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Madu River Boat Safari

Discover mangroves, cinnamon island, and island temples on a private Madu River Boat Safari from Galle. A half-day adventure blending nature, culture, and relaxation on calm river waters.
From: $90/ 2 Persons

Welcome to an unforgettable Journey through Sri Lnaka

Madu River Boat Safari

A Coastal Escape from Galle

Escape the beaches of Galle for a few hours and explore the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern wetlands on our private Madu River Boat Safari. This half-day trip is perfect for travelers who want to discover mangrove forests, spot wildlife, and experience authentic island culture. With private transport, tickets included, and a flexible itinerary, you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.

Tour Code

T0394849

Start Tour

Hotel Pick-Up

Type of Tour

Group Tour

Payment

Online | Offline

Age Range

16-59

End Tour

Hotel

Language

English

Cancel Tour

Yes | Free

About the Tour...
Highligts
  • Comfortable private transport from your Galle hotel.

  • 1.5-hour private boat safari on the scenic Madu River.

  • Navigate mangrove tunnels and shaded waterways.

  • Visit Cinnamon Island to learn about traditional spice processing.

  • Explore Kothduwa Island Temple, a sacred Buddhist site.

  • Optional fish therapy experience (small fee).

  • Customize your day with stops at turtle hatcheries, mask museums, or moonstone mines.

FAQs

How long does the Madu River Safari take?

The boat safari lasts about 1.5 hours, but with transport and stops, the total trip is around 4–5 hours.

Can children join this safari?

Yes, the Madu River Safari is family-friendly and safe for children of all ages. Kids especially enjoy the fish therapy and spotting wildlife.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (December–March), to secure your private boat.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, comfortable clothing, and a camera. A small amount of local currency is useful for optional fees.

Can I combine this safari with other activities?

Yes, we can customize your itinerary with turtle hatcheries, mask museums, or moonstone mines to make it a full-day trip.

Best Time to Visit

The Madu River Safari can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time is during the dry season from December to April, when skies are clear and wildlife is easier to spot. Early morning or late afternoon tours are ideal for cooler weather and better birdwatching.

Why Choose Our Tour?

  • Stress-free: We handle transport, tickets, and logistics.

  • Comfort: Modern, air-conditioned private vehicles.

  • Authentic: Local guides and real cultural experiences.

  • Flexible: Customize your tour with extra stops.

  • Reliable: Friendly drivers and transparent pricing.

Description

Join the Madu River Boat Safari from Galle for a half-day private tour through one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic wetland sanctuaries.

Cruise past mangroves, visit island temples, and stop at Cinnamon Island to see how Ceylon Cinnamon is made. Spot exotic birds, reptiles, and traditional fishing, and even try a natural fish therapy session.

With hotel pickup, private transport, and tickets included, this tour is a relaxing blend of nature, culture, and local life in the protected Madu Ganga Wetland.

Your journey includes:

  • Kothduwa Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple on an island, accessible only by boat.

  • Mangrove Caves: A unique boat ride through tunnel-like passages formed by mangrove roots.

  • Cinnamon Island: Meet a family who has been harvesting cinnamon for generations, with a live demo.

  • Sathapaha Duwa: A small island shrine with fascinating local folklore.

(Note: Temple fee ~LKR 500 and fish therapy ~LKR 300 are not included and payable on-site.)

Madu River Boat Safari Pricing (Per Group)

    • 2 Persons (Car): $90 USD

    • 3 Persons (Car): $105 USD

    • 4 Persons (Car): $110 USD

    • 4 Persons (Van): $125 USD

    • 5 Persons (Van): $140 USD

    • 6 Persons (Van): $155 USD

(Contact us for customized itineraries and larger groups.)

Safari Options & Customization

Turn your half-day safari into a full-day adventure by adding nearby attractions:

    • Sea Turtle Hatchery – Learn about conservation and see baby turtles.

    • Ambalangoda Mask Museum – Discover Sri Lanka’s traditional art and masks.

    • Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mine – Visit the only place in the world where blue moonstones are mined.

What’s Included

    • Private Madu River Boat Safari ticket.

    • Pickup and drop-off from your Galle area hotel.

    • Private transport in an air-conditioned car/van.

    • Professional, English-speaking driver.

    • Fuel, parking, and driver expenses.

Not Included:

    • Optional attraction entrance fees (turtle hatchery, museum, mines, temple, fish therapy).

    • Food and beverages.

Tour Plans

⏱️ Total Duration: 4–5 hours

🏨 8:00 AM – Hotel Pickup
Pickup from your hotel in Galle or nearby area. Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride to Balapitiya (about 45 minutes).

🚤 9:00 AM – Start the Boat Safari
Begin your private 1.5-hour cruise on the Madu River. Spot birds, reptiles, and the beauty of mangrove forests.

🌿 9:30 AM – Explore River Islands
Visit Cinnamon Island 🪵, Kothduwa Temple 🛕, and Sathapaha Duwa 🌸.
Glide through shady mangrove tunnels 🌊 and enjoy optional fish therapy 🐟.

⚓ 11:00 AM – Return to Jetty
Complete your safari and meet your driver for the return trip.

🐢 12:00 PM – Optional Stops (if selected)
Visit a Sea Turtle Hatchery, Ambalangoda Mask Museum 🎭, or Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mine 💎 before heading back.

🏁 1:00 PM – Drop-Off
Return comfortably to your hotel in Galle. End of tour.

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