Galle Day Trip With Mangrove Safari From Negombo

Negombo , Sri Lanka

Galle Day Trip With Mangrove Safari From Negombo

Active

10h - 12h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private day trip to Galle is perfect for those staying in the Negombo areas. Visit the city's most famous monuments attractions & Mangrove Boat Safari at Madu River . Hotel pickup and drop-off are included,

Available options

Galle Day Trip With Mangrove Safari From Negombo

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (Colombo City Center)

English Speaking Driver

Transport by air-conditioned car or van

Mineral Water

Detailed itinerary

When you travel as a OTN World client, you can rest assured knowing that we will strive to take care of any problem you may encounter. With emergency support available 24 hours a day, help is just a phone call away. We are committed to resolving any emergency that may arise and will do our utmost to satisfy immediate needs.

Old Town of Galle, Sri Lanka. ... Galle was built as a fortified coastal city with large walls along the seashore. It was designed with a European way of thinking – that attacks from colonial competitors could come from the sea as well as the land.

Stop 3

The history of Galle extends thousands of years to biblical times. In more recent times it was a prize to be possessed for western traders in search of wealth and glory. Its beautifully preserved colonial Dutch fort with its quaint city with cobblestone streets within is a place time forgot. Close by are magnificent beaches, rainforests and other attractions. It is definitely a fascinating place to visit.

Stop 4

Galle Lighthouse is an onshore Lighthouse in Galle, Sri Lanka and is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority

The Old Dutch Hospital, Galle is one of the oldest buildings in the Galle Fort area dating back to the Dutch colonial era in Sri Lanka. The heritage building has now been developed into a shopping and dining precinct.

Madu River is a wetland, near the Small town "Balapitiya" along the Colombo Galle highway. This is the point where the Estuary of the Madu river. The river flows through a terrain where it creates a large number of islands, and the eco system creates a beautiful wetland. The hotels around provide boat rids through the canals created at a good cost. And there are loads of places to stay, dine and wine.

Stilt fishing is a method of fishing unique to the island country of Sri Lanka, known as “the Pearl of the Indian Ocean”. The fishermen sit on a cross bar called a ‘petta’ tied to a vertical pole and driven into the sand a few meters offshore. From this high position, the fishermen casts his line, and waits until a fish comes along to be caught. Although the approach looks primitive and ancient,

What's not included

Entrance fees (Mangrove Boat)

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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

The duration of transfers are approximate 8 hours, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date

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.