Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari From Kandy

Sigiriya Rock and the wild elephant safari from Kandy offer an unparalleled adventure for the discerning traveler. Scaling the iconic rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage. The subsequent safari through Minneriya National Park promises a thrilling encounter with majestic elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat. This private tour, complete with convenient hotel pickup and an expert local guide, promises an unforgettable experience. However, the true allure of this excursion extends far beyond the remarkable sights and wildlife – it lies in the transformative power of immersing oneself in the captivating wonders of this enchanting region.

Key Points

• This tour offers a unique combination of visiting the iconic Sigiriya Rock and embarking on a thrilling safari in Minneriya National Park to observe wild elephants in their natural habitat.
• The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to Sigiriya Rock and Minneriya National Park, as well as a village tour with a local lunch.
• The safari experience in Minneriya National Park allows visitors to spot a variety of wildlife, including herds of elephants, deer, monkeys, and diverse bird species.
• The tour is a private activity, ensuring a personalized experience, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Kandy.
• The tour is highly popular, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot, with a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari," takes visitors on a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Priced from $95.00 per person, the 3-hour safari experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking chauffeur guide.

Highlights of the tour include exploring the iconic Sigiriya Rock, a safari in Minneriya National Park to spot wild elephants, and a village tour with a local lunch.

The tour is available as a private activity, making it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

With convenient pickup and drop-off and inclusions such as entrance tickets, this tour offers an immersive way to discover the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Inclusions

For this tour, the inclusions cover a range of essential services and experiences. Guests will receive hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. An English-speaking chauffeur guide will accompany the group, and a safari jeep is provided for the wildlife excursion. The tour also includes a village tour with lunch, a water bottle per person, and entrance tickets to both Sigiriya Rock and Minneriya National Park.

Included	Details
Transportation	Hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle
Guide	English-speaking chauffeur guide
Safari	Safari jeep for the wildlife tour
Meals	Village tour with lunch
Drinks	Water bottle per person
Tickets	Entrance to Sigiriya Rock and Minneriya National Park

Exclusions

Along With the inclusions, there are a few exclusions for this tour. Travelers will need to cover any food and drinks not specified in the inclusions.

Plus, gratuities for the guide and driver are optional but appreciated. These exclusions allow for flexibility, as travelers can choose to purchase their own meals and snacks, and tip the staff based on their satisfaction with the service provided.

Pickup Information

Pickup for this tour takes place at your hotel in Kandy or a designated meeting point in the city.

The meeting point location is open in Google Maps, allowing for easy navigation. The tour ends by returning participants to the original meeting point.

The key pickup information includes:

1. Pickup points: Your hotel in Kandy or a designated meeting point.
2. Meeting point: Kandy, Sri Lanka.
3. End point: Returns to the original meeting point.

The tour starts promptly at 7:00 am, and confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.

Additional Information

The tour starts promptly at 7:00 am, and confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.

This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Pregnant travelers should avoid this activity. Most travelers can participate in the experience, which includes a visit to Sigiriya Rock and a safari in Minneriya National Park to see wild elephants.

The tour ends back at the meeting point in Kandy. Guests have the option to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the start of the experience for a full refund.

This popular tour is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Booking Details

This popular tour is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later for added convenience. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility in case of changes in plans.

Some key booking details include:

1. Likely to Sell Out: This tour’s popularity means it books up quickly, so securing a spot in advance is advised.

2. Free Cancellation: Guests can cancel their booking up to a day before the tour without penalty.

3. Reserve Now, Pay Later: An option to reserve the tour now and complete payment later is available.

Exploring Sigiriya Rock

At the heart of this captivating tour lies Sigiriya, a towering rock fortress that stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s ancient history. Ascending the 1,200 steps to the summit offers a unique perspective, revealing the well-preserved remains of this 5th-century palace and fortress. Visitors can explore the ancient water gardens, the mirror wall, and the famous frescoes that adorn the rock’s western face. The sheer scale and engineering prowess behind Sigiriya’s construction leave a lasting impression on all who venture to its lofty heights.

Key Facts
Height	660 feet (200 meters)
UNESCO Site	Since 1982
Architectural Style	Combination of natural and built environment

Safari in Minneriya National Park

After exploring the captivating Sigiriya Rock, the tour takes visitors on a thrilling safari through the vast expanse of Minneriya National Park.

The 3-hour safari allows travelers to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including:

1. Herds of majestic wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
2. A variety of bird species, from vibrant peacocks to flocks of migratory birds.
3. Opportunities to spot other native animals, such as deer, monkeys, and crocodiles, in their natural environment.

The safari jeep provides a comfortable and immersive experience, allowing visitors to observe the animals without intruding on their daily lives.

This part of the tour promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator allows customizations. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and tailor the itinerary to their needs, such as adding or removing activities, adjusting the schedule, or focusing on specific interests.

What Should I Bring for the Safari?

When going on a safari, it’s recommended to bring comfortable, lightweight clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen), insect repellent, a camera, and snacks or water to stay hydrated. Binoculars can also be helpful for spotting wildlife.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though the safari portion may not be appropriate for young children or those with mobility issues. Participants can enjoy the experience regardless of their age.

Can I Visit Other Sites During the Tour?

The tour itinerary focuses on Sigiriya Rock and a safari in Minneriya National Park. While the tour doesn’t include visits to other sites, travelers can inquire about adding optional stops during booking if they have additional interests.

How Many People Are Typically in a Group?

The group size typically ranges from 2 to 10 people, though it can vary. The tour is a private activity, allowing for a more personalized experience. The exact group size depends on the booking details and preferences of the travelers.

Recap

This captivating tour offers a unique blend of cultural and natural wonders. Visitors will be swept away by the majestic Sigiriya Rock and its historic marvels, followed by an exhilarating safari amidst the elephants of Minneriya National Park. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a delightful village lunch, this private excursion promises an unforgettable and enriching experience for all.