Sri Lanka Roundtrip, Private Tour (On Request)
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating private tour of Sri Lanka, meticulously designed to comply with current COVID-19 restrictions. Begin your journey in the vibrant capital of Colombo, then traverse the island to explore its rich historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Visit the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, the serene tea country of Nuwara Eliya, and the wildlife haven of Yala National Park. Experience the unique blend of Dutch architecture and tropical beauty in Galle, and marvel at the sacred sites in Kandy and Dambulla. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and guided tours, this roundtrip promises an unforgettable adventure through the paradise island of Sri Lanka. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL COLOMBO – NEGOMBO (35km – 45min)
Location: Negombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Catamaran Beach or similar 3*
Your Sri Lankan adventure begins on arrival at Colombo airport. Here a representative awaits to greet you and assist on arrival before you hop on your transfer to Negombo, for your first night in Sri Lanka. On arrival at the hotel, there will be a PCR test done before check-in. It will take approximately 24-36 hours for the results to arrive. Until the results issue, clients may not be able to enjoy common facilities in the hotel or go out of the hotel. Clients should have a negative PCR to continue the tour.
Overnight in Negombo.
Day 2 : NEGOMBO
Location: Negombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Catamaran Beach or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying Negombo at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Negombo.
Day 3 : NEGOMBO – PINNAWALA – SIGIRIYA (235 km – 4.5hrs)
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel and then head out to Sigiriya. On the way, visit the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage to experience firsthand the love and respect that Sri Lankans have for these animals. The orphanage was the first of its kind in the world, a unique reserve where abandoned and disabled elephants get care and protection from expert naturalists, but also enjoy a healthy social life and freedom. It is home to about 60 elephants, including babies found orphaned in the wild. Then accompany the herd to the nearby river and see them taking their daily bath. Many travellers have counted this experience as among the most memorable of their travels in Sri Lanka. Arrive in Sigiriya for dinner at the hotel.
Important note: Tourists are allowed to visit Pinnewala by getting down from the vehicle. Times of the visit are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. Clients should always wear masks, use Hand sanitisers and maintain social distancing for 1.5 meters.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Day 4 : SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA – SIGIRIYA (115km – 2.5hrs)
Location: Polonnaruwa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel proceed to a Polonnaruwa city tour. Island's medieval capital (built in the 11th and 12th century AD) rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. It is a world heritage site. Many of the ruins are in excellent condition. Its great artificial lake, the Parakrama Samudra which covers an area of 6,000 acres, feeds a network of irrigation canals and minor tanks. Visit the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya which has 4 splendid statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary' and 'Recumbent' postures carved out of the rock, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath and the statue of King Parakramabahu. There are also monuments of famous places of worship such as the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake, the Watadage, the Galpotha, the Kiri Vehera and the remains of a former Temple of the Tooth Relic. On completion return to the hotel, for dinner.
Important note: Tourists are allowed to visit the Polonnaruwa site by getting down from the vehicle. Clients should always wear masks, use Hand sanitisers and maintain social distancing for 1.5 meters
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Day 5 : SIGIRIYA – DAMBULLA – KANDY (90km – 2.5hrs)
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tourmaline or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your hotel before hopping on the transfer to Dambulla. Visit the Dambulla Rock Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple dates back to the 1st century BC when King Valagam Bahu was driven out of the ancient capital city of Anuradhapura and took refuge here. Home to magnificent mural paintings and 157 statues of the Buddha, it has been a sacred pilgrimage site ever since, an astounding 22 centuries. Then, proceed to Kandy. Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a World Heritage Site. The name "Kandy" conjures visions of splendour and magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. Drive around the Kandy Lake built by the last Sinhala king, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Important note: The visit to Dambulla cave temple is subject to Tourist Board approval as it remains pending. Kandy temple can be visited any weekday from 11.30 am to 1.30 pm. Clients can get down from the vehicle and visit the temple. Clients should always wear masks, use Hand sanitisers and maintain social distancing for 1.5 meters.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 6 : KANDY – PERADENIYA – KANDY (12km – 30min)
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tourmaline or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Have breakfast at the hotel and proceed to Peradeniya Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden is located 4 miles off Kandy. It was first built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala king and was expanded by the British. It covers approximately 147 acres and is a walker’s paradise with extensive well-kept lawns, pavilions, an octagon conservatory, fernery, a giant Javan fig tree and numerous flower beds. The best attraction is the orchid house. Return to the hotel and in the evening enjoy dinner.
Important note: Tourists are allowed to visit Peradeniya botanical garden by getting down from the vehicle. Times of the visit are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. Clients should always wear masks, use Hand sanitisers and maintain social distancing for 1.5 meters.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 7 : KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA (80km – 2.5hrs)
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Delight in a tasty breakfast at the hotel and proceed to Nuwara Eliya. Visit Nuwara Eliya from the vehicle. Nuwara Eliya, because of its invigorating mountain climate and scenery, is Sri Lanka's most popular hill resort. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country producing a significant share of the world’s best tea. Sri Lanka s highest mountain Pidurutalagala (8282 feet) is located here. Nuwara Eliya also has one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in South Asia.
Important note: Clients are not allowed to get down from the vehicle while they do the Nuwara Eliya city tour.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 8 : NUWARA ELIYA – YALA (150km – 4hrs)
Location: Yala
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Thaulle Retreat or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a delectable breakfast get on the transfer to Yala, and upon arrival enjoy an afternoon safari. Spreading into a vast 1259 Km2 Yala - with its glory spinning around vast grasslands, shrubs, tanks and dunes - rightfully is the heartland of wildlife in Sri Lanka. As your jeep rumble through the giant gates of Yala, you are not only stepping into the most visited national park in the country but also the lands of a civilization that thrived during the reign of Sri Lankan kings. You name it, and Yala has it! Its usual inmates cover herds of elephant, sloth bear, spotted dear, jackal, extensively populated birdlife as well as the highest density of leopards in the world that garnish the park to be one of the finest destinations in the country. Feel the rough track as your jeep thunders over rocks and swish passing narrow bends for an exhilarating experience blended with the cries of wilderness under the tropical sun. On completion, check-in and dinner at the hotel.
Important note: Yala national park can be visited any weekday from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm. Clients should always wear masks, use Hand sanitisers and maintain social distancing for 1.5 meters.
Overnight in Yala.
Day 9 : YALA – GALLE – COLOMBO (275km – 4hrs)
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: ME Colombo or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel and then head out to Galle, for a city tour. Galle, the epic Southern capital, is the intersection where classic Dutch architecture meets a tropical setting creating a vivid atmosphere in beauty. Walk the Dutch-haunted streets listening to the creaks of wooden saloon doors and observe how European architecture mingles with South Asian traditions today flooding cultural enthusiasts on a global scale. Its original ramparts and bastions preserved up to date showcase evidence of a heritage preserved for more than 3 1/2 centuries. Walk clockwise within the fort to observe the 'old gate' carrying the British coat of arms. Flanking the old gate is the Zwart bastion - the oldest of all - and the lighthouse standing 18 feet in its glory next to the Point Utretcht Bastion. This Dutch bliss is painted with streets that spread in a rectangular grid pattern pierced with houses carrying Dutch colonial style verandas. Hop into the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex to be mesmerized by an array of souvenir selections. However, its hallmark stands a reality where the Dutch fort remains a working community with its usual buzz of administrative offices, court complex, commercial buildings, churches and Southern folks frequenting its streets bracing the air of the Elysium of architecture, Galle! Then proceed to Colombo, for a city tour. Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some parts, the old-world charm is retained. For example, there is a 100-year-old clock tower and several British built colonial buildings. Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for a bargain, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas - where you find stately homes of the affluent and the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH)- an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China. Check-in and dinner at the hotel.
Important note: Clients are not allowed to get down from the vehicle while they visit Galle and Kandy cities.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 10 : DEPARTURE COLOMBO (32km – 1hr)
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Now that you are at the end of your journey with us, after breakfast your chauffeur will comfortably take you to the international airport in time for your departure flight.
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Spanish-speaking guide available at an additional cost (optional extra).
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Accommodation
9 nights' accommodation in various hotels complying with COVID-19 Health Protocols and Tourism Operational Guidelines.
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Meals
9 breakfasts and 9 dinners.
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Transport
Arrival and departure private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from/to Colombo International Airport. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
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Entrance Fees & Activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage visit, Polonnaruwa city tour, Dambulla Rock Temple, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Nuwara Eliya tour, Yala National Park game drive, Galle city tour, Colombo city tour.
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Other
Meet & Greet service.
What's Not Included
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PCR Tests
PCR tests are paid locally and the number of tests depends on the duration of stay. The cost per PCR test is approximately USD 40.
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COVID-19 Insurance
Mandatory COVID-19 Insurance Cover from People's Insurance PLC at USD 12 for a policy of USD 50,000 for a period of one month.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Meals
Lunches are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise) are not included.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours (if any) are not included.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Camera Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (Video Camera and Still Camera permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. is not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Please Note
- The minimum age allowed is 12 years old
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed. The official check-in time at all hotels will be 12:00 pm-02:00 pm (depend on the hotel). The official check-out time at all hotels will be 11:00 am
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
- The safari vehicles (without air conditioning) that are available are basic, the insurance coverage is basic (not exhaustive as in the case of vehicles used for travel)
- Please note that alcoholic beverages will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious days
- Visits to wildlife parks will be at the client's own risk
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Negombo
- Standard Hotel Category = Catamaran Beach or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category = Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Tourmaline or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category = Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 4*
- Standard Hotel Category = Thaulle Retreat or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category = ME Colombo or similar 3*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Negombo
- Standard Hotel Category = Catamaran Beach or similar 3*
Day 3, 4 Sigiriya
- Standard Hotel Category = Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
Day 5, 6 Kandy
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Tourmaline or similar 3*
Day 7 Nuwara Eliya
- Standard Hotel Category = Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 4*
Day 8 Tissamaharama
- Standard Hotel Category = Thaulle Retreat or similar 3*
Day 9 Colombo
- Standard Hotel Category = ME Colombo or similar 3*
*These are hotels or accommodation providers who comply with the COVID-19 Health Protocols and the Tourism Operational Guidelines. The hotels have been subjected to an audit by an independent firm and will be continually assessed. The ‘Safe & Secure’ certificate is issued with a QR code unique to each certified hotel. By scanning the QR code using a smartphone, visitors can not only check the key information of the certified hotel but also immediately report to Sri Lanka Tourism of any violations related to the guideline procedures with photo evidence. Sri Lanka Tourism believes this certification will serve as a mark of trust, safety and assurance to all international guests.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour, including arrival and departure transfers from Colombo International Airport.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights of comfortable accommodation in various 3-star and 4-star hotels, including Catamaran Beach in Negombo, Fresco Water Villa in Sigiriya, Hotel Tourmaline in Kandy, Jetwing St. Andrews in Nuwara Eliya, Thaulle Retreat in Tissamaharama, and ME Colombo in Colombo.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will accompany us on the tour?
The tour is operated with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. A Spanish-speaking guide is available at an additional cost.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 9 nights of accommodation in various hotels that comply with COVID-19 Health Protocols and Tourism Operational Guidelines. The hotels have been audited and certified as 'Safe & Secure'.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 9 breakfasts and 9 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is provided throughout the tour, including arrival and departure transfers from/to Colombo International Airport.
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Are entrance fees and activities included in the tour package?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes visits to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Polonnaruwa city tour, Dambulla Rock Temple, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Nuwara Eliya tour, Yala National Park game drive, Galle city tour, and Colombo city tour. ...more ...less
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What are the COVID-19 safety protocols for this tour?
On arrival at the hotel, a PCR test will be conducted before check-in, and results will take approximately 24-36 hours. Until the results are issued, clients may not be able to enjoy common facilities in the hotel or go out. Clients should have a negative PCR to continue the tour. Some city tours will be done without getting down from the vehicle, and no interaction with locals is allowed while traveling. The chauffeur guide will wear a full PPE kit throughout the tour.
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What are the requirements for visiting temples and religious sites?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
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Are there any age restrictions for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age allowed for this tour is 12 years old.
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What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent are recommended. Visitors should also bring appropriate clothing for visiting temples and religious sites.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?
Yes, additional costs include PCR tests, mandatory COVID-19 insurance, visa fees, domestic and international flights, lunches, drinks during meals, optional tours, city tax, porterage, gratuities, personal expenditures, and travel insurance.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Low Deposit
Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Sri Lanka Roundtrip, Private Tour (On Request)
10 Days Starting in Negombo, Sri Lanka and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Negombo, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Yala, Colombo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
614330
Group Type:
Private
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 8
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology, Wildlife Tours
