Dambulla/Sigiriya: Polonnaruwa & Minneriya Park Jeep Safari

Set out on a journey that seamlessly blends the captivating cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa with the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters of Minneriya National Park. This exhilarating 12-hour adventure offers travelers a chance to explore Sri Lanka’s rich past, strolling amidst the grandeur of ancient ruins and monuments, before seeing the majestic presence of the island’s iconic elephants. With expert guides leading the way, guests can expect an unforgettable experience that showcases the country’s remarkable diversity, leaving them eager to uncover more of Sri Lanka’s enchanting wonders.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 12-hour excursion from Dambulla/Sigiriya, offering cultural exploration of Polonnaruwa UNESCO site and a thrilling safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.
• Flexible booking with no upfront payment and full refund available with 24-hour cancellation, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travelers.
• Comfortable 4×4 jeep or SUV transportation with an English-speaking driver, providing a guided experience and complimentary pickup within a 10km radius.
• Highlights include the colossal Gal Vihara Buddha statues, the Royal Palace, and the opportunity to observe herds of elephants in their natural habitat.
• Tour includes hotel transfers, park fees, a satisfying meal, and thoughtful amenities, offering significant value for travelers seeking a cultural and wildlife adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Dambulla/Sigiriya Jeep Safari offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s Central Province.

This 12-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure through UNESCO-protected Polonnaruwa and the captivating elephant habitats of Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks.

Priced competitively from €59.12 per person, the tour includes thoughtful inclusions like hotel transfers, park entrance fees, and a delectable meal.

Travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind.

Whether seeking a culture or a thrilling wildlife encounter, this comprehensive jeep safari delivers an unparalleled value.

Itinerary and Activities

Guests embark on a captivating journey, starting their day with a complimentary pickup from their accommodations in Dambulla, Sigiriya, or Habarana.

After a hearty breakfast, they explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, marveling at the Gal Vihara, Parakrama Samudra, and the imposing Royal Palace.

Following a satisfying lunch, the adventure continues with a thrilling safari in either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

Guests witness herds of majestic elephants, including playful calves, as they roam the lush landscapes.

The day concludes with a safe return to the starting point, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Transportation and Logistics

For this tour, guests are provided with a comfortable 4×4 jeep or SUV, complete with an English-speaking driver.

The driver will pick you up from one of three convenient locations: Dambulla, Kandalama, or Sigiriya. At the end of the excursion, you’ll be returned to your starting point.

Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off are included within a 10km radius, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

With these transportation arrangements, you can sit back, relax, and fully learn about the natural wonders and cultural gems that this unforgettable journey has to offer.

Included and Excluded

This tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience.

Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off make the journey seamless, while a refreshing bottle of water or coconut water keeps you hydrated.

Admission fees to the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa and the renowned safari park are covered, allowing you to fully learn about the cultural and natural wonders.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited.

With these thoughtful inclusions and responsible exclusions, you’re set for an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have warmly praised this comprehensive jeep safari, with the overall rating reflecting their satisfaction.

One guest from Spain, Laura, remarked that the trip is "complete with many activities" and appreciated the attentive driver who "took great care of us."

Similarly, a German visitor, Julian, described the day as "varied" and highlighted the "memorable" safari experience.

The combination of visiting the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ruins, observing majestic elephants in their natural habitat, and the reliable transportation provided by the knowledgeable driver have all contributed to the overwhelmingly positive customer feedback.

Pickup and Drop-off

With complimentary pickup and drop-off within a 10km radius, guests can conveniently access this safari experience from three prime locations – Dambulla, Kandalama, and Sigiriya.

Whether you’re staying in the vibrant town of Dambulla, the serene Kandalama, or the iconic Sigiriya, the tour operators ensure a seamless start and end to your adventure.

Their fleet of 4×4 jeeps and SUVs, driven by English-speaking experts, will transport you to the UNESCO-listed wonders of Polonnaruwa and the verdant expanses of either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

With these hassle-free logistics, you can focus on enjoying the rich cultural heritage and captivating wildlife encounters that await.

Highlights of Polonnaruwa

The UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa enchants visitors with its well-preserved ruins, a testament to the grandeur of the medieval Sinhalese kingdom. Wandering through the ancient city, you’ll marvel at the Gal Vihara, a series of four massive Buddha statues carved from a single granite outcrop. The Parakrama Samudra, a vast manmade lake, reflects the symmetrical Royal Palace, a reminder of the city’s former prosperity. Explore the ornate Quadrangle, home to intricate stone carvings and the iconic Hatadage shrine, before discovering the towering Rankoth Vehera stupa, a stunning example of classical Sinhalese architecture.

Highlights	Description
Gal Vihara	Colossal Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock
Parakrama Samudra	Massive man-made lake reflecting the Royal Palace
Quadrangle	Ornate complex with stone carvings and Hatadage shrine
Rankoth Vehera	Towering stupa showcasing classical Sinhalese architecture
Royal Palace	Symmetrical palace complex, a symbol of Polonnaruwa’s grandeur

Elephant Safari Experience

After exploring the ancient wonders of Polonnaruwa, the afternoon offers an unforgettable encounter with the giants of the wild – the majestic elephants.

The journey to Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park is an exhilarating adventure. As the jeep navigates the rugged terrain, the anticipation builds, and suddenly, a herd of these gentle giants appears, grazing peacefully or playfully splashing in the water.

Witnessing baby elephants frolicking under the watchful eye of their mothers is a truly heartwarming sight. The safari allows visitors to observe the elephants’ complex social interactions and natural behaviors up close, fostering a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the importance of their conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may accommodate families with young children, but it’s important to consider the long day and safari activities. Families should check with the tour provider to ensure the itinerary and logistics suit their needs and comfort levels.

Can We Request a Private Tour or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, you can request a private tour or customize the itinerary. The tour operator is flexible and happy to accommodate special requests to tailor the experience to your needs and preferences.

What Should We Bring for the Polonnaruwa and Safari Experience?

When exploring Polonnaruwa and the safari, one should pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the ancient ruins and majestic elephants. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and bring snacks for the day’s adventures.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing for the tour appears comprehensive, with no additional fees or taxes mentioned. The transparent pricing allows travelers to budget accordingly and enjoy the full experience without hidden costs.

Can We Book This Tour in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour can be booked in multiple languages, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the experience. While English is the primary language, the driver and guide adapt to accommodate diverse linguistic needs for a seamless and personalized adventure.

The Sum Up

This thrilling Dambulla/Sigiriya: Polonnaruwa & Minneriya Park Jeep Safari offers a captivating blend of cultural discovery and wildlife immersion. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa site, marvel at the Gal Vihara, and embark on a safari through Minneriya National Park, where they’ll witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the country’s rich heritage and breathtaking natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: