Safari & Chill: Sri Lanka’s Wildlife & Remote Island Paradise in the Maldives
This Sri Lanka and Maldives itinerary combines wildlife, culture and the Maldives’ paradise islands, balancing exploration with complete downtime. It’s ideal for travellers looking to experience these beautiful, contrasting, destinations in one seamless journey.
Beginning in Sri Lanka, the route moves through Yala National Park and historic Galle before continuing to the Maldives, where the pace shifts to barefoot island life and time shaped entirely by the sea.
The itinerary below is shown as an example route. Every journey we create is planned from scratch, and can be adapted — unless you like it exactly as it is.
- Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Your south Asian adventure begins with an overnight flight to bustling Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
- Day 2 - Yala National Park
On arrival in Sri Lanka you'll be welcomed by the best ground team in the country before being escorted a few hours south to the beautiful Yala National Park and your safari lodge.
- Day 3 - Yala National Park
Today you'll enjoy your first safari drive in Yala. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive leopards and the large herds of elephant that freely roam the reserve.
- Day 4 - Yala National Park
Another day on safari. If you like you could spend the day on the deserted beaches on the far reaches of the park and enjoy dinner tonight under the stars.
- Day 5 - Galle
It would be criminal to leave Sri Lanka without soaking in some of the culture and history that makes the island so beloved.
So, today you'll head half way back to Colombo to UNESCO protected Galle for a night near some of the country's most revered restaurants and historic sites.
- Day 6 - The Maldives
Onto the Maldives where, on arrival, you'll head to your tropical island home via speedboat or seaplane, depending on where you stay.
- Day 7 - The Maldives
The Maldives is so beautiful it has become a by-word for paradise. And it certainly does not let you down! Have a fantastic first day in one of the most relaxing places in the world.
- Day 8 - The Maldives
Enjoy your day on the soft sands of your resort, cooling off in the hotel pool or warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
- Day 9 - The Maldives
Unsurprisingly most activities here revolve around the ocean. Grab a snorkel and explore tropical reefs, or perhaps head out on an organised trip to see the best spots.
- Day 10 - The Maldives
Spa day? Why not!?
- Day 11 - The Maldives
Your last day at leisure in your island paradise. Your destination specialist is on hand to make your stay as memorable as possible, so just us know if you'd like to arrange something special. Perhaps a private dinner on the beach!
- Day 12 - Overnight/Day Flight
Alas, it's time to head back. You'll be escorted to the airport in good time for your onward flight
From £3980pp
Itinerary highlights
- Spot leopards and elephants on safari in Sri Lanka, with time to unwind at a standout lodge
- Soak up Sri Lanka’s culture and coastline with a slower pace, local food, and time to explore beyond the headline sights
- Switch gears in the Maldives for lagoon swims, snorkelling, spa time and proper rest-and-reset luxury
- Designed as a flexible example, that can be shaped around your interests