Sri Lanka4 days

Sri Lanka's South Coast & Yala: 4 Days

Mirissa, Yala National Park & Galle Fort — Whale watching, safari, and coastal history

A four-day circuit of Sri Lanka's southern coast and interior wildlife regions. The route begins in Mirissa, moves inland to Yala National Park for morning and afternoon safaris, and returns via the historical fortification of Galle before heading back to Colombo. The itinerary combines ocean-based wildlife observation—whales and dolphins in the Indian Ocean—with terrestrial safari and a walking tour of a colonial fort. Accommodation moves through three locations, with transfers by private vehicle throughout.

Highlights

  • Whale and dolphin watching in the Indian Ocean from Mirissa
  • Morning and afternoon safaris in Yala National Park for leopards, elephants, bears, and bird species
  • Sea turtle hatchery visit at Hikkaduwa
  • Walking tour of Galle Fort, a Portuguese and Dutch-occupied fortification
  • Snorkeling or diving at Hikkaduwa reef (optional, additional cost)

Day by day

1Colombo to Mirissa via HikkaduwaColombo to Mirissa via Hikkaduwa · Hikkaduwa · turtle hatchery · Haven Beach Club
Departure from Colombo with transfer southward to Mirissa. The route passes through Hikkaduwa, where a stop allows for optional diving or snorkeling at the reef. A visit to the turtle hatchery provides an opportunity to observe various sea turtle species in rehabilitation. Overnight accommodation is at Haven Beach Club in Mirissa on a half-board basis.
2Mirissa Whale Watching & Yala SafariMirissa · Yala National Park · Chandrika Hotel in Yala
Morning whale and dolphin watching departure from Mirissa into the Indian Ocean. The afternoon involves a three-hour transfer inland to Yala National Park. An afternoon safari begins at 3 PM to observe leopards, elephants, bears, and numerous bird species across the park's terrain. Overnight stay at Chandrika Hotel in Yala on a bed and breakfast basis.
3Yala Morning Safari, Galle Fort & ReturnGalle Fort · Yala National Park · Kitulgala Adventures · Yala National Park to Galle · Galle to Colombo
Early morning safari in Yala National Park before a three-hour transfer to Galle. A walking tour of Galle Fort follows, tracing the fortification built by Portuguese colonial forces and later occupied by the Dutch. The fort remains the primary historical structure in the town. A two-hour transfer returns travelers to Colombo, concluding the circuit. Final night's accommodation is at Kitulgala Adventures on a bed and breakfast basis.

Where you go

Map: Sri Lanka's South Coast & Yala: 4 Days route
Numbers follow the itinerary order. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap
  1. 1turtle hatchery
  2. 2Mirissa
  3. 3Yala National Park
  4. 4Galle Fort
  5. 5Yala National Park

Included

  • Accommodation in mentioned hotels
  • Meals as per mentioned meal plans
  • Air conditioned transfers with an English speaking chauffeur guide
  • All mentioned activities and park entrance fees
  • Prices may vary plus/minus depending on the season
  • Accommodation and meals (For 2 Adults)
  • 1 night in Paradise Beach Club in Mirissa on Half Board Basis
  • 1 night in Chandirka Hotel in Yala on bed and breakfast basis
  • 1 night in Kitulgala Adventures on bed and breakfast basis