Pearl of the Indian Ocean with Beach Extension, Spanish-speaking guide

Pearl of the Indian Ocean with Beach Extension, Spanish-speaking guide

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tourhub | Aitken Spence Travels | Pearl of the Indian Ocean with Beach Extension, Spanish-speaking guide  | 576080
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Pearl of the Indian Ocean with Beach Extension, Spanish-speaking guide

11 Days

Visiting: India, Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka

Tour operator:

Aitken Spence Travels

Tour code:

576080

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

Min age:10

Tour operated in:
, Spanish
Interests:

Cultural

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Discover the heart of Sri Lanka with this fascinating journey departing from Colombo airport, visiting the most important historical places, and the cultural and natural attractions of the island, including five UNESCO world heritage sites. Enjoy its beautiful landscapes and picturesque villages, historical temples and ancient cities. Breathe in the scents of Sri Lanka in its spice gardens and tea plantation. You will also enjoy cultural shows and spiritual experiences during eight unforgettable days knowing the paradise described by Marco Polo as the most beautiful place he had seen. End this unforgettable experience with a Beach Extension in Waskaduwa or Beruwela.

Highlights

  • Sigiriya: The ‘Lion Rock’ rises almost 200 metres above the jungle, offering breathtaking panoramic views

  • Polonnaruwa: An ancient city characterized by temples and palace ruins, as well as an interesting still-functioning irrigation system

  • Matale: Wander around the delightful spice gardens, breathing the scents of Sri Lanka: cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg, and many others

  • Nuwara Eliya: View fascinating plantations in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country and admire the town’s Victorian architecture

  • Kandy: This mesmerising city is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its associated palaces and gardens

  • Yala: Explore the magnificent fields of green and meet many wild animals such as elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and leopards

  • Weligama: Get close to the shores of the Indian Ocean and observe the unique way of fishing practised by local fishermen

  • Galle: Travel back in time while exploring the historical streets of this well-preserved fortified Dutch colonial city

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Colombo (40Km – 45Min)

Arrive at the International Airport in Colombo. Our representative will meet and greet before transferring you to the selected hotel. Vibrant, bustling, and colourful Colombo offers a stunning contrast to the rest of the country. Skyscrapers grow out of historic colonial-era districts near the port, but the modern metropolis proudly keeps its old-world charm. Enjoy a tour of the city, visiting several historical, religious and commercial sites, including the famous and bustling port in Pettah, also the elite residential neighbourhood in Cinnamon Gardens, Galle Face Green Square, Viharamahadevi Park and much more. Please note alcohol will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious holidays. Dinner included at the hotel. 


Overnight in Colombo.


Day 2 : Colombo – Silver Temple – Dambulla – Sigiriya Or Habarana (200Km – 5 Hrs)

After having breakfast at the hotel, we head towards Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple), a rock-cut Buddhist sanctuary that features a 9-meter reclining Buddha, surrounded by impressive walls and carvings. We continue to Dambulla, in the centre of the island, which is known for its impressive caves decorated with Buddhist frescoes and statues. The decoration of the five caves of this monastic complex began more than 2,000 years ago. It contains more than 150 Buddha images, of which the largest is the colossal 14-meter figure of Buddha carved out of the rock. Thanks to these impressive features, the temple is one of eight sites in Sri Lanka that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner included at the hotel.

Overnight in Sigiriya or Habarana.

Day 3 : Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya Or Habarana (100Km – 2 Hrs)

Begin your day with a tasty breakfast and then climb to the fifth-century Sigiriya fortress, which sits atop a rock that dramatically rises almost 200 metres above the rainforest. King Kashyapa built the citadel at the top of this giant boulder known as the ‘Lion Rock’, which was the innermost stronghold of a vast fortified city. Pass through the lion’s ‘belly’ and climb to the top using the spiral staircase that snakes its way around the rock. Enjoy the breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape and beyond into horizon. In the afternoon, discover the magnificent ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Catch a glimpse of the large artificial lake, that feeds a network of irrigation canals, admire the remains of the royal palace, and see the charming temples, as well as administrative buildings. Admire the Gal Viharaya with its four rock-carved Buddha statues, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, and the statue of King Parakramabahu. Contemplate also the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake, the Watadage, and the Galpotha, before returning to the hotel. Dinner included at the hotel.


Overnight in Sigiriya or Habarana.


Day 4 : Sigiriya – Matale – Kandy (100Km – 2.5 Hrs)

Indulge in a delectable breakfast and head towards the delightful spice and herb gardens in Matale. The Sri Lankan spices such as turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, and lemongrass are considered some of the best in the world. Stop by the side of a spice garden and observe the therapeutic values of spices and processes over a refreshing cup of herbal tea! Proceed to Kandy and on arrival check-in at your new hotel in Kandy. In the evening,  enjoy a Sinhalese dance show in Kandy. Return to the hotel and prepare yourself for a new adventure! Dinner included at the hotel.

Overnight in Kandy.

Day 5 : Kandy – Tea Plantation – Nuwara Eliya (95Km – 2.5 Hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a tour of the major attractions of the beautiful city of Kandy, on the shores of the lake of the same name. This World Heritage city was the capital of the last Sinhalese state on the island to fall under foreign rule. We visit the Temple of the Buddha's Tooth. We can also appreciate the palace and the gardens that share the complex with the temple and the beautiful artificial lake that is surrounded by much of the city. Transfer from Kandy to a plantation and tea factory. At the plantation, we observe the entire process and manufacture of tea. Then, we enjoy a tasting of authentic Ceylon tea, considered one of the best blends in the world. We drive through rolling green fields full of tea plantations on our way to Nuwara Eliya (which means 'City of Light' in Sinhalese), a picturesque village on the shores of a lake. The Nuwara Eliya district is known as 'Little England' for its lush atmosphere and colonial appearance. Dinner included at the hotel.


Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.


Day 6 : Nuwaraeliya – Ella – Tissamaharama Or Yala (160 Km - 4,5 Hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a transfer to Ella. Drive through green and beautiful landscapes of the Central Highlands, enjoying views like the wild Ravana waterfall. Continue your drive to 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 which 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. Dinner included at the hotel.


Overnight in Yala or Tissamaharama.


Day 7 : Tissamaharama – Weligama – Galle – Waskaduwa Or Beruwala (140Km – 3,5 Hrs)

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel and enjoy a scenic drive to Weligama. Stop at this coastal town to witness local fishermen and their exceptional way of fishing. Continue towards Galle. Colonised by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British, Galle is now a mesmerising city with a rich colonial heritage. The Dutch-built fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it features a labyrinth of charming alleys and lanes, filled with historic buildings. Admire the picturesque Dutch Reformed Church and the magnificent Meera Mosque, and continue your journey heading towards your beach area resort. Dinner included at the hotel.

Overnight in Waskaduwa or Beruwala.

Day 8 : Waskaduwa Or Beruwala

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and enjoy the day relaxing on the beach. Dinner included at the hotel.

Overnight in Waskaduwa or Beruwala.

Day 9 : Waskaduwa Or Beruwala

Breakfast at the hotel before you relax on the beach. Dinner included at the hotel.

Overnight in Waskaduwa or Beruwala.

Day 10 : Waskaduwa Or Beruwala

Breakfast at the hotel before you relax on the beach. Dinner included at the hotel. 

Overnight in Waskaduwa or Beruwala.

Day 11 : Waskaduwa Or Beruwala – Departure Colombo (100Km – 2Hrs)

Begin your last day in spectacular Sri Lanka with a delicious breakfast followed by a transfer to Colombo Airport.



What's Included

TOUR GUIDE:

  • Operated with Spanish-speaking local guide (Day 1-7)

ACCOMMODATION:

  • 10 nights' accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 Colombo:

Standard Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*

Day 2-3 Sigiriya or Habarana:

Standard Hotel Category = Sigiriya Village or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*

Day 4 Kandy:

Standard Hotel Category = Royal Kandyan or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Hotel Kandy or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Kandyan or similar 5*

Day 5 Nuwara Eliya:

Standard Hotel Category = Araliya Red or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green City or similar 5*

Day 6 Yala or Tissamaharama:

Standard Hotel Category = Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 5*

Day 7-10 Waskaduwa or Beruwala:

Standard Hotel Category = The Palms or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Citrus Waskaduwa or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Bey or similar 5*

MEALS:

  • 10 Breakfasts
  • 10 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches upon an additional cost, from Day 1 to 7 (full-board optional extra)

TRANSPORT:

  • Inbound/Outbound unescorted transfers from/ to Colombo Airport 
  • Air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
  • Non-air-conditioned 4X4 Jeep for Safari in Yala National Park (Day 6)

ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:

  • All entrance fees and activities: Sightseeing tour of Colombo (Day 1); Silver Temple, Dambulla Caves (Day 2); Sirigiya Citadel, tour of Polonnaruwa Old Town (Day 3); Matale Spice Garden, cultural show in Kandy (Day 4) Kandy tour, tea plantation, Temple of the Tooth Relic (Day 5), Ella tour, Ravana waterfall, Yala National Park Safari (Day 6); Galle Fortress (Day 7)

OTHER:

  • Meet & greet 

What's Not Included

  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals throughout the tour
  • Tips and porterage
  •  Flights, travel insurance and anything else not stated in the programme 
  •  Entrance fees to places of interest or activities not indicated in the inclusions which are to be paid directly by the client on the spot
  • Video camera permits at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Temple of the Buddha's Tooth in Kandy Optional tours and activities
  • Optional tours and activities
  • Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
  • Entrance to Perahera Festival in August

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. Clients arriving in early morning flights will have to wait until the last tour participant has arrived. 



 


Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 Colombo:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*

Day 2-3 Sigiriya or Habarana:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Sigiriya Village or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*

Day 4 Kandy:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Royal Kandyan or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Hotel Kandy or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Kandyan or similar 5*

Day 5 Nuwara Eliya:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Araliya Red or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green City or similar 5*

Day 6 Yala or Tissamaharama:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 5*

Day 7-10 Waskaduwa or Beruwala:

  • Standard Hotel Category = The Palms or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Citrus Waskaduwa or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Bey or similar 5*

Please Note

  • Visas: Please note all clients will have to log into the website and obtain the visas prior to arrival for all clients arriving in Sri Lanka after 1st January 2012. The government has informed that all applications will be processed within 24 hours and payment can be made on-line by credit card. The details are available at the website www.eta.gov.lk
  • Please note alcohol will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious holidays
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
  • Visits to wildlife parks will be at client's own risk. Safari vehicles (none air-conditioned) available are very basic with basic insurance cover (not comprehensive as in the case of vehicles used for tours)
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  

Check out our Q&As

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    yes

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    yes, it is indeed

  • 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. 

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • 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.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • 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.

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Fairly good

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    Up to 40KG per person

  • 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)

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Anthony M  

"A brilliant 3 weeks in Sri Lanka

12-Dec-2019

We have just completed a 3 week tour of Sri Lanka which was brilliant. We visited Negombo, Chilaw, Wilpatu, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Wellawaya, Galle and Bentota. We toured incredible ancient places, went on incredible safaris and explored wonderful cities. The accommodation was absolutely fantastic and we stayed at amazing hotels and resorts including Leopard Trails in Wilpatu National Park, Ulagalla by Uga, Kandalama by Heritance, Kaduruketha by Jetwing and Fort Printers in Galle Fort. We were a bit disappointed by the hotels in Chilaw and Bentota, but overall the properties and service at the other hotels were amazing. As with most vacations abroad, the organizer and driver guide can make or break your experience. We were very lucky with both Michelle from Aitken Spence Travels who was very helpful both before and during our trip, and our phenomenal Sandamal Driver Guide ""Sanada"". Sanda was brilliant and her commitment to our family and wanting to make sure our vacation was the best it could be was impeccable. Sanda is one of the kindest and most considerate people I have ever met. He is a good family man. We show that compassion and protection are equal doses. His knowledge of Sri Lanka and its sights is exceptional and his network is incredible. You honestly couldn't get a better driver guide than Sanda and we will plan all of our Sri Lanka trips based on your availability in the future. If you are traveling to Sri Lanka be sure to arrange your trip with Michelle at Aitken Spence and be sure to ask for the fabulous Sandamal to be your driver guide."

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

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