An adventure-packed journey exploring Sri Lanka’s top five experiences — ancient wonders, majestic wildlife, cultural heritage, coastal beauty, and unforgettable village life.
The Big 5 tour is a short yet powerful itinerary that delivers the essence of Sri Lanka through diverse landscapes, historical landmarks, wildlife safaris, and beachside serenity. Ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of a week’s getaway.
Arrive at Colombo Airport and meet your guide from Tatabye Offshore Tours. Transfer to Dambulla, home to Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple complex, featuring ancient murals and over 150 Buddha statues carved inside natural rock formations.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya | Meal Plan: Half Board
Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 200-meter high UNESCO World Heritage Site once home to a royal palace. Then, dive into authentic rural charm with the Hiriwadunna Village Trek — enjoy a bullock cart ride, a hands-on traditional lunch, a scenic boat ride, and a tuk-tuk journey back at sunset.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya | Meal Plan: Half Board
Begin with a thrilling Minneriya Jeep Safari, known for large elephant gatherings. Continue to Kandy, stopping at a Spice Garden in Matale to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage. Explore Kandy Lake, visit a Gem Museum, and catch a traditional Kandyan Cultural Show (if time permits).
Overnight stay in Kandy | Meal Plan: Half Board
In the morning, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the holiest Buddhist shrines in the world. En route to the coast, stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage for a heartwarming encounter with rescued elephants. Arrive in Bentota, the coastal paradise.
Overnight stay in Bentota | Meal Plan: Half Board
After breakfast, visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Hikkaduwa and learn about Sri Lanka’s marine conservation efforts. Discover various turtle species and understand how the hatchery protects these gentle creatures. Next, enjoy an amazing boat ride on the Madu River, gliding through lush mangroves and visiting a fish farm where you can try traditional Sri Lankan fish therapy. Afterwards, enjoy time for water sports including Jet Skiing, Wakeboarding, Fly Fish, and Water Skiing, making the most of Bentota’s reputation as the island’s water adventure capital. Later in the afternoon, proceed to Galle and take a scenic Tuk Tuk ride through the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial charm, quaint streets, and sea views.
Overnight stay and relax at the Hotel in Bentota Meal Plan: Half Board
After an early breakfast, transfer to Colombo Airport for your flight home.
Farewell from Tatabye Offshore Tours — see you again in Sri Lanka