A visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery followed by a scenic Madu River Boat Safari offers a perfect blend of wildlife conservation and nature exploration. Start your journey at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, where you can witness Sri Lanka’s dedicated efforts in protecting endangered sea turtles. Then, embark on a breathtaking boat ride along the Madu River, an ecological treasure rich in mangroves, wildlife, and cultural experiences. This tour provides a unique opportunity to engage with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty while learning about conservation efforts and local traditions.
Highlights:
During this tour, you will visit the following points of interest in the specified order.
- Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
- Madu River Safari
- Madu River
- Fish Therapy
- Sathapaha Duwa
-
Ja Kotu - Prawns Fishing Kraals
- Mangrove Caves - Kadolana
- Kothduwa Purana Raja Maha Viharaya
- Cinnamon Island
- The Sekkuwa Demonstration
- Crafting Traditional Sri Lankan Masks
Includes:
- Entrance tickets are included when "With Tickets" selected.
- Experienced Driver (Also your tracker).
- Free Pickup/Drop off from/to any location within the radius of 5 KM from the Kosgoda. (GPS: 6.3354° N, 80.0339° E)
- Water.
- All taxes and service charges.
Excludes:
- Entrance tickets are excluded when "Without Tickets" selected.
- Food and drinks.
- Gratuities.
Meeting:
Our designated meeting point is the Kosgoda (GPS: 6.3354° N, 80.0339° E) of the Kosgoda.
Experience:
Begin your journey at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a sanctuary for endangered sea turtles. Here, visitors can learn about conservation efforts, witness baby turtles, and even participate in a responsible turtle release program, fostering awareness about marine life protection. The hatchery also rescues and rehabilitates injured turtles, ensuring their safe return to the ocean.
Next, continue to the Madu River, where a 1.5-hour motorboat safari takes you through an ecological wonderland consisting of 64 small islands and lush mangrove forests. The river, home to Sri Lanka’s largest remaining mangrove swamp, is a sanctuary for various reptiles, fish, and birds. Glide through shaded tunnels formed by mangrove roots while spotting diverse wildlife.
The safari includes stops at Kothduwa Purana Raja Maha Viharaya, a sacred Buddhist temple accessible only by boat, and Cinnamon Island, where you can witness the age-old art of cinnamon production. Another fascinating stop is Sathapaha Duwa, the smallest island on the Madu River, home to a revered shrine dedicated to Kataragama.
For a hands-on experience, enjoy a natural fish therapy session, where tiny fish gently nibble at your feet, providing a relaxing foot massage. You will also witness a demonstration of traditional coconut oil pressing (Sekkuwa) and observe skilled artisans crafting Sri Lankan masks using time-honored techniques. The journey also includes exploring Mangrove Caves in Kadolana, learning about Ja Kotu (Prawn Fishing Kraals), and experiencing the unique biodiversity of the Madu River wetlands.
This unique tour blends wildlife conservation, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience along Sri Lanka’s stunning southern coast.
