Sustainable Arugam Bay Tour (Visit WasteLess and Rice & Carry)
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join the first Sustainable Arugam Bay Tour!
Visit WasteLess Arugam Bay and Rice & Carry - two pioneering social enterprises in Sri Lanka.
Support the local community and learn more about waste-management and women's empowerment on Sri Lanka's East coast. Plus: Make your own souvenir from recycled materials!
Available options
Sustainable Arugam Bay Tour
What's included
Tour includes: Personal guide, Visit of WasteLess and Rice & Carry, transport from Arugam Bay to Komari (return), DIY workshop (incl. materials), refreshments, discount on all Rice&Carry products
Detailed itinerary
1
Our first stop is at the WasteLess Arugam Bay Center (WLAB): We aim to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in Arugam Bay, by recycling, offering alternatives and educating.
Learn more about the issue of plastic pollution - and what to do about it. Plus: You can make your own souvenir from plastic bottles!
2
Update: The Rice & Carry Factory is in Komari, not Pottuvil.
Rice & Carry is a fairtrade social enterprise, upcycling on Sri Lanka's East coast since 2012. We create secure and steady workplaces for women in the area, who make beautiful bags from upcycled waste materials.
Find out how our bags are made - and learn more about fairtrade principles and women's empowerment. Workshop: Make your own bag from recycled materials (*bag is not included in tour price).
What's not included
Optional workshop: Make your own bag from upcycled materials (bag not included in tour price)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Arugam Bay Main Street
About Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a vibrant island nation known for its lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. From ancient temples and colonial architecture to pristine beaches and verdant tea plantations, it offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes, gardens, and panoramic views.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate (LKR 5,000 for foreigners)
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Located in Kandy, this temple houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth and is a significant pilgrimage site.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget (LKR 1,500 for foreigners)
Yala National Park
One of the best places in the world to see leopards, Yala National Park is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Nature
Full day
Moderate (LKR 6,350 for foreigners, including safari jeep)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A staple dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Main Course
Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast
Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti bread, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.
Street Food
Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Wildlife safaris
Surfing
White-water rafting
Beach lounging
Ayurvedic spa treatments
Tea plantation tours
Yoga and meditation
Best Time to Visit
December to April (for the west and south coasts) and May to September (for the east coast)
This is the best time to visit Sri Lanka as the weather is generally dry and pleasant. It's ideal for beach activities, wildlife safaris, and exploring cultural sites.
25°C to 30°C
77°F to 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
Sri Lanka is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable transport services and agree on fares in advance
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 35 km from Colombo
By train
Colombo Fort Station
By bus
Colombo Central Bus Stand, Bastion Street Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trains are a scenic and affordable way to travel, with options ranging from local trains to express services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Galle Fort
Colombo Fort
Day trips
Nuwara Eliya
180 km from Colombo • Full day
Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a scenic hill station with tea plantations, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Adam's Peak
40 km from Ratnapura • Full day
A sacred mountain believed to contain the footprint of the Buddha, Adam's Peak is a popular pilgrimage site with a challenging but rewarding hike.
Festivals
Vesak • April/May (full moon day)
Esala Perahera • August (full moon day)
Pro tips
- Travel by train for a scenic and affordable way to explore the country, especially the route from Kandy to Ella
- Hire a private driver or use app-based taxi services like Uber and PickMe for convenient and reliable transport
- Visit lesser-known attractions like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa to avoid crowds and experience authentic Sri Lankan culture
- Try local street food and dishes like kottu roti, hoppers, and rice and curry for an authentic culinary experience
- Respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and using your right hand for eating and giving
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
