16 Day Sri Lanka Uncovered & The Maldives

This tour includes return international airfares. See the Fine Print section for further details.

Airfares
Included

This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.

Escorted Type
Fully Escorted

This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5

 

Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

 

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.

Pace
Balanced

Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.

Group Size
Small Group
Small Group Tour
7,976 people have travelled to this destination

✓ Return international airfares included
✓ 11 nights in 3 to 5-star accommodation, including 2 nights at the 5-star Sigiriya Jungles hotel
✓ 3 nights in the Maldives, staying at Adaaran Resort 
✓ Return speedboat transfers in the Maldives
Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 4 dinners 
✓ Ride the iconic train from Haputale to Nuwara Eliya
✓ Dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ Escorted by an English-speaking leader throughout (Days 1-11)
✓ International flight from Colombo to Malé
✓ Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

✓ If you are wanting to travel in 2024 - please click here

What we love about this tour

Experience the very best of Sri Lanka and unwind in the Maldives on a 3 night stay on this small group tour. A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, explore Colombo, Galle Fort, Nuwara Eliya's tea country, and game drives at Yala and Minneriya national parks. 

Itinerary

Hotel
Pegasus Reef Hotel or Similar

Welcome to Sri Lanka!

On arrival into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Check in and relax after your international flight. As most flights arrive late in the evening, we recommend booking a night prior to your tour commencing to ensure you are well rested.

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Hotel
Tangerine Beach Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After breakfast, your leader will provide a brief introduction. Before we depart to the South West Coast, we will take some time to explore the capital of Colombo.

Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, has a long history as a port on ancient east-west trade routes, ruled successively by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. This heritage is reflected in its architecture, mixing colonial buildings with high-rises and shopping malls. 

We will also visit the Colombo National Museum. This charming museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Sri Lankan history. Housed in a stunning neo-Baroque building, which was specifically constructed by William Henry Gregory, Governor of Ceylon, in 1877, the museum boasts a gleaming white façade. As you make your way through the various rooms, you'll encounter exhibits dedicated to each of Sri Lanka's historical kingdoms. Informational display boards provide intriguing insights, such as the meaning behind the mudras (gestures and poses) depicted in Sri Lanka's Buddha statues.

You will arrive at your hotel in the afternoon, where you will have the evening at your leisure.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Colombo National Museum

Special Information 

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Hotel
Tangerine Beach Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the charming town of Balapitiya, where you’ll embark on a scenic boat ride along the Madu River. The river is home to 64 islands, and one notable stop is Cinnamon Island, known locally as “Kurundu Doowa.” During your visit, you'll gain a fascinating insight into the process of cinnamon production, as Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer of pure cinnamon!

Next, head to the historic Galle Fort, renowned for its impressive fortifications. This city beautifully blends the past with the present. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, Galle Fort showcases the architectural influences of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, making it a captivating place to explore.

Afterward, return to your hotel.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Madu River
  • Galle Fort

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Hotel
Mandara Rosen Kataragama or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

We enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Yala National Park. Check in and relax at your hotel.

Spend your afternoon on a guided game drive exploring the dynamic wildlife and the most luxuriant plant life in Yala National Park. Being one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka, it is the ideal place to sight the rare leopard! The game drive will take place in the late afternoon, returning around sunset, as this is an optimal time for animal viewing.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Yala National Park

Special Information 

Yala National Park is closed for routine maintenance in September/October under the direction of the local government. The exact dates will not be advised until 1-2 months prior to departure. During this time Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park (Block 5) will be visited and offers equal animal sighting opportunities.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours, not including Game Drives.

Hotel
Olympus Plaza Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After a leisurely breakfast, we leave for Haputale.

En route, we witness the picturesque waterfall, Rawana Waterfall.

This afternoon we will drive to Nine Arch Bridge - also called the Bridge in the Sky is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. The construction of the bridge is generally attributed to a local Ceylonese builder, in consultation with British engineers. It is located in Demodara, between Ella and Demodara railway stations. The surrounding area has seen a steady increase of tourism due to the bridge's architectural ingenuity and the profuse greenery in the nearby hillsides.

Check-in a your hotel and enjoy your evening at leisure.

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Rawana Waterfall
  •  Nine Arch Bridge 

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Optional Tour - Morning Safari Yala National Park

Enjoy a morning Safari in Yala National Park. Departing around sunrise, it allows you to witness animals greeting the morning light and affords you extra time in the safari park to spot its elusive species.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: All entrance and government fees.
Start Time: 6.00am
End Time: 9.00am

Hotel
Olympus Plaza Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy a full day to relax in the hilly surrounds of Haputale. 

In the afternoon, if time permits, the coach will depart for an afternoon at leisure in Ella, returning in time for dinner in Haputale.

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Ella

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Optional Tour - Horton Plains & World’s End


At approximately 5:30am, leave for Horton Plains National Park. This park holds great importance due to the rich and unique biodiversity and being a catchment area feeding some of the main rivers of Sri Lanka. It is also known to be a 'super biodiversity hotspot' and thus declared a UNESCO site in 2010. The national park is most famous for the vista - World's End.

You will be accompanied by a private escort the entire duration of the hike - from the Horton Plains Park Park Office, to World's End (via Mini World's End) and back. Wear strong and comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunglasses. Bring sunscreen, food and water. The weather can change very quickly on the plains – one minute it can be sunny and clear, the next chilly and misty. Bring a few extra layers of warm clothing.

Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Return transfers, entrance into Horton Plains National Park, packed breakfast, private escort
Start Time: 5.30am
End Time: 12.30pm

Note: 7.5km round trip - 150m elevation gain. There are no safety rails available so we recommend this activity for those who are physically fit and go on long walks often. We do not recommend this if you have a difficult time walking along uneven, potentially wet, and rocky terrain.

Hotel
Ramboda Falls Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After an early breakfast, we leave our hotel in Haputale and head to the train station in Bandarawela. From there, we journey by train through the scenic region of Nuwara Eliya, arriving at Nanuoya Station.

On arrival we visit a tea plantation and factory. Here you will enjoy the absolute tea experience, taking you to the moment the young tea leaves are plucked from the plantation to being processed in the factory to make a steamy cup of tea. If you are interested, the tea factory is the best place to purchase good quality tea.

Enjoy an evening at your leisure. 

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Nuwara Eliya Train Journey
  •  Tea Plantation 

Special Information

It is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation due to the fact that Sri Lanka Railway has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The 1st and 2nd class is basic but has air-conditioning. The non-air conditioned 3rd class sometimes is the only option based availability. On the rare occasion the train is fully booked we’ll conduct the route by road and the train journey would be conducted on day 8.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours. 

Hotel
Topaz Hotel Kandy or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today after breakfast we leave for Kandy. Enjoy breathtaking sceneries of the tea country and picturesque waterfalls.

Kandy, the Hill Capital (1514 – 1815 AD). Originally known as Senkadagala, the city eventually came to be known as Kandy. Kandy was declared as an UNESCO heritage site in 1988. The style and character of the Sri Lankan civilization at the time is well articulated in the heart of the city itself, with its lake, the temples including the Temple of the Tooth Relic (visit at own expense) and the well preserved ruins of the royal palaces.

On arrival, we check in to our hotel, allowing you time to explore the town. 

This evening enjoy a typical Sri Lankan Cultural Performance with Kandy Market & Bazaar tour. 

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Kandy Market & Bazaar

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Hotel
SigiriyaJungles or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we proceed to Sigiriya, stopping on route to visit Dambulla cave temple. Built in the first century BC, it is recognized to be the largest cave sanctuary in the world with its 2000 m2 of walls and ceilings painted more than 150 Buddha images whose largest engraved in the rock reaches 14 metres high. We'll proceed with a visit to the Spice Garden in Matale before heading to your Inspiring Stay at the 5-star Sigiriya Jungles Resort, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

This afternoon, set out on an exclusively private jeep safari at the Minneriya National Park to witness the unique phenomenon of elephant gathering. During the dry season, from June to September, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank for water. Such a large number of elephants could not be sighted at one place, anywhere else in the world! 

Tonight, enjoy a group dinner and celebrate your new friendships.

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Dambulla Cave
  •  Spice Garden
  •  Minneriya National Park

Special Information 

Since elephants are migratory animals, we may visit Wasgamuwa National Park on this day instead, pending elephant locations.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours, not including Jeep Safari.

Hotel
SigiriyaJungles or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast we proceed to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and climb the Sigiriya Rock, one of the most extraordinary artistic complexes of its time (477 – 498 AD). Declared as an UNESCO heritage site in 1982, this magnificent citadel allures artistic and architectural curiosity from around the globe. 

Return to the hotel to relax before taking part in an Inspiring Taste cooking demonstration of Sri Lankan rice and curry preparation (5-6 curries including a specialty crab dish) and enjoy the typical Sri Lankan lunch overlooking the paddy fields. 

This afternoon enjoy a sightseeing tour of the medieval capital city of Polonnaruwa. This was declared as an UNESCO heritage site in 1982. After the demise of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa became the middle historic capital of Sri Lanka (1017 – 1235 AD).

Enjoy a second night in your Inspiring Stay and its surroundings.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Sigiriya Rock 
  •  Polonnaruwa City

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Hotel
Goldi Sands Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today, after breakfast, depart the beauty of Sigiriya as we make the drive back to Negombo. On arrival, enjoy the afternoon free at leisure to explore the coast and the local activity or simply relax by the pool. 

Special Information 

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Hotel
Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a visit to the Fish Market. Negombo is home for the Island’s second largest fish market, as locals call – “Lellama”.

At the appropriate time, make your own way to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to board your flight to Malé.

Welcome to Paradise! A visit to the Maldives is truly a dream come true. This stunning tropical nation lies within the Indian Ocean and is composed of 26 colourful coral atolls composed of hundreds of idyllic islands. The Maldives is world famous for its beautiful beaches, sapphire blue lagoons and extensive coral reefs.

Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel by speed boat.

After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, taking in the gorgeous tropical landscape.

 

Inspiring Highlights

  •  Negombo Fish Market

Special Information 

Today you will say goodbye to your Tour Leader in Sri Lanka, and the rest of your tour will be Independant.

Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 30kg (66lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you to ensure that your journey is trouble free. 

At Male Airport, a representative will greet you with an "Adaraan" name board. If you have difficulty finding the representative, please proceed directly to the Adaaran counter B3 in the airport lounge, next to the baggage claim area.

Your all-inclusive Maldives package includes:

  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily - snacks & cakes are available outside main mealtimes
  • Tea, coffee, iced tea, cordials & water are available from 07.30am to midnight
  • Whisky, brandy, gin, vodka, rum, draft beer, house wines, soft drinks, selected cocktails & mocktails beverages are served until midnight (no alcoholic beverages for guests under 18 years of age). Additional cost may apply during excursions
  • Meals and drinks are included until midday on the date of departure

Hotel
Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning enjoy a delicious breakfast while admiring the surrounding low-lying islands that make up the utopian Maldives. Every atoll here is formed by centuries of coral reef growth, and each is encircled by a shallow lagoon, protected by the surrounding reef systems. The islands here have tropical castaway qualities: tall coconut palms, white sandy beaches and crystal clear lagoons. Today you may enjoy an entire day of leisure, participating in some of the many exciting activities that the islands have to offer.

Our hotel offers some phenomenal snorkelling opportunities, where you can explore the shallow oases at the island's edge. You may also choose to enjoy some exciting optional water sport activities, such as catamaran sailing where you can experience the thrill of riding the winds and speeding through the crystal waters. Canoeing may also appeal to those who seek tranquillity while they enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Windsurfing is also an activity available to the more adventurous. There really is no end to the adventures you may seek as you explore the wonderful Maldives - jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving may also be on your list.

Hotel
Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following another delicious breakfast this morning, you may enjoy yet another day of leisure in the dreamy Maldives. Enjoy any number of the incredible activities available to you, and make the most of your fantastic adventure here. Alternatively, relax on the beach and take in the picture-perfect surroundings while dipping your toes in the warm, luscious waters of the Indian Ocean. You will have never known true relaxation until you set foot on this luxurious white sandy beach.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you will be transferred by speedboat to Velana International Airport (MLE) in time for your departure flight.

Arrive home today, with memories to last a lifetime.

Inclusions

  • Return international airfares included
  • 11 nights in 3 to 5-star accommodation, including 2 nights at the 5-star Sigiriya Jungles hotel
  • 3 nights in the Maldives, staying at Adaaran Resort 
  • Return speedboat transfers in the Maldives
  • Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 4 dinners 
  • Ride the iconic train from Haputale to Nuwara Eliya
  • Dedicated private transportation throughout
  • Escorted by an English-speaking leader throughout (Days 1-11)
  • International flight from Colombo to Malé
  •  Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

  • Colombo – Sightseeing tour
  • Galle – Galle Fort tour
  • South West Coast – South West Coast beaches
  • Yala National Park – Guided game drives
  • Nuwara Eliya – Scenic Train ride
  • Nuwara Eliya – Tea plantation and factory visit
  • Kandy – Traditional cultural performance
  • Minneriya National Park – Guided game drive
  • Sigiriya – Lion Rock visit
  • Sigiriya – UNESCO World Heritage Site Polonnaruwa
  • Maldives – Relax in the Maldives

Inspiring Sights

  • In depth sightseeing leaving no stone unturned

Inspiring Tastes

  • Take part in an Inspiring Taste cooking demonstration of Sri Lankan rice and curry preparation (5-6 curries including a specialty crab dish) and enjoy the typical Sri Lankan lunch overlooking the paddy fields.

Inspiring Stay

  • Relax in style and enjoy 2 nights at the 5 star Sigiriya Jungles hotel overlooking an iconic rock fortress.

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

  • Morning Safari Yala National Park (Day 5) - $105 per person
  • Horton Plains & World’s End (Day 6) - $105 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

Pre/Post accommodation 
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

  • $97.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $91.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

  • $0.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $0.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Maldive Bungalow Upgrades 
Upgrade your three nights in the Maldives from a standard to an overwater bungalow for an extra NZ $1,933 per room, single share (NZ $967 per person twin share).

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
You will have the option choose single, twin or double:

1 - Single Supplement

By paying an additional $1,877.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share
Not available

Child Policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Essential Information

Payment Information 
This product requires full payment upfront to secure your booking. 

Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 90 days from departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. 

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions 

  • Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an impressive sight and is one of the highlights of this tour. However, if you have a fear of heights you might prefer to skip this excursion as climbing the rock requires navigating numerous uneven, narrow steps and confined walkways. 
  • During the summer months in Sri Lanka, the weather can be extremely hot, accompanied by brief but intense rainstorms in the southwestern region. Make sure to evaluate if this season is suitable for your travel plans, and remember to use sufficient sun protection and stay well-hydrated.
  • Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. Please refer to the itinerary.
  • This tour is a combination of two smaller journeys. Not all of your fellow passengers will be travelling onward with you to the Maldives. Some travellers may be continuing onwards to the North of Sri Lanka, and others may be finishing their time in Sri Lanka early. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours. 

When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations

We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.

Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.

Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

  • Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
  • Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
  • Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

  • Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
  • Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
  • Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.  

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!

Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you are needing to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty. 

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination. 

Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.

To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by express train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. 

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice. 

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider. 

Welcome Meeting Instructions
You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. At 8am on Day 2, your guide will give you a brief introduction before we make the drive along the South Coast. Please ensure that you are on time.

In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting. 

This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.

If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section

Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and flights will be added to your booking. 

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.

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