From Bentota: Madu River Safari & Turtle Hatchery Visit

Exploring the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s Bentota region, the ‘From Bentota: Madu River Safari & Turtle Hatchery Visit‘ offers an immersive experience that blends scenic river cruising with wildlife conservation. Travelers embark on a journey through the lush Madu Ganga wetland, where they’ll discover diverse bird species and gain insights into the local ecosystem. The tour then takes them to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Centre, where they’ll have the chance to witness the captivating life cycles of sea turtles and even observe hatchlings being released into the ocean. This captivating excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to connect with Sri Lanka’s remarkable natural heritage.

Key Points

• Scenic 5-hour boat cruise through the Madu Ganga wetland, including cultural visits to Cinnamon Island and Temple Island.
• Educational tour of the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre to learn about sea turtle conservation efforts.
• Private transportation provided from hotels in Bentota or Beruwala, with fuel surcharges, driver fees, and taxes included.
• Complimentary refreshments and water provided during the excursion, along with an experienced driver to guide the journey.
• Flexible booking process with no upfront payment required and easy availability checks for desired dates and group sizes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Madu River Safari & Turtle Hatchery Visit offers an immersive 5-hour experience at a cost of €59.35 per person.

There is an option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a reserve now & pay later option available.

This guided tour includes private transportation to and from hotels in Bentota or Beruwala, a boat cruise exploring the 915-hectare Madu Ganga wetland, and a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre.

Fuel surcharges, driver fees, and all taxes are covered, and complimentary refreshments and water are provided throughout the journey.

With a focus on wildlife, culture, and conservation, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the natural wonders of the region.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Bentota or Beruwala, departing for Balapitiya at 9:00 am.

Upon arrival at 10:00 am, participants embark on a boat cruise through the 915-hectare Madu Ganga coastal wetland, witnessing diverse wildlife, fishing structures, and various bird species.

The journey continues to Cinnamon Island and Temple Island, providing a cultural experience.

At 1:00 pm, the group visits the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre, learning about turtle life cycles and conservation efforts.

The tour concludes with a return to the hotel at 2:00 pm.

Inclusions

This tour’s inclusions cover a range of essential services and amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Private vehicle transportation to and from the hotel, boat charges for the Madu Ganga River Safari, and entrance fees to the Turtle Hatchery are all included in the package price.

Plus, the tour covers fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey.

Complementing the transportation and admission costs, the tour also provides:

1. Complimentary refreshments and water during the trip

2. All government taxes included in the pricing

3. A knowledgeable and experienced driver to guide the way

These inclusions make this Madu River Safari and Turtle Hatchery visit a comprehensive and worry-free excursion.

Experience and Activities

During the Madu River Safari, participants can enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the lush, 915-hectare coastal wetland of Madu Ganga. This provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, including observing various bird species and traditional fishing structures along the river.

Plus, the tour includes a cultural experience at the Cinnamon Island and Temple Island, offering insights into the local way of life.

At the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre, visitors can learn about the life cycles and conservation efforts for sea turtles, with the chance to witness hatchlings being released back into the ocean.

These diverse experiences allow for a comprehensive understanding of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

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Booking and Availability

Customers can check availability for starting times and select participants and date to make a reservation for the Madu River Safari and Turtle Hatchery Visit.

Flexible booking options are available with no upfront payment required.

This tour offers three key benefits for booking:

1. Convenient availability check to find the optimal date and time for your excursion.

2. Hassle-free reservation process with no need to pay upfront.

3. Flexible arrangements to accommodate your group size and scheduling needs.

Madu Ganga River Safari

The Madu Ganga River Safari takes visitors on a scenic boat cruise through a 915-hectare coastal wetland, offering glimpses of diverse wildlife and traditional fishing structures along the way.

During the 1-hour journey, travelers can expect to spot an array of bird species thriving in the lush mangrove forests.

The safari also provides a cultural experience, allowing guests to visit Cinnamon Island and Temple Island to learn about the region’s heritage.

Throughout the excursion, you will gain insights into the delicate balance between human activity and the natural environment that sustains the Madu Ganga ecosystem.

This immersive experience truly showcases the beauty and biodiversity of this unique coastal wetland.

Kosgoda Turtle Conservation

After exploring the natural wonders of the Madu Ganga River, the tour continues to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre, where visitors can learn about the vital efforts to protect these endangered marine creatures.

At the centre, guests will discover:

1. The life cycle of sea turtles, including their nesting habits and hatchling release programs.

2. The conservation initiatives undertaken to safeguard turtle populations, such as monitoring beaches and protecting nests from predators.

3. The research and educational activities conducted at the centre, which aim to raise awareness and promote the importance of sea turtle conservation.

Through this immersive experience, travellers gain a deeper appreciation for the fragile ecosystems and the dedicated work to preserve these remarkable animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Nearby Attractions?

Yes, this tour can be combined with other nearby attractions. Visitors have the flexibility to add on stops like walking tours, cultural visits, or additional wildlife experiences to customize their day and maximize their time in the area.

Are Any Meal Options Included During the Tour?

The tour does not include any meals. However, complimentary refreshments and water are provided throughout the day. Guests can opt to have lunch at their own expense during the break between the river safari and turtle hatchery visit.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

This private tour has a flexible group size, allowing participants to enjoy a personalized experience. The specific group size is not explicitly stated, but the tour can accommodate individual travellers as well as small groups.

Is There Any Opportunity for Photography or Videography?

The tour provides ample opportunities for photography and videography throughout the journey. Guests can capture scenic landscapes, wildlife, traditional fishing structures, and cultural sites during the Madu Ganga River Safari and visits to Cinnamon Island and Turtle Hatchery.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities, as it includes private transportation and has wheelchair-friendly boats for the river safari. Advance notice is recommended to ensure the necessary accommodations are provided.

Recap

This captivating 5-hour experience offers a unique opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Guests embark on a serene boat cruise through the Madu Ganga wetland, spotting diverse birdlife.

Following this, visitors will enjoy a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Centre.

Here, they’ll witness the release of sea turtle hatchlings, fostering a deeper appreciation for these fragile creatures and the importance of wildlife conservation.

You can check if your dates are available here: