Set out on a captivating journey from Negombo to Kandy, where the highlight is a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This 5-hour transfer promises a memorable experience, complete with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and an English-speaking driver to guide you. Witness the daily lives of over 80 elephants as you learn about the critical conservation efforts underway. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – explore a vibrant herbal garden and tour the renowned Giragama Tea Factory, where you can indulge in the finest teas Sri Lanka has to offer. Get ready to learn about the rich culture and wildlife of this fascinating island nation.
Good To Know
- This 5-hour transfer from Negombo to Kandy includes a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe the elephants’ daily lives and conservation efforts.
- The transfer also includes visits to a herbal garden and a tea factory, where you can learn about traditional medicine and tea production in Sri Lanka.
- Pricing for the transfer ranges from £63.82 to £57.44 per person, with up to 10% savings available, and no upfront payment required.
- The tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy, entrance fees, an English-speaking driver, and refreshments like bottled water and king coconut water.
- Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and rain gear are recommended for the transfer, and visitors should follow the guide’s instructions when observing the elephants at the orphanage.
Transfer Details
The transfer is from Negombo to Kandy, with a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage along the way.
The duration of the trip is 5 hours. Guests can save up to 10% on the price, which ranges from £63.82 to £57.44 per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s no need to pay upfront – guests can reserve their spot and pay later.
The transfer includes free hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy, entrance fees to the Elephant Orphanage, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, and visits to a herbal garden and a tea factory.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Giragama.
Itinerary Highlights
Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to learn about conservation efforts.
At this unique facility, you’ll witness the daily lives of these gentle giants and gain insights into the crucial work being done to protect Sri Lanka’s elephant population.
Explore a herbal garden to discover the traditional herbs and spices used in Sri Lankan medicine, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Then, tour the Giragama Tea Factory to learn about the intricate process of tea production, followed by a delightful tasting of Sri Lanka’s renowned tea varieties.
Your comfortable hotel drop-off in Kandy ensures a seamless end to this enriching day.
Inclusions
This transfer includes a complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy.
You’ll also get entrance fees to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can learn about the conservation efforts. An English-speaking driver will accompany you throughout the journey, ensuring a smooth experience.
Stay refreshed with bottled water and king coconut water provided. Discover traditional herbs and spices at a herbal garden, and visit the Giragama Tea Factory to learn about tea production and enjoy a tasting.
These inclusions are designed to make your transfer from Negombo to Kandy with the Elephant Orphanage visit a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Important Information
Wear comfortable shoes for walking during this transfer, as there will be occasions to explore on foot.
Protect against the sun by bringing a hat and sunscreen, as the weather conditions can vary during the day. Prepare for potential rain or other weather changes by packing accordingly.
When visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, respect the wildlife and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure the safety of both visitors and the elephants.
Photography is allowed throughout the tour, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the memorable sights.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Information
Customers can check availability for starting times when booking this transfer. To reserve a spot, they need to select the desired number of participants and the date they want to take the tour. This allows the tour operator to confirm the requested tour details.
The booking process is flexible, as customers can reserve their place without making any upfront payment. This "reserve now & pay later" option gives travelers the flexibility to secure their tour while arranging the final payment later.
The free cancellation policy further enhances the booking experience, allowing customers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if their plans change.
Visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
One of the highlights of this transfer is the visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Guests will have the opportunity to witness the efforts of this conservation initiative, which cares for and rehabilitates orphaned and injured elephants.
Visitors can observe the elephants as they bathe in the river, socialize, and interact with their caretakers. The orphanage also educates guests about the challenges facing wild elephant populations and the importance of conservation.
With over 80 elephants, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage provides a unique and memorable experience, allowing travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the work being done to protect them.
Exploring Herbal Garden
After visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, travelers continue their journey by exploring a captivating herbal garden.
This tranquil oasis offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional medicinal practices of Sri Lanka. Visitors can wander through the lush greenery, discovering a variety of indigenous herbs and spices used in local remedies and cuisine.
The garden tour provides an opportunity to:
- Learn about the unique properties and uses of these traditional plants
- Understand how they’re cultivated and harvested
- Appreciate the role of herbal medicine in Sri Lankan culture
This immersive experience allows travelers to deepen their appreciation for the country’s rich botanical heritage.
Touring Giragama Tea Factory
As travelers continue their journey, the next stop on the itinerary is the Giragama Tea Factory, where they’ll enjoy the art of Sri Lankan tea production. At the factory, they’ll learn about the intricate process of tea harvesting, drying, and processing. Visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in a tea tasting, savoring the unique flavors and aromas of the region’s finest brews. The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage and cultural significance of tea in Sri Lanka, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for this beloved beverage.
| Tea Production Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Harvesting | Hand-picking the finest tea leaves |
| Withering | Gently drying the leaves to reduce moisture content |
| Rolling | Mechanically twisting and curling the leaves |
| Fermentation | Allowing the leaves to oxidize and develop flavor |
| Drying | Removing the remaining moisture through heat treatment |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
While the transfer package includes bottled water and king coconut water, guests are welcome to bring their own food and additional drinks. However, it’s important to dispose of any waste responsibly during the tour.
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children. It features kid-friendly activities like visiting an elephant orphanage and a tea factory, with hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration on the transfer from Negombo to Kandy with an Elephant Orphanage visit. The itinerary is fixed at 5 hours, though travelers can explore Kandy further after the drop-off.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?
Yes, the transfer can be customized to suit your preferences. You can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, duration, and activities based on your interests and needs.
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?
The tour operator follows strict COVID-19 safety protocols, including regular sanitization of vehicles, mandatory face masks, and social distancing measures to ensure the health and safety of all participants.
The Sum Up
This memorable journey from Negombo to Kandy offers a unique opportunity to witness the daily lives of over 80 elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Along the way, visitors can explore a herbal garden and tour the Giragama Tea Factory, where they can savor exquisite teas. This educational and cultural adventure provides a comfortable and enriching experience, allowing travelers to appreciate Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife and heritage.
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