Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Sri Lanka was an amazing country to experience. The Explore itinerary is well thought out to cover a variety of places and experiences, as much as it can be done in a short two weeks time. I loved the Sigiriya climb and the Hortons plains walk the most. And the elephants and their babies, of course.
The accommodation was good. The food was plentiful, and usually not an issue to find something for everyone's taste. There were times when I felt we had been faced with one too many buffet options, when lighter choices would have been more desirable. But I understand that a buffet was usually the most expedient way to accommodate a group of our size.
With 12 people in the group, mostly solo travellers, we had a very good dynamic. People were always included if they so desired, and also had the option to step out of the group bubble and do their own thing.
Hector, our driver, was a joy to be around, always attentive, safe, and going out of his way to make sure we were all taken care of, always with a smile. Thank you Hector!
And not the least, Nala, our tour leader, was the secret ingredient that made it all even better. Always with a big smile and a big heart, assessing everyone's needs and desires and trying to accommodate everyone, Nala was a treasure trove of information about Sri Lanka. Thank you Nala for sharing your love and passion for your country with us.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel, Guest House
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Colombo, Negombo, Demodara, Udaw
Colombo, Negombo, Demodara, Udawalawe, Koggala, Wilpattu National Park, Mihintale, Giritale, Sigiriya, Kandy, Adam's Peak, Nuwara Eliya
A real insight into Sri Lanka’s culture and heritage together with its diverse landscape. The guides wonderful positivity and knowledge really enhanced the trip experience.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Tent
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Colombo, Negombo, Puerto Río Tra
Colombo, Negombo, Puerto Río Tranquilo, Bentota, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains National Park, Ella, Yala National Park
Looking back at our photos now we've returned to the UK we can't believe the amount we saw and the amazing experiences we had on this tour. Sri Lanka is an amazing beautiful country with some much going on - we only scratched the surface. Our tour leader Cham worked so hard to make sure that we had everything we needed, resolving our problems and sorting out food for our fussy son! His knowledge about Sri Lankan history and wildlife was immense. He even found the best place to buy genuine Sri Lanka cricket shirts for the sporty members of our group. The only thing we'd change was the pace of the second half of the Sri Lanka leg of the trip. The first half gave us time to chill and bond as a group, as well as hang out in the pool at Giritale and play cricket. The second half we moved every night and covered a massive distance, though interesting, this was quite tiring (especially for the kids), so we'd suggest that a two night stop in the middle of this element would resolve this issue easily. This was clear in the notes, however, as was the high chance of not getting the train. The pace did slow considerably for the Maldives element, with a lot of time on our boats travelling between reefs. The snorkelling was quite frankly mind-blowing, and even the more nervous swimmers loved it. The crew were fantastic, and the food was delicious. The guide knew his stuff, and made sure we had great snorkelling experiences. Our only criticism of this part of the trip was that splitting the group when we'd got to know each other and were getting on really well was disappointing. There were larger boats, and we'd have preferred to be on a single boat given how long we spent travelling separately. The crew did what they could to mitigate this by tying the boats together when we moored for snorkels, meals and overnight and that was great. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable trip, and with a few very small tweaks it'd be perfect!
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
We recently concluded a two-week trip travelling throughout Sri Lanka using World Expeditions. With our input on sites to see, hikes to take, places of interest to visit, accommodations etc., the World Expeditions team provided an excellent and customized itinerary for our comprehensive private journey to Sri Lanka. The entire team was highly responsible and provided professional input up to the moment we departed for the trip. Upon arrival we were greeted by our guide and driver who provided dedication, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence all throughout the trip, consistently going above and beyond his responsibilities as a travel guide ensuring we would experience the "real” Sri Lanka. He consistently anticipated our needs to ensure that our questions or concerns were addressed and resolved. Being very intuitive, in addition to the hikes, temples and ancient cities visited in our itinerary, he also further customized our trip to include additional activities he knew we would both enjoy as wildlife and photo enthusiasts. Overall, this was an incredible experience and very satisfied that we used World Expeditions to organize this trip.
Bicycle toursAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Negombo, Colombo, Ella, Udawalaw
Negombo, Colombo, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Galle, Anuradhapura, Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya
Great trip, particularly being on the backroads experiencing more of the local life. Equipment was in very good condition and staff and locals very friendly.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Colombo, Waskaduwa, Minneriya Na
Colombo, Waskaduwa, Minneriya National Park, Induruwa, Ahangama, Udawalawe, Banadarawela, Kandy, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa
GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18 - 49): Embark on this 12-day tour of Sri Lanka, beginning with a tuk-tuk tour of Negombo’s vibrant fish market before travelling to Sigiriya to explore its iconic rock fortress and experience traditional village life. Continue south to Kandy to visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, then journey through lush tea plantations to Ella aboard the world’s most scenic train. Hike Little Adam’s Peak, marvel at the Nine Arches Bridge, and enjoy a wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park. Relax on the idyllic beaches of Hiriketiya and Tallala, surf at Weligama Beach, visit Coconut Tree Hill in Mirissa, and engage in a cultural exchange at a Buddhist Monastery.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka in style with the "Affordable luxury: Sri Lanka grand tour." This thoughtfully curated journey combines iconic highlights and hidden treasures, all while ensuring comfort and boutique accommodations at an unbeatable value. Perfect for young adults and experienced travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, this trip begins in the heritage city of Sigiriya, where ancient sites like Anuradhapura await.
Experience the thrill of a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park, then soak in the royal ambiance of Kandy—the heart of Sri Lankan tradition. Venture on to Wellawaya for optional adventures, and unwind with three blissful nights in Tangalle, famed for its serene beaches. The itinerary also features a visit to the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home, plus a range of flexible, optional activities tailored to your interests.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its harmonious mix of luxury and affordability, offering boutique stays and exclusive experiences without compromise. If you crave an authentic Sri Lankan escape that blends culture, wildlife, and relaxation—all with a touch of indulgence—this trip is crafted for you.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-60 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Sigiriya, Kandy, Anuradhapura, U
Sigiriya, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Udawalawe, Colombo, Minneriya National Park, Wellawaya, Tangalle Beach, Galle
Craving a deeper dive into Sri Lanka's lesser-seen wonders? The 13-day 'Off The Beaten Path' tour invites young adults and seasoned explorers to journey through the country's most captivating and untouched regions. You'll zigzag along the west coast, venture into the storied northern cultural triangle, and encounter the wild side of Gal Oya National Park with an exhilarating boat safari—where wild elephants roam free. Cool off beneath cascading waterfalls, uncover rural enclaves lost in time, and let the final days melt away on the pristine, golden beaches that define Sri Lanka's coastline. This trip masterfully blends natural beauty with authentic cultural immersion, ensuring access to hidden gems that few travelers ever experience. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature, discover ancient customs, or simply unwind in paradise, this tour package promises unique adventures off the usual tourist track—making it an unforgettable Sri Lankan exploration.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort, Villa
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Sigiriya, Kandy, Anuradhapura, K
Sigiriya, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Kotugoda, Weligama, Gal Oya National Park, Wellawaya
