Venture into the heart of Sri Lanka’s breathtaking wilderness with a thrilling white water rafting adventure in Kitulgala. Just a short drive from Colombo, this exhilarating day tour promises an adrenaline-fueled journey down the Kelani River, where Class III and IV rapids await. Enjoy the lush, verdant landscapes as you navigate the churning waters, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. With safety as the top priority and a delectable buffet lunch to refuel, this unforgettable experience is perfect for families, beginners, and anyone seeking an unforgettable taste of Sri Lanka’s wild side.
Good To Know
- A 10-hour white water rafting adventure on the Kelani River in Kitulgala, Sri Lanka, with round-trip transportation from Colombo.
- Suitable for families and beginners, with a 1-hour rafting experience on Class III and IV rapids along a 5-kilometer stretch.
- Comprehensive safety measures including expert instruction, high-quality equipment, and experienced guides ensure a worry-free experience.
- Optional activities like abseiling, ziplining, and guided hikes available to enhance the adventure.
- Rated 4.5/5 overall, with excellent value for money and consistently positive customer feedback.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The Adventure Water Rafting tour in Kitulgala, Sri Lanka, offers an exhilarating 10-hour experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Starting from Colombo, guests embark on a 3-4 hour journey to the Kelani River, where they’ll enjoy approximately an hour of white water rafting covering 5 kilometers.
After the rafting, a delicious buffet lunch is served at the Plantation Hotel.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, and comprehensive safety briefings by professional instructors.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5, this unique adventure is suitable for families and beginners, offering optional activities like abseiling and ziplines to further enhance the day’s excitement.
Itinerary Details
Guests depart from their Colombo hotels around 7:00 AM, embarking on an approximately 3-4 hour journey to the Kelani River in Kitulgala. Once at the river, guests participate in an exhilarating 1-hour white water rafting experience, covering 5 kilometers. After this thrilling adventure, they enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the Plantation Hotel. The return journey to Colombo takes around 4 hours, completing the day’s exciting activities.
| Departure | Travel Time | Rafting Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM from Colombo | 3-4 hours to Kelani River | 1 hour on the river |
| Buffet Lunch | Return Journey | Total Tour Duration |
| At Plantation Hotel | 4 hours back to Colombo | Approximately 10 hours |
Rafting Experience
Adrenaline-fueled adventure awaits as adventurers embark on the thrilling white water rafting experience along the Kelani River in Kitulgala.
Led by experienced instructors, guests will navigate through Class III and IV rapids, navigating choppy waters and tackling exhilarating drops.
The 5-kilometer stretch offers a perfect mix of excitement and scenic beauty, with the lush jungle canopy providing a stunning backdrop.
Throughout the one-hour journey, guests will work as a team, paddling in sync to conquer the river’s challenges.
This unique adventure is suitable for both families and first-time rafters, providing an unforgettable dose of adrenaline in Sri Lanka’s wilderness.
Safety Considerations
Ensuring the safety of all participants is of paramount importance throughout the white water rafting experience. The expert instructors provide a comprehensive safety briefing, covering essential techniques and guidelines to navigate the rapids safely.
Participants are outfitted with high-quality life jackets, helmets, and paddles, ensuring they’re well-equipped to tackle the thrilling journey ahead. The rafts are sturdy and undergo meticulous inspections, and the guides maintain constant vigilance to identify and mitigate any potential risks.
Safety is the top priority, allowing adventurers to fully enjoy the exhilarating white water experience without compromising their wellbeing.
- Safety-first approach
- Comprehensive safety briefing
- High-quality safety equipment
- Experienced, vigilant guides
Packing Essentials
Packing the right gear is essential to fully enjoy the thrilling white water rafting experience.
Opt for comfortable, quick-drying clothes that can withstand splashes and immersion. River shoes or sandals with a sturdy grip provide crucial traction on the slippery rocks. Sunglasses and a sun hat shield your eyes and face from the glare.
Don’t forget to bring a spare set of dry clothes and a towel for after the adventure. Remember to pack any necessary medications and a small backpack to store your belongings securely.
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to conquer the rapids and savor every moment of this exhilarating escapade.
Optional Activities
Alongside the thrilling white water rafting, adventurers can indulge in an array of optional activities to further enhance their Kitulgala experience.
Thrill-seekers can test their limits with abseiling, descending down rugged cliffs with the support of experienced guides. For a bird’s-eye view, the zipline offers an exhilarating ride soaring above the lush forest canopy.
Nature enthusiasts can embark on guided hikes to explore the region’s diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes. Plus, visitors can partake in rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking, ensuring there’s an adventure to suit every preference.
These optional activities elevate the overall Kitulgala experience, catering to the diverse interests of the intrepid travelers.
Customer Feedback
Travelers who’ve embarked on the Adventure Water Rafting in Kitulgala tour have consistently praised the exceptional experience, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Reviewers highlight the tour’s excellent value for money, with one noting, "It’s a must-do activity that doesn’t break the bank."
Safety is another standout, as customers commend the professional instruction and comprehensive safety briefing, rating this aspect 4.5 out of 5.
The thrill of white-water rafting amidst Sri Lanka’s stunning wilderness has left a lasting impression, with one reviewer describing it as "an unforgettable adventure that’s suitable for all skill levels."
The combination of adrenaline-pumping excitement and breathtaking scenery has firmly cemented this tour as a top choice for those seeking an exhilarating day in Kitulgala.
Booking Information
Booking the Adventure Water Rafting in Kitulgala tour is a straightforward process that ensures a seamless adventure.
The tour price starts from LKR 1,972 per person, with pickup included from Colombo hotels. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility. Availability can be checked for starting times that best suit your schedule.
The key inclusions are:
- Bottled water
- Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking driver
- The white water rafting experience
- Optional activities like abseiling and ziplining
The tour is suitable for families and beginners, with a comprehensive safety briefing by a professional instructor.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Full-Day Colombo City Tour (Private Car)
- A Multi Day Tour Around Sri Lanka With Our Personal Driver
- Colombo Bay Tuk Tuk City Tour
- 5 Days Tour in Sri Lanka (Hotels With Breakfast & Luxury Car)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temples Day Trip
- Tuk Tuk Private Safari Tour Exploring Sri Lankas Capital Colombo
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Life Jacket?
Yes, you can bring your own life jacket if you prefer. The tour provides the necessary rafting gear, but you’re welcome to use your own personal life jacket for added comfort and peace of mind during the adventure.
Will There Be a Professional Photographer on the Tour?
While a professional photographer isn’t included, you’ll be able to capture thrilling white-water rafting moments yourself. The tour team encourages guests to bring their cameras and snap unforgettable shots of the adventure.
Can I Leave My Valuables With the Tour Operator?
The tour operator recommends leaving valuables at home or with your hotel for safekeeping. They provide lockers at the rafting site, but can’t guarantee the security of any personal items brought along on the adventure.
Is There an Age Limit for Participants?
The tour has no strict age limit, though it’s recommended for participants aged 12 and up. Younger adventurers are welcome, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All participants must be able to swim comfortably.
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in the Area?
Absolutely! Thrill-seekers can combine the white-water rafting adventure with other adrenaline-pumping activities like abseiling and ziplining in the lush Kitulgala wilderness, creating an unforgettable day of outdoor excitement and exploration.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Hikkaduwa to Colombo Airport (CMB) Privet Transfer
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Ella Privet Transfer
- Kosgoda City to Colombo Airport (CMB) Private Transfer
- Colombo: Sightseeing With Tasty Jaffna Lunch With Locals
- Katunayake Bandaranaike Airport (CMB) to Colombo Drop
- From Colombo: All Inclusive Sigiriya and Dambulla Tour
- Colombo: Galle Fort and Bentota Day Trip With Hotel Pickup
- From Colombo: Galle Dutch Fort & Madu River Safari Tour
- 4- Days of Beachside Romantic Tour
- Transfers to Ella From Sri Lanka Colombo Airport (Cmb)
- Yala National Park All-Inclusive 2-Day Safari
- ATV Ride in Port City
- Colombo: Street Food Walking Tour With Transfer
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Tangalle Privet Transfer
- Colombo/Bentota: Geoffrey Bawas Architectural Marvels Tour
The Sum Up
This exhilarating white water rafting tour offers a thrilling adventure through the scenic Kelani River. Participants can look forward to an adrenaline-pumping experience navigating Class III and IV rapids, surrounded by Sri Lanka’s lush, verdant landscapes. With safety as the top priority, this unforgettable day trip promises excitement, stunning views, and a delicious buffet lunch – the perfect blend for an unforgettable Kitulgala adventure.