Cycle Sri Lanka

Cycle Sri Lanka

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14 Days From

$2695

Cycle Sri Lanka

14 Days Starting in Negombo and ending in Colombo

Visiting: Negombo, Chilaw & Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura, Ritigala & Polonnaruwa, Polonnaruwa & Dambulla, Sigriya Rock & Kandy, Kandy, Hatton, Tissamaharama, Yala National Park, Mirissa, Mirissa & Galle, Colombo

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HPXC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

14-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Cycling

From: $2695

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Guided by an expert local leader, this 10-day cycling trip through Sri Lanka will take you to tea plantations, fishing villages, national parks, cities and lush green jungles. From Negombo to Colombo, you’ll see why Sri Lanka is Asia’s most exciting new destination. With pristine coastline, ancient ruins, rugged peaks and wildlife-filled national parks, it’s a dream for travellers who like to get active. In between two-wheeled treks, you can go on safari to spot leopards, take on optional food crawls, laze on the beaches of the southern coast, ride the rails (a must in Sri Lanka), explore the country’s premier Hindu and Buddhist sites, and see the famed UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya. With days of riding and nights of feasting, Sri Lanka will soon make its way to your heart.

Highlights

  • Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Sri Lanka, with a leopard-spotting safari and scenic train trip taking the sightseeing to the next level. 

  • From the sensational seafood of Negombo to the pulsing night markets of Colombo, Sri Lanka a feast for the senses. Optional ‘food-crawls’ in most locations connect you with the best local street food. 

  • Step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s most important religious and heritage sites, including the Temple of Tooth Relic and Kataragama. 

  • Forget the coffee stops, this is Le Tour with a twist. Visit a tea factory in Giragama for a guided tour and taste of Sri Lanka’s most beloved beverage. 

  • Relax and unwind along the famous sandy beaches and azure waters of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

  • Experience a fascinating slice of traditional culture with a Kandyan dance performance in Kandy.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

  • Ride to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya – an ancient rock fortress surrounded by lush greenery. Climb the stairs of Lion Rock and be rewarded for your efforts with a morning breakfast at the top with panoramic views.

  • Cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura and enjoy a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city, riding through woodlands, exploring the ruins and getting a peek of the sacred old Bo Tree.

  • Step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s most important religious and heritage sites, including the Temple of Tooth Relic and Kataragama.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Negombo

Location: Negombo

Accommodation: Hotel

Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, close to the airport. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 5:30 pm tonight, but if you arrive early, you can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft in the town. Maybe feast on fresh seafood or rent a bike from the hotel reception and explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels. Tonight, your leader will have great recommendations for local dinner spots.

Day 2: Chilaw & Anuradhapura

Location: Chilaw & Anuradhapura

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Rise early and have some breakfast at the hotel, then start your cycling adventure with a test-ride through the city streets. Cycle from Negombo to Chilaw, through fishing villages, the scenic Dutch canal, coconut plantations and various tile factories. Sit down for a picnic lunch when you arrive in Chilaw. After, hop aboard a coach and travel to Anuradhapura. Here, you can settle into your hotel, relax and perhaps take a swim in the pool. You have the option of joining a 'food crawl' through the streets and markets of Anuradhapura tonight – this is a great chance to sample some tasty local cuisine.

Day 3: Anuradhapura

Location: Anuradhapura

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After breakfast, cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura for a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city. Among the ruins you'll see the sacred old Bo Tree – a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura's great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, with some in woodland settings and others appearing more cultivated with columns and ponds dotted throughout. Visit the impressive Isurumuniya Temple and the Anuradhapura Museum, then sit down with your group for a local lunch. Return to the hotel for a free afternoon and evening.

Included Activities:
-Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
-Anuradhapura - World Heritage Site of ancient kingdom ruins
-Anuradhapura - Isurumuniya Temple

Day 4: Ritigala & Polonnaruwa

Location: Ritigala & Polonnaruwa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Cycle from Anuradhapura to Ritigala this morning, passing rice paddies, man-made water tanks and jungle scenery. Have some lunch along the way at a countryside kiosk then visit the beautiful Ritigala monastery, which dates back nearly 2000 years and is named after the mountain on which it sits. After exploring the site and learning a thing or two about its local mythology, board a coach and travel to Polonnaruwa. When you arrive, take the opportunity to relax and recharge.

Included Activities:
-Ritigala Monastery Entrance

Day 5: Polonnaruwa & Dambulla

Location: Polonnaruwa & Dambulla

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Saddle up for a morning ride to Polonnaruwa – the second oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. Visit the Vihara Temple, Parakrama Statue and Siva Temple while you explore the site, then cycle to Diyabeduma. The scenery along the way includes sanctuaries, man-made channels and farmlands. Refuel with a picnic lunch then travel from to Dambulla by coach. In the evening, you'll visit the Dambulla wholesale vegetable market, where there will be an option to join in on a local food crawl.

Included Activities:
-Polonnaruwa ancient ruins

Day 6: Sigriya Rock & Kandy

Location: Sigriya Rock & Kandy

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Early this morning, you’ll cycle from your hotel in Dambulla to Sigiriya – this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an ancient rock fortress that sits 200 m high among the surrounding gardens and reservoirs. Along the way, see the water garden, the boulder garden, the mirror wall and Sigiriya's frescos. You’ll want your camera today as the image of this site against the skyline is one to remember. Hike to the top of the fortress and enjoy some well-earned breakfast at the peak, taking in the panoramic views. After, jump back on your bike and pedal your way through the countryside, stopping for lunch at a spice garden near Matale. Enjoy a rest in the support vehicle as you drive the final leg to Kandy. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a traditional Kandyan dance performance – an insight into an age-old culture.

Included Activities:
-Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

Optional Activities:
-Kandy - Cultural Dance Performance

Day 7: Kandy

Location: Kandy

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After breakfast at the hotel, you have the option to either head out for some extra cycling in the Hanthana Mountain Range (weather/time permitting) or stay in Kandy and explore. Later this morning, you’ll head to Giragama for a guided tour of a tea factory, learning about how Sri Lanka's favourite drink is made and sampling some of the delicious varieties. For lunch, visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant – a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment for women from local communities while training and empowering them. Try some Sri Lankan dishes prepared by the women while learning a little more about the restaurant and their important mission. The rest of the afternoon is free. Tonight, visit the Temple of Tooth Relic – the most important Buddhist site in the country – then return to town for a food crawl.

Included Activities:
-Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
-Kandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunch
-Giragama Tea Factory Tour

Day 8: Hatton

Location: Hatton

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Transfer to Kandy railway station after breakfast this morning. From the station, you’ll embark on a scenic train trip from Kandy to Hatton, where you’ll then cycle to Maskeliya. Ride through leafy tea plantations to your lunch spot, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Tamil meal from a local kiosk. Check into your guesthouse, then relax this afternoon. If you like, you can take on an optional trek of Adam's Peak – a conical, snow-capped mountain that sits at 2243 m high. The pilgrimage season runs from late May to early December and is a fascinating time to visit.

Included Activities:
-Scenic train ride from Kandy to Hatton

Day 9: Tissamaharama

Location: Tissamaharama

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before cycling down from Bogawanthalawa to Balangoda. This is a short ride but one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Sri Lanka, following a path along the tea plantations and pine forest passes. Alongside mountainous views, you’ll cycle through tall trees, lush vegetation and serene landscapes with a soundtrack of birdsong. Maybe see some trickling waterfalls before stopping among the green slopes of Balangoda for lunch. Then, transfer to Tissamaharama. When you arrive, wind down at your hotel and share stories over a group dinner.

Day 10: Yala National Park

Location: Yala National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Cycle the tree lines roads through villages from Tissamaharama to Kataragama after breakfast. The holy city of Kataragama is a colourful and vibrant religious centre that rivals Adam's Peak in terms of national importance. This is where the two-week Kataragama Festival attracts thousands of Hindus and tourists each year in July/August. After, take a jeep ride through the beautiful Yala National Park – home to elephants, crocodiles and waterbirds like the great thick-knee. Yala also lays claim to one of the world's highest concentration of leopards! Return to Tissamaharama for the night where you’ll sit down for a group dinner.

Included Activities:
-Yala/Udawalawe National Park - Wildlife safari

Day 11: Mirissa

Location: Mirissa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After breakfast, cycle from Tissamaharama to Hambantota via Bundala National Park. After lunch at Hambantota, continue to Mirissa on your bike. You’ll have a free afternoon of beach time in Mirissa, where you can chill out and swim. The beach itself is a long curve of sand with clear waters, perfect for taking a dip and watching the sunset. You can also cycle to nearby Weligama, where the colourful fishing boats bring fresh fish to sell along the shore. The local cottage industry of lace products is also well worth a look if you’re seeking something authentic to bring home.

Day 12: Mirissa & Galle

Location: Mirissa & Galle

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free morning to relax. Later, you’ll drive to Galle – home to an impressive World Heritage-listed Dutch fort with extensive walls and many old buildings – and spend the afternoon exploring on a leader-led guided walk. In the early evening watch the sunset from the ramparts before driving back to Mirissa.

Included Activities:
-Galle - Galle Fort Walking tour

Day 13: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Depart Mirissa after breakfast and drive to Colombo. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on a leader-led walk of the city, passing the bustling Petta Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament and the National Museum. You’ll finish at the Barefoot fairtrade store, where you can find a collection of handicrafts from around the country and support small cottage industries. Tonight, there's an optional group food crawl to celebrate your journey. If you’d like to celebrate a trip well travelled, you’ll head to the local market stalls and tuck into some of Sri Lanka’s best street foods.

Day 14: Colombo

Location: Colombo

There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotels (13 nights)

  • Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple

  • Anuradhapura - World Heritage Site of ancient kingdom ruins

  • Anuradhapura - Isurumuniya Temple

  • Ritigala Monastery Entrance

  • Polonnaruwa ancient ruins

  • Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

  • Kandy - Temple of the Tooth

  • Kandy - Lunch at Hela Bojun

  • Giragama Tea Factory Tour

  • Scenic train ride from Kandy to Hatton

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What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • While there are occasions when we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities, we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course as an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. In most regions, the support vehicle will be a minivan, but may range in size up to a full-sized coach or overland vehicle. Your main piece of luggage is transported in the support vehicle. Our bikes do not have panniers or bags on them, so we recommend a small backpack or a cycling jersey with rear pockets to carry any essentials you’ll need with you.
  • Our support vehicle will closely follow us for the majority of rides we do (excepting small bicycle only tracks). To avoid the excess use of plastic we have a larger water bottle on-board from which you can refill your smaller cycling water bottles. You ca also leave your small day packs on board if you wish as you will usually have easy access to them along the way.
  • INCLUDED BIKES
  • We use 2022 Sunpeed One mountain bikes on this trip. These bikes feature an aluminium frame, front suspension, flat bars, Shimano gears and hydraulic disc brakes.
  • An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
  • The e-bike that can be requested for this trip is a 2018 Proformance E-3 Max, and it is available in 3 sizes. Please request the size that matches your height: Small (153-165cm). Medium (165-185cm) or Large (175-190cm).
  • BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
  • While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
  • SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
  • Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
  • We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
  • BEFORE THE TRIP
  • We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
  • DURING THE TRIP
  • Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
  • In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
  • While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
  • TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
  • Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
  • A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
  • Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
  • INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
  • You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on a different Intrepid trip than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • AIR CONDITIONING
  • All hotels on this trip have fans, but not all will have air conditioning.

Included Activities

  • Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
  • Anuradhapura - Ancient site
  • Anuradhapura - Isurumuniya Temple
  • Polonnaruwa exploration
  • Kandy - Cultural performance
  • Sigiriya - Lion Rock
  • Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
  • Yala/Bundala National Park - Wildlife safari

Important Information

  • 1. It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
  • 2. Some travellers have reported being approached by locals offering excursions before their Intrepid trip commences. This has been particularly prevalent in and around the hotels used by Intrepid. These guides are in no way connected to Intrepid and we cannot guarantee the safety or quality standards of their tours. We advise customers against joining any tour offered by the unauthorised guides.
  • 3. A Single Supplement is available on this trip, please ask your booking agent for more information.
  • 4. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
  • 5. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
  • 6. Due to Intrepid's stance on elephant cruelty we do not visit the Perahera Festival and cannot purchase tickets on your behalf.
  • 7. Train tickets are in very high demand. We always try our best to secure tickets, but on the rare occasion that we cannot book them, you will continue your journey by private vehicle.
  • 8. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking for train tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

Mode of Transport

  • While there are occasions we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. These vehicles range from a minivan in most regions up to a full sized coach or overland vehicle in others.
  • Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle
  • Our support vehicle will closely follow us for the majority of rides we do (excepting small bicycle only tracks). To avoid the excess use of plastic we have a larger water bottle on-board from which you can refill your smaller cycling water bottles. You ca also leave your small day packs on board if you wish as you will usually have easy access to them along the way.
  • INCLUDED BIKES
  • We use 2018 Proformance (ACL 02) mountain bikes on this trip.
  • An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
  • The e-bike that can be requested for this trip is a 2018 Proformance E-3 Max, and it is available in 3 sizes. Please request the size that matches your height: Small (153-165cm). Medium (165-185cm) or Large (175-190cm).
  • BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
  • While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
  • SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
  • Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
  • We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
  • BEFORE THE TRIP
  • We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
  • DURING THE TRIP
  • Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
  • In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
  • While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
  • TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
  • Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
  • A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
  • Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
  • INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
  • You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
  • You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    To complete this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle. As the riding is mostly on sealed roads in varying states of repair, with the occasional gravel path, no technical cycling skills are required. But some downhill practice is a great idea before your trip.

    While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short, the terrain of Sri Lanka is naturally hilly, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, especially given the warm climate. This applies to the included activities which can add to the potential fatigue. The support vehicle will always be there if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.

    On this trip you have an expert cycling leader as well as a cycling guide/mechanic with you.

    Sri Lankan summers are very hot, with short, sharp monsoons in the southwest. Be sure to use adequate sun protection and drink plenty of water. The weather in this region also varies seasonally, so be prepared to get sweaty, and experience the occasional rainstorm, which may lead to a change of plans.

    If you have issues with heights, you might like to opt out of climbing the Lion Rock at Sigiriya (Day 6). There are lots of rough, narrow steps and tight walkways here.

    If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort, you can hire an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Friday

Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
$2995

Saturday - Friday

Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
$3365

Saturday - Friday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
$3345

Saturday - Friday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
$3320

Saturday - Friday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025
$3045

Saturday - Friday

Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025
$2855

Saturday - Friday

Mar 22, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
$3075

Saturday - Friday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$2800

Saturday - Friday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
$2930

Saturday - Friday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$2855

Saturday - Friday

Apr 19, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$2980

Saturday - Friday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 09, 2025
$2750

Saturday - Friday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025
$2750

Saturday - Friday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025
$2855

Saturday - Friday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
$2855

Saturday - Friday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$2695

Saturday - Friday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025
$2800

Saturday - Friday

Dec 20, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$2910

Saturday - Friday

Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Feb 21, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 20, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Mar 14, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Mar 21, 2026 - Apr 03, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 10, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 17, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Apr 11, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Apr 18, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Apr 25, 2026 - May 08, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 19, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 17, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 07, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 14, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 21, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 28, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 11, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 11, 2026
$3055

Saturday - Friday

Dec 05, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Dec 12, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026
$2940

Saturday - Friday

Dec 19, 2026 - Jan 01, 2027
$2830

Saturday - Friday

Dec 26, 2026 - Jan 08, 2027
$2830

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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