Robinson Crusoe Adventure, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Colombo
Mahaweli River
Elephants Crossing at Mahaweli River
Udawalawe National Park Peacock
Udawalawe National Park Safari
Yala National Park Leopard
Bespoke
Journeys
Colombo - Polonnaruwa - Kandy - Belihuloya - Udawalawe National Park - Tissamaharama (13 Days / 12 Nights)
Day 1
Residence By Uga Escapes, Colombo
After airport arrival, guests transfer to Residence By Uga Escapes in Colombo. The day offers relaxation or exploration in the vibrant city, featuring golden beaches, temples, chic restaurants, and must-see attractions like Asokaramaya Temple and Talangama Wetland.
Day 2-4
Mahaweli Expedition
Day 2: The Mahaweli Expedition's first day starts with a 2.5-hour journey to Kithulgala, where training at the Borderlands Adventure Centre prepares participants for the jungle river adventure. They practice paddling, safety, and camp craft, ending the day with a video session and dinner at the Long House. The next day, they depart early for Mahiyanganaya, a 5-hour journey Day 3: The second day of the Mahaweli Expedition begins with an early breakfast at Borderlands, followed by a 5-hour drive to the river's starting point. After lunch, the team paddles for four hours into a pristine national park, setting up camp on jungle sand beaches. The evening includes snack breaks, beachside games, a campfire for protection against elephants, a BBQ dinner, and plans for an early morning departure. Day 4: The day begins early as they enter Wasgamuwa National Park, paddling through serene landscapes amid the sounds of birds and wildlife. They navigate rapids, aiming to spot crocodiles and elephants, and camp overlooking an elephant corridor. Dinner under the stars precedes a peaceful night with campfires and guides keeping watch.
Day 5
EKHO Lake House, Polonnaruwa
Day 5: On the final day, the team wakes to the sounds of elephants crossing the river at dawn, enjoying a canoe safari to witness the spectacle. Spotting crocodiles and transitioning landscapes, they reach their destination by lunchtime for gear cleaning. Some head back to Colombo, while others explore Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient structures and welcoming locals. The day ends with relaxation and exploration in the historically rich city.
Day 6-8
The Kandy House, Kandy
Day 6: The next day, a 3.5-hour drive takes the team to Kandy, where they can rest at the hotel or explore. Kandy, known for its tea plantations, features Kandy Lake and the Temple of The Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions include the Ceylon Tea Museum, Buddhist Publication Society, Ayurvedic center, Kandyan Art Association, and the Kandy Muslim Hotel for spiced curries. Day 7: In the morning, guests hike the UNESCO Knuckles mountain range with a naturalist. Known for its picturesque trails, there are access points from Riverston in the north, and Deanston and Meemure in the southeast, each offering unique experiences. Meemure village also features additional trails.
Day 8
Ahaspokuna Bush Walks Camp, Belihuloya
After breakfast, guests embark on a scenic 4.5-hour drive to Ahaspokuna. Upon arrival, they hike to the glamping campsite, as no roads lead there. Porters assist with luggage, marking their transition from civilisation to unspoiled wilderness. The camp, nestled in a secluded 2260-acre area, holds historical significance as a hideout during the 1817 revolution. Surrounded by a 200 sq. km. protected forest, the all-suite tented camp offers a luxurious experience in remote wilderness.
Day 9
Inside the jungle (real Robinson Crusoe style)
After breakfast venture deeper into the wilderness and start the Robinson Crusoe Journey. Guests will walk into the wild with a machete in hand. Porters will assist with the luggage and food preparations, basic jungle tents and basic toilets. Visitors can jump into the river for a bath. The journey will include hiking, rappelling, camping in the jungle, cycling to Udawalawe campsite. This is one of the most adventurous journeys to enjoy in Asia.
Day 10
Mahoora Udawalawe Safari Camp, Udawalawe National Park
Following breakfast, embark on the final stretch of the hiking journey within the forest. Upon exiting, a picturesque cycling adventure awaits, leading them to their Mahoora camping tent. There, guests can look forward to a hot shower, cocktails, and a bonfire, followed by a sit-down dinner. For those seeking an additional adrenaline rush, the option of a night safari in Udawalawe to spot wild elephants is available.
Day 11-12
Wild Culture Yala, Tissamaharama
Day 11: Begin the day with a morning elephant safari in Udawalawe National Park, then drive to Yala and check into the Relais and Chateaux lodge in the evening. Day 12: Experience Yala Block 2's unique landscape with open plains and off-road sections on a morning safari. Enjoy a tranquil escape from crowded safaris, crossing the Menik river for diverse wildlife spotting, including elephants, wild buffaloes, and chances to see leopards and bears.
Day 13
End of Itinerary
Departure to the Airport.