From Udawalawa: Boat Safari & Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Visit including Galle City 1
From Udawalawa: Boat Safari & Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Visit including Galle City 2
From Udawalawa: Boat Safari & Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Visit including Galle City 3
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From Udawalawa: Boat Safari & Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Visit including Galle City

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, Sri Lanka
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About this activity

Explore Sri Lanka's pristine wetlands and coastal treasures on a full-day excursion from Udawalawa, combining a tranquil boat safari through Madu River's mangrove forests with snorkeling at Hikkaduwa's coral reefs and a visit to Galle's historic fort. This itinerary blends wildlife, marine ecosystems, and colonial heritage in one immersive journey.

Madu River, a wetland estuary spreading over 900 hectares of which 770 hectares are covered with water and inhabited with 64 islands. The boat ride is a wonderful way to take a closer look at this complex wetland ecosystem, a world heritage site protected by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, being one of the last wetlands in Sri Lanka to contain a pristine mangrove forest. 

Journey past massive mangrove forests, glide under the canopy of the forest tunnels as they curve playfully towards the watercourse. If it's later in the evening watch the fishermen in their canoes lighting lanterns on traps that catch prawns and other shellfish. It's certainly going to be a memorable day-out on the serene waters of the unforgettable Madu River! After an exciting Madu riverboat trip, drive down to Galle on the highway and visit a Turtle hatchery near Galle to see various species of Sea Turtles, if you wish you could even release a baby Turtle to the Ocean.

Hikkaduwa is a small town on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is located in the Southern Province, about 20 km north-west of Galle. Hikkaduwa is famous for its beach and corals. Villages affected were Telwatta, Paraliya, Dodanduwa, Kahawa, Rathgama. The place is on the way from Colombo to Galle on the famous Galle road. It is primarily a tourist destination, and serves as a great beach with options to surf, snorkel, and enjoy the sun.

A city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It is known for Galle Fort, the fortified old city founded by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. Stone seawalls, expanded by the Dutch, encircle car-free streets with architecture reflecting Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Notable buildings include the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church. Galle Lighthouse stands on the fort’s southeast tip. 

Built by the Dutch, beginning in 1663, Galle's core is the Fort, a walled enclave surrounded on three sides by the ocean. A key part of the Fort’s appeal is that it isn’t just a pretty place. Sure, tourism now dominates the local economy, but this unique city remains a working community: there are administrative offices and courts, export companies, schools, and colleges.

Highlights

  • ✓Navigate 770 hectares of pristine mangrove forest and 64 islands on serene Madu River waters
  • ✓Spot evening fishermen using traditional lantern traps for prawns in their canoes
  • ✓Snorkel vibrant coral reefs at Hikkaduwa beach with excellent visibility and marine biodiversity
  • ✓Visit a sea turtle hatchery near Galle and optionally release a baby turtle to the ocean
  • ✓Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO-listed fortified old city on Sri Lanka's southwest coast
  • ✓Ramsar Convention wetland—one of Sri Lanka's last intact mangrove ecosystems

Insider tips

  • ★Opt for late-afternoon/early evening departure from Madu River to witness fishermen lighting traditional lanterns on their traps—a magical, photogenic moment rarely seen by day-trippers.
  • ★Bring reef-safe sunscreen and snorkel gear if you have your own; rental quality at Hikkaduwa varies, and you'll save money.
  • ★Allow extra time at Galle Fort's ramparts at golden hour for unbeatable colonial architecture photography and cooler temperatures.
  • ★The Galle Road between Hikkaduwa and Galle offers roadside fruit and snack vendors—stop for fresh king coconut water or local snacks during the drive.

Good to know

  • •Total duration: 9 hours from pickup to drop-off; plan an early morning departure (typically 6–7 AM).
  • •Bring lightweight, quick-dry clothing, hat, and polarized sunglasses for water glare on the river.
  • •Snorkeling is included; basic swimming ability recommended but not required for shallow reef areas.
  • •Turtle hatchery visit is optional—confirm participation at booking if you have concerns about wildlife interaction ethics.
  • •Roads are paved but winding; not recommended for those prone to motion sickness; request a seat near the front of the vehicle.

Who it's for

Nature and wildlife enthusiasts seeking pristine wetland ecosystems and marine biodiversitySnorkeling and beach lovers looking for coral reef exploration beyond typical resort beachesCultural history buffs interested in colonial-era Galle Fort and traditional Sri Lankan fishing practicesFamilies comfortable with moderate activity levels and interested in optional turtle conservation experiences

Best time to visit

Visit during Sri Lanka's dry season (December–March) for calm waters, excellent snorkeling visibility, and calm boat conditions. Early morning departures maximize wildlife sightings and avoid afternoon heat; late-afternoon river time increases chances of witnessing traditional fishing lanterns.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€149
per person