From Dambulla/Sigiriya: Minneriya Safari and Yapahuwa Rock with Negombo Drop-off

Sigiriya,Habarana,Dambulla
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20% Off!
Starting from $205 $164
Tour Type
day Tour
Pickup Location
Sigiriya
Duration
11 Hours

Tour description

Experience an unforgettable day trip from Dambulla/Sigiriya combining Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife and ancient heritage. Start your journey with a scenic drive to Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park, selected according to the season for the best opportunities to spot elephants, deer, endemic monkeys, and a wide variety of birdlife. Enjoy light refreshments as you explore these rich natural landscapes. After the safari adventure, continue to the remarkable Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a 13th-century citadel once home to the Sacred Tooth Relic, where you can admire its beautifully carved stairway, guardstones, and fascinating medieval history before returning with a comfortable drop-off back in Negombo (Day Tours from Dambulla, Habarana or Sigiriya).

Itinerary

  • 05:30 – Hotel Pick-up: Begin your day early with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana, and travel towards Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park. 06:00 – Morning Safari Experience: Enjoy an exciting half-day safari at Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. The selected national park will depend on the season and the highest concentration of wildlife, and full information will be shared before the safari begins.
  • During the dry season, witness the spectacular sight of large herds of Sri Lankan elephants gathering around the grasslands near the reservoir. Explore a diverse ecosystem that is home to endemic monkey species, large herbivores such as Sri Lankan sambar deer and axis deer, and rare wildlife including the Sri Lankan leopard and sloth bear.
  • The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with species such as the lesser adjutant, painted stork, spot-billed pelican, great white pelican, grey heron, little cormorant, and ruddy turnstone. Overall, Minneriya and Hurulu Eco National Parks are home to approximately 24 species of mammals, 160 bird species, 9 amphibians, 25 reptiles, 26 fish species, and 75 species of butterflies.
  • Light refreshments and bottled water will be provided during the safari for your comfort.
  • 10:00 – Proceed to Yapahuwa: After completing the safari, continue your journey towards Yapahuwa, enjoying scenic countryside views along the way.
  • 12:00 – Visit Yapahuwa Rock Fortress: Explore the ancient Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a 13th-century citadel located in north-western Sri Lanka. Once the capital of the country (1272–1284) during the reign of King Bhuvanekabahu I, Yapahuwa was built atop a massive granite rock rising approximately 90 meters above the surrounding plains. The fortress served as a fortified palace and religious center, safeguarding the Sacred Tooth Relic—one of Buddhism’s most revered relics.
  • Admire the beautifully carved ornamental stone stairway, intricate guardstones, and historic Brahmi and medieval inscriptions. Although the Sacred Tooth Relic was later taken to South India after Yapahuwa was abandoned, the site remains a significant archaeological monument showcasing Sri Lanka’s medieval defensive architecture and cultural heritage.
  • 17:00 – Drop-off at Hotel in Negombo: Arrive at your hotel in Negombo, marking the end of a memorable day combining wildlife encounters with rich historical and cultural exploration.

Includes

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off for the safari
  • Customized private safari jeep
  • Morning Safari at Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Parks
  • Entrance fees to Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Parks
  • Visit to Yapahuwa Rock Fortress (Entrance Ticket Included)
  • Drop-off at hotel in Colombo or Negombo
  • Refreshments and water
  • All government taxes

Excludes

  • Lunch
  • Personal expenses

Conditions

  • Booking and Confirmation: Book in advance and receive a confirmation email or ticket.
  • Duration: Day tours are completed within a single day.
  • Itinerary: The tour will have a planned itinerary with specified attractions and activities.
  • Transportation: The mode of transportation will be specified.
  • Meeting Point: There will be a designated meeting point to start the tour.
  • Costs and Inclusions: Tour price and what's included should be clearly communicated.
  • Cancellation and Refunds: Check the cancellation policy and consider travel insurance.
  • Health and Safety: Follow provided health and safety guidelines during the tour.

Know before you go

  • Safety Measures: Safety is paramount during a safari tour. Follow the guidance of your guides at all times and adhere to park regulations. Stay inside designated safari vehicles, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and avoid any behaviors that may disturb or endanger animals.
  • Packing Essentials: Pack appropriate clothing, including lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend with the environment. Also, bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy footwear, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Consider any specific requirements for the chosen destination, such as malaria prophylaxis or specific gear for activities like walking safaris.
  • Photography Equipment: If you're interested in capturing memorable moments, bring a suitable camera with extra batteries, memory cards, and a telephoto lens for wildlife photography. Consider investing in a good quality lens to get close-up shots of animals without disturbing them.
  • Patience and Flexibility: Safari experiences can be unpredictable, and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Practice patience, as you may need to spend time waiting for animals to appear. Maintain a flexible attitude and embrace the unique opportunities that arise during your safari.
  • Respect for Nature: Finally, always prioritize the well-being of the environment and wildlife. Respect the natural habitat by adhering to park rules, avoiding littering, and refraining from any actions that could harm animals or their surroundings.
  • The duration of transfers is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions.
  • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
  • Gratuity is not included and is left to individual discretion.