Journeys: Discover Sri Lanka - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. On some combo tours, international flights are part of the itinerary. Please contact your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for details regarding your specific flight and baggage allowances.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required. Consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, as well as personal medical requirements. Our Expedition Leader cannot administer drugs for legal reasons. Pharmacies in Asia often stock local versions of Western drugs, so bring full drug names. Assess your ability to cope with the travel style and refer to Physical and Culture Shock ratings. The tour operator reserves the right to exclude travelers unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk.

• Does the tour operator have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?

  Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories, and contests. Subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ to avoid missing out on special offers and updates. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn about how our company invests in our global community.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 15, with an average of 12 travelers.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for unforeseen circumstances like route changes due to natural disasters. This is a rare occurrence.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  In Asia, dress standards are more conservative. Pack loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for hot and humid climates. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting rural communities, temples, mosques, or other holy sites, as this may restrict entry. Shorts are generally not allowed as they will restrict entry into religious buildings and family homes. A light water and windproof jacket and a hat are essential. Beach attire is appropriate on the beach.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  We believe solo travelers should not pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not include a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. Some Independent trips are designed differently and may require solo travelers to pay a single trip price.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has seen evidence of your insurance. At a minimum, coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000), is required. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. If using credit card insurance, provide proof of purchase with a credit card in your name.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping service providers like waiters is customary in Asia, at approximately 10%. Tipping local guides or drivers ($4-5 USD per person per day) is also appreciated and can be done individually or as a group. For your National Geographic Expedition Leader, a guideline of $10-$15 per person, per day is suggested if you felt they did an outstanding job.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include visiting an Ayurvedic Center in Kandy and taking high tea at the colonial-era Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya (25-35USD per person).

• What are the joining instructions?

  Refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the tour operator App, or travel agent for joining hotel details. An arrival transfer is included on Day 1, or up to three days prior if pre-accommodation is booked through National Geographic Journeys at our joining hotel. Our driver will wait with a National Geographic Journeys sign outside the luggage hall. If not met, call the local support line or take a taxi to the hotel. Day 1 is an arrival day with no planned activities. Your Expedition Leader will leave a note at reception for the Welcome Meeting details (usually 5pm-7pm).

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include exploring ruins and archaeological sites with local experts, a lecture on elephant conservation, searching for leopards at Wilpattu National Park, tasting Ceylon tea at its source, and a cooking demonstration to learn about local ingredients and flavors.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, boats, 4x4s, and walking.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  Check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your Expedition Leader may amend the itinerary for safety. Be cautious during free time and at night in cities; travel in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities carry inherent risks; participate with guides. Swimming/snorkeling are at your own risk.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  In case of issues, refer to the emergency contact details provided and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to your starting point hotel. You can then apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. It develops and supports community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation directly supports Planeterra projects.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum number of travelers on this tour is 16.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. Smoking marijuana and opium, even if part of local culture, is not acceptable for travelers. The exploitation of prostitutes is strictly against our philosophy of respect. Your group leader has the right to expel any member found with drugs or using prostitutes.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  Currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate, so refer to www.xe.com for daily rates. Many ATM machines in major cities accept Visa and Mastercard. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure safety and comfort throughout your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can help with travel planning decisions.

• What's included in the tour?

  The tour includes a Wilpattu Safari and Conservation Talk, an Agricultural Village Experience in Habarana, High Tea and Handicrafts in Kandy (at Sthree Craft Shop and Café), a welcome meeting, a visit to a coconut plantation, and a Sri Lankan cooking demonstration in Udawalawe. It also covers arrival transfer, tours of Anuradhapura ruins, Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla cave temple, Matale spice garden, Temple of the Tooth, a cultural show, Royal Botanical Gardens, Nuwara Eliya area and Ceylon tea plantation, a hike in Horton Plains National Park, and a safari drive in Udawalawe National Park. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is covered.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for times when you may need to do your own laundry.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Accommodation will be in hotels/lodges for 8 nights and a tented camp for 3 nights.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  In dire need, first call the tour operator Local Representative (Charith Attale: +94 772 927 374, Tharanga Siriwardhana: +94 776 424 060). If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. For airport transfer issues, if our representative is not met within 30 minutes, take a taxi and seek a refund later. Global emergency contact numbers are also available for specific regions.

• Who will be leading the group?

  A National Geographic Expedition Leader will lead the group.

• Will I get my own room?

  If you have booked the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is included in this tour?

  Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Wilpattu Safari and Conservation Talk, Wilpattu National Park Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Agricultural Village Experience, Habarana Your Journeys Highlight Moment: High Tea and Handicrafts, Kandy Your G for Good Moment: Sthree Craft Shop and Café, Kandy Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group Your Hands-On Moment: Visit a Coconut Plantation, Colombo Your Foodie Moment: Sri Lankan Cooking Demonstration, Udawalawe. Arrival transfer. Tour of Anuradhapura ruins. Tour the Sigiriya rock fortress. Dambulla cave temple visit. Visit a Matale spice garden. Tour the Temple of the Tooth. Cultural show. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. Tour Nuwara Eliya area and a Ceylon tea plantation. Hike in Horton Plains National Park. Safari drive in Udawalawe National Park. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Are laundry facilities available on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the trip?

  Hotel/lodges – 8 nts, tented camp – 3 nts.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the the tour operator Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our the tour operator Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through the tour operator or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. Included arrival transfers are provided from the nearest airport to your starting location. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. Sri Lanka:Charith Attale (Primary Contact)From outside of Sri Lanka: +94 772 927 374From within Sri Lanka: 772 927 374Tharanga Siriwardhana (Secondary Contact)From outside of Sri Lanka: + 94 776 424 060From within Sri Lanka: 776 424 060EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERSthe tour operator South Asia Manager, Sorab Jassawalla (Delhi, India)From outside of India: +91 8851806614From within India: 8851806614If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

• Who will lead the tour group?

  A National Geographic Expedition Leader will lead the group.

• Is a private room option available for solo travelers?

  Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations for this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at the tour operator and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and money exchange on this tour?

  As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.comAs of Jan 2013 the exchange rate for Sri Lanka was 1 USD = 128 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and Mastercard but these are limited to major cities. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  Max 15, avg 12

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into the tour operator’ itineraries globally. the tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.the tour operator Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Expedition Leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your Expedition Leader will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our Expedition Leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Private vehicle, boat, 4x4, walking.

• What are the main highlights of the Discover Sri Lanka tour?

  Explore ruins and archaeological sites with local experts, take in a lecture on elephant conservation, search out leopards at Wilpattu National Park, enjoy a taste of tea at its source, learn about local ingredients and flavours during a cooking demonstration

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Kandy - Ayurvedic Center Nuwara Eliya - High Tea at the Grand Hotel (25-35USD per person)

• Is tipping customary during this trip?

  It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Expedition Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $4-5 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $10-$15 per person, per day.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. the tour operator can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

• What are the dress code recommendations to respect local customs?

  In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting small rural communities or visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites as this may restrict your entry. Sri Lanka is conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. The wearing of shorts is not allowed as it will restrict your entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat essential. Beach attire is appropriate when on the beach.NB: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a the tour operator tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How much emergency money is recommended for this trip?

  Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• Can I subscribe to the tour operator's email newsletter?

  Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from the tour operator, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

• Are there any important health considerations for travelers?

  Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our Expedition Leader are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. the tour operator reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group Expedition Leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Journeys: Discover Sri Lanka' tour?

  This tour highlights include exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites with local experts, taking in a lecture on elephant conservation, searching for leopards at Wilpattu National Park, enjoying a taste of world-renowned Ceylon tea at its source, and learning about local ingredients and flavours during a cooking demonstration.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels/lodges for 8 nights and a tented camp for 3 nights.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 15 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners are included in this trip.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, boats, 4x4s for safaris, and walking tours.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers do not have to pay more as our group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. A 'My Own Room' option is available if you prefer a single room for all night stops.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended that your policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• How should I dress to respect local customs in Sri Lanka?

  Sri Lanka is conservative. As a general guideline, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. Wearing shorts is not allowed as it may restrict entry into religious buildings and family homes. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended. Beach attire is appropriate only when on the beach.

• What is the recommended emergency fund for this trip?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping customary in Sri Lanka?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) is customary. For local guides and drivers, $4-5 USD per person per day is a general recommendation. For your National Geographic Expedition Leader, $10-$15 per person per day is appreciated if you felt they did an outstanding job.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  In Kandy, you can opt for an Ayurvedic massage. In Nuwara Eliya, you have the option to take high tea at the colonial-era Grand Hotel (costing approximately 25-35USD per person).

• What should I know about currency and credit cards in Sri Lanka?

  While currency exchange rates fluctuate, ATMs are available in major cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. Most shops accept major credit cards, but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.

• What is Planeterra and how is it involved with this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs. You will visit Sthree Craft Shop and Café in Kandy, a tour operator–supported social enterprise that empowers local women and youth.

• What is the policy regarding illegal drugs and prostitution on trips?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also contrary to our travel philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member found with drugs or using prostitutes.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. You may also do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.