Meaningful Sri Lanka - A journey with impact
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka on this immersive 14-day itinerary, designed to showcase the positive impacts of travel. This itinerary prioritizes the preservation of the island’s rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and heritage while supporting local communities. Venture deep into rural Sri Lanka, exploring its diverse landscapes and enjoying unforgettable safari adventures through its breathtaking National Parks, all while staying in luxury hotels and camps.
Journey highlights
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Immerse yourself in exceptional privately guided game drives throughout Sri Lanka getting under the skin of Wilpattu National Park, Minneriya National Park, Gal Oya National Park
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Sink into serenity staying at elegant lodges and camps that have conservation and community projects at their core
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Embrace a plethora of unique and meaningful experiences throughout the itinerary, from village community projects, kayaking and hiking, village cooking classes and much more
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Enhance your trip with a visit to the Minneriya elephant conservation project, where you’ll learn about ongoing efforts to protect these gentle giants
- Active itinerary:Our Active Journeys let you get under the skin of a destination by hiking, biking or kayaking your way through it, while unwinding in some of the finest hotels around
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The Maha monsoon blows from October to January, bringing rain to the North and East, while the dry season is from May to September. The North and East are comparatively dry, with around 1000mm of rain annually. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. Out-of-season travel has its advantages – not only do the crowds go away but many airfares and accommodation prices drop right down. Nor does it rain all the time during the low season.
Itinerary
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At a Glance
Upon arriving in Colombo you will be transferred to the lovely Horathapola Estate hotel, just an hour from the airport but tucked away in a beautiful natural setting on a planter’s estate. A stay at the estate is a great way to experience the planter’s lifestyle and village life and is an intimate retreat for those wanting a tranquil stay. The state is run on renewable energy and promotes purposeful initiatives where you can join a walking tour of the coconut estate, a traditional cooking class, and take some time to cycle to the local village soaking up the village temples, paddy fields and plantations before spending some time chatting to the locals as you enjoy a guided walk of the village.
Where to stay
Horathapola Estate (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Just four to five hours transfer from Colombo, you will arrive at this wonderful tented camp in the beautiful Wilpattu National Park. Leopard Trails is a responsible camping operator that adopts ethical safari practices. It has taken many steps towards working with the local community and working hard to reduce their carbon footprint.Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the chef followed by some downtime as you settle into your surroundings. At around 3.30 pm you will join the evening safari. Each vehicle is designed to allow optimum comfort and space during a game drive, allowing you to get the best vantage point of Sri Lanka's most incredible wildlife. Willpattu is a lot quieter than the Yala National Park, meaning each drive will bring a more intimate and rewarding safari experience with exceptional private guides.Enjoy some story-telling by the fire and learn about many different species that inhabit the park on spectacular sightings with your expert guide. In the early hours of the morning rise with the sun and go in search of a glimpse of the elusive leopard and other fascinating animals on the first game drive of the day. During your stay you will enjoy up to four game drives at the Wilpattu National Park.“At Leopard Trails, conservation is not just about protecting wildlife - it’s about creating a lasting impact that benefits both nature and the people who share this land. That’s why we embed the local community into every aspect of our operations, ensuring that our presence strengthens both the environment and the livelihoods of those around us."
Shared with us by Malmi Jayaweera - Safari Guide at Leopard Trails
Where to stay
Leopard Trails - Wilpattu National Park (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Bid farewell to Wilpattu as you embark on the next stage of the exceptional itinerary. Arriving in the north of the Cultural Triangle. Ulagalla lets you escape to another era, where you will immerse yourself in culture, history and nature at this enchanting sanctuary, where new villas have been combined with a beautifully restored wallawwa, a traditional Sri Lankan manor house. This is one of the leading eco-friendly hotels in Sri Lanka, with their commitment to carrying out extensive work within their elephant research center.
During your stay you will get to enjoy several ethical local experiences, including a morning with a resident host to experience the unseen life of the Hiriwadunna Village, followed by an afternoon spent at the Minneriya National Park where you will spend time with the elephant conservation expert, and learn about ongoing efforts to protect these gentle giants. You will also have the option to take part in a day's Kayaking trip at Malwathuoya. Embrace the sensational local cuisine while you enjoy a dinner at the Ulagalla’s Kamatha Restaurant – a rice paddy dining experience serving traditional dishes by home cooks showcasing their favorite recipes. The chefs are sisters from the local village, incorporating vegetables harvested from the hotels organic farm, fish from the lake and free-range meat sourced locally. The breads and rice are harvested from Uglagalla’s paddy fields."Conservation isn’t just about protecting wildlife, it’s about creating a world where both people and animals can thrive together. At SLWCS, we believe that the true success of conservation lies in empowering local communities to see wildlife as an asset, not a threat. We’ve witnessed firsthand how conservation can transform lives, providing sustainable livelihoods, reducing human-elephant conflict, and restoring vital ecosystems. Every traveler who joins our mission becomes part of this positive change.”
Shared with us by Chinthaka Weerasinghe - Head of Field Operations at SLWCS
Where to stay
Uga Ulagalla (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Plunge into the Sri Lankan wilderness as you immerse in the diverse beauty of the Gal Oya National Park staying at the tranquil Gal Oya Lodge. The lodge bungalows are spread across 20 acres of jungle allowing you to immerse in the wild ambiance that resonates throughout the state here, while being close to the pool, bar and restaurant at the center of the estate.The lodge works closely with the local community and has a strong focus on low-impact operations, striving to have a positive impact on the environment and community it is based. Building on this ethos there are some amazing experiences you can do during your stay at the lodge including a walk with Veddah Tribes through the jungle following in the footsteps of their ancestors. Join a boat Safari at the Senanayake Lake as you spot local wild and bird life, an immersive village cooking class and a Jeep safari at Gal Oya National Park, where you should be lucky enough to spot elephants, deer and the incredible bird life.Where to stay
Gal Oya Lodge (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Today you will head to Thotalagala, in the heart of Central Highlands. Here, you’ll learn about the complex history of this breathtaking area, home not only to Sri Lanka’s famous tea, but an abundance of wildlife and some of the friendliest locals you could ever wish to meet!Spend time on the estate enjoying breakfast on the lawn, gourmet barbeques, picnic breakfasts and exemplary experiences. As a well-known hiking area, head out on foot for fantastic treks through the landscape, birdwatching and spotting local flora and fauna. Take some time to join Stage 13 of the Pekoe Trail, taking you from Haputale to St Catherine’s, one of the most scenic sections of this famous hiking trail.Where to stay
Thotalagala (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
After breakfast you will meet your driver and transfer to the southern coast of the island. Staying at Tekanda Lodge, nestled within ten acres of private estate and just moments from the stunning coastline. In the grounds make the most of the emerald infinity pool, blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings, relax poolside as you soak up the sounds of the jungle.The estate walk with Richard the property manager at Tekanda is a must, enjoy a tour of their tea, species and coconut plantation, along with a stroll through the surrounding jungle filled with many interesting stories linked to the reforestation of the estate and operating an organic farm with the locals in the community. Take a cooking class with the in-house chef on the estate to create local delicacies with the seasonal produce available. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Galle Fort, learning about the fort’s rich and varied history.Take some time to visit the Tekanda Foundation established by Richard and Charlie Pembroke, dedicated to uplifting rural communities in Sri Lanka's Southern Province. The foundation operates the Gamata Athak Empowerment Center in Kathaluwa, which runs many courses and education facilities for the benefit of the local community." The Tekanda project has been built from three distinct entities - Our first pillar is our lodge, hand built from natural and sustainable materials. The second is Tekanda Foundation, which operates a rural empowerment center providing over 250 adults and children free vocational and educational classes. The third is our 10-acre organic estate which is a blend of biodiverse tropical rainforest and jungle, traditional Sri Lankan agricultural production, and a botanical garden to nurture a selection of Sri Lanka's most important plants and trees.”
Shared with us by Richard Pembroke - Property Manager
Where to stay
Tekanda Lodge (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
Price Guide: (Per Person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2025 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $11,100 | $2,800 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $11,100 | $2,800 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | $7,400 | $1,900 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | $7,400 | $1,900 | plan your trip |
| July 2026 | $11,100 | $2,800 | plan your trip |
| August 2026 | $11,100 | $2,800 | plan your trip |
| September 2026 | $9,300 | $2,300 | plan your trip |
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October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$11,100
Deposit from*$2,800
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$11,100
Deposit from*$2,800
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
-
May 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$7,400
Deposit from*$1,900
-
June 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$7,400
Deposit from*$1,900
-
July 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$11,100
Deposit from*$2,800
-
August 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$11,100
Deposit from*$2,800
-
September 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$9,300
Deposit from*$2,300
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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![Peko Trail Experince]()
View ExperienceThe Pekoe Trail
Embark on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya, guided by a local expert, as you traverse stunning tea plantations, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes.
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![Sauna and cold pool]()
View ExperienceLaugarás Lagoon Sanctuary of Wellness
Laugarás Lagoon represents the pinnacle of Iceland's geothermal wellness experience, where pristine mountain vistas meet the artistry of nature's own thermal springs.
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![Manchester]()
View ExperiencePrivate Walking Tour
Explore Manchester's dynamic past and present on a private walking tour with an expert local guide.
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![Monk Experience]()
View ExperienceSpiritual journey with Hermit Monks
Enjoy an insider's tour of the birthplace of Buddhism and engage in meaningful interactions with a resident monk, and conclude with experiencing herbal tea and traditional snacks.
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![Reykjavik]()
View ExperienceReykjavík Walking Tour
Discover Reykjavík’s charm on a guided walking tour through its historic streets. Stroll past colorful houses, iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall, and hidden gems that showcase the city's vibrant culture.
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![Liverpool district tour]()
View ExperiencePrivate Liverpool Historic Dock District Tour
A visit to this historic dock in Liverpool promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and waterfront charm, with stunning architecture, world-class museums, vibrant galleries, and trendy restaurants
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![Mini Cooper Tour of London]()
View ExperiencePrivate Tour of London by Classic Mini Cooper
London is a city of grand architecture, glittering landmarks and timeless stories but there is something magical about discovering it from behind the wheel of a car that’s every bit as iconic as the capital itself.
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![Manchester United]()
View ExperiencePrivate Manchester United Football Stadium Tour
Guests will embark on an exclusive private tour of Old Trafford, the iconic home of Manchester United.
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![Solar Eclipse]()
View Experience2026 Solar Eclipse - Fisherman's Village
Experience the rare total solar eclipse visible from Reykjavik for the first time since 1433. Celebrate in Álftanes, a charming village just 15 minutes from the city center, offering stunning sea views.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning your vacation.
Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Tours?
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