Overview
Sri Lanka is a beautiful subtropical island steeped in culture and history stretching back to the ancient Spice Routes. Staying in comfortable eco-lodges, with local guides leading the way, we wander through days of hiking, gentle cycling, and cultural exploration. We marvel at Sri Lanka’s jewels and savor its everyday moments, from village markets and tuk-tuk tours to waterfalls and bathing elephants. Around every corner is something new to learn about this land of cinnamon and adventure.
Every day adds to your life’s book of stories. Hike in misty highlands terraced with fields of fine Ceylon tea. Stalk leopards on safari in Yala National Park. Spy a ruined temple peeking through the jungle. Be welcomed into a local home and practice stirring up fragrant Sinhalese curries. Learn forest secrets from a member of the Vedda tribe. At the dreamlike, thousand-year-old fortress of Sigiriya (Lion’s Rock), walk between massive paws carved into stone. Our odyssey ends with sun and relaxation on the beaches of the south coast.
Trip highlights
- Cycle village pathways and hike up the 1500 year old Sigiriya rock fortress
- Learn from a Sinhalese Buddhist monk and visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
- Hike the verdant highlands and tea fields near the Campbell’s Lane Forest Reserve
- Go deep in Gal Oya and explore the forest through the eyes of the Vedda tribe
- Search for leopard and other wildlife in Sri Lanka’s famous Yala National Park
Activities
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Safari
- Walking
- Wildlife Viewing
Accommodations
Hotels and Eco Lodges, 11 nights
Itinerary
Arrive into Negombo, Sri Lanka, this morning where we are met at the Bandaranaike International Airport. The remainder of the day is for rest and recuperation at our lovely lodge set amidst the tranquil environs of a working coconut and spice farm. In the afternoon, we can join an optional outing by tuk-tuk to explore the surrounding area and local industries. This evening, we convene for orientation and our first tastes of Sri Lankan cuisine. Dinner included.
After breakfast we drive to the interior of the island and the epicenter of the great Sinhalese dynasties. Here the central highlands tumble into a mass of green jungle. Our first warm up hike and introduction to the storied past of Sri Lanka is to the ancient Buddhist monastery of Ritigala. Tucked into the mountainside, we follow forested pathways to ruins and steles bearing engravings dating back to the 1st century BCE. Overnight at a comfortable eco lodge. All meals included.
Hiking: 2 miles, 2 hours on a mix of stone pathways, steps and uneven dirt trails.
Rise early this morning to explore Sigiriya, the marvelous rock fortress also known as Lion Rock. It's a rare jewel among the many treasures in Sri Lanka. With massive carved paws, the fortress rises some 1200 steps to a flat topped palace with a stunning view of the emerald plains and gardens below. After lunch we venture out to explore the 11th century city of Polonnaruwa. Directly after, we hop on bikes for an easy ride through small villages and around lakes. Watch for giant fruit bats heading out at dusk and elephants gently grazing near the water’s edge. Overnight in an eco-lodge. All meals included.
Hiking (Sigiriya): 2.5 miles, 2 hours, elevation gain/loss +610/-610’ on stone paths and fixed staircases; Cycling: Up to 8 mile, 1.5 hours on flat uneven dirt roads.
For those feeling particularly spry this morning, depart early to catch the sunrise from Pidurangula Rock. This hike involves scrambling over large boulders at the top, but the effort yields golden views of Sigiriya and the surrounding plains. After breakfast we begin our drive to the highlands. Winding our way past villages, fields and farms, we climb into the misty upper country, known for producing some of the finest tea in the world. En route we enjoy a tasty lunch at one of our secret spots. Situated in the highlands, our eco-lodge for the next two nights features gorgeous views over the valley of verdant tea fields below. This afternoon we learn the harvest, production and brewing techniques of fine Ceylon tea. Overnight on a working tea estate. All meals included.
Optional Hike: 1.2 miles, 1.5 hours, elevation gain/loss +475/-475’ on a rocky trail with climbing over large boulders at the top; Driving: 3 hours.
Lace up your hiking shoes for a great hike this morning into the Campbell’s Lane Forest Reserve. Departing directly from the tea estate, our hike climbs modestly through rows of tea fields into the highland forest. Samba Deer and bountiful bird life are frequently spotted. Our naturalist guide will keep us tuned in to all of the unique flora and fauna. After reaching a stunning waterfall overlook, we return to the lodge. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Enjoy a float in the pool, relaxing massage or catch up on some journaling. Overnight on a working tea estate. Breakfast and Lunch included.
Hiking: 8 miles, 4.5 hours; elevation gain/loss +1,050/-1,050’ on a rocky trail with steady incline.
Bidding farewell to our leafy abode we descend to Kandy town, the religious and cultural capital of Sri Lanka. En route we stop at a local home to enjoy some of our own cooking. That's right! Our hosts will show us the unique spice blends and techniques used to create sumptuous Sinhalese curries. In the afternoon, we join a monk prior to entering the Temple of the Tooth. Their insights and personal story lend context to the significance of the temple and Sri Lanka’s deep connection to the Buddhism. Overnight at a hotel in Kandy. Breakfast and Lunch included.
Walking: 3 hours; Driving: 2 hours.
Today begins with a long journey to the lake and forest filled expanse of Gal Oya National Park, one of the most remote and untouched wilderness treasures of Sri Lanka. En route we visit the Dumbara Valley, famous for their handloom heritage of intricate patterns and vibrant colors. In the afternoon we head out on a nature hike with a naturalist guide. With over 32 terrestrial mammals, 150 species of birds, and rare endemic plants there are countless opportunities for discovery and learning. Overnight at an eco-lodge in Gal Oya National Park. All meals included.
Hiking: 2 hours; Driving: 4 hours.
Gal Oya Lake is the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka; its rocky inland islands are a haven for birds. The surrounding forest hosts a multitude of wildlife that come to drink at the water’s edge. With luck we spot elephants tromping about or snorkeling through the water. Returning to the lodge, we enjoy a mid-afternoon break before heading out on another nature walk. Our guides this evening, forest denizens of the Vedda tribe, impart their well-honed knowledge of the plant-life and its Ayurvedic medicinal attributes. Overnight at an eco-lodge in Gal Oya National Park. All meals included.
Boat Safari: 5 hours; Hiking: 2 hours.
For those feeling extra energetic this morning, head out on an optional sunrise hike to Monkey Mountain. After breakfast we head out for Yala National Park, which boasts the highest density of leopards in the world. Under the care of our expert safari guide we learn about all the unique inhabitants of this national park. But, we keep our fingers crossed to see one of the majestic felines! Overnight at a safari lodge near Yala National Park. All Meals Included.
Safari: 3 hours; Optional Hike: 4 hours; elevation gain/loss +480/-480’ challenging hike with scramble climbing; Driving: 2.5 hours.
We embark on an early morning safari in Yala National Park, tracking last night’s paw prints in hopes of glimpsing a spotted cat. Today's drive follows the southern coast to our final stop in our Sri Lankan adventure. The south coast is famous for surfing, fishing and is the historical beachhead for commercial trade. This afternoon is open; choose to relax poolside at our seaside resort, unwind with an Ayurvedic massage, stroll the beach or hire a tuk-tuk to explore the nearby fort town of Galle. Overnight at a beach side resort. Breakfast and Lunch included.
Safari: 2-3 hours; Driving: 3 hours.
Sri Lanka has been a key port of trade for over two thousand years. The natural southern harbor of Galle linked the Arab, Chinese and Roman world and was a strategic position for maritime commerce and dominion. The Portuguese built the first fort followed by the Dutch, who expanded and fortified the area. Today, cobblestone streets lead throughout the quaint city. Our walk today is one filled with history and charm. Return to the hotel in the afternoon to relax or linger in town for some self-exploration and window shopping. Overnight at a beach side resort and join the group for a farewell dinner. All meals included.
Walking: 3-4 hours.
After a leisurely last morning, we make our way back towards the airport. We have use of a hotel until our evening departure tonight. Breakfast included.
Driving: 2.5 hours.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including unexpected weather and terrain conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Double-occupancy accommodations and meals as noted in the daily itinerary; bi-lingual guides; 24-speed mountain bikes with front suspension and bike helmets; entrance fees to parks and temples; gratuities to service staff and station guides; Private transportation throughout Sri Lanka; Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 12.
Not Included
International airfare to/from Sri Lanka; meals as noted in daily itinerary; insurance of any kind; visa fees; soft drinks and alcoholic beverages; items of a personal nature; optional gratuities to guides and drivers; holiday surcharges; airport transfers prior to Day 1 and after Day 12.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
61+ days prior to departure = $0
31 to 60 days = $400
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Single Accommodations
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available. For more details about traveling solo, see our Solo Travelers page.
- Single supplement 2019 - $1,700
Weather
Expect tropical, hot and humid conditions all year round. Daytime temperatures in the 80s and 90s, dropping into the 70s at night. In the highlands, temperatures are generally 10-15°F cooler. Due to the oscillation of dual monsoon seasons, it can rain at any time, especially in the highlands.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Departure dates
Select a month to view departure dates. If there are no departures in a month, the month will not appear below.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
2019
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Jun 13 - Jun 24 Available from $3,599
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Jul 6 - Jul 17 Available from $3,599
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Aug 12 - Aug 23 Available from $3,599
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Nov 15 - Nov 26 Available from $3,599
Gear list
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary.
Provided by REI
- 24 Speed Mountain Bike
- Cycling Helmet
Required
- Day Pack (21L-35L)
- Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
- Hiking Shoes
- Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
- Sun Block and Lip Balm
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses and Accessories
- Water Bottle
Recommended
- Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Synthetic)
- Binoculars
- Casual Clothing for Travel and Town Wear (Lightweight, Easily Washable)
- Ear Plugs
- Eye Mask
- Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
- Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
- Insect Repellant
- Liner Socks (Synthetic)
- Luggage (1 Piece)
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Passport/Money Belt or Pouch
- Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Personal Wipes and Hand Sanitizer Gel
- Sandals
- Swimwear
- Tee Shirts (synthetic)
- Toiletries
- Travel Pillow
- Trekking Poles
Optional
- Bike Shorts
- Camera and Accessories
- Casual Shoes for Travel and Free Time
- Reading and Writing Materials
- Stuff Sacks
Travel Documents
- Airline Tickets (Confirmation and Itinerary)
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
- Valid Passport and Visa
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (1-800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice, which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
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