Galle Day Tour: Boat Safari, Stick Fishing & Turtles From Bentota

Set out on a captivating Galle Day Tour from Bentota, where you’ll discover the diverse natural and cultural wonders of this enchanting region. Cruise along the Bentota River, spotting crocodiles and an array of vibrant bird species in the lush mangrove forests. Enjoy the age-old tradition of stick fishing, before visiting the Sea Turtle Conservation Center to witness the care of injured turtles and admire the adorable baby hatchlings. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the historic Galle Fort and its surrounding attractions await, offering a tantalizing glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. Prepare to be enchanted by this exceptional day tour.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day tour from Bentota exploring colonial Galle Fort, a turtle sanctuary, stilt fishing, and a river boat safari.
• 1.5-hour Bentota River Boat Safari to observe crocodiles, water monitors, and diverse birdlife in lush mangrove forests.
• 30-minute visit to a Sea Turtle Conservation Center to interact with turtles and learn about their rehabilitation.
• Guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, featuring 17th-century Dutch architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
• Opportunities to witness traditional stilt fishing and immerse in the coastal communities’ daily life and traditions.

Tour Overview

What does this Galle Day Tour from Bentota entail?

This is a private day trip that allows you to explore the colonial sights, wildlife, cultural attractions, and natural beauty around Galle.

You’ll visit the historic Galle Fort, a turtle sanctuary, a stilt fishing beach, and embark on a river boat safari.

The tour includes a private air-conditioned car with an experienced driver-guide who’ll provide navigation and local insights.

Flexible hotel pickup and drop-off, entry fees, and bottled water are all included.

Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or sightseeing, this comprehensive tour promises a memorable experience.

Bentota River Boat Safari

One of the highlights of the Galle Day Tour is the Bentota River Boat Safari. Lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes, this serene river journey offers a chance to spot wildlife like crocodiles and water monitors. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse species found in the lush mangrove forests. Visitors can also observe local fishermen using traditional methods to catch their daily haul. The tour provides a unique window into the vibrant ecosystem and cultural activities along the river.

Duration	1 hour 30 minutes
Wildlife Sightings	Crocodiles, water monitors
Birdwatching	Diverse species in mangrove forests
Cultural Experience	Observe traditional fishing methods

Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Visiting the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Center allows travelers to interact with various sea turtle species and learn about the center’s efforts to rehabilitate and protect these endangered marine creatures.

The tour lasts around 30 minutes, during which visitors can witness the center’s work in caring for injured turtles and preparing them for potential release. The opportunity to see baby turtles during the visit adds to the educational and memorable experience.

Through these interactive encounters, the conservation center aims to raise awareness about the importance of sea turtle preservation and the challenges they face in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.

Galle Fort Exploration

After exploring the sea turtle conservation center, the day tour takes visitors to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This 17th-century Dutch-built fortress offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Visitors can:

1. Stroll along the impressive ramparts, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
2. Discover charming colonial architecture, quaint cafes, and boutique shops within the fort’s walls.
3. Immerse themselves in the fort’s rich history by visiting the National Maritime Museum and historic churches.

The Galle Fort provides a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and appreciate the country’s remarkable blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences.

Cultural Attractions

What else can visitors expect to discover on this Galle day tour? Along with the natural wonders, the tour also showcases cultural attractions that provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. One highlight is the visit to the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Center, where guests can interact with various sea turtle species and learn about the country’s efforts to protect these endangered creatures. The tour also stops at a stilt fishing beach, where travelers can observe local fishermen using traditional methods to catch their daily haul. This unique cultural experience allows visitors to enjoy the traditional way of life along Sri Lanka’s picturesque coastline.

Activity	Duration	What to Expect
Stilt Fishing	–	Observe local fishermen using traditional methods to catch fish
Sea Turtle Center	30 minutes	Interact with sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts
Mangrove Forests	–	Birdwatching opportunities in lush, natural settings
Local Fishing	–	Witness the daily life and practices of coastal communities
Cultural Immersion	–	Gain insights into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and traditions

Natural Beauties

Alongside the cultural attractions, this Galle day tour showcases the natural beauties that Sri Lanka is renowned for.

The Bentota River Boat Safari offers glimpses into the lush mangrove forests, where birdwatchers can spot an array of feathered creatures. Visitors may even catch sight of elusive crocodiles and water monitors, providing an exciting wildlife encounter.

At the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Center, guests can witness the rehabilitation efforts for injured turtles and possibly see hatchlings during their visit.

These natural wonders, combined with the opportunity to observe traditional fishing methods, make this tour a truly immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s captivating landscapes.

Tour Logistics

This Galle day tour is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate.

Confirmation is received upon booking, ensuring you’re all set for the adventure. The tour is stroller-accessible, with infant seats available, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.

You can freely cancel up to 24 hours beforehand with no penalty. The pricing starts from $99.56 per person, varying by group size, and covers private transport, entrance fees, and bottled water.

Food and drinks can be purchased separately, and gratuities aren’t included.

With an impressive 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this tour promises memorable encounters with wildlife, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.

Pricing and Inclusions

The pricing for this Galle day tour starts from $99.56 per person, with the exact cost varying depending on the size of the group.

The tour includes:

• Private air-conditioned transportation with an experienced driver-guide
• Entrance fees to all the attractions, such as the Bentota River Boat Safari and the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Center
• Complimentary bottled water throughout the tour

While food and beverages are available for purchase, gratuities aren’t included in the price.

The tour offers excellent value, providing a comprehensive exploration of Galle’s colonial sights, wildlife, and cultural attractions in a private, flexible format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, some refreshments and snacks may be available for purchase during the experience as well.

Is There an Option to Visit a Tea Plantation?

Though the tour overview does not mention a visit to a tea plantation, the private and flexible nature of the tour may allow for customization. Visitors can inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of adding a tea plantation visit to the itinerary.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Boat Safari?

The boat safari doesn’t require any special equipment. Participants can simply bring a camera to capture the wildlife and scenery. The tour provides life jackets and necessary safety gear for the boat ride.

What Should I Wear for the Best Experience?

For the best experience, one should wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing that can get wet. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses are also recommended. Loose, breathable fabrics are ideal for the boat safari’s potentially humid environment.

Is There an Additional Charge for Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off?

No, there is no additional charge for hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour package includes private transportation with a driver-guide, as well as flexible hotel pickup and drop-off service for the convenience of the travelers.

Recap

This Galle Day Tour from Bentota offers an immersive experience, blending nature, culture, and wildlife. From the serene Bentota River boat safari to the fascinating Sea Turtle Conservation Center, it’s a captivating journey that showcases Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions. Exploring the historic Galle Fort and discovering the region’s natural beauties make this tour an unforgettable highlight of any visit to the southern coast.