Sri Lanka: Culture + Turtle Conservation | 21 Days

Discover Kandy’s culture, then help protect sea turtles on Ambalangoda’s stunning coast.

The Program

Itinerary

What you get

Where you stay

Requirement

Documents

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Begin your journey with an immersive week in Kandy, where you'll dive deep into Sri Lanka’s culture, traditions, and local life. Learn about Buddhism, join cooking classes, explore vibrant markets, and take part in craft workshops.

After culture week, head to Ambalangoda on the southern coast, a hotspot for turtle nesting grounds. Here, you'll volunteer at Sri Lanka’s only government-certified disabled turtle conservation center. Help rescue, rehabilitate, and care for injured turtles while contributing to hatchling releases, raising awareness among local communities, and supporting long-term marine conservation efforts.

This program offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and meaningful impact - perfect for those passionate about marine life, environmental conservation, and authentic local experiences.

Program Highlights

Start with a week of cultural immersion in Kandy - temples, cooking classes, crafts, and more.
Join Sri Lanka’s only certified disabled turtle conservation project in Ambalangoda.
Assist with cleaning, feeding, and caring for turtles from four different species.
Participate in hatchling releases, contributing to the survival of these endangered creatures.
Educate local communities about marine conservation and sustainable practices.
Enjoy stunning beaches and vibrant coastal life during your stay in Ambalangoda.

Week 1 – Culture Week in Kandy

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Kandy. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Spice Garden & Tea Factory
Visit a lush spice garden and learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices. Indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage, explore a tea factory, and enjoy local tastings.

Day 3: Markets & Cooking Class
Tour local markets, then dive into a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class. Visit a local temple to observe Buddhist rituals.

Day 4: Buddhism & Meditation
Learn about Buddhism, join a guided meditation session, and savor traditional snacks. Begin creating Sri Lankan handicrafts.

Day 5: Temple of the Tooth & Dance Lesson
Explore the Temple of the Tooth, stroll around Kandy Lake, and join a Kandyan dance lesson after lunch.

Day 6: Handicrafts & Viewpoints
Finish your handicrafts, visit the White Buddha, and enjoy panoramic city views from Kandy’s viewpoints.

Day 7: Free Exploration & Preparation
Relax and explore Kandy at your own pace before preparing for your volunteer placement.

Weeks 2 & 3 – Turtle Conservation Volunteering in Ambalangoda

Monday to Friday:

Weekly hatchling release (weather and season dependent).

Assist in cleaning turtle tanks and enclosures to maintain a hygienic environment.
Feed and care for injured turtles, monitoring their rehabilitation progress.
Help release baby turtles into the ocean, depending on weather and season.
Support beach cleaning efforts and help raise awareness among local fishermen.
Follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure turtle health and prevent infections.
Work under guidance from experienced local coordinators.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions, and unforeseen circumstances.

What’s Included

Accommodation from Sunday until Saturday noon of the last week
Pick up upon your arrival during the regular pick-up time and transportation during the program as per the scheduled activities
Daily meals — 3 meals on weekdays and 2 meals on weekends
Program materials, tools, and equipment needed
Supervision by experienced local project coordinators
Local team support 24/7

What’s Not Included

Flights and visa expenses
Travel insurance (required)
Personal expenses
Additional tours or activities not included in the program schedule

Location

Kandy
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush central highlands, Kandy is known as the island’s cultural capital. Famous for its sacred Temple of the Tooth, serene Kandy Lake, and bustling local markets, Kandy offers a vibrant blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Surrounded by misty hills and tea plantations, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich traditions and daily life during your Culture Week.

Ambalangoda
Located on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Ambalangoda is renowned for its pristine beaches, traditional mask-making, and as an important sea turtle nesting area. This laid-back coastal town offers the ideal setting to engage in meaningful conservation work while enjoying the tropical seaside atmosphere. The turquoise waters, palm-lined shores, and warm community vibe make it a beautiful and inspiring place to contribute to marine life preservation.

Accommodation

In Kandy, you’ll stay in a local volunteer house or guesthouse. Rooms are shared (typically 4–6 participants per room, same-gender), with shared bathrooms, common areas, and basic facilities including hot water and Wi-Fi in common spaces. Meals are provided at the accommodation or nearby dining areas and include a mix of local and international dishes.

In Ambalangoda, accommodation is at a volunteer house close to the beach and turtle conservation center. Rooms are also shared (same-gender), with basic facilities, communal spaces for relaxing, and shared bathrooms. The atmosphere is friendly and social, creating a strong sense of community among participants. Bedding is provided in both locations, but please bring your own towel and personal toiletries.

Standard Requirements

Minimum age: No strict minimum, but under 18s require parental consent and recommended adult accompaniment.
Maximum age: No maximum, but participants over 65 must provide medical clearance.
Minimum English level: Basic.
CRB required: On signup.
Passport copy required: On signup.
Resume copy required: Not required.
Required qualification: None.

Other Requirements

Participants over 65 years old must provide proof of physical fitness through a medical clearance, as the program includes various physical activities.
Participants under 18 years old must have a signed parental consent form. Accompaniment by an adult is strongly recommended.
Valid travel and medical insurance is required before arrival in Sri Lanka.
Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and polio.
A reasonable level of fitness is necessary, as work can be physically demanding and involves outdoor activities in hot, humid conditions.
Open wounds on hands or feet must be properly covered and may restrict turtle interaction for hygiene and safety reasons.
You must follow all instructions provided by local coordinators to ensure the safety and well-being of the turtles.

Good to Know

During turtle activities, the use of sunscreen, insect repellent, and any lotions is strictly prohibited to protect the turtles.
We strongly advise against visiting bars or pubs on the beach; any incidents resulting from such activities are not the responsibility of the local team.
Respect for local customs and cultural norms is essential throughout your stay.
The program involves working directly with animals and the ocean environment — expect to get wet and be prepared for hands-on tasks.