Leopard resting on a tree stump in Yala National Park

Day trips & safaris

Day trips, safaris and whale watching

Staying on the south coast? We drive you to Sri Lanka's best wildlife and coastal experiences and bring you back to your hotel. Safari jeeps and boat trips are run by local licensed operators — we arrange your transport and help you plan the day.

Popular day trips from Galle

Leopard resting in Yala National Park

About 3 hours from Galle

Yala jeep safari

Look for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles on a morning or afternoon jeep safari. Best combined with a night near the park.

Ask about this trip
Whale tail rising from the blue ocean

About 1 hour from Galle · usually Nov – Apr

Whale watching in Mirissa

Early-morning boat trips to look for blue whales, sperm whales and dolphins. We drive you to the harbour and back.

Ask about this trip
Wild elephant on the grasslands of Udawalawe

About 2.5 hours from Galle

Udawalawe elephants

One of the best parks in Asia for seeing wild elephants, plus a visit to the Elephant Transit Home at feeding time.

Ask about this trip
Galle Fort walls and clock tower

Half day or full day

Galle Fort and the south coast

Walk the UNESCO-listed fort, see the stilt fishermen at Koggala and stop at Unawatuna or Jungle Beach.

Ask about this trip
Calm river lined with trees on the south coast

About 1.5 hours from Galle

Madu River and turtles

A boat ride through mangrove channels on the Madu River and a visit to a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

Ask about this trip

Good to know

  • Safari jeep, park entrance and boat tickets are paid separately
  • Whale watching usually runs from about November to April
  • Parts of Yala National Park usually close for a few weeks around September – October
  • Early starts give the best wildlife sightings and cooler weather

Vehicle rates

Private vehicle with driver

Car + driverfrom LKR 22,000 / day≈ US$73
Van + driverfrom LKR 30,000 / day≈ US$100

Whole vehicle, not per person. Your quote depends on the route, vehicle and number of days. US$ figures are approximate.

Ready to plan?

Message us — we reply personally.

Message us on WhatsApp
Chat with us