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Overview
- Duration:3 hours 0 minutes
- Travelers:2 - 20 guests
- Tour Type:Early Morning Tour
- Language:English
- Age:1+ years old
- Mobile Ticket:Yes
Set your alarm early, because this one is worth it. The Madu River sunrise boat safari leaves at 5:45 AM, while Balapitiya, Sri Lanka, is still asleep. The air is cool, the water lies flat and still, and your private boat pulls away from the jetty with hardly a sound.
Your rider heads for the Grand Mangrove Lagoon, a peaceful corner away from the main river route. The waterways narrow, the mangroves grow thick on either side, and then the engine stops. In the silence, the birds begin to wake, one call after another.
On a clear morning, the first colours of sunrise spread over the water and turn the lagoon gold and rose. It is the best light of the day for photographs, and there is hardly another boat on the river to share it with.
With three hours, there is time for much more. You land at Kothduwa Temple Island, where you may meet the giant squirrels, then watch a live cinnamon-making show at Ceylon Cinnamon Island. Dip your feet in a ticklish fish foot spa and take a slow ride through the mangrove tunnels. Monkeys, water monitors and even large crocodiles may appear along the banks, as nature allows.
Fresh juice and cool water wait on board for the journey.
Highlights
- Peaceful 3-hour private boat ride through the Madu River mangroves
- Visit the beautiful Grand Mangrove Lagoon
- Watch the sunrise over the calm waters of the Madu River
- Early morning bird watching and wildlife spotting
- Visit Kothduwa Buddhist Temple Island and feed the giant squirrels
- Visit Ceylon Cinnamon Island with a live cinnamon presentation
- Chance to see large crocodiles, depending on nature and weather conditions
- Enjoy a natural fish foot spa in the river
- Cruise through narrow mangrove tunnels and quiet waterways
Includes/Excludes
- Private boat
- Life jackets
- Insurance coverage
- Cool water bottles
- Experienced guide
- Fresh juice
- Personal expenses
- Snacks and alcoholic drinks
- Camera and equipment
- Driver or guide tips
Cancellation policy
In case of heavy rain, the boat safari may be cancelled. Customers can choose to reschedule the safari or receive a full refund.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Madu River Sunrise Boat Safari
The Madu River safari price for the Sunrise Tour is $59 per adult (age 13 and over) and $27 per child (age 3 to 12), for a private 3-hour boat.
What time does the sunrise safari start?
The boat departs at 5:45 AM from our station on Elathota Road, Balapitiya. Please arrive a few minutes early.
Will I definitely see the sunrise?
The trip is timed for sunrise, but the sky decides the colours. On clear mornings the light over the lagoon is superb, and on cloudy ones the calm water and birdlife still make the early start worthwhile.
What is the Grand Mangrove Lagoon?
It is a quiet mangrove lagoon away from the main river route, with narrow waterways and thick mangroves. Early in the morning it is peaceful and full of birdlife.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothing, and a light layer for the cool morning air. Bring something that covers your knees and shoulders for the temple visit. Any type of footwear is fine.
Can children join the sunrise safari?
Yes. There is no age limit, and every passenger wears a life jacket in a size that fits. Children aged 3 to 12 have their own price.
Extra Services
Photo frame
Photo frame for your tour at Madu River Safari
Rs.1,650.00/person
Photo with Baby Crocodile
Take a picture with baby crocodile
Rs.2,310.00/package
fromRs.19,471.00 Rs.16,500.00 /person
-15%
