Wild elephants at Udawalawe National Park Sri LankaAerial view of a tropical Maldives island surrounded by turquoise watersLuxury island resort surrounded by turquoise waters in the MaldivesDolphins swimming in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka
Wild elephants at Udawalawe National Park Sri Lanka
Aerial view of a tropical Maldives island surrounded by turquoise watersLuxury island resort surrounded by turquoise waters in the MaldivesDolphins swimming in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka
The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives
Elephants | Leopards | Blue Whales | Luxury Island Escape
Holiday Highlights

From Sri Lanka’s Wild Heart to the Blue Maldives

Udawalawe Elephant Encounters

Visit the Elephant Transit Home before enjoying a game drive through Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s best-known destinations for observing wild elephants.

Yala Leopard Safari

Explore Yala National Park on an evening game drive through one of Sri Lanka’s most famous leopard territories, with opportunities to encounter a variety of wildlife.

Blue Whale & Dolphin Watching

Set out from Mirissa into the Indian Ocean in search of majestic blue whales, playful dolphins and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Galle Fort & Southern Coast

Discover the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, explore its historic streets and colonial architecture, then enjoy time beside the Indian Ocean.

5★ Maldives Island Escape

Continue your journey with 4 nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island, surrounded by turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and tropical island scenery.

All-Inclusive Beach Villa Stay

Relax in a Beach Villa and enjoy All-Inclusive dining, giving you more freedom to unwind and make the most of your tropical island escape.

The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives

“Discover Sri Lanka’s wildlife and southern coast before slowing down in the turquoise waters and tropical beauty of the Maldives.”

Overview
Home Destinations Sri Lanka Maldives The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives
Wildlife, Adventure & Island Escape

The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives

Experience two unforgettable sides of the Indian Ocean with a 10-night journey combining the wildlife-rich landscapes of Sri Lanka with the tropical beauty of the Maldives. Discover wild elephants in Udawalawe, search for leopards in Yala, watch for blue whales and dolphins off the southern coast and explore historic Galle Fort before continuing to the Maldives for four relaxing nights of island life at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Discover the Wild Side of Ceylon

Your adventure begins in Sri Lanka, travelling through the island’s wildlife-rich southern regions. From birdlife and conservation experiences to elephant encounters, leopard territory and marine wildlife, this carefully designed journey combines nature, adventure and culture with time to enjoy Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coastline.

Udawalawe Wildlife & Elephants

Visit the Elephant Transit Home before heading into Udawalawe National Park for a game drive through one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned elephant habitats, with opportunities to encounter a variety of wildlife and birdlife.

Yala National Park

Continue to Yala for an evening game drive through one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife destinations, known for its leopard population and diverse landscapes of forests, grasslands, lagoons and coastal habitats.

Whales, Dolphins & Galle Fort

Travel along Sri Lanka’s southern coast for a whale and dolphin watching experience from Mirissa, followed by time to discover the colonial architecture, historic streets and atmosphere of UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.

From Wild Landscapes to Island Life

“After exploring the wild heart of Sri Lanka, slow the pace and discover the turquoise waters and tropical beauty of the Maldives.”

Relax in the Blue Maldives

Complete your journey with four nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island. Set in the North Malé Atoll, this stylish island resort combines turquoise lagoons, tropical beaches and a lively island atmosphere with a wide choice of dining, water-based experiences and opportunities to simply relax by the Indian Ocean.

5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island

Stay on a beautiful private island surrounded by sparkling lagoons, tropical greenery and white-sand beaches, creating the perfect setting for the relaxing final chapter of your holiday.

Beach Villa Living

Relax in a Beach Villa with easy access to the island’s beautiful shoreline, offering a comfortable tropical base after your Sri Lankan adventure.

All-Inclusive Island Escape

Enjoy All-Inclusive dining throughout your Maldives stay, giving you the freedom to relax, dine and enjoy the island without having to worry about every meal.

Island Experiences

From turquoise lagoons and tropical beaches to water sports, marine experiences and relaxing wellness moments, Villa Nautica offers plenty of ways to enjoy your time in the Maldives.

One Holiday, Two Very Different Experiences

This twin-centre escape has been designed to create a natural balance between adventure and relaxation. Sri Lanka brings wildlife, conservation, safari experiences, marine encounters and culture, while the Maldives provides a slower pace surrounded by beaches, lagoons and tropical island scenery.

Wildlife & Conservation

Experience Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife through national parks, elephant conservation and carefully selected nature experiences.

Ocean Encounters

From blue whales and dolphins in Sri Lanka to the clear lagoons and marine surroundings of the Maldives, the Indian Ocean remains a constant part of the journey.

Culture & Coastal Beauty

Discover the historic character of Galle Fort before continuing towards the relaxed beaches and tropical scenery of the Maldives.

Family-Friendly Escape

Combine exciting wildlife discoveries in Sri Lanka with four relaxing nights of beach and island time in the Maldives for a memorable family holiday.

The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives

“Follow the wild heart of Sri Lanka from elephants and leopards to blue whales, then finish your adventure surrounded by the blue waters and tropical beauty of the Maldives.”

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka & the Maldives

Sri Lanka and the Maldives can both be enjoyed throughout the year, although weather conditions vary by region and season. For this journey, the months from November to April can be particularly appealing for combining southern Sri Lanka’s wildlife and coastal experiences with a relaxing Maldives escape.

Wildlife sightings take place in natural environments and cannot be guaranteed, but the carefully selected locations on this itinerary provide opportunities to experience elephants, leopards, whales, dolphins and a wide range of tropical wildlife.

Your The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives Escape

From your arrival in Colombo and the wildlife-rich landscapes of Udawalawe and Yala to whale and dolphin watching, Galle Fort and the southern coast, your Sri Lanka adventure is filled with unforgettable experiences. Continue to the Maldives for four nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island, where a Beach Villa, All-Inclusive dining and tropical island surroundings provide the perfect way to unwind. Together, these two destinations create a memorable 10-night holiday combining wildlife, culture, adventure and island relaxation.

Explore More Sri Lanka & Maldives Holidays

Discover more carefully selected Sri Lanka and Maldives holidays with Perfect Holidays, from wildlife adventures and family-friendly island escapes to relaxing beach holidays and multi-centre journeys.

 

What's Included

Special Offer

Up to 35% Savings!

Book Your 2026 & 2027 Maldives Holiday

Secure your stay with a minimum deposit from £199 pp

  • Return international flights from London
  • Domestic Flight Included (Colombo to Malé)
  • 6 nights accommodation in carefully selected 4★ & 4★+ hotels in Sri Lanka
  • 4 nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island, Maldives
  • Beach Villa in the Maldives
  • All-Inclusive dining at Villa Nautica Paradise Island
  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers in Sri Lanka
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide throughout Sri Lanka

Wildlife & Sightseeing Experiences

  • Birds Park & Bird Research Centre visit
  • Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home visit
  • Udawalawe National Park game drive
  • Yala National Park evening game drive
  • Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa
  • Galle Fort visit

Maldives Island Benefits

  • Shared return speedboat transfers Included
  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort
  • Access to selected resort facilities and activities
  • Use of selected land and water-based resort activities, subject to resort terms

Meal Plans

Sri Lanka: Breakfast in Colombo and Galle, with Half Board during the stays in Udawalawe and Yala, as specified in the itinerary.

Maldives: All-Inclusive dining at Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Wildlife sightings are naturally subject to weather, seasonal and environmental conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Optional experiences and personal expenses are not included unless specifically stated.

  ATOL Protected Holidays |   ABTA Member |   UK-Based Travel Experts

Itinerary
Wildlife, Adventure & Island Escape

The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives Itinerary

From the wildlife-rich landscapes of Sri Lanka to the turquoise waters of the Maldives, this 10-night journey combines safari adventures, conservation experiences, coastal discoveries and four relaxing nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Day 1

London to Colombo

Depart London on your international flight to Colombo. On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, meet your private chauffeur-guide and transfer to Colombo. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 2

Colombo & Hambantota to Udawalawe

After breakfast, travel south towards Hambantota and visit the Birds Park & Bird Research Centre. Discover Sri Lanka’s rich avian biodiversity before continuing to Udawalawe. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 3

Elephant Conservation & Udawalawe Safari

Today focuses on one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals. Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home before enjoying a game drive in Udawalawe National Park. Keep watch for wild elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, monkeys and a wide variety of birdlife.

Day 4

Udawalawe to Yala & Leopard Territory

After breakfast, travel towards Yala National Park. Check in to your lodge before heading out for an evening game drive. Explore Yala’s diverse landscapes and keep watch for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, deer, buffalo, crocodiles and other wildlife.

Day 5

Yala to Galle & Galle Fort

Travel along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline towards Galle. Visit Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its historic streets, colonial architecture, boutiques and cafés. Continue to your beachfront hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 6

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Early this morning, head out from Mirissa for a Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion. Search the Indian Ocean for majestic blue whales, playful dolphins and other marine wildlife before returning to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 7

Sri Lanka to the Maldives

After breakfast, transfer to Colombo Airport for your international flight to Malé. On arrival at Velana International Airport, continue by shared speedboat transfer to Villa Nautica Paradise Island. Check in and begin the relaxing final chapter of your holiday.

Day 8

Welcome to Island Life

Wake up surrounded by the tropical beauty of the Maldives. Enjoy your first full day at Villa Nautica Paradise Island, relax on the beach, explore the resort and make the most of your All-Inclusive stay.

Day 9

Relax, Explore & Unwind

Enjoy another day in paradise at your own pace. Spend time by the turquoise lagoon, relax on the beach, take advantage of selected resort facilities and activities, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of your island retreat.

Day 10

The Maldives at Your Leisure

Make the most of your final full day at Villa Nautica Paradise Island. Enjoy All-Inclusive dining, beautiful beaches and the island atmosphere before taking time to relax and prepare for your journey home.

Day 11

Maldives to London

After breakfast, check out from Villa Nautica Paradise Island and take your included shared speedboat transfer back to Velana International Airport. Continue to the airport for your international flight back to London, bringing your Sri Lanka and Maldives adventure to a close.

From Wild Sri Lanka to the Blue Maldives

Ten nights combining Sri Lanka’s wildlife, conservation experiences and southern coastline with four nights of All-Inclusive island relaxation at Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives FAQs

Find answers to some of the most common questions about this Sri Lanka and Maldives holiday, including flights, accommodation, wildlife experiences, transfers, meal plans and your stay at Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

How many nights are included in this Sri Lanka & Maldives holiday?

This package includes 10 nights and 11 days, combining 6 nights in Sri Lanka with 4 nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island in the Maldives.

Are international flights included in this package?

Yes. Return international flights from London are included, together with the international flight from Colombo to Malé as part of the Sri Lanka and Maldives journey.

What is the recommended flight routing for this holiday?

The journey begins with London to Colombo, followed by Colombo to Malé after the Sri Lanka itinerary. Your return journey is from Malé back to London. Flight schedules and airlines are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Are there any domestic flights within Sri Lanka?

No. The Sri Lanka itinerary is travelled by private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. There are no domestic flights required within Sri Lanka.

What wildlife experiences are included in Sri Lanka?

The itinerary includes a visit to the Birds Park & Bird Research Centre, the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a game drive in Udawalawe National Park, an evening game drive in Yala National Park and a Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa.

Will I see elephants, leopards and blue whales?

Udawalawe is particularly well known for its wild elephants, while Yala is renowned for its leopard population. The Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion offers the opportunity to search for blue whales and dolphins. Wildlife sightings take place in natural environments and cannot be guaranteed.

Is Galle Fort included in the itinerary?

Yes. The itinerary includes a visit to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore its historic streets, colonial architecture, boutiques and cafés.

What type of transport is included in Sri Lanka?

Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included throughout the Sri Lanka itinerary, together with the services of an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Arrival and departure airport transfers are also included.

How many nights will I stay at Villa Nautica Paradise Island?

The Maldives portion of the holiday includes 4 nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island in a Beach Villa.

What room type is included in the Maldives?

The package includes a Beach Villa at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island, providing a relaxed tropical setting close to the beach.

Is All-Inclusive dining included in the Maldives?

Yes. The Maldives stay at Villa Nautica Paradise Island is based on an All-Inclusive meal plan.

How do I get to Villa Nautica Paradise Island from Malé Airport?

Shared return speedboat transfers between Velana International Airport and Villa Nautica Paradise Island are included in the Maldives portion of the holiday.

What meal plan is included in Sri Lanka?

Breakfast is included in Colombo and Galle, while Half Board is included during the stays in Udawalawe and Yala, as specified in the itinerary.

Is the Turtle Conservation Project included?

No. The Turtle Conservation Project is an optional visit and is not included in the main holiday package. Any additional cost would be payable separately.

Is this Sri Lanka & Maldives holiday suitable for families?

Yes. The itinerary combines exciting wildlife experiences in Sri Lanka with four relaxing nights of island time in the Maldives, making it an appealing option for families looking for a varied long-haul holiday.

Your Sri Lanka & Maldives Escape

Experience Sri Lanka’s elephants, leopards, blue whales and historic Galle Fort before unwinding for four nights of All-Inclusive island relaxation at Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Price from
£2,999pp
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Special Offer

Up to 35% Savings!

Book Your 2026 & 2027 Maldives Holiday

Secure your stay with a minimum deposit from £199 pp

  • Return international flights from London
  • Domestic Flight Included (Colombo to Malé)
  • 6 nights accommodation in carefully selected 4★ & 4★+ hotels in Sri Lanka
  • 4 nights at 5★ Villa Nautica Paradise Island, Maldives
  • Beach Villa in the Maldives
  • All-Inclusive dining at Villa Nautica Paradise Island
  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers in Sri Lanka
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide throughout Sri Lanka

Wildlife & Sightseeing Experiences

  • Birds Park & Bird Research Centre visit
  • Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home visit
  • Udawalawe National Park game drive
  • Yala National Park evening game drive
  • Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa
  • Galle Fort visit

Maldives Island Benefits

  • Shared return speedboat transfers Included
  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort
  • Access to selected resort facilities and activities
  • Use of selected land and water-based resort activities, subject to resort terms

Meal Plans

Sri Lanka: Breakfast in Colombo and Galle, with Half Board during the stays in Udawalawe and Yala, as specified in the itinerary.

Maldives: All-Inclusive dining at Villa Nautica Paradise Island.

Wildlife sightings are naturally subject to weather, seasonal and environmental conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Optional experiences and personal expenses are not included unless specifically stated.

  ATOL Protected Holidays |   ABTA Member |   UK-Based Travel Experts

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Enquire about The Wild Side of Ceylon & The Blue Maldives
Price from
£2,999pp
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