The 2-Day Whale Watching & Southern Sri Lanka Tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the natural and cultural wonders of the island’s southern region. Priced at $150 per person, this small group experience promises to whisk travelers away on a journey filled with remarkable sights and unforgettable encounters. From the historic charm of Galle Fort to the tranquility of the Bentota River, this tour covers a diverse range of experiences. However, the true highlight lies in the whale watching excursion, where visitors can hope to catch a glimpse of the majestic blue and humpback whales that frequent the waters off Mirissa. With an array of included services and a focus on providing a seamless experience, this tour might just be the perfect way to take in the natural and cultural tapestry of Southern Sri Lanka.
Key Points
- This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, including whale watching in Mirissa and exploring cultural and natural attractions in southern Sri Lanka.
- The tour is priced from $150 per person, with hotel pickup, small group size, and live guides available in English and German.
- Highlights include visiting Galle Fort, Bentota Beach, Kande Vihara temple, a sea turtle hatchery, and a relaxing boat ride on the Bentota River.
- The package includes one night’s accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and taxes, providing good value for money.
- Whale watching may be challenging for those prone to seasickness, so preparation with motion sickness medication or wristbands is advised.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This 2-day whale watching and southern Sri Lanka tour offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning coastline and diverse wildlife of the region, with prices starting from $150 per person.
The tour includes hotel pickup from major cities, a small group size of up to 10 participants, and live guides available in English and German.
Travelers can look forward to a variety of activities, including sightseeing in Bentota and Galle, a boat ride on the Bentota River, and the highlight – a whale watching experience in Mirissa.
The tour also includes one night’s accommodation with meals, as well as entrance fees and taxes.
Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, allowing for flexibility.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights a diverse range of activities and sightseeing opportunities across southern Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes.
On the first day, travelers will explore the historical Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Bentota Beach, the Kande Vihara Buddhist temple, and local handicraft and mask carving centers. They’ll also visit a sea turtle hatchery and spice garden in Bentota, followed by a relaxing boat ride on the Bentota River to observe native wildlife like crocodiles, giant lizards, and monkeys.
The second day features the highlight of the tour – a whale watching experience in Mirissa, a renowned destination for sightings of blue and humpback whales, especially from November to April.
Included Services
As part of the two-day whale watching and southern Sri Lanka tour, the package includes a whale watching trip, one night’s accommodation with breakfast and dinner at a 3-star compatible hotel, and guided tours of various cultural, historical, and natural attractions across the region.
Travelers will explore the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bentota Beach, the Kande Vihara Buddhist temple, and a sea turtle conservation center.
Plus, they’ll get to experience a boat ride on the Bentota River to observe wildlife like crocodiles, giant lizards, and monkeys.
All taxes are included, though personal expenses, tips, flights, and visa fees aren’t part of the package.
Customer Reviews
Customers who’ve experienced the whale watching and southern Sri Lanka tour have overwhelmingly praised the value for money, safety, service, and organization of the package, according to the tour’s online reviews.
Based on a total of 3 reviews, the tour has received a perfect 5/5 rating. Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides, quality of accommodation, and diverse range of activities, from visiting the Galle Fort to exploring a sea turtle conservation center.
While some noted minor issues with hotel room conditions, the overall consensus is that the tour offers an excellent experience and great value.
The tour’s focus on showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural landscapes has clearly resonated with customers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Considerations
While the whale watching and southern Sri Lanka tour offers a comprehensive experience, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.
Whale watching can prove challenging for those prone to seasickness due to the ocean conditions, so it’s vital for participants to prepare accordingly. Plus, the tour provides a diverse exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural landscapes.
Some key considerations include:
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Packing motion sickness medication or wristbands to manage potential seasickness
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Dressing in layers to accommodate changing weather and temperatures
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Bringing sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
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Ensuring proper footwear for walking on uneven terrain during the tour
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Whale Watching Experience
During the whale watching experience, travelers embark on a boat excursion from Mirissa, a coastal town renowned for its high chances of spotting both blue and humpback whales.
The prime whale watching season spans from November to April, when these majestic marine creatures frequent the area to feed.
The tour offers the opportunity to witness the whales’ impressive feeding behaviors, such as breaching, lunge feeding, and tail slapping.
Participants may also see other marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of seabirds.
The boat ride is led by experienced guides who provide expert commentary, ensuring a memorable and educational wildlife encounter.
Despite the potential for seasickness due to the ocean conditions, the whale watching experience is a highlight of the tour for many visitors.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
The tour also showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders beyond the whale watching experience.
Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century colonial town with Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences.
Nearby, the tour includes stops at a mask carving center, handicraft emporium, and Buddhist temple to immerse in local crafts and traditions.
Tranquil boat rides on the Bentota River and Madu Ganga provide opportunities to spot crocodiles, monkeys, and other wildlife.
The spice gardens in Bentota offer insights into the island’s age-old spice trade.
With a range of activities that highlight Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural and natural attractions, this tour offers a comprehensive experience beyond the whales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours, unless explicitly stated otherwise. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to confirm any restrictions or recommendations regarding personal provisions.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is generally suitable for children, but parents should consider their child’s age and interests. The whale watching portion may not be suitable for very young children due to potential seasickness. The diverse activities cater to families.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Whale Watching Activity?
The whale watching activity generally does not have age restrictions, but it may not be suitable for very young children. Tour operators typically advise parents to assess their child’s ability to handle the boat ride and potential seasickness.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather and bring sun protection, as the boat ride can expose them to the elements.
Can I Extend the Tour for an Additional Day?
Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional day. Travelers can discuss this option with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate a longer itinerary for an additional fee. This provides more flexibility to explore southern Sri Lanka.
Recap
The 2-Day Whale Watching & Southern Sri Lanka Tour offers an exciting and comprehensive adventure.
Priced at $150 per person, it includes hotel pickup, guided cultural visits, a boat ride, and the highlight – a whale watching excursion.
With accommodation, meals, and entrance fees covered, this small group tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the wonders of southern Sri Lanka.
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