Excursion Elephants of pinnawela by coach tour at Colombo
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Learn about and observe the care, feeding and conservation of the elephants of Pinnawela during this memorable full-day tour to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.
Depart the pier for an approximate 3-hour drive to Pinnawela. A comfort stop will be made en-route.
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage was created to care for baby elephants found abandoned or orphaned. Today, approximately 80 animals are cared for, fed, studied and trained by the Sri Lankan Wildlife Authority. Once acclimated to a lifestyle in captivity, the elephants are unable to care for themselves in the wild. As a result, they grow up and reproduce in the protection of the reserve, and very small babies may be spotted amongst the ever-growing family.
Elephant Care, Bathing & Feeding
During your visit, the staff explains and demonstrates the care afforded to these magnificent animals, as well as the on-going battle for the conservation of their native habitats. If your timing is right, you can observe the staff helping the elephants take their daily bath in the nearby river. Your visit includes a relaxing lunch at the Pinnalanda River View restaurant, followed by an opportunity to watch the elephants being fed.
At the conclusion of your visit, board your caoch for approximate 3-hour drive back to the port.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Colombo, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Elephant Care, Bathing and Feeding
Note
Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 530 yards (484 metres) over uneven surfaces and 50 steps at the Colombo Railway Station, 60 steps at the Rambukana Railway Station, 8 steps at the Pinnalanda River View Restaurant, 30 steps to view elephant bathing at the river and 15 steps at the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Vehicles used are the best available in the city; they are not of the same standards as vehicles found in Western countries. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection from the ship. Expect crowds at the sites visited. The Pinnalanda River View restaurant is air-cooled. Elephants at Pinnawela are not fully-tamed; guests should avoid proximity with the animals. Total time spent at the orphanage is approximately 1 hour, and 1-hour for lunch.