14 Day Sri Lanka 30s & 40s Small Group Experience
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Expect a memorable stay throughout with hotels often centrally located, with creature comforts and unique features.
Hotel stars are based on local ratings provided and the expected standard may differ depending on the destination. Hotels listed within the itinerary are indicative of the typical hotel we intend to use for that package but is subject to change.
🌆 Experience-led travel: Embark on private safari drives, take a cycling tour through Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins and relax with an Ayurvedic spa treatment.
🌍 Small group: No more than 14 travellers, sharing in-depth experiences and unforgettable moments. And guaranteed departures!
📜 Local experts: Our expert guides will illuminate Sri Lanka's history and culture, revealing gems like the Dambulla Cave Temples, Sigiriya Rock fortress and the vibrant streets of Kandy.
🌄 Value-for-money: We've done the hard work – your tour includes premium 5-star hotels, transport, airport transfers, sightseeing, some meals, and more, all thoughtfully planned for you.
👯 Connect and share: Optional single supplement – pay twin share price and pair up with a new travel buddy!
Unearth the magic of Sri Lanka on our carefully curated, value-packed tour designed for 30s and 40s. Join like-minded travellers, explore stunning destinations and make memories and connections that will last a lifetime.
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be met by your private transfer and driven to your accommodation in Colombo.
Due to airline flight schedules, some flights arrive very late in the evening. There is the opportunity to book pre tour accommodation in Colombo should you wish.
Check-in: if arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available.
Enjoy breakfast this morning then meet your tour leader this morning for a tour briefing before we head out for a tour of Colombo. Visit the city's main sites and spend time at Pettah Market, the beating heart of Colombo's shopping scene where you can find everything from local spices to intricately embroidered textiles and antiques. Enjoy a walking food safari through the market sampling fresh local produce as your guide shows you locally grown vegetables, spices and freshly prepared goods.
Following our tour of Colombo, we'll head south towards Galle and stop in Balapitiya. Here we take a boat trip on the Maduganga River to visit 64 scattered islands, including Cinnamon Island, where we learn about cinnamon production. Sri Lanka is the world's largest producer of pure cinnamon.
This afternoon, we arrive at our seaside resort in Galle for a relaxing beachside stay. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure enjoying the resort's extensive facilities and take in the breathtaking sea views from your private balcony.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with a glass of local beer or wine as you get the opportunity to acquaint yourself with your fellow travellers.
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean before we set out on a tour of the Galle Fort and its Fortifications. This is a city that exudes an essence with a perfect blend of past and present. Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, the presence of Portuguese, Dutch and English is very evident in the fascinating architectural styles of the Galle Fort. Following your tour, enjoy lunch within the fort at one of the local colonial styled restaurants.
Return to your beachside resort where the rest of the day is at leisure before enjoying dinner at the hotel this evening.
In the morning we leave for Yala National Park. On arrival, spend your afternoon on a guided game drive exploring the dynamic wildlife and the most luxuriant plant life in Yala National Park. Being one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka, it is the ideal place to sight the rare leopard!
Please note: Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, Yala National Park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park.
An additional optional early morning game drive safari is available this morning. Please refer to “Optional Tour” below.
Enjoy breakfast this morning before we leave Yala behind us and continue the journey to Ella. At an elevation of around 1000m, Ella has long been one of the most popular destinations in Sri Lanka, sought after for its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque hiking trails. On your way we stop to witness the beautiful sceneries from Ella Gap and visit the picturesque Ravana waterfall.
On arrival we check into our stunning 5-star eco lodge nestled into the cliff face affording incredible views across the valley. After time to relax, we take a visit to arguably the most famous attraction in Ella, Nine Arch Bridge, also called the Bridge in the Sky. One of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country, the construction of the bridge is attributed to a local Ceylonese builder in consultation with British engineers
Return to the hotel for dinner overlooking the rainforest.
Enjoy a morning Safari in Yala National Park. Departing around sunrise, it allows you to witness animals greeting the morning light and affords you extra time in the safari park to spot its elusive species.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: All entrance and government fees.
Start Time: 6.00am
End Time: 9.00am
Today we head out to explore the beautiful landscapes and waterfalls that surround the region. We take a gentle hike through the incredible rainforest to Little Adam’s Peak.The peak is 1141m high, so it is more of a two-hour-long leisurely walk and it is quite picturesque as you’re surrounded by tea bushes. Despite the minimal effort needed for the trek, the view from the top is truly magnificent,
as you overlook a deep valley and its surrounding hills – leaving you breathless. For those who like an adrenaline hit, take the two-wire zip-line that stretches for more than half a kilometre, slides at a maximum speed of 80kmph, and offers a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful hills of the island flying over iconic tea estates and lush greenery overlooking the famous Ella Gap.
Following our adventure this morning, spend some time in the pretty town centre of Ella lined with local shops, bars and eateries. Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants and some time for shopping before we head back to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
This evening, enjoy dinner before retiring for the evening.
Today we leave Ella behind us and continue our journey to Nuwara Eliya. Often referred to as ‘Little England’, this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era bungalows. Here, you will visit a tea plantation where you will experience a Tea Safari. Here you will be taken on a tour of the tea plantation in an open vehicle where you will experience the process of tea plucking, withering, rolling, fermentation, firing and sorting/grading.
Following this we depart for Kandy on a famous train journey, said to be one of the most scenic and beautiful in the world. Apart from the breathtaking sceneries of the tea country and picturesque waterfalls, it is a chance for you to mingle with local people.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time upon arrival in Kandy during the afternoon before enjoying a spectacular Sri Lankan Cultural Performance followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Take a morning tour and discover the rich history of Kandy, once known as Senkadagala, during its time as the Hill Capital from 1514-1815 AD. Named a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, Kandy boasts a beautiful lake, historic temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and well-preserved ruins of the royal palaces.
Following our morning tour, we enjoy an Inspiring Taste as we join a local in their home to learn the art of traditional Sri Lankan cooking. Get an understanding of the locally grown spices and their importance to Sri Lankan dishes, then learn to make five different curries using traditional methods cooked over an open fire in clay pots. Afterwards, enjoy the benefits of your tuition as you enjoy lunch together.
Return to the hotel where the rest of the day is at your leisure before enjoying dinner at the hotel.
Today, we leave Kandy for Sigiriya. On the way we take a stop at Matale and visit a spice garden where you will see how spices are grown and get a thorough understanding of the importance that spices played in the country’s trade history, cooking and Ayurvedic healing properties.
Following this, we stop at the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This UNESCO heritage site dates back to the 3rd Century BC and boasts 157 statues and extraordinary paintings covering a vast 2100m2 area, making it the most impressive cave complex in Sri Lanka. It's truly a masterpiece worth experiencing.
After the cave, arrive at the 5-star Sigiriya Jungles Resort located closeby the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. While at Sigiriya Jungles, take advantage of the resort’s impressive Auravedic Spa with a complimentary 20 minute shoulder or foot massage exclusive to Inspiring Vacations guests that can be taken at any time during your stay.
This evening, enjoy a dinner at the resort's open air restaurant overlooking the gardens and pool.
Please note: the complimentary 20 minute shoulder or foot massage is subject to availability and is available during your three night stay at the Sigiriya Jungles Ayurvedic Spa Centre.
This morning, set out for Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka known for its well-preserved ruins. Visit the sacred Bo Tree, a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura’s great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, some in woodland settings and others appearing park-like with columns and ponds dotted about. Following our tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Following lunch we travel back to Sigiriya nd enroute, enjoy a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. This impressive park stretches an impressive 36,948 hectares and was declared a National park in 1984, making it the only one in the Central Province. It's a paradise for nature lovers and one of the best places to observe elephants.
Return to the hotel in time for a quick swim before dinner this evening.
Please note: since elephants are migratory animals, we may visit Wasgamuwa National Park on this day instead, based on the elephant locations.
In the morning, we'll climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (also known as Lion's Rock) - an extraordinary artistic complex dating back to 477-498 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has become a global attraction due to its unique architecture.
Return to your hotel and enjoy lunch and time to relax before we head out this afternoon to Plonnaruwa, the second ancient capital city of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura (1017-1235 AD) and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Here we enjoy a cycling tour of the well preserved ruins and temples, including the remains of Parakramabahu's Palace which exhibits beautiful carvings of elephants, monkeys and tigers.
This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow companions at the hotel.
After a leisurely breakfast we make our way to the coastal town of Negombo and check into our 5-star beachfront resort. Sprawled over a coastal expanse of 9 acres, the Jetwing Blue sits on a beautiful beach and is ideally located upon a buzzing beach strip of boutiques and restaurants all within an easy walk from the hotel. Spend time relaxing on the beach, use the hotel’s expansive facilities or wander the local shops and cafes.
The rest of today and this evening is at your leisure.
Enjoy a quick tour of Negombo this morning as we leave the hotel around 8.30am. Steeped in history, with the remains of a Dutch Fort dating back to the 20th century, Negombo’s beautiful waterfront is surrounded by scenic views and historic landscapes. Tour includes a visit to the Negombo fish market and stops at Dutch Canal and Fort.
Return to the hotel around 9.30/10am where the rest of the days is at your leisure to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches, or the impressive report facilities. Located in the heart of the restaurant and shopping district, be sure to venture out to sample the local cuisine for lunch or do some last minute shopping before flight home tomorrow.
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with a glass or local beer of wine with your group.
Unfortunately, today marks the end of your incredible tour through Sri Lanka.
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to board your flight home.
Please note, as most flights depart Sri Lanka very late in the evening, a guaranteed late check out of 8pm has been booked at your hotel.
Our 30s and 40s Small Group Experiences have been specifically designed for like-minded travellers aged between 30 and 49. Whether travelling solo or as a couple, please ensure you meet these age requirements when booking these adventure-packed experiences.
This product requires full payment upfront to secure your booking.
Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding domestic & international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”. By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can then assist with turning your booking into a flight inclusive package.
Upon completing the purchase of your package and fulfilling the following booking requirements, you will be granted access to our flight portal via your Traveller Hub.
Once these criteria have been met, access will be made available to you via Traveller Hub to book your flights via our flight portal.
The following requests are able to be processed through the online flight portal:
The online flight portal is unable to process the following requests and you must book these yourself independently:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. You will be asked for LKR7000 per person. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. Tipping towards the kitty is compulsory. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend LKR1200 per person per day for your guide and LKR600 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Solo Travellers Rooming Configuration
Solo travellers on our 30s & 40s Small Group Experiences will share a twin room (two separate beds) with a traveller of the same gender (as stated in your passport).
Prefer your own room? No worries. Just select single supplement option when making your booking and, for an additional fee, you will enjoy the privacy of your own room throughout your trip.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,018.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Minimum of 2 and Maximum of 14 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Sri Lanka
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