How long does the Madu River Sunrise Safari take?

The Sunrise Safari is an approximately 2.5 to 3 hours guided boat tour through the waterways of Madu Ganga, Balapitiya.

What is included in the safari package?

Your safari includes a professional local guide and life jackets, along with a relaxing boat ride through the scenic mangrove tunnels and a beautiful sunrise experience over the calm waters of Madu Ganga. Along the journey, you’ll visit Five Cent Island, Cinnamon Island, and Kothduwa Temple Island, including a visit to the Kothduwa Temple. You’ll also stop by floating river stalls and shrimp farms, and experience mangrove exploration, cinnamon harvesting, and exciting wildlife encounters.

Is fish therapy and the baby crocodile experience included?

Fish therapy and the baby crocodile photo experience are available as optional add-ons at an additional cost.

Is the safari suitable for children and elderly guests?

Yes, the Madu River Safari is suitable for all ages. The boat ride is calm and comfortable, making it ideal for families, children, and elderly guests.

Where is Madu Ganga located and how do I get there?

It is located in Balapitiya on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, approximately 90 minutes south of Colombo and 30 minutes north of Galle.

Madu River Sunrise Safari – 3 Hour Boat Tour

Name: Jaliya Boat Safari
Price range: $

Best Season
November To April
Expert Local Guide
Included
Life Jackets
Provided
Free Cancellation
Available

Safari Overview

Safari Route

What's Included

Safari FAQs

Meeting Point

Safari Overview

Madu Ganga is one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured wetland sanctuaries, a Ramsar-listed mangrove ecosystem stretching along the southern coast near Balapitiya, just 90 minutes from Colombo. Home to crocodiles, water monitors, rare birdlife, and over 300 plant species, this hidden waterworld is unlike anywhere else on the island.

The Madu River Boat Safari glides you through narrow mangrove tunnels, past ancient island temples, and deep into a living ecosystem that few travellers get to witness. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for something extraordinary, this is it.

Safari Highlights:

A Serene Sunrise Experience on the Madu River
A Scenic Ride Through Ancient Mangrove Tunnels
Guided Visits to Cinnamon Island, Five Cent Island & Sacred Temple Island
Explore Floating River Stalls & Traditional Shrimp Farming
Wildlife Encounters: Kingfishers, Purple-faced Langurs, Crocodiles & more
Traditional Fish Therapy on the River
Exclusive Baby Crocodile Photo Experience

Stop 01 :

Welcome at Jaliya Boat Safari

Arrive at our head office near Madu River, Balapitiya. Get fitted with life jackets, complete the safety check, and enjoy a 15 minute introductory session with a Madu Ganga river map overview.

Stop 02 :

Sunrise Serenity on the River

Begin your journey with a breathtaking sunrise over the calm waters of Madu Ganga, as the river comes alive with soft light and early morning wildlife.

Stop 03 :

Mangrove Tunnel Ride

Board your boat and glide through the iconic mangrove tunnels of Madu Ganga, surrounded by a natural canopy of roots and branches.

Stop 04 :

Five Cent Island Visit

Arrive at Five Cent Island and explore this small inhabited island, offering a glimpse into traditional river life.

Stop 05 :

Sacred Temple Island Visit

Visit Temple Island to experience a serene, centuries-old temple set peacefully right in the middle of the river.

Stop 06 :

River Stalls & Shrimp Farming Culture

Cruise past floating river stalls and traditional shrimp farms, where you’ll witness local livelihoods and authentic Madu Ganga culture in action.