From Bentota: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour

The From Bentota: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour offers an immersive journey into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and captivating natural wonders. Priced from £62.84 per person, this full-day excursion takes travelers on a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, famous for its historic architecture and strategic significance. Complementing this cultural experience, the tour also includes a scenic boat ride along the Madu River, where visitors can witness the region’s unique wildlife and traditional fishing methods. But the adventure doesn’t stop there, as the tour also features a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, shedding light on the vital conservation efforts for these remarkable marine creatures. With comfortable hotel transportation and expert-led experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable day that leaves one eager to discover more about this enchanting destination.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Safari Tours In Galle.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Bentota visits the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort and includes a Madu River Safari boat ride.
• The tour provides insight into Sri Lanka’s colonial history and showcases the diverse wetland ecosystem of the Madu River.
• Visitors can explore the 14 bastions and lighthouse of the Galle Dutch Fort and witness traditional fishing methods during the river safari.
• The tour also features a stop at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, allowing guests to observe sea turtle conservation efforts.
• Complimentary water, hotel transportation, and entrance fees are included, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour offers an immersive full-day experience, with prices starting from £62.84 per person.

The 8-hour tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, a scenic boat ride through the Balapitiya wetlands along the Madu River, and a stop at a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

Travelers can explore the historic fort, observe traditional fishing methods, and learn about sea turtle conservation.

The tour includes complimentary water, transportation from the hotel, and all necessary entrance fees and charges.

While lunch isn’t included, visitors can enjoy a local meal during the free time.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to discover the highlights of southern Sri Lanka.

Itinerary Highlights

This comprehensive tour offers a captivating itinerary that showcases the diverse cultural and natural wonders of southern Sri Lanka. Visitors embark on this 8-hour excursion from select pickup locations, including Induruwa, Balapitiya, Bentota, and Beruwala, setting out to explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, enjoy the scenic Madu River wetlands, and visit a sea turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

At the Galle Dutch Fort, they’ll discover the fort’s 14 bastions, tower, lighthouse, and Baroque-style Protestant church, all built by the Portuguese in 1588.

The Madu River Safari provides a tranquil boat ride through the Balapitiya wetlands, offering glimpses of traditional kraal fishing, diverse birdlife, and visits to Cinnamon and Temple Islands.

Tour Experience

During the tour, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leads visitors through the Galle Dutch Fort, Madu River wetlands, and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, providing insightful commentary and allowing ample time for exploration, photography, and immersive experiences at each location.

Guests can capture the grand architecture and historic charm of the Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the unique kraal fishing methods and diverse wildlife of the Madu River.

At the Turtle Hatchery, they’ll learn about sea turtle conservation efforts and have the chance to observe the different stages of the turtles’ life cycle.

Throughout the day, the tour provides an engaging blend of guided sightseeing and free time to create cherished memories.

Included Services

In an article titled ‘From Bentota: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour’, it’s time to discuss the included services.

A private vehicle transports guests from their hotel to the tour’s various locations and back again, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

The tour package includes all necessary boat charges for the Madu Ganga River Safari, entrance fees to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, fuel surcharges, and driver fees.

Complimentary bottled water is provided throughout the day to keep guests hydrated.

Plus, all applicable government taxes are covered within the tour price.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to fully enjoy the tour without having to worry about additional costs or logistics.

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Pickup Locations

From Bentota: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour

The tour provides pickup locations in several coastal towns, including Induruwa, Balapitiya, Bentota, and Beruwala, allowing guests to conveniently join the excursion from their accommodation. This flexibility ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

The pickup locations were carefully selected to cater to travelers staying in these popular seaside destinations.

Some key benefits of the pickup service include:

1. Eliminating the need for self-driving and dealing with traffic or parking.

2. Providing a comfortable and hassle-free transition from your hotel to the tour’s first stop.

3. Enabling a relaxed start to the day, as you’re transported directly to the Galle Dutch Fort.

Galle Dutch Fort

The Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to Sri Lanka’s rich colonial history, having been initially constructed by the Portuguese in 1588 and later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Visitors can explore the fort’s 14 impressive bastions, its iconic lighthouse, and the Baroque-style Protestant church within its walls.

The fort’s impressive architecture, featuring a unique blend of European and Asian influences, provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.

Wandering through the fort’s winding streets and admiring the well-preserved buildings is a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s captivating heritage.

Madu River Safari

Nestled amidst the lush wetlands of Balapitiya, the Madu River Safari offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystem, where they’ll glide through a labyrinth of mangrove-fringed waterways teeming with unique flora and fauna.

During the scenic boat ride, guests can expect to witness a variety of remarkable sights:

1. The traditional ‘kraal’ fishing method, where local fishermen use intricate woven traps to catch their catch.

2. A serene visit to Cinnamon Island, where the aromatic spice is harvested and processed.

3. The chance to explore Temple Island, home to a picturesque Buddhist temple nestled along the riverbanks.

This enchanting experience allows travelers to enjoy the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s wetlands, leaving them with lasting memories of this biodiverse eco-system.

Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda

Tucked along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery stands as a beacon of hope for the region’s endangered sea turtle populations, inviting visitors to learn about their remarkable life cycle and ongoing conservation efforts.

At the hatchery, guests will witness the delicate process of incubating and hatching turtle eggs, ensuring the safe release of the tiny hatchlings into the ocean.

Knowledgeable guides share insights into the diverse species found in Sri Lankan waters and the critical threats they face, from habitat loss to poaching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, travelers can typically customize the tour itinerary to their preferences. The tour provider may offer flexibility in adjusting the schedule or adding/removing stops based on the customers’ interests and requirements.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Seniors?

The tour operator does offer discounts for groups of 4 or more, as well as senior citizens aged 60 and above. Customers should inquire about these discounts when booking the tour to take advantage of the savings.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is reasonably accessible for individuals with disabilities. The tour provides private vehicle transportation and allows for time flexibilities, though accessibility at the historic Galle Dutch Fort may be limited. Guests should contact the tour provider to discuss any specific needs.

Can I Add Additional Stops or Activities to the Tour?

Yes, you can typically add additional stops or activities to the tour. The tour operator may be able to customize the itinerary for an extra fee, depending on the requested changes and availability. It’s best to discuss any modifications with the tour provider.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule the Tour?

The tour package offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests to reschedule the tour without penalty. This flexible policy provides convenience and peace of mind for those who need to adjust their plans.

Recap

The From Bentota: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour provides an enriching full-day experience, showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, embark on a scenic Madu River boat ride, and learn about sea turtle conservation at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and guided experiences.

This comprehensive tour offers an excellent opportunity to take in the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka.

You can check if your dates are available here: