An 11-day itinerary purpose-built for families, covering Sri Lanka’s core highlights at a pace suited to children, with age guidance provided for the more physically demanding stops such as Sigiriya and Little Adam’s Peak. Family-friendly properties with pools and open spaces are prioritised throughout, and activities are chosen for broad appeal, from elephant encounters and […]
Meet-and-greet assistance at Bandaranaike International Airport begins a journey travelled throughout in a private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced chauffeur-guide. Check into a family-friendly luxury hotel with spacious family rooms, then head to Galle Face Green for open spaces, colourful kites and local street food, with an optional visit to the historic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. Overnight in Colombo.
A scenic drive to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, with comfort stops along the way, leads to a family-friendly nature resort featuring spacious gardens, nature trails and swimming pools. An optional visit to Pidurangala Rock, recommended for children aged 8 and up, offers sunset views, or enjoy a village cycling experience instead. Overnight in Sigiriya.
A morning visit to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, recommended for children aged 6 and up with supervision, precedes the drive to Kandy. An en route spice garden offers interactive demonstrations and Ayurvedic herbs, before an evening visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and a relaxing walk around Kandy Lake. Overnight in Kandy.
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, where families can explore giant trees, orchid collections and wide-open lawns. Continue through misty tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya, visiting Pedro Tea Estate for a family-friendly factory tour, then enjoy Gregory Lake’s boating, cycling, pony rides and playgrounds. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
An optional scenic train journey from NanuOya to Ella, or a comfortable drive through tea country, leads to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. An optional walk to Little Adam’s Peak, recommended for children aged 7 and up, is followed by free time at Ella’s charming cafes and shops. Overnight in Ella.
A morning departure via Ravana Falls leads to Yala National Park, where you check into a family-friendly safari lodge with spacious accommodation and swimming facilities. An afternoon jeep safari, recommended for children aged 5 and up, searches for elephants, leopards, crocodiles, sloth bears and colourful birdlife. Overnight near Yala.
Continue along Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coastline to Mirissa, joining a seasonal whale-watching excursion (best November to April) to spot blue whales, sperm whales and playful dolphins, weather permitting. Relax on Mirissa Beach afterwards, checking into a family-friendly beachfront resort for the night. Overnight in Mirissa.
A short coastal drive leads to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Galle, where you can explore the historic Galle Fort’s charming streets, lighthouse, ramparts, boutique shops, museums, and family-friendly cafes. Continue to Bentota and check into a family-friendly beachfront resort, with the evening left free at the beach. Overnight in Bentota.
A morning Madu River Safari winds through mangrove forests and river islands, suitable for all ages and rewarding year-round. Visit a turtle conservation centre to learn about sea turtle protection and rehabilitation, before an afternoon free for the beach, pools, optional water sports or children’s resort activities. Overnight in Bentota.
A relaxing family beach day includes optional activities such as sandcastle building, cycling, spa treatments for parents, or water sports depending on the season. A farewell family seafood dinner by the beach closes out the final full day of this island-wide family adventure. Overnight in Bentota.
Day 11 – Poolside Farewell
A relaxed breakfast at the resort offers the children a final chance to enjoy the pool or beach before departure. A private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey brings this ten-night family journey across Ceylon’s culture, wildlife and coastline to a close.
