19-Day Sri Lanka Eco-Tourism Tour Itinerary

19 Days
Overview

Embark on a soul-enriching 19-day eco-tour through Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes, conservation sites, and biodiversity hotspots. This slow-travel itinerary invites nature lovers, sustainability enthusiasts, and conscious travelers to connect deeply with the island’s pristine ecosystems, ethical wildlife experiences, and local communities.

  • Bus, Van, Car
  • 3 Star and Upwards, Homestays, Tea Houses
  • 2100
  • Colombo
  • Feb, Mar, Apr & May
  • Eco-Tour, Hiking, Jungle Safari
  • Breakfast
  • English, Spanish, French
  • Easy to Hard
  • 2-30

Overview

A Journey Through Sri Lanka's Living Landscapes

This 19-day eco-tour across Sri Lanka invites you to journey through the island’s most biologically rich and visually stunning regions, where sustainability, community, and nature exist in harmony. Designed for the mindful traveler, this itinerary balances immersive wildlife experiences with serene highland treks, forest conservation, and low-impact coastal stays.

From ancient rock citadels in the dry zone to the mist-wrapped hills of the Knuckles and Horton Plains, and from rainforest biodiversity in Sinharaja to the golden beaches and turtle hatcheries along the south, every destination in this route contributes to your understanding of Sri Lanka’s vibrant ecosystems.

Stay in eco-conscious lodges, meet grassroots conservationists, and engage in activities that prioritize both environmental protection and cultural authenticity. This is more than a vacation it's a chance to reconnect with the planet and yourself.

Highlights

  • 5 National Parks & 2 UNESCO Biospheres
  • Guided treks across cloud forests and montane grasslands
  • Ethical safaris with conservation-first approach
  • Organic tea tasting & zero-waste estate tours
  • Rainforest immersion with endemic flora and fauna
  • Turtle hatchery visits and coral reef awareness sessions
  • Support to local homestays and eco-enterprises

Itinerary

  • Days
    1–3

    Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park

    • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb the UNESCO-listed Lion Rock and explore ancient hydraulic systems and frescoes
    • Minneriya National Park: Morning or evening safari to witness Asia's largest wild elephant gathering
    • Activities: Birdwatching, dry-zone forest walks, local village tour by canoe
    • Stay: Eco-lodge/safari tent with solar power and natural ventilation

    Breakfast
    Home Stay

    You can add details and images related to the accommodation.

    For Example, Hilton Hotels & Resorts (formerly known as Hilton Hotels) is a global brand of full-service hotels and resorts and the flagship brand of American multinational hospitality company Hilton.

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  • Days
    4–6

    Knuckles Conservation Forest

    • Knuckles Range: Trekking through cloud forests, pygmy forests, and rice terraces
    • Loolwatte Tea Estate: Engage in sustainable farming practices and pick your own organic tea
    • Activities: Waterfall hikes, forest bathing, village-based eco-tourism
    • Stay: Remote homestay or community-run eco-cottage

    Breakfast
    Tea House

    You can add details and images related to the accommodation.

    For Example, Hilton Hotels &amp; Resorts (formerly known as Hilton Hotels) is a global brand of full-service hotels and resorts and the flagship brand of American multinational hospitality company Hilton.

    <img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2945" src="https://wptravelenginedemo.com/travel-monster/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2022/03/dad-hotel-O8z4jAZVQQE-unsplash-300x180.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="180" /> <img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2943" src="https://wptravelenginedemo.com/travel-monster/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2022/03/reisetopia-aI6Su7Mu9Ro-unsplash-300x180.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="180" />

  • Days
    7–9

    Nuwara Eliya & Horton Plains National Park

    • Horton Plains Hike: Trek to World’s End viewpoint and Baker’s Falls
    • Sustainable Tea Trails: Explore century-old estates committed to zero-waste processes
    • Hakgala Botanical Garden: Learn about endangered montane plant species

    Breakfast
    Tea House

    Stay: Colonial-era eco-bungalows or forest lodges with organic kitchens

  • Days
    10–12

    Ella & Sinharaja Forest Reserve

    • Ella Rock Trek: Enjoy sweeping views over southern hills
    • Sinharaja Rainforest: Guided hike in Sri Lanka’s only remaining primary tropical rainforest (UNESCO)
    • Wildlife Spotting: Purple-faced langurs, green pit vipers, endemic birds

    Breakfast
    Home Stay

    Stay: Eco-lodge or rainforest homestay built with sustainable materials

  • Days
    13–15

    Udawalawe National Park

    • Ethical Safari: Spot elephants, water buffalo, and rare birds in a dry-zone ecosystem
    • Elephant Transit Home: Observe rehabilitated baby elephants (no rides or performances)
    • Photography & Conservation Talks

    Breakfast
    3 Stars Hotel

    Stay: Safari camp or solar-powered eco-resort near park boundaries

  • Days
    16–18

    Yala National Park & Southern Coast

    • Yala Jeep Safari: Highest leopard density zone in the world
    • Eco-Coastline: Visit Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, mangrove walks
    • Beach Time: Optional kayaking or marine exploration in Tangalle or Mirissa
    •  

    Breakfast
    Home Stay

    Stay: Beachfront eco-resort or thatched bungalows with reef-safe amenities

  • Day
    19

    Departure

    • Airport Options:
    • Mattala Rajapaksa International (HRI) (Yala/Tangalle – ~1 hr)
    • Colombo International Airport (CMB) (~3–4 hrs via expressway

    Breakfast

The Cost Includes

  • ACCOMMODATION
  • MEALS mentioned in package
  • WATER
  • TRAVEL EXPENSES
  • Fully Insured Luxury Vehicle
  • AIRPORT CHARGES
  • HIGHWAY TICKETS
  • PARKING TICKETS
  • ENTRANCE TICKETS

The Cost Excludes

  • EXTRA MEALS
  • VISA
  • AIR TICKETS
  • TIP FOR DRIVER & GUIDE
  • VEHICLE FOR EXTRA TRIPS
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for families or children?

Yes, with minor adjustments. Families with children aged 10+ who enjoy nature and light trekking will find this enriching and safe.

What kind of food is provided?

Mostly organic, locally sourced Sri Lankan cuisine with vegetarian/vegan options. You can also request Western-style meals in most accommodations.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, especially since this tour involves treks and wildlife activities.

How difficult are the hikes?

Most hikes are moderate in difficulty. Custom routes can be arranged for different fitness levels.

What should I pack?

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Quick-dry clothing & rain gear
  • Hiking shoes
  • Reef-safe sunscreen & insect repellent
  • Binoculars & camera