Bentota Coastal Escape with Beaches, Gardens, Rivers and Wildlife

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Bentota Coastal Escape with Beaches, Gardens, Rivers and Wildlife

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Sri Lanka’s southern coast with a private day trip to Bentota and nearby highlights. Enjoy comfortable transportation by private vehicle from Colombo or surrounding areas, with a scenic drive of about 90 minutes each way. Once in Bentota, transportation around the area is also included. Relax on Bentota’s beaches or take part in optional water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing. Visit Brief Garden, once home to architect Bevis Bawa, known for its peaceful layout and sculptures. Enjoy a boat safari along the Madu River, passing through mangrove forests and cinnamon-growing islands. Stop at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn about sea turtle conservation and see hatchlings up close. This tour combines time by the coast, nature, and wildlife conservation in one well-paced day.

Available options

Bentota Coastal Escape with Beaches, Gardens, Rivers and Wildlife

Pickup included

What's included

Entry to all attractions

Lunch at local restaurant

Detailed itinerary

Bentota is a coastal town in southern Sri Lanka known for its golden beaches, calm lagoons, and lush landscapes. It offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, with water sports, river safaris, and cultural sites creating a well-rounded seaside escape.

Brief Garden, located near Bentota, is the former estate of landscape architect Bevis Bawa. It features beautifully designed gardens, winding pathways, and artistic sculptures, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by tropical greenery.

The Madu River Boat Safari offers a captivating journey through one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically rich and culturally significant wetlands. Located near Balapitiya, the Madu Ganga estuary encompasses a network of 64 islands, mangrove forests, and tranquil waterways, forming a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance

Stop 4

The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, established in 1978, is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest sea turtle conservation centers. Situated along the southwestern coast, it plays a crucial role in protecting endangered sea turtle species, including green, hawksbill, loggerhead, olive ridley, and leatherback turtles.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Tips and gratuities

Water sports activities at Bentota (optional and paid separately)

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

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

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

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat