Nestled along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the historic Galle Fort and the unique fish massage experience await adventurous travelers. This comprehensive tour from Negombo offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and natural rejuvenation. Set out on a serene boat safari through the Madu River, where you’ll witness the local ecosystem, before indulging in a soothing foot massage by toothless carp. Afterward, explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, marveling at its Dutch colonial architecture and uncovering its fascinating past. With convenient transportation and an English-speaking guide, this immersive day trip promises a truly unforgettable experience. But what secrets does Galle Fort hold, and how will the fish massage leave you feeling?
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour from Negombo takes visitors to Galle Fort and includes a one-hour boat safari on the Madu River and a fish massage experience.
- The tour is priced from $90 per person and includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, and flexibility in starting time.
- The boat safari on the Madu River provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s untouched waterways and natural environment, with the opportunity to spot diverse flora and fauna.
- The outdoor fish massage experience offers a unique and relaxing activity, with toothless carp gently exfoliating the skin and improving circulation.
- Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows visitors to explore its well-preserved 17th-century colonial architecture, quaint streets, and local boutiques.
Trip Overview
This 12-hour tour from Negombo takes travelers to Galle Fort and provides a fish massage experience.
Priced from $90 per person, the trip includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver.
Highlights include a one-hour boat safari on the Madu River and exploring the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Participants can also indulge in a unique fish massage, with their feet dipped in a fenced river section.
The tour has a 24-hour free cancellation policy, and reservations can be made in advance with a flexible starting time.
Please note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Negombo.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off at 8:00 AM with a one-hour boat journey through the mangrove marshes of the Madu River, where travelers will experience the primitive depths and bright open water.
Next, visitors head to an outdoor fish massage parlor where they can dangle their feet in a fenced-off section of the river for a unique fish massage experience.
The final highlight is exploring the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast. This impressive 17th-century fort boasts immense cultural and historical significance, allowing visitors to step back in time and uncover the region’s rich heritage.
Madu River Boat Safari
Starting the day’s adventure, travelers embark on a one-hour boat journey through the serene mangrove marshes of the Madu River.
Gliding through the primitive depths and bright open water, this scenic river safari offers a unique glimpse into the region’s lush, natural environment.
Surrounded by the verdant mangrove forests, guests can spot a variety of flora and fauna, including birds, reptiles, and even the occasional crocodile.
The calm, reflective waters create a peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of the ecosystem.
This boat tour provides an opportunity to appreciate the untouched, tranquil side of Sri Lanka’s waterways before continuing on to the next destination.
Fish Massage Experience
After the peaceful boat ride along the Madu River, travelers head to an outdoor fish massage parlor, where they can dangle their feet in a fenced river section to experience the unique fish massage.
The fish used for this treatment are a type of toothless carp that gently nibble on the skin, providing a tickling sensation and a natural exfoliation.
This relaxing experience lasts around 30 minutes, allowing visitors to unwind and enjoy the soothing effects of the fish’s mouths as they work to remove dead skin and improve circulation.
It’s a one-of-a-kind activity that’s sure to leave travelers feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after their time in the water.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyGalle Fort Visit
Concluding the day’s activities, travelers venture forth to explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka.
This well-preserved 17th-century fortification, constructed by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch, stands as a testament to the island nation’s rich colonial past.
Within the fort’s imposing walls, visitors will discover charming colonial-era architecture, quaint streets lined with boutiques and cafes, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Strolling through the fort’s historic ramparts, travelers can enjoy Sri Lanka’s captivating history and culture, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the country’s enduring heritage.
Inclusions
The tour package includes pick-up and drop-off at the traveler’s accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as an English-speaking driver. Bottled water is also provided, and the Madu Ganga boat safari and a visit to a turtle hatchery are both part of the itinerary.
However, food, drink, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.
The tour’s inclusions are:
-
Pick-up and drop-off at the traveler’s accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle
-
English-speaking driver
-
Bottled water, Madu Ganga boat safari, and turtle hatchery visit
While the tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, travelers should budget for their own meals, drinks, and tips for the driver and any other service providers.
Not Suitable For
Who should avoid this tour?
Pregnant women and wheelchair users aren’t recommended for this activity.
The tour involves a boat safari through mangrove marshes and an outdoor fish massage experience.
The boat ride may be too physically demanding for pregnant women, and the uneven terrain at the fish massage parlor could pose difficulties for wheelchair users.
While the tour provides a unique cultural experience, it’s important to consider any mobility limitations or health concerns before booking.
The organizers want to ensure all participants have a safe and enjoyable time.
Those with any physical restrictions or medical conditions should consult with the tour provider before making a reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks. The tour package includes bottled water, but any other food or drinks are not provided. Participants are expected to purchase any additional refreshments during the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?
The activity is generally suitable for all ages, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of the fish massage and boat safari. Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned in the trip details.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
You don’t need any special equipment for this trip. Just wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking. The tour provider will provide all necessary equipment and gear for the activities, like the boat and fish massage area.
Can I Take Photos During the Trip?
Absolutely! Visitors are generally encouraged to take photos during the trip. However, it’s important to be respectful and avoid disturbing the natural surroundings or interfering with the experiences. Most tour providers welcome photography as long as it doesn’t disrupt the activities.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour provider likely offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Customers can discuss their interests and preferences with the provider to potentially adjust the activities or stops included in the tour.
Recap
This tour offers a unique blend of history, nature, and wellness.
Guests can enjoy a serene boat ride on the Madu River, indulge in a relaxing fish massage, and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, all with the convenience of round-trip transportation and an English-speaking driver.
It’s an ideal way to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural and natural wonders in a single, immersive day.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Negombo
- Transfer Between Colombo Airport and Dedduwa Boat House by Jetwing, Bentota
- Transfer Between Colombo Airport (Cmb) and Cinnamon Red, Colombo
- Private Transfer From Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb) to Dambulla
- Wilpattu National Park Safari From Negombo
- Private Transfer From Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb) to Koggala
- Airport Pickup Transport to Matara Review
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Negombo we have recnetly reviewed
- 3 Best Dining Experiences In Negombo
- 7 Best 2 Day Tours In Negombo
- 2 Best Dinner Tours In Negombo
- 4 Best 3 Day Tours In Negombo
- 2 Best 4 Day Tours In Negombo
- 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Negombo
- 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Negombo
- Transfer Between Colombo Airport (Cmb) and Ramada Colombo, Colombo
- Explore Sri Lanka 8 Days
- Transfers Between Colombo Airport and Taru Villas-Rampalt Street
- Airport Taxi Transfers From Colombo Airport to Hikkaduwa
- Colombo International Airport to Anywhere in Mirissa-Transport Only