Dambulla/Sigiriya: Polonnaruwa & Minneriya Park Jeep Safari

The Dambulla/Sigiriya tour offers an enriching experience, combining the historical wonders of Polonnaruwa with an exhilarating jeep safari in Minneriya Park. Guests will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at the magnificent Gal Vihara Buddha statues and the ancient Royal Palace complex. After a delightful lunch of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, participants embark on a thrilling safari to witness elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat. With comfortable transportation and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable day. What intrigues you most about this immersive experience?

Key Points

• This comprehensive tour covers the historical and natural sites of the Dambulla/Sigiriya region, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa and a wildlife sanctuary.
• The tour includes a full-day excursion with convenient pickup, breakfast, and a jeep safari to observe elephants in their natural habitat at Minneriya or Kaudulla park.
• The affordable package, starting from £48.60 per person, includes hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water/coconut water, a 4×4 jeep with an English-speaking driver, and all entrance fees.
• The tour offers up to 15% savings on the regular price with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Pregnant women are advised against participation, and appropriate attire and preparation for unpredictable weather conditions are recommended.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Dambulla/Sigiriya Jeep Safari offers a comprehensive tour of the region’s historical and natural wonders, encompassing the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the wildlife sanctuary of Minneriya or Kaudulla.

The full-day excursion starts with a convenient pickup from Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana, followed by a hearty breakfast.

Guests then explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, marveling at its impressive ruins, before enjoying a delightful lunch break.

The highlight of the day is the exciting jeep safari, where participants can observe herds of elephants and their calves in their natural habitat.

The tour concludes with a comfortable return journey to the starting point.

Pricing and Inclusions

The Dambulla/Sigiriya Jeep Safari offers an affordable and inclusive package, with prices starting from £48.60 per person.

This 12-hour excursion includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water or coconut water, and a 4×4 jeep with an English-speaking driver.

Guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, enjoy a delightful lunch, and embark on an exciting elephant safari at either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

The tour also covers all entrance fees, making it a hassle-free and value-for-money experience.

Travelers can enjoy this comprehensive itinerary while saving up to 15% on the regular price, with the added flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Morning Pickup and Breakfast

Convenient pickup from Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana starts the day, followed by a delightful breakfast to energize guests for the adventures ahead. The tour operator ensures a comfortable and hassle-free start to the day, allowing participants to sit back and relax as they’re transported to their first destination.

Experience	Excitement	Anticipation
Scenic drive through the countryside	Eager to explore Polonnaruwa	Curious about the upcoming elephant safari
Friendly greeting from the driver	Savoring a hearty breakfast	Wondering what surprises the day holds
Feeling refreshed and ready to explore	Buzzing with energy and enthusiasm	Impatient to witness the majesty of nature

Polonnaruwa Sightseeing

After the morning pickup and breakfast, guests embark on a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa.

They’ll discover the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, a set of four massive Buddha statues carved directly into the rock, along with the majestic Parakrama Samudra, an ancient man-made reservoir.

The Royal Palace complex provides a glimpse into the grandeur of the city’s storied past.

Wandering through the remarkably preserved ruins, visitors are transported back in time, marveling at the intricate architecture and engineering feats that defined this once-thriving medieval capital.

The tranquil atmosphere and historical significance of Polonnaruwa make it a captivating highlight of the day’s itinerary.

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Lunch Break

Following the morning exploration, guests enjoy a delightful lunch break to refuel and recharge.

This mid-day respite provides a chance to savor local cuisine and recover energy for the upcoming safari adventure. The tour includes a lunch stop at a nearby restaurant, where travelers can indulge in authentic Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, or kottu roti.

The lunch break offers a peaceful interlude, allowing visitors to rest, reflect on the morning’s sights, and prepare for the next exciting segment of the tour – the Minneriya or Kaudulla elephant safari.

This well-timed lunch ensures guests are energized and ready to make the most of the day’s remaining activities.

Minneriya or Kaudulla Elephant Safari

The tour’s highlight is the Minneriya or Kaudulla elephant safari, where guests can witness the majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Depending on the season and animal movement, the tour guide will choose the best park to visit.

At either Minneriya or Kaudulla, guests climb aboard a 4×4 jeep and set out in search of the elephants.

With an experienced driver, they’ll navigate the park’s rugged terrain, catching glimpses of herds grazing and baby elephants playing.

It’s a breathtaking sight, as these gentle giants roam freely in their lush, protected environment.

The safari is a truly unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with Sri Lanka’s renowned wildlife up close.

Return Journey

At the end of the adventure, the tour safely transports guests back to their original starting point, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing return journey.

After the exhilarating safari and historical exploration, visitors can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive. The air-conditioned vehicle provides a pleasant respite, and the English-speaking driver ensures a smooth and stress-free trip back.

Along the way, guests may have the opportunity to take in more stunning vistas and glimpse local rural life.

The tour concludes with a convenient drop-off at the original pickup location, allowing travelers to continue their Sri Lankan adventure with fond memories of the day’s experiences.

Important Considerations

Certain limitations and guidelines apply for this Dambulla/Sigiriya Jeep Safari. Pregnant women, for instance, can’t participate due to the physically demanding nature of the activities. Plus, the tour strictly prohibits the use of alcohol and drugs throughout the excursion.

Other important considerations include:

• Appropriate attire and footwear is recommended for the various activities, such as comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

• Participants should be prepared for the potential for unpredictable weather conditions, and bring necessary items like rain jackets or umbrellas.

• Wildlife sightings, though likely, can’t be guaranteed, as the animals’ movements are unpredictable.

• Travelers with any health concerns or mobility issues should consult with the tour operator prior to booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can typically be customized to include additional activities. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate special requests or modify the itinerary to suit their needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour provider offers discounts for group bookings. Customers can save up to 15% per person when booking the tour with a group. Discounts are applied automatically during the booking process, so no additional steps are required.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Customers can request a specific language for the tour guide, though availability may be limited. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate such requests when possible to ensure a comfortable and informative experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility to reschedule if needed.

Are There Any Travel Restrictions or Requirements I Should Be Aware Of?

The tour operator notes that the safari is not suitable for pregnant women, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed. Travelers should be aware of these restrictions and requirements before booking the tour.

Recap

The Dambulla/Sigiriya tour offers an immersive experience, blending the historical wonders of Polonnaruwa and the captivating wildlife of Minneriya Park.

Guests can explore UNESCO-listed sites, witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat, and savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and expert guidance throughout the day.

This tour provides an enriching and memorable adventure for visitors seeking to discover the cultural and natural treasures of Sri Lanka.

You can check if your dates are available here: