A Sri Lankan Showcase: Tea Country, Safari & Coast with Uga Resorts
From tea-covered highlands and wildlife-rich national parks to the golden shores of the south coast, this journey showcases the remarkable diversity of Sri Lanka through the lens of Uga Resorts. Stay at a carefully curated collection of properties, each offering a distinctive perspective on the island, from the heritage charm of Uga Halloowella to the contemporary design of Uga Ghiri, the wilderness setting of Uga Chena Huts and the oceanfront tranquillity of Uga Prāva.
Along the way, enjoy a series of exclusive benefits for Lightfoot guests, including spa credits at Uga Halloowella, Uga Ghiri and Uga Prāva, a complimentary bottle of wine at Uga Riva and a bonfire dinner on the beach at Uga Chena Huts. As well as these added benefits, guests staying exclusively within the Uga collection benefit from a series of generous combination offers, making this journey particularly good value.
Board basis includes bed and breakfast at Uga Riva, all-inclusive stays at Uga Halloowella, Uga Ghiri and Uga Chena Huts, and half-board plus at Uga Prāva.
This is a suggested itinerary and can be tailored entirely to your interests. For those with additional time, we recommend extending your journey to include Uga Ulagalla, Lightfoot's longstanding favourite and Uga's flagship property in the Cultural Triangle. During the European summer months, Uga Bay and Jungle Beach on the east coast also combine beautifully with the Hill Country, offering some of Sri Lanka's finest beaches and marine experiences.
Day 1
ARRIVAL IN SRI LANKA
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be met by your private chauffeur-guide and transferred to Uga Riva. Set within elegant gardens and conveniently located near the airport, it offers a gentle introduction to the island after your flight.
* This evening, enjoy a complimentary bottle of house wine with dinner, exclusively for Lightfoot guests.
Day 2
TO THE HILL COUNTRY
After breakfast, journey into Sri Lanka's tea-growing highlands, a scenic drive of 4.5 hours with your dedicated chauffeur-guide. As the scenery transforms from tropical lowlands to rolling plantations and misty hills, arrive at Uga Halloowella. Spend the afternoon settling into this beautifully restored tea bungalow and enjoying its tranquil surroundings.
Day 3
TEA COUNTRY DISCOVERIES
Today is dedicated to exploring the landscapes and heritage of Sri Lanka's tea country. Join a guided tea estate and factory tour, gaining insight into the journey from leaf to cup, before setting out on a 2.5-hour Habitat Walk with a naturalist. Passing through tea-covered hillsides, scenic trails and a local village, the walk culminates at Hanuman Kovil, where panoramic views stretch across Adam's Peak and the surrounding highlands.
* Lightfoot guests will also enjoy a complimentary US$100 spa credit per room during their stay at Uga Halloowella.
Day 4
THE JOURNEY TO ELLA
Continue your exploration of the Hill Country with one of Sri Lanka's most scenic rail journeys. After a short transfer to Ambewela Station, board the train to Ella, passing through rolling tea estates, forests and mountain scenery along the way. On arrival, transfer to Uga Ghiri, perched above the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. The property offers a strikingly contemporary take on Hill Country hospitality, with expansive standalone villas, all-inclusive dining and sweeping views across the tea-covered hills.
Day 5
ELLA & THE PEKOE TRAIL
Today, explore one of the most beautiful sections of Sri Lanka's celebrated Pekoe Trail. Stage 16 follows a relatively gentle route between Ella and Demodara, passing tea plantations, village communities, the famous Nine Arch Bridge and the remarkable Demodara railway loop. Return to Uga Ghiri for a leisurely afternoon enjoying the facilities or simply soaking up the views from your private villa.
* Lightfoot guests will receive a complimentary US$100 spa credit per room during their stay at Uga Ghiri.
Day 6
TO YALA
Leave the highlands behind and travel south to Uga Chena Huts on the edge of Yala National Park. The contrast is immediate: rolling tea plantations give way to dry forest, open plains and wild coastline. Settle into your private cabin before heading out on your first safari experience.
Day 7
SAFARI ADVENTURES
Explore Yala National Park in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears and a remarkable variety of birdlife. Your stay includes both a morning and afternoon safari with an experienced ranger, maximising your chances of memorable wildlife encounters.
* This evening, enjoy an exclusive bonfire dinner on the beach, a special experience included for Lightfoot guests, weather permitting.
Day 8
SOUTH COAST ESCAPE
Continue to Uga Prāva on Sri Lanka's south coast. With its contemporary design, ocean views and relaxed atmosphere, it provides a fitting contrast to the wilderness of Yala. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the sea.
Day 9
AT LEISURE ON THE COAST
Enjoy a final day at leisure. Explore nearby beaches, discover Tangalle with your chauffeur-guide, indulge in a spa treatment or simply relax overlooking the Indian Ocean. Your chauffeur-guide and vehicle remain at your disposal for local exploration.
* Lightfoot guests will receive a complimentary US$50 spa credit per room during their stay at Uga Prāva.
Day 10
DEPARTURE
After breakfast, your chauffeur-guide will transfer you to the airport in time for your onward flight.
- Experience five of Uga's newest properties in a single journey
- Enjoy exclusive Lightfoot benefits, including spa credits and special dining experiences
- Discover two distinct sides of Sri Lanka's Hill Country at Uga Halloowella and Uga Ghiri
- Travel through the tea country on one of the world's most scenic railway journeys
- Search for leopards and elephants in Yala National Park
- Unwind on Sri Lanka's south coast overlooking the Indian Ocean
Lightfoot Travel is a fully licensed global tour operator with a 24/7 support line for our guests, giving you peace of mind on your holiday . We have three core values that underpin our commitment to creating meaningful holidays for our guests.
AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create holidays that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
EXPERT Travel with confidence, guided by experts. Our team boasts decades of first-hand knowledge and we are passionate about creating meaningful experiences for our guests. We specialise in unveiling the world’s most extraordinary and lesser-known destinations.
PERSONAL Your journey is as unique as you are. We take the time to understand what inspires and excites you, creating 100% tailormade itineraries that reflect your personality, interests, and holiday aspirations. Our bespoke holidays are designed to elevate every moment of your travel experience.
