Sri Lanka Encompassed - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of experiences can I expect on the "Sri Lanka Encompassed" tour?

  The tour offers a vibrant blend of cultural immersion, exploring diverse landscapes with tea plantations and rock fortresses, and opportunities to connect with local people. You will visit historical sites, enjoy cultural demonstrations, go on safaris, and relax by the beach.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating a moderate level of activity suitable for most travelers.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 15 participants.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What specific activities are included in the tour?

  Included activities feature a Colombo orientation walk, a fishing market walk, a Negombo Lagoon boat ride, a Dambulla Cave Temple visit, a Sigiriya Rock Fortress tour, a village tour with local lunch, a spice plantation visit, a guided tour of the Temple of the Tooth, a tea factory visit, a Yala National Park safari, and a Galle Fort and city tour. A Sri Lankan cooking demonstration and a lunch at the tour operator supported-Sthree Craft Shop and Café are also part of the experience.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation typically consists of hotels for 13 nights, along with stays at a nature resort (Oruthota Chalets) and a campground (Big Game Camp Yala).

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities include a Kandyan Cultural Dance, a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, an Ayurvedic Center visit in Kandy, a trek in Horton Plains Nature Reserve, and exploring attractions in Ella such as Little Adam's Peak, Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, and Ravana Falls Excursion. An additional Yala National Park safari is also an option.

• Who will lead the tour?

  The tour is led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, and local guides are also utilized at specific sites to provide specialized knowledge.

• What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO)?

  The CEO manages travel logistics, provides information on destinations, suggests activities and local dining options, and connects travelers with local experiences, aiming to ensure the best possible trip.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  The tour primarily uses hotels for 13 nights. There is also an overnight stay at a nature resort in Digana, and a campground experience in Yala National Park. Please note that some properties with two stories may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner. Other meals are typically not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, though groups often eat together.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size for this tour ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 15 travelers.

• What level of physical activity is involved in this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2. Travelers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, meaning they can walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What forms of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations will be by private van, boat, and a scenic local train ride.

• What kind of guidance will I receive throughout the tour?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour, who provides general knowledge of the countries, suggests activities and local eateries. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge at certain sites.

• Are there any cultural dress code requirements to be aware of?

  Yes, in Asia, a more conservative dress standard is expected. When visiting small rural communities, temples, mosques, or other holy sites, please dress respectfully in loose, lightweight clothing that covers knees and shoulders. A shawl or scarf is recommended for temple visits. Displaying body art or wearing clothing with images of the Buddha is illegal and should be avoided or kept covered.

• What are the common payment methods and should I carry emergency funds?

  ATM machines accepting Visa and Mastercard are available in major cities, and most shops accept major credit cards, though a 2-4% transaction fee may apply. It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund.

• Can solo travelers have their own room on this tour?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, with the exception of Night 6.

• What are some of the main activities and sights included in the tour?

  Highlights include a Colombo orientation walk, fishing market tour, Negombo Lagoon boat ride, Dambulla Cave Temple visit, Sigiriya Rock Fortress tour, a village tour with local lunch, spice plantation visit, a guided tour of the Temple of the Tooth, a tea factory visit, a safari in Yala National Park, and a Galle Fort and city tour. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is covered.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities are available, such as a Kandyan Cultural Dance (5-8USD), a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kandy (12USD), hiking in Horton Plains Nature Reserve (60-70USD), visiting the Nine Arch Bridge, or hiking Little Adam's Rock in Ella (free).

• What should I know about road travel in Sri Lanka?

  Road travel in Sri Lanka can be different from Western countries. Many roads are single lane, traffic rules may not always be followed, and drivers might appear to speed or overtake in challenging situations. Some roads can be poorly maintained, especially during and after monsoon season, which can result in longer travel times over relatively short distances.

• What type of activities can I expect on this tour?

  This tour offers a diverse range of activities including exploring the Sigiriya rock fortress, enjoying a Sri Lankan cooking demonstration, visiting a spice plantation and tea factory, relaxing on pristine beaches, embarking on a safari through Yala National Park, and an overnight stay at a nature resort in Digana. You'll also experience guided city tours, a village walk, a boat ride along the Dutch canal, and visits to sites like the Dambulla Cave Temple and the Temple of the Tooth.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 15 people, with an average of 12 travelers.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the trip?

  You will be staying in hotels for 13 nights. Please note that accommodations at a nature resort (one night) are simple and authentic. Some properties may have two stories without elevators, requiring you to carry your luggage upstairs.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility in dining choices, but your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can recommend local eateries.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation will be by private van, boat, and scenic local train, allowing for varied experiences of the country.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at specific sites, offering broad general knowledge and specific local insights.

• What is the minimum age to participate in this tour?

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

• What should I know about health and medical considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and hand sanitizers. Our CEOs are not permitted to administer any drugs. A minimum average level of fitness is required, including being able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry your own luggage. A medical questionnaire is required for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions.

• What are the visa requirements for visiting Sri Lanka?

  All foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka for tourism purposes must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to arrival, as of October 15th, 2025. A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is also required. You can apply for an ETA at eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. It's your responsibility to check the latest requirements with your local embassy or consulate.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  In Asia, a conservative dress standard is recommended. Please pack loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders. A shawl or scarf is useful for temple visits. Avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops when visiting rural communities, temples, mosques, or other holy sites, as this may restrict entry. Displaying body art or wearing clothing with an image of the Buddha is illegal and should be covered at all times.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler for drinks, shopping, and tipping. It's recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What should I know about currency exchange and credit card usage?

  Currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate, so refer to www.xe.com for daily rates. 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 may incur a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000. It's strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Proof of insurance will be required by your leader.

• What is the tipping etiquette in Sri Lanka?

  It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%. For drivers and local guides, a range of USD1-2 per person per day is recommended. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), USD20-30 per person per week is a guideline, but the amount is a personal preference. Your CEO can assist with specific recommendations.

• What are the general safety and security guidelines for this tour?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can alter the itinerary for safety reasons. Exercise good judgment for optional activities. When in cities at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. Be aware that road travel in Sri Lanka can be challenging with single-lane roads, aggressive drivers, and poor maintenance, leading to longer travel times.

• Is there an option for solo travelers to have their own room?

  Group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement; single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. However, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, with the exception of night 6.

• How does the tour operator support local communities?

  The tour operator supports local communities through the Planeterra International Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. You can also participate in their 'Dollar-a-day Program' where 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

• What rules should I know before joining 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. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (Mild), meaning it is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and mobility. Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb stairs, and carry their own luggage.