Nestled along the western coast of Sri Lanka, Negombo offers a thrilling escape for adventure-seekers. Mere hours from the city, Kitulgala’s Kelani River beckons with its Class II and III rapids, promising an exhilarating white-water rafting experience. Under the guidance of professional instructors, participants can enjoy the heart-pounding rush, marveling at the lush, picturesque landscapes that surround them. But the allure of Negombo’s aquatic adventure extends beyond the rapids, as the day culminates in a delectable buffet lunch – a fitting reward for those who dare to explore Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
Key Points
• The adventure water rafting tour starts with pickup from Negombo hotel and a 3-hour journey to Kitulgala, where participants embark on a 2-hour rafting experience on the Kelani River.
• The rafting adventure covers approximately 5 kilometers and allows participants to encounter thrilling Class II and III rapids, with an experienced instructor providing a safety briefing beforehand.
• The tour offers stunning views of Sri Lanka’s verdant wilderness, including rolling hills, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and occasional sightings of native wildlife along the river.
• The tour includes transportation, professional instructors, a delectable buffet lunch, and optional activities like abseiling and ziplining for additional thrills.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with certain medical conditions, and a basic level of physical fitness is required for participation.
You can check if your dates are available here:Tour Overview
The tour offers an adventure water rafting experience in Kitulgala, Sri Lanka, with a price starting from $92.00 per person and a duration of 10 hours.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and pickup is included from their Negombo hotel.
The itinerary includes a 3-hour car journey to Kitulgala, where guests will partake in 2 hours of white water rafting on the Kelani River, covering approximately 5 kilometers.
After the rafting, a buffet lunch will be served at the Plantation Hotel by the river, followed by a 4-hour return journey to Negombo.
Participants will receive a professional safety briefing and can enjoy the scenic views of the Sri Lankan wilderness during the rafting experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Negombo.
Itinerary
At approximately 7:00 AM, guests will be picked up from their Negombo hotel to embark on the 3-hour journey to Kitulgala, the site of the white water rafting adventure.
Upon arrival, they’ll gear up for an exhilarating 2-hour rafting experience on the Kelani River, covering approximately 5 kilometers. The tour includes:
-
A professional safety briefing from an experienced instructor
-
Scenic views of the Sri Lankan wilderness during the rafting
-
A delicious buffet lunch at the Plantation Hotel by the river
After the rafting, guests will enjoy the 4-hour return journey to Negombo, leaving them with memories of a thrilling adventure in the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
White Water Rafting Adventure
After the scenic journey from Negombo, guests gear up and embark on an exhilarating 2-hour white water rafting adventure down the Kelani River in Kitulgala.
An experienced instructor provides a thorough safety briefing before they navigate the rushing rapids, surrounded by the breathtaking Sri Lankan wilderness.
As they paddle through the churning waters, they’ll encounter a series of thrilling Class II and III rapids, testing their skills and adrenaline.
The dynamic river offers varying levels of difficulty, ensuring an engaging experience for both novice and experienced rafters.
Throughout the journey, guests will be treated to stunning views of the lush, verdant landscapes that characterize this region of Sri Lanka.
Scenic Views and Wilderness
Throughout the white water rafting journey, guests are treated to a breathtaking display of Sri Lanka’s verdant wilderness, with lush foliage and towering cliffs lining the banks of the Kelani River.
The rapids are framed by a stunning backdrop of rolling hills, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, creating a truly immersive natural experience. Adventurers can expect to encounter:
-
Vibrant green landscapes dotted with vibrant wildflowers
-
Majestic rock formations sculpted by the powerful river currents
-
The occasional sighting of native wildlife, such as monkeys and birds of prey
This serene wilderness setting provides the perfect contrast to the exhilarating white water rafting, allowing guests to fully appreciate the diverse beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Amenities
The adventure water rafting tour in Kitulgala includes a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for participants.
For starters, bottled water is provided throughout the day to keep you hydrated. The transportation to and from the rafting site is by a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, making the journey smooth and pleasant.
During the rafting activity, you’ll benefit from the expertise of professional instructors who provide a comprehensive safety briefing.
The tour also includes a delectable buffet lunch at the Plantation Hotel, allowing you to refuel after the exhilarating river adventure.
Plus, there are optional activities like abseiling and ziplining for those seeking additional thrills.
Participant Information
The adventure water rafting tour in Kitulgala isn’t suitable for everyone. Pregnant women and wheelchair users, for instance, are advised against participating in this activity due to safety concerns.
Prospective participants should also note that:
-
A basic level of physical fitness is required, as the rafting involves navigating through rapids and may be physically demanding.
-
Participants must be able to swim and follow safety instructions from the instructor.
-
Those with certain medical conditions, such as heart or back problems, may be advised against taking part in the activity.
It’s important for interested parties to carefully review the participant requirements before booking the tour to ensure it aligns with their capabilities and comfort level.
Customer Reviews
Overwhelmingly positive customer feedback highlights the tour’s exceptional quality, with an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on the sole review available. The reviewer praised the thrilling white water rafting experience, the stunning natural scenery, and the professional safety briefing provided by the instructor. The rafting adventure was described as a must-do experience, offering a perfect blend of excitement and breathtaking views. The tour’s seamless organization, from the convenient hotel pickup to the well-planned itinerary, further contributed to the reviewer’s satisfaction. The customer’s glowing endorsement suggests that this water rafting tour in Kitulgala is a top-notch adventure worth considering for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled excursion in Sri Lanka.
Review Score | 5/5 |
---|---|
Key Highlights | – Thrilling white water rafting – Stunning natural scenery – Professional safety briefing |
Overall Impression | Highly recommended adventure tour |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Water Safe to Drink During the Rafting Adventure?
The water is safe to drink during the rafting adventure. Bottled water is included in the tour package, ensuring participants stay hydrated throughout the thrilling white-water experience without concerns about the water’s potability.
Can I Bring My Own Life Jacket or Is One Provided?
Life jackets are typically provided for water rafting adventures. Participants don’t need to bring their own, as the tour company ensures all necessary safety equipment is available. It’s best to check with the tour operator to confirm the specifics.
Are There Any Medical Facilities Near the Rafting Site?
There is a first aid station located near the rafting site in Kitulgala. Plus, the tour provider has emergency protocols in place, and staff are trained to respond to any medical situations that may arise during the white water rafting experience.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks for the Trip?
You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks for the rafting trip. However, bottled water is provided, and a buffet lunch is included at the Plantation Hotel. Check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food and beverages.
How Experienced Do the Rafting Guides Need to Be?
The rafting guides must be highly experienced and properly certified. They provide a comprehensive safety briefing and closely supervise the rafters throughout the white water adventure to ensure an exhilarating yet safe experience.
Recap
The water rafting adventure in Kitulgala offers an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.
Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, participants can enjoy the adrenaline rush of navigating Class II and III rapids under the guidance of professional instructors.
The tour’s convenient transportation, delicious lunch, and positive customer reviews make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking an adventurous day trip from Negombo.
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