct to the airline carrier at the domestic terminal. Excess luggage may be subject to delay. Hand luggage allowance 5 kg. Please note that if the flight is full you may be requested to step on the luggage scales in order that both passenger and luggage weight is evenly distributed throughout the aircraft. Transfer rates are subject to increase if fuel surcharge increase. Baggage allowance is not applicable for infants.


See you soon! Have a safe flight back home from the Maldives
Excursion: You have just finished your Maldvies Island life experience! We hope you had a wonderful trip and wish you a safe journey home.