Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari from Negombo

Negombo , Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari from Negombo

Active

12h - 13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

During this full day tour to Sigiriya, you will visit a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site! Enter into a kingdom hailed as one of the greatest in Sri Lanka’s history. Start your journey at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress also known to be the world’s 8th wonder, and spend time exploring archaeological history. Later, you will be visiting the Minneriya National Park for a chance to see some wildlife in their natural habitats.

Available options

Transport + No Tickets

Transport + Safari Jeep + Experience Safari Driver + No Tickets<br/>Pickup included

Transport + Tickets

Transport + Safari Jeep + English Speaking Local Guide + Tickets(Sigiriya and Minneriya)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off from Negombo

Water bottle (per-person).

Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.

Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.

Safari jeep for the 3-hour safari.

Detailed itinerary

Located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, Negombo is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its picturesque beaches, rich history, and bustling fish markets. Its Dutch colonial heritage is evident in the architecture, notably the Dutch Fort, which stands as a testament to its colonial past. Negombo's diverse culture is reflected in its cuisine, with fresh seafood delicacies being a highlight. Visitors can also explore its vibrant markets, enjoy water sports, or simply unwind on its sandy shores, making Negombo a captivating destination for travelers.

Stop 2

Sigiriya, situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock fortress. Rising majestically from the surrounding plains, this colossal rock formation stands as a testament to ancient engineering and architectural prowess. Crowned by the remnants of a royal palace, Sigiriya offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Its sheer vertical walls, adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting celestial maidens, captivate the imagination. As visitors ascend the steep staircase carved into the rock, they are rewarded with panoramic vistas of lush greenery and distant mountains, making Sigiriya an unforgettable destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

This intensive safari experience will give you the chance to go on a game drive through the Minneriya National Park, famed for its elephant gatherings. In addition, your safari guide you will help you catch sight of a number of flora and fauna native to Sri Lanka. Avid birdwatchers will love this safari as well.You will be travelling in a rough terrain (4WD) game vehicle.
About the Park:
The Minneriya National Park first began its operations in 1938 as a Wildlife Sanctuary, and later in 1997 it was designated as a national park. Situated in the dry zone, the park receives between just 1500 - 2000 millimeters of annual rainfall.The wildlife in the park include 24 species of mammals, 160 species of birds, 9 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 26 species of fish, and 75 species of butterflies.

What's not included

Entrance tickets. (Minneriya National Park)

Food and drinks.

Gratuities (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Hats & comfortable walking shoes are recommended

A maximum of 8 people per booking

Depending on the road traffic conditions allocated time will differ.

Experience

A walk, between the paws of a giant historic lion fortress

The colorful frescoes of Sigiriya

A chance to elephants, deer, monkeys, crocodiles and many other wildlife on an exclusive safari

Meeting point

Your hotel in Negombo

Important notes

Hats & comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.

Top Attractions

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Negombo Fish Market

The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.

Market 1-2 hours Free (Food purchases extra)

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Dutch Canal

The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Boat rides extra)

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Nature Half day Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Seafood Curry

A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.

Dinner Contains seafood and coconut.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless with egg).

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish.

Popular Activities

Water sports Boat safaris Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

26-30°C 79-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)

By train

Negombo Railway Station

By bus

Negombo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Negombo City Center Negombo Beach Lunuwila

Day trips

Colombo

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

Kelani River Safari

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Muthurajawela Marsh

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year) Christmas Celebrations • December 25

Pro tips

Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.