Embark on a captivating Galle day tour and explore the historic Dutch Fort, cruise along the scenic Madhu River, and visit a turtle conservation centre. Discover the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s south coast.
- Galle Fort - The Galle Dutch Fort is a seventeenth-century colonial fort in Sri Lanka. It stands on a rocky promontory facing the Indian Ocean. Rocky shores and an imposing landside rampart defend it on all four directions. It was the Portuguese who chose Galle as a permanent trading post in 1588. Following the siege of Galle (1640), the Dutch ousted them from Southern Sri Lanka. Then the Dutch extensively fortified the fort until 1729. Its present form was mainly conceived under Dutch company rule and hence the name Galle Dutch fort. In its heyday, the fortification also served as the island’s southern commandment of the Dutch East India trading company (VOC). Its sister cities were Colombo, Trincomalee, and Jaffna. The fort defended the main VOC trading port in Sri Lanka. In 1796, it was peacefully handed over to the British who maintained a military presence until 1948.
- Madu Ganga Biodiversity Area - The water of the river is dotted with small islands and the banks are all covered with lush mangrove forests that are home to dozens of incredible animal species. Enjoy hundreds of vibrant tropical birds and a few crocodiles if you’re lucky enough.
- Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project - Here, you will learn about how these people protect sea turtle eggs and increase hatching rates. Start from protecting the mother turtle during the nesting process and when she is finished laying the eggs and safely back in the ocean, then relocate the eggs from the beach to there hatchery. When the baby sea turtles hatch and then return them to their natural habitat quickly.
- All Government Taxes included.
- Madu River Boat Safari cost covered.
- Complimentary 500ml mineral water bottle per person.
- Lunch at a local restaurant provided.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off for nearby hotels in Colombo, Negombo, Kalutara, or Bentota.
- Air conditioned transport with English-speaking driver.
- Entrance fees for Galle Fort and Turtle Hatchery included.
- Gratuities.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
The itinerary for the day trip to Galle primarily includes a visit to the Galle Dutch fort, a boat ride on the Madhu River, and a tour of the turtle preservation center in Balapitiya. Galle, a picturesque city located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its historic Dutch Fort and the breathtakingly beautiful beaches that line its shore. The Galle Dutch Fort holds the distinction of being one of Sri Lanka’s most frequented tourist spots.
The Madu River, situated in close proximity to Galle in the southern part of Sri Lanka, is interspersed with numerous small islets. Its banks are blanketed with dense mangrove forests that provide a natural habitat for an array of diverse animal species.
The southern coast of Sri Lanka serves as an important nesting site for sea turtles. Several sea turtle conservation centers have been established along the beach to protect the turtle nests. In total, five different species of sea turtles choose to nest on the beaches of Sri Lanka.
- Please be ready at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the pick up time.
- Please come with a comfortable attire for the tour.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
