Sri Lanka Family Holiday: Elephants, Temples & Beaches

Frequently asked questions

• Is this trip suitable for families with children?

  Yes — this itinerary has been designed with families in mind. Activities include wildlife safaris, turtle watching, village walks, and cooking classes, with plenty of downtime at luxury resorts. The pace is relaxed and hotels are family-friendly.

• What age is recommended for children?

  This holiday is suitable for children aged 6 years and above. Younger children are welcome, but some activities (like the Sigiriya climb or longer safaris) may be more suitable for older kids.

• How long is the trip?

  The tour runs for 11 days / 10 nights, from 19th to 29th December 2025.

• What kind of accommodation is included?

  Anuradhapura (Uga Ulagalla): Deluxe Pool Villa, luxury eco-resort Udawalawe (Mahoora): Elite safari tents, all-inclusive with guided game drives Tangalle (Anantara Peace Haven): Premier Ocean Rooms, 5-star beachfront resort

• What meals are included?

  11 Breakfasts 2 Lunches (at Mahoora Safari Camp) 3 Dinners (2 at Mahoora + 1 Christmas dinner supplement on 24th December) Other lunches and dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to try local restaurants or hotel dining options.

• What’s special about the safari experience?

  You’ll enjoy daily guided safaris in Udawalawe National Park, famous for its wild elephants. Game drives are led by naturalist guides in specially designed jeeps, and include snacks, drinks, and all park fees.

• What activities are included for children?

  Highlights for younger travellers include: Watching sea turtles nest on Rekawa Beach Exploring Sigiriya Rock Fortress Hands-on mask painting workshop in Ambalangoda Joining a family cooking class in Tangalle Spotting elephants and other wildlife on safari

• How much time is spent travelling each day?

  Journey times vary: Airport → Anuradhapura: ~3.5 hrs Anuradhapura → Udawalawe: ~6.5 hrs Udawalawe → Tangalle: ~1.5 hrs Most other activities are within 30–60 minutes of your hotels.

• Are entrance fees included?

  Yes — entrance fees are covered for Sigiriya, Dambulla, Hiriwadunna Village, Rekawa Turtle Watch, Mulkirigala Temple, and Galle Museum.

• Do we need visas to enter Sri Lanka?

  Yes — all visitors (except nationals from visa-exempt countries) require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Sri Lanka. This can be easily arranged online before travel.

• Do we need travel insurance?

  Yes — comprehensive travel insurance is required for all travellers. This should cover medical needs, trip cancellations, and baggage.

• How much spending money should we bring?

  Most meals are included at Mahoora, but you should budget for lunches/dinners at hotels, drinks, souvenirs, and optional extras. USD and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, though small cash amounts in Sri Lankan Rupees are useful for local shops.

• Will there be Wi-Fi available?

  Yes — Wi-Fi is available in all hotels (Uga Ulagalla, Mahoora, and Anantara). Signal may be weaker in safari areas.

• What transport is used?

  Travel is in a private air-conditioned vehicle with your English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Safari jeeps in Udawalawe are open-air, custom-designed for game drives.

• Are optional excursions available?

  Yes — optional activities such as spa treatments, additional safaris, or cultural shows can be arranged at extra cost.