Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging 80-90F on the coast and 65-75F in the highlands.

This journey through the "Resplendent Isle" offers a marvelous mix of rock-cut temples, wondrous wildlife, and enchanting hikes. Since 1969, MT Sobek has crafted award-winning adventures in Asia, pairing iconic monuments with hidden wilderness where sambar and macaques roam. Explore tea country by train and trail along the spectacular Pekoe Trail.

Legacy of Adventure: Benefit from over five decades of experience designing immersive journeys in Asia with the best local guides.

Sacred Highlights: Visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the 5th-century Sigiriya Citadel and the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple.

Highland Cloud Forests: Hike dewy cloud forests and emerald tea plantations along the most stunning stages of the long-distance Pekoe Trail.

Immersive Biodiversity: Safari through Yala National Park to spot elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles and more, and kayak mangroves on Koggala Lake.

January to March and October to early December offer optimal conditions for hiking in the central highlands and exploring the coastal wildlife regions.

January to March: These months generally offer the driest conditions in the central highlands, providing crisp views of the Hanata Mountains and Knuckles Range.

October to Early December: This season brings lush green landscapes and cooler temperatures in the hills, perfect for active trail days.

The standard minimum age for this trip is 18. This itinerary is designed with adult travelers in mind, based on daily activity levels, accommodations, and overall group experience. Families or groups with children as young as 14 should check out our private departures .

The Level 3 rating is driven by a mix of walking, hiking, and water-based activities that require moderate physical fitness. You will cover 2 to 7.5 miles daily on terrain ranging from gently rolling plantation trails to steep, rock-cut steps at historic citadels and temples.

Multi-Activity Endurance: Be prepared for sustained physical efforts including a three-hour kayaking session and two- to six-hour daily hikes.

Significant Stair Climbs: Summiting the Sigiriya Citadel involves climbing 1,200 steps, while the Dambulla Cave Temple requires an ascent of over 300 steps.

Tropical Climate: High humidity and temperatures potentially reaching 90°F on the coast can increase the physical demand of activity.

Variable Terrain: Trekking stages include stone steps, muddy forest paths, and uneven plantation terrain with exposure on cliff-side trails.

Once your departure is confirmed to operate, you may finalize your flight arrangements.

Arrival: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo no later than 4:00 pm on Day 1.

Departure: Please schedule your departure from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo after 5:00 pm on Day 13.

If you arrive early in Negombo, we recommend staying at the group hotel, Jet Wing Blue , where we have reserved Deluxe Rooms.

A valid passport is required to enter Sri Lanka. Most countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps.

US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which currently costs $50 for a 30-day stay. You can apply for your ETA here .

Non-US citizens should consult their local embassy or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.

The majority of transportation is by private van, with most transfers lasting between 30 minutes and 3 hours. While some days are more travel-focused to reach different regions, the itinerary also includes immersive local experiences like a "three-wheeler" tuk tuk ride and a scenic train journey through the hill country.

This trip is designed for active travelers comfortable with two to six hours of daily walking and hiking. You will navigate a variety of environments, from humid coastal lagoons and mangroves to cooler, dewy cloud forests and rolling tea plantations.

Stair Climbing: Expect significant stair climbing at historic sites, including the 1,200-step ascent to the summit of Sigiriya and over 300 steps at Dambulla Cave Temple.

Daily Mileage: Hikes on the Pekoe Trail and in Horton Plains National Park typically cover 5 to 7.5 miles on uneven trails with rocks and tree roots. Trails can be slippery when muddy.

Kayaking: One day includes a three-hour kayak session on Koggala Lake, requiring good balance and core strength to navigate mangrove tunnels.

We recommend giving yourself a few months to physically prepare for this trip by hiking, walking, and strength training.

Hiking and Stair Training: Get outside for three- to four-mile hikes at least twice a week to build strength and stamina for consecutive trail days. Training on stairs or a stair machine is excellent preparation for the 1,200 steps at Sigiriya rock.

Strength Training: Incorporate exercises to improve core, shoulder, and back strength to prepare for the three-hour kayaking sessions.

Yes, we can accommodate many common restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets on this trip with advance notice. Let us know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible, so we can coordinate with guides, hotels, and restaurants. Please also list these on your Participant Information Form.

Yes, a limited number of single rooms are available on this trip. About a third of our travelers go solo, and single room inventory often books up quickly! You can find more information on solo traveler options here .

A daypack with a 20- to 25-liter capacity is ideal. It should be large enough to carry your water, lunch, rain gear, sunscreen, and personal items throughout the day.

In Sri Lanka, dressing modestly is a sign of respect for the local culture. When visiting sacred temples and rural villages, observe the following guidelines:

Temple Protocol: Before entering any religious site, you must remove your shoes and hat to show proper respect. Ensure your shoulders and knees are fully covered and avoid any clothing that is tight or revealing.

For Women: We recommend lightweight, loose-fitting tops with sleeves (short or 3/4) paired with long pants or skirts for cultural visits and around town. Carrying a light scarf or shawl is a great way to quickly cover your shoulders or use as a sarong when entering temples. Shorts are acceptable on the trail.

For Men: While shorts are fine for the trail, we suggest switching to long, breathable hiking pants when entering temples. Avoid sleeveless shirts in these culturally sensitive areas.

Sri Lanka's tropical climate features warm, humid conditions on the coast year-round, while the highlands offer cooler temperatures.

Coastal Lowlands: Expect temperatures between 75°F and 90°F with high humidity and intense tropical sun.

Central Highlands: Conditions are significantly cooler, with daytime temperatures in the 60s°F to 70s°F dropping to 50°F to 60°F in the early mornings and evenings.

Tropical Showers: Brief, heavy afternoon rain can occur even in the dry season, making a breathable rain shell essential.

The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee. We recommend exchanging cash or using an ATM upon arrival in Colombo. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in larger towns and hotels.

Sri Lanka operates on 220-240V. You will need an adapter for plug types D, M, or G; many guests find a universal adapter to be the most practical choice. Visit this site for more information World Power Plugs & Sockets .

Sri Lankan culture is rooted in deep respect, hospitality, and modest behavior. While you will find the local people warm and welcoming, observing a few key customs ensures a respectful and enjoyable experience.

The Traditional Greeting: A smile accompanied by a slight bow and hands placed together in a prayer-like gesture, called Ayubowan, is the standard way to greet others. While handshakes are common in urban areas, it is best to let the local person initiate the greeting, particularly when meeting members of the opposite sex.

Respectful Body Language: Feet are considered the lowest and most impure part of the body; you should never point your feet at people or religious objects. Similarly, never touch a person's head, and always use your right hand—or both hands together—when giving or receiving items.

Sacred Traditions & Statues: Respecting Buddhist traditions is paramount. Never pose for photos in front of or beside statues of the Buddha and never turn your back to them. It is illegal to display tattoos of the Buddha in Sri Lanka. Keep your shoulders and knees covered, and remove your shoes and hats before entering temples

Social Etiquette: Displays of affection are generally frowned upon in public spaces. If you are invited into a local home, it is customary to remove your shoes at the door, and it is considered polite to accept at least a small portion of any food or drink offered to you. In informal settings like markets, friendly bargaining is expected and a common part of daily life.

Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations. We offer travel insurance with Arch RoamRight and will be happy to provide you with a quote. Please see our Travel Resources page for more information.

Check with the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) for information on recommended immunizations, and/or your local travel clinic or healthcare provider for health concerns at your destination.recommended immunizations, and/or your local travel clinic or healthcare provider for health concerns at your destination.

Stay hydrated and consider using powdered electrolytes to replenish minerals lost through sweat in the tropical heat. Practice good hand hygiene, use insect repellent with DEET, and always drink filtered or bottled water, even when brushing your teeth. Address hot spots or blisters early with moleskin or Compeed patches.

Situated on the sandy shores of Sri Lanka's northwestern coastline, this beachfront resort is an ideal spot to unwind after a long flight. Settle into contemporary and comfortable, blue-tiled rooms with private balconies or terraces to breathe in the tropical ocean air. Enjoy two refreshing swimming pools, personalized service, an onsite spa, oceanfront dining, and sunsets over the Indian Ocean during your stay. Jetwing Blue delivers modern comfort with stunning coastal scenery.

Glass walls and a modern cantilevered design built into a 60-degree cliff create a stylish stay in Ella Gap. The hotel makes the most of mountain and tree-canopy views from an open-air deck and swimming pool and an enclosed glass-walled restaurant perched on the top level. Air-conditioned rooms are crafted with natural materials and offer enchanting views of the jungle and mountains, bringing your beautiful surroundings inside.

Where the coast of the Indian Ocean and the grassy plains of a famed wildlife reserve, discover Jetwing Yala. Take in the sea air from your private veranda, only steps from the sandy dunes of the beach, and the large swimming pool. The spa offers Balinese treatments and massages. Dine with outstanding views over the sea and toast your days' adventure as the sun sets from the bar.

Our groups are intentionally kept small to allow for a deeper experience with the people and wildlife you encounter on the way. It also allows us to take advantage of the many unexpected invitations and opportunities that would be impossible with larger groups.
 

Small Group Travel

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, join one of our over 500 scheduled departures where you’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers. They love being engaged, energized, and inspired. Each with their own story to tell, they make fascinating and entertaining travel companions. You may just come home with a new travel buddy. Plus, with an average of 8 to 10 guests per scheduled group, you’ll have unparalleled access to your expert guides and the space to enjoy your adventure free from the limitations of a tour bus.
 

Private Adventures

Private adventures with MT Sobek are perfect for those travelers who enjoy the privacy and flexibility of traveling on their own but want the peace of mind that comes with having all the logistics handled by experts. Most of our itineraries can be made private. We offer hundreds of itineraries and dates that your group can easily take over, or, if the date you’re looking for isn’t available, we’ll make it happen for you. 
 

Custom Adventures

Whatever the occasion—family reunion, milestone celebration, an ultimate road trip with friends, we can make your dream trip happen. Experience MT Sobek’s blend of insider access and adventure style on an itinerary exclusively created for you and your family, colleagues, or friends. We have a dedicated team of Custom Trip Specialists. 
 

Solo Travelers

Small group travel is perfect for solo adventurers looking to explore with like-minded people. Right from your first meeting, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to bond with your fellow travelers. No matter where they come from, it turns out that simply having a shared love of travel really brings people together. Whether you’re on the trail, watching wildlife, or enjoying a meal around a family table, there are plenty of opportunities to share stories and talk about highlights from the day.

From luxury hotels to rustic lodging, deluxe camping to wilderness camping, check out our full range of accommodation styles. Some trips may include a combination of styles, expertly picked for the destination.

Hotels at the Heart of Adventure

Where else to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon but perched on the North Rim of this natural wonder? How better to appreciate the fjords of Norway than to slumber in a brightly colored fisherman’s cottage by the water’s edge? Or to spot the “Big Five” from your luxury safari camp’s private veranda? We seek out small boutique hotels and lodges that treat you to the “must-have” experiences of the region.

Luxury Hotels
Revel in pure luxury at our hand-picked 5-star hotels—some of the most exquisite properties on the planet. With excellent amenities and services, including restaurants and wellness facilities, these accommodations are consistently top-rated by guests and provide an ultimate pampered experience.
 

Comfortable Hotels
The majority of our properties include small hotels and inns with a local flair. Well-appointed with modern amenities, many are family-run, adding to their character and charm. In some destinations, properties are chosen for their proximity to National Parks, wildlife and nature and are more basic. 
 

Rustic Lodging
Our rustic lodgings category includes remote lodges, mountain huts, homestays, guesthouses, gers, and fixed Bedouin camps. These accommodations may include bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities. They truly get you to the heart of the destination.
 

Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges
We work with the finest African safari camps and global eco-lodges to bring you an ultimate experience that embodies the romance of adventure travel. We choose award-winning and top-rated accommodations with excellent amenities and services, including beautifully appointed safari tents and cabins. 

Adventure Camping

The only way to experience some of our most remote mountain and river destinations is to camp. Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River—some of our most popular adventures—include at least five nights of camping. However, the type of camp set up can be different, depending on the destination’s remoteness and how easy it is to transport gear. Here are our three main camping styles.

Deluxe Camping

• Roomy tents
• Mattresses with linens
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• All set up for you
   

Comfortable Camping

• Roomy tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• Some camp work may be required
   

Wilderness Camping

• Trekking tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Guests help set up camp
• Guides prepare meals

Expedition Cruising

Over the years, we’ve found that adventure cruising aboard a nimble small ship or deluxe yacht gives our guests an intimate expedition-like experience with maximum flexibility. We can navigate narrow waterways, pull right into private coves, and get you onshore quickly. No waiting in long lines to get off the boat and no crowds once you get on shore!

Luxury Small Ship
Enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise aboard modern vessels with elegant interior designs that enhance your onboard experience. Our luxury Galapagos ship, the Endemic, carry a maximum of 16 passengers, while polar expedition ships such as the Magellan Explorer carry up to 70 passengers. These ships include spas, bars, climate-control en-suite rooms, and an abundance of state-of-the-art equipment for ultimate cruising. Our guide to crew ratio is guide and crew service is world-class.
 

Comfortable Small Ship
Our comfortable 3 and 4-star ships are well-designed for relaxation and all equipped with modern amenities. Aboard you’ll enjoy en-suite amenities, air-conditioning, attractive dining, bar and lounge areas, and outdoor decks for viewing the scenery. Whatever star rating of ship you choose, you can be assured of the same world-class guide and crew team, and a first-rate experience.

Our adventures are categorized by activity levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 trips are the easiest, Level 3 trips are moderate, and Level 5 trips are our most strenuous—perfect for those seeking the ultimate challenge. We also offer new flexible trips featuring activities rated at Level 2 or Level 3, providing two activity options to match your preference on the day! For all trips, we encourage you to review the activity level and read the detailed activity overview for your chosen itinerary to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
 

Easygoing – Level 1

Our most relaxed style of travel. Come prepared with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. Activities may include game drives along dusty or bumpy roads, canoe rides or river floats, sailing, or walks of up to 30 minutes on flat terrain. Trail conditions may include cobblestones, pavement, gravel, or dirt paths. On some days you may be on your feet for much of the time.
 

Easy-to-Moderate – Level 2

Active trips are appropriate for most travelers. You don’t need any previous kayaking, hiking, or other experience, but should be in generally fit condition. Trips may include short hikes or walking of up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, sea kayaking in protected waters, or river rafting on Class I-II rapids.
 

Multi-Level – Level 2 & 3

These flexible trips are perfect for travelers seeking a range of activity levels, from easy to moderate, with two options to suit your preference and energy on the day. This type of trip also enables you to travel with friends who are more, or less, active than you, and either start or end the activity together. For example, Level 2 guests may choose a 3-hour hike while Level 3 guests may choose a 6-hour hike. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely experience or a bit more of a challenge. No matter your choice, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of time together as a group.
 

Moderate – Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek trips. These typically include 3 to 6 hours of physical activity per day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet and may include some steep ascents or descents. River rafting trips include Class III rapids and sea kayaking trips to visit protected waters.
 

Moderate-to-Challenging – Level 4

Trips for experienced travelers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses per day cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids; sea kayaking trips include 4 to 5 hours of paddling per day in areas of open water with waves and tides.
 

Ultimate Challenge – Level 5

Our most demanding trips for guests seeking a physical challenge. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, often rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience, as well as a completed physician’s certificate, is required.

We Are Committed to Sustainability

At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
 

Protect The Galapagos

MT Sobek is proud to support the Galapagos Conservancy by making an annual conservation investment to its Santiago Society program. Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands, and collaborates closely with the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park, and many other institutions that are committed to the conservation of the entire archipelago.
 

Save the Tiger

MT Sobek guide Brian Weirum has made saving tigers his life’s mission and we are proud to support the Fund For the Tiger, raising over $300,000 to help tiger conservation in India and Nepal. The fund aims to address the threats faced by these majestic big cats and ensure their survival for future generations.
 

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project

We are proud to work with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), based in Moshi, Tanzania, to improve the welfare and conditions for all Kilimanjaro porters. KPAP is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
 

American Himalayan Foundation

Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked with Himalayan communities to help support their way of life. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya. The AHF opens doors to education and health care, builds stronger communities, and works in a way that respects both tradition and innovation.
 

Dolma Ling Nunnery

As part of our philanthropic endeavors, we are proud supporters of the Tibetan Nuns Project at the Dolma Ling Nunnery & Institute in Dharamsala, northern India. The Tibetan Nuns Project provides education and support to refugee nuns from Tibet and to nuns from the Himalayan regions of India.
 

High Atlas Foundation

The High Atlas Foundation (HAF) empowers Moroccan communities through sustainable development. Focused on education, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship, HAF fosters local leadership to drive impactful change. From planting trees to building schools, their initiatives improve livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage, creating lasting opportunities for underserved rural and urban populations.
 

Preserve Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska. The ACF’s vision is for an inspiring Alaska that is naturally thriving, biologically and culturally diverse, rich in wildlands, bountiful in terrestrial and marine life, sustainable in its economic development and thoughtfully protected—forever. MT Sobek supports the ACF by sharing their mission and vision with generations of adventure travelers.

National Park Foundation

As the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation generates private support and builds strategic partnerships to protect and enhance America’s national parks for present and future generations. We are proud to support the National Park Foundation to help sustain over 400 national parks in the USA, preserving 85 million acres of the world’s most treasured landscapes, ecosystems, and historical sites. 

National Park Service

MT Sobek is proud to be an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. We always follow Leave No Trace principles and seek to drive awareness of fragile ecosystems to help support their long-term sustainability.
 

Western Rivers Conservancy

MT Sobek is proud to support Western Rivers Conservancy, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the vital rivers of the American West. With a shared passion for safeguarding the natural world, MT Sobek aligns with WRC’s mission to conserve critical habitats, secure public access to waterways, and ensure the sustainability of these lifelines for future generations. Together we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our rivers.
 

Alianza Cero Basura

Alianza Cero Basura offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in Baja California Sur. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and environmental education, providing tools and resources to empower communities. By fostering collaboration and eco-conscious practices, the hub inspires impactful change toward a zero-waste future.
 

Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

MT Sobek is proud to be a member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund (ATCF), an international nonprofit focused on funding on-the-ground conservation projects around the world. The ATCF is committed to protecting wild destinations and provides members in the travel and outdoor industry an avenue to directly advance critical projects that protect people, species, cultures, and places.
 

Ride 4 a Woman

We are proud to support Ride 4 a Woman, a charitable organization that empowers the women of Bwindi, Uganda More than 300 women from 11 villages now use or work at the Ride 4 a Woman community center, where they can learn to pedal sew, weave baskets, dance, sing and drum; learning new skills, making a living and making it possible for their children to gain an education.
 

Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

We are proud to support the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative to help benefit the communities and wildlife of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The CRCI has re-introduced rhino to this part of Zimbabwe in a highly secure and sustainable way to eventually accommodate a viable population of free roaming black and white rhino.

Exito Planet Care Ambassador Carbon Offsetting

We are proud to work with Exito travel to book flights for our guests. Exito is a Planet Care Ambassador, committed to taking concrete steps to minimize travelers’ flight impacts on the environment by fully offsetting carbon emissions.