An English-speaking chauffeur guide will meet you outside customs with a sign bearing your name and accompany you to your accommodation for added comfort. A private vehicle and chauffeur guide will transport you from the airport to your hotel in Colombo.

A chauffeur guide will drive you from Colombo to Kandy in approximately four hours. Leave the city and head to the village of Pilimathalawa where you will begin a walk to the Galdaladeniya and Lankthilake Temples. Explore the Galadaladeniya Temple and learn about its Buddhist heritage. Continue on the village trail, stopping at a local home for a drink of king coconut. Walk through rice paddies and interact with friendly residents. Your walk ends at the Lankthilake Temple, where you can admire its exterior and enjoy the mountain views. Visit a local craftsman who specializes in creating lenses using rough minerals. Finally, you will be driven back to your hotel.

Kandy is a legendary city in Sri Lanka that remained independent under Portuguese and Dutch rule. It later fell to the British. Explore the streets of Kandy with a private chauffeur guide to experience its culture and vibrant markets. The city has retained its colonial history, seen in buildings like the Queen's hotel. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a holiest Buddhist shrine. After the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Discover the history of Ceylon through a trip to the local markets, where you can find spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Your guide will help you negotiate fair prices. Stop by the Midlands Café for delicious bread and curry, accompanied by Ceylon tea. Don't forget to try exotic fruits like wood apple and jackfruit. Your tour ends with a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Don't miss the Royal Bar, a classic Kandy establishment known for its spicy deviled chicken. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere on the open patio while sipping beer and trying Sri Lankan tapas. If you prefer something less spicy, try the British style fish and chips. For a more adventurous option, order a shot of arrack. Please note that drinks are not included and must be paid for on-site.

Today, you will have an awe-inspiring train ride through Sri Lanka's hill country. Your English-speaking chauffeur guide will take you to the train station and help you board the train to Ella. After you arrive in Ella, the same chauffeur guide will be ready to escort you to your hotel. The total duration of the journey is about 6 hours, filled with breathtaking scenery. As the train travels along the mountain edges, you will be treated to magnificent views of the lush valleys below and tea factories clinging to the hillsides. It is no surprise that this part of the train journey is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

Please note that while your chauffeur guide will not be accompanying you on the train, they will be there to pick you up at Ella station.

Today, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking chauffeur guide as you head to the highlands of Sri Lanka to visit the charming town of Ella. In this area, the climate is cooler and the vegetation is abundant, creating a lush environment where fruits grow aplenty. Ella is renowned as a top hiking destination in Sri Lanka. For a more leisurely hike, the Little Adams Peak is a great choice. It takes about an hour to complete the hike, and the breathtaking views of the valley and hills that surround it make it well worth the effort. If you're up for a more challenging trek, consider heading towards Ella Rock. The journey begins by walking along the railroad tracks and crossing a swinging metal bridge - those with a fear of heights should avoid looking down! The hike then continues through a eucalyptus forest, where the climb becomes steeper. To attempt this trek, it's important to be in good physical shape. Local farmers will help guide you along the way, although they have limited English-speaking abilities and are not professional guides. Once you reach the summit, take in the magnificent views of the neighboring peaks and lush valleys. Depending on your pace, this hike typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete.

A transfer from Ella to Yala National Park will be provided by an English-speaking chauffeur guide in a private vehicle. The travel time is approximately three hours.

In the afternoon, join an experienced wildlife guide for a jungle safari at Yala National Park. The guide will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the wild Sri Lankan jungle.

** _NOTE: PROGRAMS MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE._**

Embark on a morning drive with a wildlife guide at Yala National Park for potential animal sightings. Take advantage of the early light for stunning photographs. Have your camera ready!

** _Please note: Programs are subject to change without prior notice._**

Today, join experienced wildlife guides at Kulu Yala camp for a jungle walk. Explore the riches of Yala National Park and learn about tracking, animal behavior, birding, and photography. Look out for leopards, sloth bears, Asian elephants, spotted deer, sambar deer, and various bird species.

Kayaks are also available at the camp for a few hours of exercise and a different perspective of nature at Yala.

A transfer from Yala National Park to Colombo Airport will be provided by an English-speaking chauffeur guide in a private vehicle. The travel time is approximately six and a half hours.

To truly experience the characterful neighborhoods and colonial past of Colombo, go beyond the modern façade with a local-born expert guide. Explore Slave Island, one of the oldest neighborhoods, and witness the daily life of the locals. Visit Galle Face Green, a popular hangout by the sea, and try the delicious street food, Kottu Rotti. If lucky, witness a Pooja ceremony at a local Hindu temple. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

The history of arrack is closely tied to Sri Lanka, from its uncertain origin to the present. Join a local insider guide and discover the secrets of this aromatic spirit in Colombo. Visit the best bars and neighborhood joints to try this storied beverage. After the tour, a private transfer will be provided back to your hotel.

You will have a private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide for your transfer between the airport and your hotel in Colombo.

The flight from Colombo to Malé takes about one hour and thirty minutes and may change depending on availability.

Upon arriving at the airport, a representative will meet you outside of customs with a personalized sign that has your name on it. They will provide a welcome package and assist with your baggage and any questions you have.

From Malé International Airport, you will take a seaplane to a local airport in the South Ari Atoll where your resort is located. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

During your stay at the LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, you will have the opportunity to participate in various additional activities, tours, and experiences (additional fees may apply, please consult your Destination Expert for more information). Some notable options include:

- Fishing: Test your luck by attempting to catch tuna in the deep waters or try your hand at sunset fishing for a unique experience. You can even cook your catch at the end of the day.
- Catamaran Excursions: Enjoy a luxurious sunset cruise or embark on a dolphin spotting sunset cruise.
- Water Activities & Sports: Dive into the Indian Ocean and get your adrenaline pumping. Skilled instructors offer a wide range of motorized and non-motorized water sports to suit any adventure:

- Flyboarding-Hoverboarding
- Wakeboarding and water skiing
- Paddleboarding
- Windsurfing
- Kitesurfing
- Jet skiing
- Diving courses and excursions: Explore a variety of fish, coral, turtles, rays, and sharks.
- Snorkeling: Spot turtles, whale sharks, or manta rays.

Relax and enjoy your time at leisure at the LUX South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas. Whether you prefer to unwind in your private villa or bask in the sun on the beautiful white sand beach, you'll be surrounded by stunning tropical scenery. This resort is perfect for families and couples alike, as it offers a wide range of activities for the little ones at PLAY and Studio 17, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate at the luxurious LUX Me spa. Indulge in unique treatments like Zhengliao Chinese Medicine Treatment and a Balinese massage, ensuring a truly special beach holiday experience. Stay active with a complimentary Body Balance Analysis and a personalized fitness program at the fitness center, or find your inner peace with over water yoga and meditation sessions.

Take advantage of your free time to explore at your own speed, or simply unwind at your accommodation.

Please consult the resort reception for confirmation of your transfer time to the Malé International Airport by seaplane today.