A Cultural and Wildlife Adventure

Sri Lanka Private Journey

Sri Lanka

13 Days

From $6,395

Overview

    Contact Us Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    With your private guide, discover the legendary temples, verdant tea plantations, welcoming people, and 2,000-year-old culture of Sri Lanka. Explore the 12th century temple-ruins of Polonnaruwa, hike up the stone steps of King Kashyapa's fortress at Sigiriya, visit cool highlands where tea is cultivated, sample Sri Lanka's famous fish curries, and look for wildlife at Yala National Park, haunt of elephant and leopard. As you explore, you'll meet a wonderful array of people, from tea planters to monks who follow the traditions of Theravada Buddhism, introduced to the island in the 3rd century BC. Optional add-ons include a cocktail-making class and tasting at a rooftop bar, participating in a traditional almsgiving to local monks, and a private tour of a cinnamon estate.

    Arrive: Colombo, Sri Lanka

    Depart: Colombo, Sri Lanka

    Highlights

    • Explore Anuradhapura, where Buddhist shrines date to the 3rd century BC, colonial Nuwara Eliya, and the Buddhist cave temples of Dambulla
    • Charming accommodations, from seaside hotels to chalets set among rice paddies
    • Be welcomed into Sri Lankan culture, meeting monks, tea planters, artists, and students

    Overview

      Contact Us Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days
      In Colombo, once the traditional gateway to the Orient, explore the blend of east and west, then head out to visit the royal cities of ancient Sri Lanka. You'll discover three World Heritage Sites: the Buddhist gardens of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's capital for 1,300 years, 10th century Polonnaruwa, with its graceful pagodas, and King Kashyapa's impressive citadel at Sigiriya. You'll also be welcomed at a local school and in the historic village of Angampora, where we can watch students at a martial arts academy perform angampora, the ancient Sri Lankan fighting art. While in Colombo, you can learn how to make the famous “Tamarind,” a Sri Lankan “whiskey” made with Arrack (also spelled Arak), a distilled alcoholic beverage produced using coconut (you will have the opportunity to create one of your own). You can also take part in a traditional Almsgiving to local monks.
      Climb up to the great cave-temple complex at Dambulla, enjoy a private lunch in the home of a local professor and art collector, and travel up to tea country. In Kandy, the hill capital and last stronghold of the Sinhala kings, you’ll see the famous 16th century Temple of the Tooth, and from your heritage hotel above colonial Nuwara Eliya, walk through tea plantations and learn the fine art of “tasting” tea. A short rail journey brings you to the peaceful town of Ella, where you can enjoy a village bike ride and a lesson in preparing Sri Lankan cuisine.
      In Yala, look for fabulous bird life, troops of monkeys chattering in the trees, and herds of wild elephant. You can add on an optional private tour of a cinnamon estate with the estate owners. After walking the ramparts of the historic seaside trading post of Galle, founded as a Dutch fort, depart on Day 13 via Colombo.
      • Cocktail Making Course and Tasting
      • Traditional Almsgiving
      • Private Tour of a Cinnamon Estate

      Dates & Pricing

      Best months to go: Mid-December to March. For our Private Journeys, you choose your own group and your preferred dates. Prices are per person and not guaranteed until services are confirmed. Contact us for availability, questions, or to book your adventure!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      At time of reservation: $1,000
      90 Days prior to departure: Balance

      Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Minimum fee: $1,000 per person
      61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
      46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

      Included
      • Expert leadership of local guides
      • Accommodations in hotels
      • All meals included except 1 lunch as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Tea and coffee at all meals
      • All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to guides or staff
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
      • Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Galle Face Hotel

      Colombo, Sri Lanka

      Days 1-2 (2 nights)

      Combining old world charm and elegance with modern amenities, the historic Galle Face Hotel enjoys a wonderful location, right on the beach and facing the Galle Face Green, an urban park along the seafront. If you're a swimmer, you can get your laps in at the 30-meter-long saltwater swimming pool....

      Aliya Resort

      Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

      Days 3-5 (3 nights)

      From this hotel, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the verdant landscape and Sigiriya, or "Lion's Rock," an ancient palace once home to the king. Guestrooms are spacious and the art and decor are inspired by the Aliya, elephant. During our stay here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a BBQ...

      Jetwing Kandy Gallery

      Kandy, Sri Lanka

      Days 6-7 (2 nights)

      Located just a few miles from Kandy's bustling city center, this hotel is a tranquil oasis set by the waters of the Mahaweli River. We stay in elegantly appointed guest rooms offering two queen beds, all the modern amenities, and a personal butler. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mahaweli...

      Heritance Tea Factory

      Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

      Day 8 (1 night)

      This restored tea factory-turned-hotel makes for a unique stay in the hills above Nuwara Eliya. Its remote mountainside setting is a bit of an oasis, and offers views of lush tea plantations. While here, you can hike through tea plantations and enjoy High Tea.

      Jetwing Kaduruketha

      Wellawaya, Sri Lanka

      Days 9-10 (2 nights)

      Set amid paddy fields and natural forest, Jetwing Kaduruketha is designed to nestle unobtrusively into the rural landscape. Its 25 chalets, spaced out over 60 acres, are simply crafted with bamboo and wood and feature a king-sized bed, en suite bathroom, and an open plan to offer an indoor and...

      Jetwing Yala

      Tissamaharana, Sri Lanka

      Day 11 (1 night)

      Facing Yala Beach and adjacent to Yala National Park, this 80-room hotel is an excellent base for game drives in search for painted storks and herds of elephants. With modern and colorful rooms, this hotel offers ample opportunities for relaxation, from a swing in a hammock to a refreshing dip...

      Lighthouse Hotel Galle

      Galle, Sri Lanka

      Day 12 (1 night)

      Listen to surf crash against the rocks at this luxurious oceanfront hotel designed by Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Each of the hotel's 85 rooms offers private balconies with views of the sparkling Indian Ocean. On the hotel grounds, you can enjoy a swim in one of three pools,...

      What the Trip is Like

      This trip is rated Level 2+, Easy to Moderate, with some optional short hikes and several nature walks at archaeological sites. Accommodations are in lovely hotels, including one night in a converted tea factory! Comfortable walking shoes are recommended and occasionally we must take off shoes to visit temples.
      Review Trip Level Details
      Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with high humidity, tempered by sea breezes on the coast. The average temperature is about 81°F. In the highlands in places like Nuwara Eliya, it is in the 60s during the day and can get very cold at night, with lows in the 40s, so you'll need a sweater. Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons. The southwest part of the island gets a monsoon between May and July while the northeast monsoon is December and January. Humidity is high year round and you can expect some rain showers most days.

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

      Submit the form below to download itinerary

      Hidden

      Hidden


      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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If you&#39;re a swimmer, you can get your laps in at the 30-meter-long saltwater swimming pool. After, sip a cocktail in the garden and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. 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During our stay here, you&#39;ll have the opportunity to enjoy a BBQ in the gardens of the hotel.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-aliya-resort-double-room.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74878,"ProductID":87004,"ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Jetwing Kandy Gallery","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Kandy","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":" Located just a few miles from Kandy's bustling city center, this hotel is a tranquil oasis set by the waters of the Mahaweli River. We stay in elegantly appointed guest rooms offering two queen beds, all the modern amenities, and a personal butler. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mahaweli River and the verdant mountains from either your balcony or veranda, take a swim in the infinity pool, relax with a soothing treatment at the hotel spa, or sip a sundowner at the spacious bar.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-jetwing-kandy-gallery-luxury-room.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":71961,"ProductID":81789,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Heritance Tea Factory","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Nuwara Eliya","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":8,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"This restored tea factory-turned-hotel makes for a unique stay in the hills above Nuwara Eliya. Its remote mountainside setting is a bit of an oasis, and offers views of lush tea plantations. While here, you can hike through tea plantations and enjoy High Tea.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-heritance-tea-factory-exterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72161,"ProductID":81989,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Jetwing Kaduruketha","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Wellawaya","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":9,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"Set amid paddy fields and natural forest, Jetwing Kaduruketha is designed to nestle unobtrusively into the rural landscape. Its 25 chalets, spaced out over 60 acres, are simply crafted with bamboo and wood and feature a king-sized bed, en suite bathroom, and an open plan to offer an indoor and outdoor ambiance (a roll-away bed will be provided for those needing a twin room). The resort&#39;s cuisine mixes fresh ingredients to produce traditional Sri Lankan curries as well as international menus. Meals can be enjoyed in the restaurant or on the outdoor terrace.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-jetwing-kaduruketha-dining-pool.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":71799,"ProductID":81627,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Jetwing Yala","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Tissamaharana","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":11,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"Facing Yala Beach and adjacent to Yala National Park, this 80-room hotel is an excellent base for game drives in search for painted storks and herds of elephants. With modern and colorful rooms, this hotel offers ample opportunities for relaxation, from a swing in a hammock to a refreshing dip in the swimming pool.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-jetwing-yala-pool-exterior-hotel.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":71800,"ProductID":81628,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Lighthouse Hotel Galle","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Galle","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":12,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"<p>Listen to surf crash against the rocks at this luxurious oceanfront hotel designed by Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Each of the hotel&#39;s 85 rooms offers private balconies with views of the sparkling Indian Ocean. On the hotel grounds, you can enjoy a swim in one of three pools, a walk to a small accessible beach, or an after-dinner drink at The Coat of Arms Bar, decorated with antique flags.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-lighthouse-hotel-galle-exterior-pool.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_PDP_URL":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/sri-lanka-private-journey-predeparture.pdf","Custom_TC_Detailed_Itin_URL":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"","Custom_Welcome_Email-Insurance":"<strong>Travel Insurance:<\/strong> We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect your travel investment. For your convenience, we offer a comprehensive plan designed for Wilderness Travel and provided by Travelex. Please visit our Travel Insurance webpage or review the brochure attached for more information. To be eligible for the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver, the plan must be purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit. To purchase the Travelex plan, please send me your request by email. The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc. CA Agency License #0D10209. Travel Insurance underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276.<br>","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_DELETE_-_Emergency_Evac_Insurance":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"<strong>Reading List:<\/strong> Elevate your travel experience by delving into this <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-sri-lanka\">curated collection of books<\/a> tailored to your upcoming adventure.","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"","Custom_Carry-On":"","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"","Custom_Daypack":"","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_ESC-Outfitter_Contacts_Left_Override":"","Custom_name_slug":"sri-lanka-private-guided-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"Discover Sri Lanka's ancient Buddhist culture at Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Kandy, see the wild elephants of Yala National Park, all with your private guide.","Custom_List_Description":"Discover Sri Lanka's ancient Buddhist culture at Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Kandy, see the wild elephants of Yala National Park, all with your private guide.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"Mid-December to March","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Sri Lanka Guided Private Tour | Wilderness Travel","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"Optional Add-on","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"<ul><li>Cocktail Making Course and Tasting <\/li><li>Traditional Almsgiving <\/li><li>Private Tour of a Cinnamon Estate<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"sri-lanka-private-journey","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Sri Lanka. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. The service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisasexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip. <br><br>It is very important to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"All US passport holders are required to hold a valid visa to travel to Sri Lanka. Please visit the Sri Lanka eVisa <a href=\"www.srilankaevisa.lk\/\">website<\/a> with the step by step application process. You will need to upload a copy of your passport photo page and a passport photo when applying.<div><br><\/div><div>If you prefer, you can also contact our recommended passport and visa processing service, <a href=\"www.passportvisasexpress.com\/\">Passport Visas Express<\/a> (PVE) for help in obtaining your Sri Lanka visa (processing fees apply). If you are a citizen of any other country, please check with a local consulate or tourist office for entry requirements.<div><br><\/div><div>All visa rules and regulations are subject to change.","Custom_Money":"Sri Lanka's currency is the Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR). You can exchange cash for rupees in the airport upon your arrival. <br><br>ATMs are available in most major cities, but may not be conveniently located. Major credit cards are accepted at hotels and higher end shops, though surcharges may apply. <br><br>You will need to budget spending money for gratuities, any meals listed as &#8220;on your own&#8221; in the trip itinerary, airport departure taxes (if applicable), and personal items such as beverages and souvenirs. A great variety of carvings, weavings, painting, metalwork, and other crafts are available; depending on your taste, you could spend anything from $20 to $200 or much more. <div><br>Departure tax from Sri Lanka is normally included in your ticket. Please check with your trip leader or at the airport for the latest regulations.<\/div>","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward guides for outstanding service. A range of reference would be $175-$200 per trip member for the Trip Leader and $65-$115 per trip member for the driver. For airport transfers, $3-$10 per trip member is appreciated, depending on length. <br><br>During the trip, the Trip Leader will take care of tips for your driver's assistant(s), waiters at restaurants, porters for luggage handling, and local guides who are with the group for just a short time.","Custom_Food":"Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can easily make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Time Zone<\/strong><br>Sri Lanka is about 13.5 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time, and 10.5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time in the US may affect these times.<br><strong><br>Telephone<\/strong><br>Sri Lanka's country code is 94.<br><strong><br>Internet<\/strong><br>Wi-Fi is available at all hotels, most free of charge, but the internet speed is not comparable to the U.S.","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"No inoculations are required for entry to Sri Lanka. Entry requirements and international health situations are subject to change; check with the Centers for Disease Control for updates. All shots should be entered on your International Health Card (yellow card); keep it with your passport while traveling. It provides an important personal record for you to refer to when making future travel plans. Please consult with your physician regarding the following:<br><strong><br>Hepatitis<\/strong><br>The vaccines HAVRIX and VAQTA (two injections, six to 18 months apart) give long-term protection against Hepatitis A and are worthwhile if you travel regularly to developing countries.<br><strong><br>Tetanus Booster<\/strong><br>It is very easy to get a small cut. A booster is strongly recommended (effective for 10 years) if you are due for one.<br><strong><br>Typhoid<\/strong><br>The CDC recommends the shot or oral vaccine, Vivotif Berna.<br><strong><br>Yellow Fever<\/strong><br>A single shot is good for 10 years. Only necessary if you have traveled recently to an infected area of Africa or Latin America, then required for entry to Sri Lanka.<br><strong><br>Polio<\/strong><br>People who have received the primary series of at least three doses of polio vaccine are considered fully immunized. People who are unsure of their status should receive the vaccine (three doses spaced at intervals).<br><strong><br>Cholera<\/strong><br>Cholera does occur in Sri Lanka but medical opinions differ as to the effectiveness and necessity of the vaccine. The risk to Western travelers of contracting cholera is very minimal.<br><br>","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"In hotels, don't brush your teeth with tap water; use bottled water. Don't use ice in your drinks unless you are sure it was made with treated water. When in doubt, ask your Trip Leader for guidelines.","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-sri-lanka\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"There are some essential elements common to the cultural experiences of most of the people of these areas. For example, respect for one's elders and hospitality are widespread cultural attributes. Here are some things to be aware of:<br><strong><br>Respect<\/strong><br>Great respect is given to Buddha images and Buddhist monks. Women must not touch a monk under any circumstances. If a woman has to give something to a monk, she must first present it to a man, who then presents it. All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred objects. It is not appropriate to climb up on one to take a photograph, or to do anything that might show a lack of respect. When sitting in front of a Buddha image, monk, or anyone of higher status, your legs should be tucked under your body away from the person. (Sitting cross-legged suggests equality and is perfectly acceptable among friends, but not in the presence of &#8220;superior beings!&#8221;). When in doubt, the best guide is to watch the local people and do what they do.<br><strong><br>Losing Face<\/strong><br>As elsewhere in Asia, it is considered unseemly to show too much emotion, such as displaying anger. It is best to just relax through any conflicts or irritations. In particular, avoid doing anything to cause public humiliation to anyone. This extends to criticism of lousy service, engaging in public arguments, and \"demanding to see the boss.\" The people of these countries have an extreme reluctance to hurt others' feelings and thus lose face.<br><strong><br>Gifts<\/strong><br>Many of the people we visit are living under hardship and our natural instinct would be to give them gifts. Because the unwary distribution of pens, money, candy, and so on has led to beggar mentality in many places in the world, we suggest you do not give anything to soliciting children. Along our journey we may visit some schools. Gifts of pens and school supplies to the head teacher would be gratefully accepted. Your Trip Leader will organize this for the group if appropriate. Bubbles, stickers, tennis balls and educational toys go over very well with local village kids.<br><strong><br>Other Do's and Don'ts<\/strong><br>In Buddhist countries, the head is the most spiritual and exalted part of the body. Thus, it is not appropriate to touch anyone on the head, except for small children. (Touching the head of a small child demonstrates your protection of that child.) The feet, considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body (especially in the villages!) should never be pointed at someone or a Buddha image. Bowing your head and body slightly when walking through someone's &#8220;space&#8221; is considered a polite and necessary thing to do. Public demonstrations of affection between men and women are frowned on. Your efforts to emulate the local behavior while in these countries will be much appreciated. <br><br>As in all travel situations, it is important to observe the local people carefully and use common sense. For example, ask permission before taking a photo, entering a temple, washing at a tap, or touching a baby. When seated, it is not polite to show the bottoms of the feet, and it is especially rude to point them in someone else's direction. Therefore you should not stretch your legs out or cross them with the sole turned up or out. Also, never step over or on any part of a person as this exposes them to the bottom of your feet. The purity of the body is viewed as being the highest at the head, becoming progressively dirtier down to the feet. This also makes patting children or other people on the head ill-mannered. Touching a person of the opposite sex, even on the shoulder or hand, can easily be misinterpreted and it's best to refrain from doing so.<br><strong><br>Clothing<\/strong><br>Be modest in the way you dress while visiting Sri Lanka. Women should wear skirts falling at least to the knee, or pants. Bathing suits, halter tops, and tank tops are considered an unseemly display and will embarrass local people. Especially in and around temples, wear long pants or a skirt, and a top that covers the shoulders and upper arms. Men may wear shorts up to mid-thigh, but no shorter. It is permitted for men to rest and sunbathe without a shirt, but it is considered extremely rude for men to walk about bare-chested. Please note: In Sri Lanka, it is required to wear a white shirt and pants or a long skirt when visiting temples.<br><strong><br>Shrines<\/strong><br>Regardless of their size, shrines and temples are revered with great devotion. When entering a temple, ask about or observe local practice. In some temples, shoes must be removed. In some it is forbidden to wear leather of any kind (such as a leather belt) or to eat.","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Air tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>\nPassport<\/li><li>\nElectronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Sri Lanka Visa<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>\nExpense money<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"<ul><li>Duffel bag or soft-sided roller bag, with small padlock (must be unlocked for air travel)<\/li><li>\nDaypack, large enough for a sweater, water bottle, camera, and other items you want with you during the day<\/li><li>\nSmall roll-up duffel to carry home purchases (keep in mind that you may have to pay excess baggage charges)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Clothing":"This list is meant as a guideline only. We recommend that you bring comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes made for walking. Dress in the cities is casual but neat; long pants for men and a dress or long skirt for women are the most culturally appropriate ways to dress. <br><br>Sri Lanka is still a traditional culture; people dress conservatively and modestly. Visitors should take care to dress modestly, too. We ask that women on our trips not wear shorts, halter tops, or other revealing clothing; slacks and skirts below the knee are fine for women. We ask that men wear a full shirt (at least a t-shirt, no bare chest) at all times, hiking-type shorts rather than running shorts, and long pants when visiting temples and homes. Please note: In Sri Lanka, it is required to wear a white shirt and pants or a long skirt when visiting temples. <br><br><ul><li>White outfit for visiting Buddhist temples (in Sri Lanka, it is required to wear a white shirt and pants or a long skirt when visiting temples)<\/li><li>Lightweight long-sleeved shirts<\/li><li>Short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts (loose and modest)<\/li><li>Light cotton or quick-drying synthetic pants<\/li><li>Lightweight skirts for women<\/li><li>Hiking shorts (optional)<\/li><li>Lightweight rain jacket and\/or folding umbrella (umbrellas can also be used for sun)<\/li><li>Light to medium-weight fleece jacket or sweater<\/li><li>Sturdy walking shoes or running shoes with good traction<\/li><li>Tevas or other sandals<\/li><li>Underwear\/socks. Synthetics dry faster.<\/li><li>Shade hat with wide brim<\/li><li>Sleepwear<\/li><li>Bandanna to protect neck from sunburn<\/li><li>Bathing suit<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire<\/li><\/ul><br>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>Reusable water bottle. In an effort to reduce our use of plastic, we ask that you bring your own reusable water bottle on the trip. We will provide large bottles of purified, potable water from which to refill your water bottles<\/li><li>\nGood quality sunglasses with case<\/li><li>\nPersonal toiletries<\/li><li>\nPlastic bags to organize items in duffel<\/li><li>\nFlashlight, spare batteries; blackouts are common and it's a good idea to keep a flashlight handy in your hotel room<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"You should bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>\nSunscreen SPF 30 or higher, lip balm with sunscreen. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>\nAspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headache.<\/li><li>\n\nTopical antibiotic (such as Neosporin) for cuts, bites, or sores<\/li><li>\nInsect repellent. Repellents with DEET are recommended. DEET content of about 30-35% is ideal (higher DEET content is not recommended). Wipe DEET off your hands before touching plastic surfaces (such as binoculars) because it can damage plastic. Aerosol repellents are useful for spraying on clothes.<\/li><li>\nBlister kit. Look for the long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>\nAnti-bacterial gel for hand washing<\/li><li>\nAntihistamine such as Benadryl<\/li><li>\nPepto-Bismol tablets for indigestion and diarrhea<\/li><li>\nImodium for diarrhea. If you wish to bring an antibiotic for diarrhea prophylaxis, please consult your physician.<\/li><li>\nPrescription medications properly labeled<\/li><li>\nSpare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Camera, spare batteries<\/li><li>\nBinoculars (lightweight)<\/li><li>\nReading\/writing material<\/li><li>\nVoltage converter and plug adapter for appliance use in hotels. Sri Lanka's current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Sri Lanka has the UK plug: three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Most hotel rooms will have at least one universal plug point.<\/li><li>\nTravel clock, money belt, small mirror<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"Satellite phones are no longer allowed to be brought into India. This also applies to travelers who are just transiting through India on the way to\/from their actual trip. If you bring a satellite phone to India, it will be confiscated and you could be subject to serious penalties, including arrest. Please double-check entry requirements on your own before traveling.","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"A Cultural and Wildlife Adventure","Custom_Lodging":"12 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 1 lunch","Custom_Difficulty":"A mix of easy to moderate walks and hikes, cultural explorations","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"This trip is rated <strong>Level 2+, Easy to Moderate<\/strong>, with some optional short hikes and several nature walks at archaeological sites. Accommodations are in lovely hotels, including one night in a converted tea factory! Comfortable walking shoes are recommended and occasionally we must take off shoes to visit temples.","Custom_Terrain":"","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with high humidity, tempered by sea breezes on the coast. The average temperature is about 81\u00b0F. In the highlands in places like Nuwara Eliya, it is in the 60s during the day and can get very cold at night, with lows in the 40s, so you&apos;ll need a sweater. Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons. The southwest part of the island gets a monsoon between May and July while the northeast monsoon is December and January. Humidity is high year round and you can expect some rain showers most days.","Custom_Accommodations":"","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Mandatory_Emergency_Evacuation_Insurance":"","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>At time of reservation: $1,000<br>90 Days prior to departure: Balance<\/p><p><em>Please note that this differs from our standard policy.<\/em><\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Minimum fee: $1,000 per person<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<\/p><p><em>Please note that this differs from our standard policy.<\/em><\/p>"}}