The ultimate south coast day out, combining wildlife, culture and colonial history in one relaxed itinerary. You will cruise the mangrove forests of the Madu Ganga (Blue Lagoon) on a boat safari, visit an island Buddhist temple and watch cinnamon being peeled on Cinnamon Island, then step inside a real moonstone mine at Meetiyagoda to see gems mined, cut and polished. It is a gentle, unhurried day showcasing the best of the southern coastline.
After a fragrant stop at a spice and herbal garden, the highlight for many: swimming with giant wild sea turtles at Hikkaduwa's Turtle Beach. The day ends in historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its iconic lighthouse and vibrant local markets — plus Ceylon tea tasting and souvenir shopping. You travel in a private air-conditioned car with a multilingual guide, and every entry ticket and the boat safari are included, and small groups mean personal attention throughout. From $60 — book your south coast adventure today.
Cruise through mangrove forests and visit an island Buddhist temple. Cinnamon Island: See how traditional local families peel and prepare authentic Sri Lankan cinnamon. Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mine: Walk into a real gem mine to see moonstones being mined, cut, polished, and crafted into jewelry. Spice & Herbal Garden: Discover how tropical spices grow and learn about ancient Ayurvedic herbal secrets. Hikkaduwa Turtle Beach: Swim, feed, and interact with giant, wild Sea Turtles in their natural ocean habitat. Galle Fort & Local Market: Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage Dutch Fort, the iconic lighthouse, and vibrant local markets. Ceylon Tea & Souvenir Shopping: Taste premium local tea and browse authentic Sri Lankan handicrafts.
1. Blue Lagoon (Madu Ganga) Boat Safari & Cinnamon Island Cruise through pristine mangrove forests to visit a peaceful, historic island Buddhist temple. Afterward, stop at Cinnamon Island to watch local artisans demonstrate the traditional art of cinnamon peeling and oil extraction. 2. Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mine & Jewelry Crafting Step inside the world’s only traditional mine for rare blue moonstones. Witness the full process of how gems are mined deep from the earth, cut, polished, and crafted into stunning jewelry. 3. Tropical Spice & Herbal Garden Take a guided walk through a lush garden to see how authentic Sri Lankan spices like cardamom and vanilla grow. Learn ancient Ayurvedic secrets and enjoy a refreshing, complimentary herbal tea. 4. Hikkaduwa Turtle Beach & Swimming Dive into the turquoise waters of Hikkaduwa reef to encounter, feed, and swim right alongside friendly, giant wild Sea Turtles. You can also enjoy a delicious beachfront lunch overlooking the ocean here. 5. Galle Fort Excursion & Local Market Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort. Walk along historic ramparts, see the iconic Dutch Lighthouse, and wander cobblestone streets before visiting the bustling local fruit and fish markets. 6. Ceylon Tea Tasting & Souvenir Shopping Relax at a premium boutique to taste world-famous Ceylon Tea. End your adventure browsing authentic local handicrafts, wood carvings, and unique souvenirs to take a piece of Sri Lanka home.
Free pickup: unawatuna -koggala-Hikkaduwa-Ambalangoda.
Paid pickup (small fee): waligama-matara.
Free pickup is available from Unawatuna, Koggala, Hikkaduwa and Ambalangoda. Guests in Weligama or Matara can join with a small paid transfer.
Yes — at Hikkaduwa Turtle Beach you can swim, feed and interact with giant wild sea turtles in their natural habitat. Bring swimwear and a towel. For the island temple visit, bring a sarong or clothing covering shoulders and knees.
Private air-conditioned transport, an English and Russian-speaking guide, all entrance fees including the Madu Ganga boat safari, and drinking water. Meals and personal expenses are not included.
Absolutely — it is one of our most family-friendly tours. The difficulty is easy, the boat safari and turtles are a hit with kids, and there is no strenuous walking involved.
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