Question 1

Arrival and Departure Dates

Accepted Answer

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.

Arrival Details

Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal

Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. After breakfast on Day 2, your guide will give you a brief introduction before we make the drive along the South Coast. Please ensure that you are on time.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.

Finishing Point

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details

Following breakfast this morning, you will be transferred by speed boat to Valena International Airport (MLE) in time for your departure flight.

Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Question 2

Tours and Destination Information

Accepted Answer

Tour SuitabilitySigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an impressive sight and is one of the highlights of this tour. However, if you have a fear of heights you might prefer to skip this excursion as climbing the rock requires navigating numerous uneven, narrow steps and confined walkways. During the summer months in Sri Lanka, the weather can be extremely hot, accompanied by brief but intense rainstorms in the southwestern region. Make sure to evaluate if this season is suitable for your travel plans, and remember to use sufficient sun protection and stay well-hydrated.Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. Please refer to the itinerary.This tour is a combination of multiple journeys. Not all of your fellow passengers will be travelling onward with you to the North. Some travellers may be travelling to the Maldives, and others may be finishing their time in Sri Lanka early. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.Visas & Entry RequirementsMany countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.PaceThis tour category is SteadyOur steady tours offer a good mix of guided sightseeing and personal free time. With a combination of 2-3 night stays and occasional 1 night stops in key locations, this pace allows for deeper exploration while minimising long travel days.Activity and MobilityThis tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5 - BalancedOur Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.Activity level: Balanced, with a mix of flat city walking, heritage sites with stairs, and some uneven terrain.Typical walking: Around 1–5 km on sightseeing days, with some low-walking or travel-heavy days and jeep safaris that involve only short walks.Optional longer walks:Horton Plains hike 4.5–9 km (challenging, uneven).Village and wetland walks around 2–3 km on dirt or grass paths.Terrain and key walksCities and towns: Mostly flat pavements and bazaar streets in Colombo, Kandy and Galle, with some cobblestones and steps.Sri Lanka Ultimate - Accessibil…Hill Country: Short, stepped walks around stations, tea plantations and viewpoints in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy.Major heritage sites:Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple involve steep climbs and many stone steps.Polonnaruwa has cobblestones and uneven historic surfaces, but can be toured partly by vehicle.Mobility & accessibilityBest suited to: Travellers comfortable with moderate, stop–start walking, steps, and some uneven ground at key sites.Opt-out options: Many walks can be skipped, including Galle Fort, Colombo walks, Sigiriya climb, Dambulla steps, village and wetland walks, and Horton Plains; passengers can often remain in the vehicle, stay at the hotel or tour sites by coach instead.Wheelchairs:  Vehicles and hotels can accommodate wheelchairs, but several sightseeing locations are not wheelchair accessible (for example Sigiriya, Dambulla, Horton Plains, tea plantations, Colombo bazaar and some wetland or village walks), and there are no true step-free alternative routes at these sites. Please reach out to Inspiring Vacations directly to discuss wheelchair use.Hotels, transport and climateHotels: All main tour hotels have lifts, and many offer accessible rooms, subject to room category and availability. All have adequate power outlets for CPAP machines.Transport: Private coaches, trains and safari jeeps are used; walking to and from vehicles is generally short, with regular comfort stops on longer drives. Wheelchairs can be carried on vehicles with assistance.Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.Group SizeDay 1 to 16: Minimum: 2 people, Maximum: 16 peopleDay 17 to 21: You will travel independentlyEscorted StyleThis tour is fully escorted by a dedicated Tour Leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. In the Maldives you will have no dedicated tour leader, and this part of your tour will be independent.Tour TypeOur expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.ExclusionsInternational AirfaresVisasTravel InsuranceOptional activitiesTippingPersonal expensesAnything not mentioned in the itineraryGetting AroundWhile touring Sri Lanka, you will be travelling by private coach and trains. For some coach journeys, where applicable there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often, purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops as they can easily accommodate our large groups.For the train ride to Nuwara Eliya, it is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation due to the fact that Sri Lanka Railway has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The 1st and 2nd class is basic but has air-conditioning. The non-air conditioned 3rd class sometimes is the only option based availability. On the rare occasion the train is fully booked we’ll conduct the route by road and the train journey would be conducted on day 8.Hotel RatingsStar ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.Accommodation DetailsThis tour features a curated selection of 5-star hotels and resorts throughout Sri Lanka. Each accommodation has been carefully chosen based on a stringent set of criteria, ensuring the high standards of comfort and convenience. Our team continuously reviews and updates our selections, incorporating customer feedback to guarantee that every hotel is well-located and offers a comfortable stay. This tour includes a feature stay at the incredible Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya. A smart casual dress code applies for dinner at all restaurants and bars within the hotel. Guests in short trousers and sleeveless shirts and rubber slippers will not be permitted to enter the restaurants.The northern region of Sri Lanka is less developed for tourism compared to the south, with fewer accommodation options and standards that may differ from those found in the southern region. However, we have carefully selected the best available hotels in the area to ensure a comfortable stay. Exploring the north offers a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s authentic culture, unspoiled landscapes, and rich historical heritage.In the Maldives, you will have an all inclusive package at your incredible tropical accommodation. Your all-inclusive package includes:Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily - snacks & cakes are available outside main mealtimesTea, coffee, iced tea, cordials & water are available from 07.30am to midnightWhisky, brandy, gin, vodka, rum, draft beer, house wines, soft drinks, selected cocktails & mocktails beverages are served until midnight (no alcoholic beverages for guests under 18 years of age). Additional cost may apply during excursionsMeals and drinks are included until midday on the date of departureOur Maldives hotel offers some phenomenal snorkelling opportunities, where you can explore the shallow oases at the island's edge. You may also choose to enjoy some exciting optional water sport activities, such as catamaran sailing where you can experience the thrill of riding the winds and speeding through the crystal waters. Canoeing may also appeal to those who seek tranquillity while they enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Windsurfing is also an activity available to the more adventurous. There really is no end to the adventures you may seek as you explore the wonderful Maldives - jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving may also be on your list.Packing EssentialsWhat you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the tour style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this tour. Many tours will include internal flights which often have luggage weight restrictions, and it is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.Clothing: Pack a mix of lightweight and warm layers. Long sleeves and pants are beneficial for mosquito protection. Choose clothes that are easy to wash and dry. Bring an outfit for dining out in Colombo, and ensure you have attire that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits. Women might find a light scarf useful for additional coverage.Footwear: Closed-in shoes are recommended to protect your feet from injuries and potential bites or stings, whether you're walking in urban areas or through nature.Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.Warm Gear: The hills of Sri Lanka can get cold at night. A light, warm waterproof jacket is advisable.Medical Kit: It's good to carry personal items like mild painkillers, electrolytes, Band-Aids, and insect repellent. Ensure you plan ahead and have any prescription medicines you may require.Water Bottle: A capacity of at least 1.5 litres is recommended to reduce the environmental impact of bottled water.Camera/Phone: Don’t forget to bring something to capture memories.Comfort Items: Earplugs can help with noisy environments, a good book or journal for downtime, and a music player for entertainment.ClimateSri Lanka's tropical climate offers warmth year-round, but weather conditions vary across the island. The southwest monsoon season from May to September brings heavy rains and humidity to the southwestern regions, including Colombo and Galle, making these areas lush and vibrant. In contrast, the northeast monsoon from October to January affects the northeastern parts. The central highlands, including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, experience cooler temperatures and frequent rain, providing a refreshing escape from the coastal heat. The best time to visit the southwest coast is from December to March, while the northeast coast is ideal from April to September. We recommend you pack accordingly, using adequate sun protection and staying hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Northern Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from May to September, features warm temperatures and low rainfall, while the wet season, from October to January, brings heavier rains and cooler temperatures.Regardless of the season, Sri Lanka's diverse climate ensures a unique and enriching travel experience throughout the year.The Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 31°C (88°F). The dry season, from November to April, offers sunny skies and calm seas, ideal for beach activities and water sports. The wet season, from May to October, brings higher humidity, more frequent rain, and occasional storms, though there are still plenty of sunny days.Yala National ParkPlease note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. Please refer to the itinerary.Although smaller in size to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park is considered one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, Udawalawe is also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting and being far less crowded than Yala, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for travellers and therefore, we believe is a more than suitable alternative for one safari day. You will still be able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park, so you are able to experience both.Wondering what to expect when you visit the iconic Yala National Park? Click HERE to learn more.Currency and ATMsThe official currency of Sri Lanka is the Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available and accept credit and debit cards, and major credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants in major cities. However, for small payments, credit and debit cards are typically not accepted, so it's essential to have LKR cash on hand for daily expenses. The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in resorts and tourist areas. Most resorts, hotels, and larger businesses accept major credit cards, though it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of emergencies.Food and AllergiesSri Lankan cuisine is a delightful blend of flavours, heavily influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Expect aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and vibrant dishes. Rice and curry is a staple, often accompanied by an array of side dishes, including vegetables, lentils, and pickles. Seafood is abundant, with dishes like fish curry and prawn sambal being popular, especially along the coast. Street food is a must-try, offering treats like hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu roti (chopped flatbread with vegetables and meat), and samosas.For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, given the significant Buddhist influence. Many curries and rice dishes are naturally plant-based. However, for gluten-free diets, it's important to check ingredient lists, as soy sauce and other additives might contain gluten. While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Sri Lanka. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide or Local Guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.Travellers should exercise caution with street food to avoid stomach issues; choose vendors with good hygiene practices and eat freshly prepared dishes. Sri Lanka's culinary scene is diverse and rich, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey for every traveller.Local CustomsTravellers to Sri Lanka will find a number of local customs and traditions that enhance the island's charm. Respect for religion is paramount; always remove your shoes and hats before entering temples, and dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Pointing with your finger, turning your back to religious statues, or touching someone’s head are considered disrespectful. Dress CodeWhen visiting Sri Lanka, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully, particularly in religious and rural areas. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate, but ensure shoulders and knees are covered when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid beachwear outside of coastal areas and resort settings. In urban areas and tourist spots, casual attire is generally acceptable. By adhering to these guidelines, travellers can show respect for local customs and enjoy a comfortable and pleasant stay.Responsible DiningAvoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.TippingA friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. You will be asked for LKR7000 per person. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend LKR1200 per person per day for your guide and LKR600 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.Peak Travel TimesThe peak travel times in Sri Lanka are primarily influenced by the island's climate and festive seasons. The most popular time to visit the southwest coast, including popular destinations like Colombo, Galle, and the southern beaches, is from December to March when the weather is dry and sunny.Additionally, the central highlands, including Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, are popular from January to April, offering cooler temperatures and clear skies. Major festivals, such as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April and the Kandy Esala Perahera in July or August, also attract many visitors.Safety and SecurityMost national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.Apps to DownloadSome useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.

Book Now

18 Days Tropical Sri Lanka

Overview

Gallery

Travel Map

Itinerary

Trip Information

Arrival Process & Welcome Meeting

During Your Tour & Support

Departure Transfers

Essential Information

Cooling off period

Exclusions

Single Occupancy

Triple share

Extra accommodation

Cancellation

Changes to Bookings

Visa Requirements

Travel Insurance

Medical Condition

Flights Included!

Departure Dates

Reviews

Similar tours

18 Day Private Sri Lanka And Maldives Uncovered

15 Day Private Sri Lanka Adventure