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About this trip
The Wild Wildlife of Sri Lanka & Blissful Blue Maldives
March 28 - April 7 or 10 (with an extension), 2024. Here's a 10-day vacation that will take you to two extraordinary destinations beyond your wildest imagination. We start our journey by diving deep into the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka, known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean", just as you wished! Our main focus during this trip will be on experiencing the stunning natural wonders and abundant wildlife that this paradise has to offer. It's a dream come true for any animal lover.
Experience Sri Lanka & The Maldives
"Embark on a 13-day island adventure that takes you to two extraordinary destinations beyond your wildest dreams. We start with an immersive journey through Sri Lanka, known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean," just as you requested! This trip is all about discovering the untouched beauty of nature and wildlife. It's a dream come true for animal lovers, with opportunities to see elephants, primates, and possibly even tigers. If that's not enough, March is also the perfect time to witness four different species of the largest whales on the planet. And if you crave enthralling history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this is the vacation for you.
The ancient Kingdom of Ceylon unfolds before you with its nine UNESCO sites dating back centuries. Travelers flock here for the magnificent ancient temples, the enticing aromas of spices and teas, and the remarkable handicrafts. You can also indulge in the serenity of Ayurveda spas, experiencing the tranquility of this Buddhist land. Our previous groups have adored their time here, and this year, we're adding even more exciting experiences, such as visits to animal sanctuaries, nature hikes, cave temples, thrilling jeep safaris, tranquil boat cruises, immersive tuk tuk tours, cooking classes, zip-lining, and even hot air ballooning.
Sri Lanka has now emerged as the premier affordable vacation destination with the rupee offering great value to our dollar. You'll be able to revel in the luxury of our hotel and resort without breaking the bank. From the bustling capital of Colombo to the majestic Sigiriya, and from the breathtaking Yala National Park to the picturesque town of Tangalle, each activity and sight will leave you utterly spellbound. As Marco Polo once described it, Sri Lanka truly is "the finest island country in the world." It's incredibly easy to visit (no visa required), wonderfully exotic, and utterly remarkable!
But that's not all – we also offer an indulgent extension to the Maldives, known as the "Escape of Serenity." This slice of paradise features 1,194 coral islands scattered like pearls across fifty shades of blue ocean. Prepare to experience true "barefoot luxury" as you settle into your overwater villa. Dip into the warm iridescent waters of a magical lagoon right from your private deck and discover a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with vibrant fish and awe-inspiring marine life. Previous AFSers have even had the pleasure of encountering graceful sea turtles and majestic manta rays. At night, let the gentle lull of the waves lull you into a peaceful sleep.
Our exclusive all-inclusive resort is nestled at the tip of an atoll, offering easy access to the vibrant capital of Male. Enjoy a range of exhilarating water sports, indulge in delectable cuisines, relish the unparalleled hospitality of the Maldivian staff, and witness golden sunsets that will leave you breathless. Since so many of our travelers have fallen in love with this destination, we now offer it as an add-on option. Trust us, once you experience it, you'll long to return. Surrender yourself to temptation and let yourself be swept away into a world of pure bliss.
Opportunities like this come around only once, and this extraordinary two-country vacation is truly one-of-a-kind. Let your wanderlust ignite as you explore these island treasures, creating memories that will last a lifetime!"
Available Packages
Sri Lanka Land price $2595 Gratuities $95 added to invoice for easy distribution. No extension to Maldives. No single room for Sri Lanka Only
Note that our booking platform allows you to book for more than just yourself. For example, you have the option to bring a friend and pay the deposit together. However, it's important to note that from the initial booking forward, invoices and communication cannot be split. The primary booker will be responsible for forwarding all relevant information.
It is best to book for yourself only and have your friend book for themselves. We always hold back a few spaces to accommodate friends of people who have already booked.
2. SRI LANKA and MALDIVES EXTENSION in OVER WATER BUNGALOW - $4375 ($2690 Sri Lanka + 1398 Maldives + $287 Sri Lanka Airlines Colombo to Male).
Gratuities of $130 for entire trip will be added later to invoice for ease of distribution. $44 will be added to cover the luggage charge for the flight to Maldives
This package includes Sri Lanka land package plus All-inclusive Maldives with air round trip Sri Lanka to Maldives
Note that our booking platform allows you to book for more than just yourself. For example, you have the option to bring a friend and pay the deposit together. However, it's important to note that from the initial booking forward, invoices and communication cannot be split. The primary booker will be responsible for forwarding all relevant information.
It is best to book for yourself only and have your friend book for themselves. We always hold back a few spaces to accommodate friends of people who have already booked.
3. SRI LANKA and MALDIVES in BEACH VILLA. $4125 after $250 discount is applied. AFS is waitlisted for another overwater bungalow. You can guarantee your place on this trip by reserving a Beach Villa. You will automatically be added to the waitlist for an overwater bungalow. Once one becomes available, you will have the option to switch to the overwater hut or stay in the beach villa with a $250 discount off your trip cost.
Gratuities of $130 for entire trip will be added later to invoice for ease of distribution. $44 will be added to cover the luggage charge for the flight to Maldives
This package includes Sri Lanka land package plus All-inclusive Maldives resort with air round trip Sri Lanka to Maldives
Note that our booking platform allows you to book for more than just yourself. For example, you have the option to bring a friend and pay the deposit together. However, it's important to note that from the initial booking forward, invoices and communication cannot be split. The primary booker will be responsible for forwarding all relevant information.
It is best to book for yourself only and have your friend book for themselves. We always hold back a few spaces to accommodate friends of people who have already booked.
Available options
Balloon Ride at Sigriya. $285 to be paid at time of initial booking.
$95 is added for Sri Lanka only gratuities
$130 is added to your total for gratuities.
Roundtrip Colombo to Male bag tax and bag fee of $22 each way
Itinerary
Note- This itinerary is placed here for your convenience. It can deviate in some ways. Please see www.afstravelers.com for the latest..
Mar 28 - Fly USA to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Many airlines to choose. Air details to come in trip tips.
Mar 29 - Welcome to the beautiful island country of Sri Lanka! (Land begins in Colombo). You'll love this land of teas, spices, gems and incredible wildlife. Transfer to our first-class hotel located on the seafront. One group airport pick up for group. Relax by the pool or explore nearby sites. See all the great amenities here at the Movenpick.
Overnight Movenpick Colombo https://movenpick.accor.com/en/asia/sri-lanka/colombo/movenpick-hotel-colombo.html
Mar 30 - Colombo - Sigiriya
After breakfast at 9 AM, we head out to fabulous Sigiriya, a simple village where elephants roam free! Drive time around four hours with stops along the scenic route. Enroute we stop to visit a must see – mystical Dambulla Cave Temple with rich religious and cultural heritage. This UNESCO site is a complex of five separate cave temples carved out of rock. See the reclining Buddha and stunning Buddhist rock murals. It's one of the top tourist attractions set in a landscape of lush green hills.
Enjoy our all inclusive boutique resort for three glorious nights... delicious food, infinity pool, Ayurveda wellness spa and unique experiences like e-bike tour, cooking, pottery, safari with the naturalist and more. Welcome Dinner tonight to get to know your fellow travel lovers and a special welcome surprise by Sri Lankan drummers. Our past groups loved this resort where sweet dreams await.
Overnight: Aliya Resort in Sigiriya B,L,D https://www.themacollection.com/aliya-resort/
Mar 31 - Lion Rock, Tuk tuks, Primate Centre
This morning embark on a fun tuk-tuk jeep adventure to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of engineering, irrigation and artistry. You can slowly walk up the citadel partway or climb to the top for amazing photos. The historic mountain top palace ruins and frescoes have earned it worldwide accolades. Return back to our resort later to rest, swim or enjoy all the activities offered by the staff.
At 6:30 PM, proceed to the primate center for our enchanting "Lorries by Night Tour." This small forest oasis is home to an exclusive group of slender lorries. It's a unique experience to see one of the worlds rarest mammals. These tiny primates are endangered and are the most elusive creatures in the wild who live solitary lives. At dusk, hear their piercing screeches to each other. Follow our field guides over walkways, always staying together in silence. Nocturnal lorries are active with feeding and socializing. Guides spot them with red lights as they move. You may also see mouse deer, civets, fruit bats, owls, lizards and the rarest fishing cat in this night forrest.
Overnight at Aliya Resort, Sigriya B