Sri Lanka: Treasures of the Spice Island
Small Group Journeys
A 3,000-year-old culture noted for its beauty and grace still resonates across Sri Lanka, the teardrop-shaped island off the tip of Southern India. Experience the former Ceylon in style, with VIP entry to the Temple of the Tooth’s sacred Shrine Room and a sunset stroll of Galle Fort’s ramparts as well as a cinnamon plantation visit, on this immersive adventure.
- Luxury
- Small Group
- Ultra Luxury
Dotted with ancient temples, the rural region of Kotugoda sits almost midway between the fishing town of Negombo, home to Sri Lanka’s international airport, and the bustling capital Colombo. The former is a lively beach resort with a Dutch fort, fish market and mangrove-fringed lagoons; in the latter, Sri Lanka’s colonial past jostles up against shiny new high-rises and chic shops.
Shangri-La Colombo
Meals:
2 Colombo – A Colonial Legacy Revealed
After a free morning to relax, start your day experiencing local tea and refreshments. Then, explore the city’s Old Dutch Hospital, a colonial treasure dating to the 17th century; and the commercial hub of Colombo Fort, home to a host of charming colonial mansions. Back at the hotel, reconvene for a welcome dinner.
Shangri-La Colombo
Meals:
3 Cultural Triangle – Lion’s Rock
This morning, depart for the Cultural Triangle. Encompassing the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy, and everything in between, this hinterland of history lies at Sri Lanka’s very heart. Later, discover the UNESCO-enshrined Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a royal citadel perched precariously atop a monolithic boulder, its 1,500-year-old frescoes still intact. Set out on a hike up winding cliffside staircases, summiting at sunset to reveal the ancient secrets of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa.
Water Garden Sigiriya
Meals:
4 Cultural Triangle – Game Drive and Dambulla Cave Temples
Embark on a game drive, rolling through lush countryside and rice paddies with an opportunity for spotting elephants, as well as buffalo and exotic birdlife. This afternoon, at the Dambulla Cave Temples, discover Sinhalese Buddhist statues and murals dating back to the third century BC.
Water Garden Sigiriya
Meals:
5 Cultural Triangle – Design Your Day
This morning, choose from these Design Your Day activities.
- Join an Expert Birder for a Walk around the jungles of Sigiriya, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings.
- Help a Local Family Prepare and Give Alms to Monks at a local temple, followed by a traditional Buddhist blessing.
- Practice Yoga with a session at your hotel.
After lunch, tour the ruins of the former royal city of Polonnaruwa. Take in the archaeological site’s vast reservoir, temple, palace and royal baths, each adorned with religious and regal statuary.
Water Garden Sigiriya
Meals:
6 Kandy – Temple of the Tooth
Depart for Matale to discover the art of batik. Learn how masterpieces can be created with experimentation and imagination. With creativity flowing, and under expert guidance, begin work on your own batik. Later this evening, gather at the Temple of the Tooth to attend a pooja ceremony where votive Buddhist offerings take place to the rhythmical sound of drums and the heady scent of lotus. Revered for generations, the tooth relic housed in the temple is believed to have granted ultimate authority to each ruler who possessed it. Your VIP entry affords access to the inner Shrine Room where the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha is kept.
Jetwing Kandy Gallery
Meals:
7 Kandy – Botanical Gardens
Join an experienced botanist on a walk around the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants and trees, followed by an in-depth tour of Kandy’s urban and cultural highlights. Return your hotel for dinner and a traditional Kandyan performance.
Jetwing Kandy Gallery
Meals:
8 Bentota – Bawa's Sanctuary
Head to the resort town of Bentota, where you gain special access to the home of the late Geoffrey Bawa, one of Asia's most prolific and influential architects. Here, see how Bawa spent 40 years transforming this former abandoned rubber estate into a tropical paradise of elegant gardens and lily ponds set against the backdrop of scenic Dedduwa Lake. After lunch at the estate, continue to Galle for an evening at leisure. Once the country’s main trading post, Galle is now a honeypot for travelers who scoop up handcrafted lace, sip arrack in the bars and tuck into fragrant Sri Lankan dishes — or catch a game at the city’s international cricket stadium.
Amangalla
Meals:
9 Galle – World’s Finest Cinnamon
Head to nearby Villa Mayurana, stopping en route to view traditional stilt fisherman along the coast. Then, see how Sri Lanka produces the world’s best cinnamon with a tasting experience on the lush grounds of your hotel's fragrant spice farm. Later, join a local archaeologist and heritage expert for an absorbing sunset walking tour of Galle Fort, built by the Dutch in 1663. Wander the cobbled streets with eyes open for local arts, crafts and delicacies. Gather this evening for a farewell dinner.
Amangalla
Meals:
10 Depart Colombo
After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
Meals:
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Experience several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Galle Fort
Climb to the summit of Sigiriya Rock Fortress for a panoramic view of the setting sun
Sri Lanka’s heritage comes to life for you in song, dance and colorful traditional finery during a private performance of a Kandyan cultural show
Enter the sacred Shrine Room of the Temple of the Tooth, in an extraordinary moment of insider access
Stroll the ramparts of colonial Galle accompanied by a local archaeologist and heritage expert
Visit tropical modernist architect Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic country estate for a private garden tour
English-Speaking Resident Tour Director® and Local Guides
Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
Travelling Bell Boy® Luggage Handling
Traveller’s Valet® Laundry Service
Internet Access
Entrance Fees, Taxes and All Gratuities Except Resident Tour Director
24/7 A&K On-Call Support
Abercrombie & Kent, Well-Travelled Since 1962
We have been spinning dreams into remarkable adventures for discerning travellers for more than 60 years, ever since our founder pioneered the first modern luxury safari in Africa. Today we are the world’s leading travel company, taking guests to the earth’s wildest frontiers on all seven continents.
Travel Your Way
For six decades we have been refining the art of bespoke travel, showing every guest the world in a fresh light. We understand that every traveller is unique – tell our experts what you love doing and where you want to go, and we will create the trip of your dreams or match you to your ideal journey.
With You All The Way
Behind every A&K journey is an international support system of more than 2,500 staff, in 60 offices, in 35 countries, on all seven continents. Our on-the-ground “guardian angels” provide 24/7 support, and are there to hold your hand whenever you need it, so you can travel with confidence.
Travel Thoughtfully
We are all the guardians of our amazing planet, and we believe travel should be considered, mindful, responsible. A force for good. Every trip you book with us supports the initiatives of A&K Philanthropy, positively impacting communities and conservation efforts in the places where we travel.
The A&K Family
For all the world’s infinite wonders, it is our people that guests remember most. Our family of experts, from polar explorers to well-connected local guides, bring together their spark, knowledge, and care to make every A&K journey remarkable.
Ways to Travel with A&K
We understand better than anyone what it means to travel well. Since that inaugural safari on the wide-open plains of Kenya in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent has perfected the art of crafting superlative adventures. Our global network of experts pour heart, soul and astounding knowledge into every trip, dedicated to creating the journey of a lifetime, every time.
Our portfolio of journeys now spans all seven continents. However you want to travel, we can arrange it. Sail on an expedition ship to Antarctica, take the slow train through Peru, explore Africa’s greatest national parks on the ultimate private-jet-set safari. Join a group on a journey led by expert guides, or embark on the bespoke adventure of your dreams. Wherever you want to travel, A&K can take you there.
Small Group Journeys
Our guided journeys redefine the concept of the group tour, bringing together a select collective of like-minded souls seeking shared adventures – led by best-in-the-business experts who bring every destination to life.
Private Travel
Every private journey we create is unique. Tell us where you want to travel and we will craft your dream adventure; or be inspired by our collection of expertly designed Tailormade Journeys, customizable to suit you.
Cruises
Travelling by boat brings a fresh perspective on the world. Our voyages transport you to sensational and otherwise-inaccessible regions, whether that’s an intrepid polar expedition or a timeless river cruise along the Nile.
Private Jet
Flying privately opens up the farthest-flung corners of the world. Charter your own or join one of our private-jet group journeys by private jet – the most ambitious and awe-inspiring itineraries in modern adventure travel.
Safari
Abercrombie & Kent pioneered the first modern luxury safari in the 1960s, and today we continue to set the gold standard for wildlife adventures, with our own safari lodges in six countries in Africa.
Experience several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Galle Fort
Climb to the summit of Sigiriya Rock Fortress for a panoramic view of the setting sun
Sri Lanka’s heritage comes to life for you in song, dance and colorful traditional finery during a private performance of a Kandyan cultural show
Enter the sacred Shrine Room of the Temple of the Tooth, in an extraordinary moment of insider access
Stroll the ramparts of colonial Galle accompanied by a local archaeologist and heritage expert
Visit tropical modernist architect Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic country estate for a private garden tour
English-Speaking Resident Tour Director® and Local Guides
Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
Travelling Bell Boy® Luggage Handling
Traveller’s Valet® Laundry Service
Internet Access
Entrance Fees, Taxes and All Gratuities Except Resident Tour Director
24/7 A&K On-Call Support
Abercrombie & Kent, Well-Travelled Since 1962
We have been spinning dreams into remarkable adventures for discerning travellers for more than 60 years, ever since our founder pioneered the first modern luxury safari in Africa. Today we are the world’s leading travel company, taking guests to the earth’s wildest frontiers on all seven continents.
Travel Your Way
For six decades we have been refining the art of bespoke travel, showing every guest the world in a fresh light. We understand that every traveller is unique – tell our experts what you love doing and where you want to go, and we will create the trip of your dreams or match you to your ideal journey.
With You All The Way
Behind every A&K journey is an international support system of more than 2,500 staff, in 60 offices, in 35 countries, on all seven continents. Our on-the-ground “guardian angels” provide 24/7 support, and are there to hold your hand whenever you need it, so you can travel with confidence.
Travel Thoughtfully
We are all the guardians of our amazing planet, and we believe travel should be considered, mindful, responsible. A force for good. Every trip you book with us supports the initiatives of A&K Philanthropy, positively impacting communities and conservation efforts in the places where we travel.
The A&K Family
For all the world’s infinite wonders, it is our people that guests remember most. Our family of experts, from polar explorers to well-connected local guides, bring together their spark, knowledge, and care to make every A&K journey remarkable.
Ways to Travel with A&K
We understand better than anyone what it means to travel well. Since that inaugural safari on the wide-open plains of Kenya in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent has perfected the art of crafting superlative adventures. Our global network of experts pour heart, soul and astounding knowledge into every trip, dedicated to creating the journey of a lifetime, every time.
Our portfolio of journeys now spans all seven continents. However you want to travel, we can arrange it. Sail on an expedition ship to Antarctica, take the slow train through Peru, explore Africa’s greatest national parks on the ultimate private-jet-set safari. Join a group on a journey led by expert guides, or embark on the bespoke adventure of your dreams. Wherever you want to travel, A&K can take you there.
Small Group Journeys
Our guided journeys redefine the concept of the group tour, bringing together a select collective of like-minded souls seeking shared adventures – led by best-in-the-business experts who bring every destination to life.
Private Travel
Every private journey we create is unique. Tell us where you want to travel and we will craft your dream adventure; or be inspired by our collection of expertly designed Tailormade Journeys, customizable to suit you.
Cruises
Travelling by boat brings a fresh perspective on the world. Our voyages transport you to sensational and otherwise-inaccessible regions, whether that’s an intrepid polar expedition or a timeless river cruise along the Nile.
Private Jet
Flying privately opens up the farthest-flung corners of the world. Charter your own or join one of our private-jet group journeys by private jet – the most ambitious and awe-inspiring itineraries in modern adventure travel.
Safari
Abercrombie & Kent pioneered the first modern luxury safari in the 1960s, and today we continue to set the gold standard for wildlife adventures, with our own safari lodges in six countries in Africa.
About Abercrombie & Kent
For Life's Most Epic Adventures
From that first humble safari camp in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent has grown into the world’s leading experiential travel company, creating agenda-setting adventures in more than 100 countries. Today, our portfolio of places to stay encompasses safari lodges and mobile camps in countries across Africa, Private Estates to rent in Tuscany, elegant riverboats on the Nile and the Amazon.
Our global powerhouse of innovators – destination experts, brilliant local guides, specialists in science and culture, well-connected super-fixers – continually strive to seek out those truly original, exclusive experiences beyond the reach of most travellers.
We are committed to advancing travel as a force for good. Every journey booked with us helps support A&K Philanthropy initiatives, positively impacting local communities in the wilderness areas where we travel. Geoffrey Kent’s founding principles – that travel should be awe-inspiring, exciting, memorable and considered – remain our motivation today. And though we have grown into an international company spanning all seven continents, we still share that one same mission. To craft the adventure of a lifetime, every time.
About Abercrombie & Kent
For Life's Most Epic Adventures
From that first humble safari camp in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent has grown into the world’s leading experiential travel company, creating agenda-setting adventures in more than 100 countries. Today, our portfolio of places to stay encompasses safari lodges and mobile camps in countries across Africa, Private Estates to rent in Tuscany, elegant riverboats on the Nile and the Amazon.
Our global powerhouse of innovators – destination experts, brilliant local guides, specialists in science and culture, well-connected super-fixers – continually strive to seek out those truly original, exclusive experiences beyond the reach of most travellers.
We are committed to advancing travel as a force for good. Every journey booked with us helps support A&K Philanthropy initiatives, positively impacting local communities in the wilderness areas where we travel. Geoffrey Kent’s founding principles – that travel should be awe-inspiring, exciting, memorable and considered – remain our motivation today. And though we have grown into an international company spanning all seven continents, we still share that one same mission. To craft the adventure of a lifetime, every time.
