13 days
|$6195pp
This remarkable journey takes you from the lush hills and sacred temples of Sri Lanka to the sun-drenched shores of the Maldives. Over the course of thirteen days, uncover ancient cities steeped in legend, journey through breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant traditions before surrendering to barefoot luxury in an overwater paradise.
Your adventure begins amidst the colonial charm and coastal beauty of Colombo before winding into the emerald heart of Kandy’s hill country. Along the way, discover sacred shrines, meet master craftsmen, and ride the famous highland railway through mist-covered tea plantations to the charming town of Ella. Encounter wildlife in Yala National Park, where leopards, elephants, and birdlife thrive in untamed wilderness – and finally, trade the jungle for the gentle rhythm of the ocean in the Maldives, where pristine white sands, turquoise lagoons, and candlelit dinners beneath the stars await.
Upon arrival in Colombo, your English-speaking chauffeur guide will greet you after customs and escort you to your elegant colonial accommodation – the Galle Face Hotel, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Enjoy your first evening at leisure, watching the sunset over the sea from the hotel’s famed terrace.
The next morning, journey inland toward Kandy, the spiritual heart of the island. En route, pause at rural villages and temples that reveal Sri Lanka’s cultural soul. Accompanied by your private guide, embark on a scenic walk through the lush countryside from Gadaladeniya Temple to Lankatilaka Temple, two stunning examples of ancient Sinhalese craftsmanship. Along the way, stop at a local home to enjoy a refreshing king coconut, meet a master craftsman whose family once served the Kandyan kings, and soak up the serenity of the emerald hills.
Kandy is a city steeped in legend. It is the final stronghold of Sri Lankan kings and still the spiritual center of the nation. This morning, explore with your private chauffeur guide, wandering through vibrant markets and along the shores of Kandy Lake. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most revered shrines, and feel the spiritual energy that radiates through its gilded halls. Later, discover the city’s lively spice markets, where fragrant cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom fill the air. Pause at the Midlands Café for authentic Ceylon tea and local bread served with fragrant curries.
The next day, experience one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys as you travel through the misty highlands toward Ella. Wind past rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mountain ridges shrouded in cloud. Upon arrival, your chauffeur guide will meet and escort you to your boutique hilltop retreat.
Rise early to explore Ella, a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Choose between a gentle walk up Little Adam’s Peak for sweeping valley views, or the more challenging Ella Rock trail – a journey through forests and farmlands, where breathtaking vistas reward your efforts.
Next, journey south to Yala National Park, where Sri Lanka’s wild side can be experienced at its fullest. Upon arrival, embark on your first safari drive, exploring a landscape of scrub jungle, lagoons, and open plains. Over the next two days, join expert naturalists on both early morning and afternoon game drives, searching for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a dazzling array of birdlife. Between safaris, enjoy guided walks, photography outings, or tranquil kayaking sessions through Yala’s waterways.
After breakfast, return to Colombo, where your guide will reveal the city’s lesser-known charms. Wander through Slave Island, one of Colombo’s oldest neighborhoods, alive with color and community. Taste Kottu Rotti – Sri Lanka’s signature street food – sizzling on metal grills, and visit a local Hindu temple during evening Pooja. Later, join an insider’s tasting experience dedicated to Arrack, Sri Lanka’s historic coconut spirit, sampling this aromatic liquor in stylish bars and authentic local taverns.
Stay once more at Galle Face Hotel, where colonial grandeur meets coastal views.
The following day, fly from Colombo to Malé, then transfer by speedboat to your private island resort in the South Malé Atoll. Settle in to Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, an adults-only sanctuary where turquoise waters, white sands, and overwater villas set the stage for total relaxation and romance.
Spend your days immersing yourself in the rhythm of island life. Set sail on a dolphin safari, watching pods of spinner dolphins leap across the waves. Then, escape to your own private sandbank, where a gourmet picnic awaits amid the soft hush of the sea.
Explore the coral gardens surrounding your villa with a self-guided snorkeling adventure, drifting among colorful fish and swaying reefs just steps from your terrace. As evening falls, glide across the water on a traditional dhoni at sunset, the sky painted in shades of amber and rose.
Stay at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, in a Sunset Villa, where private pools, personalized service, and panoramic ocean views create the ultimate island escape.
Bid farewell to the Maldives as you transfer by speedboat to Malé International Airport for your onward flight.
Tell us how you want to feel, we’ll take it from there.
“Our trip was truly magical and full of core memories that will last us a lifetime.”
Michael • Bora Bora Honeymoon
“We just returned from an incredible journey through Ireland, and we couldn’t have had a better experience”
Brad • Ireland Adventure
“This was a flawless experience right from the beginning, we had so many thoughts and ideas flowing around and they took all of them and perfectly curated the most beautiful honeymoon for us.”
Kris • Sicily Honeymoon
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