Galle Day Tour from Colombo/Negombo by Private Car or Van
Highlights
- Explore the historic Galle Fort
- Relax and enjoy the peaceful Jungle Beach
- Experience the beauty of the Madu River
- Witness the traditional Stilt Fishing in action
- Visit the Sea Turtle Farm in Galle
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Private transportation included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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Bottled water provided
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Duration 10 hours
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Expert multilingual guide
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Wheelchair accessible
Experience the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Sri Lanka with the Galle Day Tour from Colombo. Step into the past as you explore the ancient Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its impressive architecture and fascinating stories of Portuguese and Dutch colonization. Relax at the secluded and pristine Jungle Beach, offering breathtaking views of Galle and the perfect spot for snorkeling. Immerse yourself in the unique biodiversity of the Madu River, gliding through the mangrove forests and witnessing the diverse wildlife. Capture the iconic image of stilt fishermen skillfully perched on their poles, a truly mesmerizing sight. End your tour at the Sea Turtle Farm in Galle, where you can learn about the conservation efforts and release these magnificent creatures back into the ocean. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the beauty and wonders of Sri Lanka's southwest coast on this unforgettable day tour.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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10 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Greek, Modern, English, Polish, Danish, Tamil, Ukrainian, German, Russian, Portuguese, Arabic, Italian, French, Spanish; Castilian, Japanese
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the beauty of Galle on a private day tour from Colombo or Negombo, exploring culture, nature, and history in Sri Lanka.
Included
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Surcharges on fuel
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Parking fees
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Private transportation
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Bottled water
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In-vehicle air conditioning
Excluded
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Madu boat ride chargers - 30 usd ( boat chargers )
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Sea turtle farm chargers - 10 usd per person
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Stilt fishing chargers - 10 usd per person
What to expect
Galle Fort , in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. It is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 432 years maintains a polished appearance, due to extensive reconstruction work done by Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. The fort has a colourful history, and today has a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. The Sri Lankan government and many Dutch people who still own some of the properties inside the fort are looking at making this one of the modern wonders of the world.The heritage value of the fort has been recognized by the UNESCO and the site has been inscribed as a cultural heritage UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria iv, for its unique exposition of "an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries."
The Jungle beach is located between Galle and Unawatuna. This place is less known to tourists and is thus less crowded which makes it appealing for the people visiting this place. This beach is basically special for its location since it lies close to the jungle. The clean and sandy beach provides a panoramic view of the city of Galle and a perfect place to watch the sunsets. You can also go to this place on foot which is a through a very beautiful trail which is clearly marked. The place is also accessible through boats and is a different experience altogether. The beach has several beds and places to lie down and relax. The place also has decent restaurants which serve excellent food. The jungle beach is the perfect place for snorkeling where you can see some colorful fishes. The equipment and gear required for snorkeling is available on rent and can be obtained easily. The jungle beach is a peaceful and quite little beach, which is great for swimming!
Madu River Safari by Buddhi
Take a magical speed-boat ride down the beautiful Madu River, a wetland estuary spreading over 900 hectares of which 770 hectares is covered with water and inhabited with 64 islands. The boat ride is a wonderful way to take a closer look at this complex wetland ecosystem; a world heritage site protected by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands being one of the last wetlands in Sri Lanka to contain a pristine mangrove forest. Journey past massive mangrove forests, glide under the canopy of the forest tunnels as they curve playfully towards the watercourse. Take in the unique biodiversity of the Madu River and its surrounding islands that boasts of hundreds of birds, plants, fish and animals.
Stilt Fishing is one of the most interesting traditional fishing methods of Sri Lanka. Records indicate that it came into being just after World War II. This mode of fishing was more widely used all along the coast until the tsunami in 2004 which caused such activities to cease temporarily until recent years. The beautiful sight of fishermen perched branched poles as they fish skillfully during dawn, noon and dusk; can now be commonly along the southern coast in towns such as Koggala, Kaththaluwa and Ahangama. Occasional stilt fishermen can also be seen amongst the waters of Madu River, etc.
We are a team of volunteers taking all possible efforts to save the sea surtles for the next generation with the support of well-wishers around the globe. The "Sea Turtle Hatchery" is situated in Habaraduwa (southern part of Sri Lanka - Galle district) near to the beautiful golden sand beach. The center was started in 1986 and up to now we have released more than 1,000,000 Sea Turtles to the ocean. The sea turtles are one of the rare species found in the world. Their heritage could be traced to more than 100 million years. They are supposed to have lived during the Dinosaurs age. But at present about 8 varieties of turtles are said to be existing.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Try the local seafood at Galle Fort.
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Visit Jungle Beach for snorkeling.
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Check out local crafts at Galle Fort shops.
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Bring cash for optional activities.
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Stilt fishing demonstration is a must-see.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the enchanting city of Galle on a captivating day tour from Colombo. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this charming coastal destination. Galle is renowned for its iconic Galle Fort, a fortified old city with streets that reflect Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Explore the stone sea walls, admire the stunning architecture, and visit notable landmarks like the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church and the majestic Galle Lighthouse.What to expect?
During this 10-hour tour, you can expect to delve into the captivating history of Galle through a variety of immersive experiences. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort, where you can wander through its car-free streets and learn about its multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Galle and the sunset at the secluded Jungle Beach, a hidden gem known for its pristine beauty. Embark on a magical speedboat ride along the picturesque Madu River, surrounded by lush mangrove forests and abundant wildlife. Take in the unique sight of stilt fishermen skillfully perched on branches as they catch their daily bounty. Finally, visit the Sea Turtle Farm in Galle Mahamodara, where you can witness the efforts undertaken to protect and conserve these magnificent creatures for future generations.Who is this for?
This captivating day tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Galle. It is suitable for all age groups, making it a perfect family-friendly excursion.Why book this?
Booking this day tour from Colombo will provide you with an unforgettable journey through time and nature. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Galle, from its Portuguese and Dutch colonial past to its British influence. Explore the narrow streets of Galle Fort, soak in the beauty of the jungle-fringed Jungle Beach, and witness the unique fishing technique of stilt fishermen. Glide along the serene Madu River and get up close and personal with diverse flora and fauna. Finally, contribute to the conservation efforts to protect sea turtles at the Sea Turtle Farm in Galle Mahamodara. This tour is the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.Good to know
This day tour from Colombo includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking. Don't forget your camera to capture the extraordinary sights and moments throughout the tour. Lunch and snacks are not included, so it is advisable to bring your own or purchase them along the way.Reviews
Customers who have experienced this day tour were amazed by the historical significance of Galle Fort and its architectural beauty. They were captivated by the stunning views from Jungle Beach and highly recommend it for relaxation and taking in the breathtaking sunset. The boat ride along the Madu River left a lasting impression, with visitors praising the diverse wildlife and lush scenery. Witnessing the stilt fishermen in action was a unique experience that many found fascinating. The Sea Turtle Farm received rave reviews for its conservation efforts and the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close. Overall, visitors were thoroughly satisfied with this day tour, describing it as immersive, educational, and unforgettable.
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