Thank you for choosing to travel with us
Art Safari is a unique way of travelling, a world leader in creative adventures. We pride ourselves in being professional artists as well as being a professional tour operator.
Combining travel, art, adventure and huge amounts of inspiration and fun since 2003, Art Safari leads plein air painting holidays to destinations worldwide. Founded by artist Mary-Anne Bartlett, Art Safari has led more than 250 tours in Africa, Asia, Europe as well as Antarctica and the Arctic. Each year we have of wide selection of tours, often including India, Japan, Uzbekistan, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Morocco, Galapagos, France and Italy.
Colour, shape and action in magical wildlife, wilderness and city destinations
Your travel sketchbooks will become visual diaries, full of the wonders of the world. Art Safari is for all those inspired to paint by travel and wildlife.
Whether you are a beginner, or you are already an experienced artist, Art Safari’s professional team of tutors and guides will encourage you to sit, look, sketch, observe, soak up the atmosphere and produce many sketches and paintings of your new environment. Our tutors include Mary-Anne Bartlett, Paul Green, Rachel Ivanyi, Ian Sedge, Karen Pearson, John Threlfall, Shelly Perkins, Mark Boyd, Julia Cassels, Darren Rees, Roger Dellar, Maxine Relton, Vicki Norman, Tom Shepherd and Claudia Myatt.
Take in detail, observe, learn and collect memories in sketches and paintings
Art Safari’s holidays are for creative explorers: artists, writers, photographers and non-painters. Whether travelling on your own or not, you are welcomed into a like-minded group and you can be assured of inspiration, good food, comfort and style.
Photographers and non-painters will experience new ways of seeing from the art tutor as well as enjoying all the benefits of relaxed wildlife viewing and personal safari guiding – brilliant for photography, bird watching and learning more about nature.
Art Safari also operates a separate tour company Close Encounters for private tailor-made holidays: our team of specialists will introduce you to experts in nature worldwide as well as organise dreamy tours, honeymoons and specialist travel.
The painting holiday of a lifetime
We know that you have moved mountains to make this trip possible and our team here in the UK will do everything to make it as special as possible. Please tell your tour leader if we can improve on anything.
With all the memories, paintings, sketches and photos, your Art Safari will stay with you forever. We hope that you enjoy it to the full, making the most of every moment. When you come back, keep in mind that we’re planning new destinations all the time, so feel free to ask about what’s coming up – or even to suggest new routes!
Have a good trip!
ART SAFARI TRAVELLER’S CODE
Art Safari believes that this code of travel will not only benefit travellers’ themselves, but also the people and environments of the country they are visiting. Through preparation and understanding, all those who travel with Art Safari can expect to have a wonderful and meaningful trip, secure in the knowledge that they are showing a high regard for the people and culture of their chosen destination.
BEFORE YOU GO
- To really get the most out of your trip, do some research on the places you will be visiting. Forewarned is forearmed, and it is really useful to be aware of the different cultural practices and taboos of the country you are visiting. Local music and literature can help you to get a feel for the place before you go, as well as the ever-useful guidebook.
- Language can often be a barrier to understanding and tolerance, and even learning just a few phrases of the local lingo can be of tremendous benefit for you. Often, people find the doors are opened to an even more ‘real’ holiday experience.
MONEY & COSTS
Different places have different cultures with regards to costs, tipping and service charges, bartering, begging, guides, and tourist services. Guidebooks normally have sections explaining these things, and they are worth paying attention to, so you do not offend anyone or encourage a practice that authorities are trying to wipe out.
Local and community run guided tours are great to go on for educational value, and for the precious input they create for the benefit of local communities.
- Be aware, in particular, of giving to children begging. Very often they are not the beneficiaries of your donation, and it also means they are less likely to go to school if they earn more for their family whilst begging.
- Try to ensure that as much of your money as possible stays in the local community by buying local produce and souvenirs wherever possible, and not international brands. Sometimes, as much as 90 pence spent in every pound by tourists can end up outside the host country.
- When bargaining, remember that small amounts can mean a lot more to the vendor than to you, so try to keep it lighthearted! Remember how wealthy you will often be in comparison with the local people.
- Try to have a good supply of notes in small denominations of US dollars and local currency.
LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & RESOURCES
- Respect the environment by taking your litter back to your hotel or accommodation, by recycling as much as possible and by taking waste such as batteries back to your home country where disposal services are more available.
- Please resist collecting animal and vegetable mementos: do not pick wildflowers and plants, do not collect items which may spread disease such as feathers and bones, seeds etc.
- If you smoke, take an old film canister for storing your butt-ends until you can find a bin. Be careful with cigarette butts and used matches. They can easily start a fire in tinder dry grasslands.
- If you go on a safari, or visit national parks, remember to stick to the routes the guides set, or the paths set out on the guide map. This will help preserve wildlife and natural habitats. Please avoid buying products that are made from endangered animals and plants.
- Most hotels and guesthouses have a policy of washing bed sheets and towels every three days to minimise the impact that washing can have. Washing has a big impact on water consumption and detergents damage the environment.
- Conserve water. Conserve energy. Try to use as little water and electricity as possible, not just in the hotels, but also during every part of your trip. Water is precious. A simple thing like not running the tap whilst cleaning teeth and turning the shower off whilst soaping yourself, can save a great deal of water.
CULTURE & PHOTOGRAPHY
- Photographs can be the most memorable souvenirs of a holiday, and many people want to take lots. However, please do remember it can be offensive to take someone’s picture without their permission. Sometimes a souvenir postcard has a better picture, and also supports the local economy.
- Cultural differences should be appreciated, and cultural practices adopted wherever possible, without seeming patronising.
- It is wise to know the local laws on drinking and drugs, and to obey them at all times. Quite often, alcohol and drugs are seen to be culturally offensive, as well as being dangerous to you.
NATURE MATTERS
• Wildlife can be dangerous. Remember that your guide is an expert, so always follow his/her advice and ask questions if you are unsure of anything.
• Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot. This is especially important near lodges or in campsites where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors.
• Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals and birds and is unsightly.
• Although the countryside is known to be home to a number of potentially dangerous species, especially snakes, scorpions, spiders and insects, very few visitors are adversely affected. Snakes tend to be shy, and generally stay away from built-up areas. Lodges and hotels often have insect (especially mosquito) proofing in their rooms. If you go on a walk, it is always a good idea to wear comfortable, enclosed walking shoes, socks, and long trousers – just as a precaution.
Lying between the more explored parts of India and Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka's history, culture, and natural beauty make it an undeniably alluring destination. A historian's playground, Sri Lanka has a history that dates back 3,000 years and is one of a few places offering as many as eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the world-renowned Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple. Like its massive neighbour India Sri Lanka is a diverse country, home to many religions, ethnicities and languages. Its size, however, means that visitors can spend time meditating in a 2000-year-old temple in the morning, touring the sacred home of the world's oldest living human-planted tree in the afternoon and savouring mouth-watering local rice and curry dishes for dinner. It is also still blessed with various wildlife that has survived on this small island for centuries alongside this human civilisation, including the mighty Sri Lankan Elephant. A true gem, Sri Lanka has something for everyone - from the modern city of Colombo with its skyscrapers to national parks teeming with elephants and miles of pristine beaches that offer epic surf.
Entry Requirements
As an international traveller, you are required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation’ (ETA) online in advance of your travel. We advise you apply through the government website rather than an agency. More details can be found here: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/extsheta.jsp?locale=en_US
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa under ETA is ideal for individuals visiting Sri Lanka for leisure or other non-business-related purposes. Activities allowed under the Tourist Visa include:
Sightseeing and Holidaying: Perfect for those exploring the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Sri Lanka.
Visiting Friends and Relatives: If you're visiting family or friends in Sri Lanka, this visa covers that purpose.
Medical Treatment: Visitors seeking traditional Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, or other medical procedures can use this visa.
Cultural and Sporting Events: Participation in cultural performances, sporting events, or competitions is permitted under the Tourist Visa.
Applying for an ETA is a straightforward process. You can easily apply online by visiting the official website of the Sri Lanka ETA system. You will need to provide basic personal information, select the type of visa you are applying for (Tourist, Business, or Transit), and pay the necessary fees. Most ETA applications are processed within 24 hours, and you will receive the approval note via email. Be sure to print this note and carry it with you during your travels.
The ETA Approval Note is an essential document for anyone visiting Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit purposes. By understanding the categories, conditions, and requirements associated with the ETA, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Sri Lanka. Whether you're exploring the beautiful landscapes, attending a conference, or passing through the country, the ETA simplifies your travel experience, offering convenience and efficiency for short-term stays. For further details or assistance, you can visit the official website or consult the frequently asked questions section.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Sri Lankan Rupee
Symbol: ₨ in English, රු in Sinhala,
ISO code: LKR
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: රු20, රු50, රු100, රු500, රු1000, රු1000, රු5000
Coins: රු1, රු2, රු5, රු10
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Saturdays - Selected businesses 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM | Sundays - Closed
Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: SriLankan Airlines
International Airports: Bandaranaike International Airport
Domestic Airports: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Ratmalana Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Health and Medical Information
There is a high endemic risk of Dengue fever, there is no preventative medication for this viral infection which is spread by mosquitos, take every precaution to avoid being bitten by mosquitos. There is also a low but present risk of Zika virus and Chikungunya, both of these infections are also caused by mosquitos.
Precautions: rigorous bite-avoidance (DEET or picaridin repellents, long sleeves at dawn/dusk). Consult your travel-health clinic or GP before you go.
INOCULATIONS
This information has been taken from Travel Health Pro as recommended by the UK government.
• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: tetanus;.
• Other vaccines to consider: Chikungunya; Cholera; Dengue: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Japanese encephalitis; Rabies; Tuberculosis; Typhoid
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate - Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Please note that for your own safety you should inform us about any intolerances or allergies against any medications that you may have and also of any medical conditions, for example high blood pressure, epilepsy, asthma, heart conditions, etc. Make sure you know your blood group.
For detailed and/or definitive medical advice, please consult your physician. Your medical requirements are your responsibility, seek pre-travel health advice (6–8 weeks before departure).
Safety Notices
As with travel to anywhere in the world, it’s always sensible to be cautious. Be observant, and avoid displaying expensive cameras, jewellery or cash in the way of temptation. Deposit valuables in your hotel’s safety deposit box if there is one. Do not leave your baggage or hotel key unattended.
Always have a photocopy of your passport, and any visas, kept separately from your real one. It is never a good idea to carry large amounts of cash openly or in one stash. When you need cash for purchases at local markets keep some in a purse, and the rest in a travel wallet, or a zip pocket.
Remember that your guide is an expert, so always follow their advice and ask them questions if you are unsure of anything.
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its aromatic spices, vibrant flavours and rich variety. Rice and curry are staples, often accompanied by dishes like dhal (lentil curry), sambol (coconut relish), and hoppers (pancakes). Notable local drinks include king coconut water, arrack (coconut spirit), and Ceylon tea.
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 2000 - 3000 mm
Average temperature: 27°C
Summer:
Average highs: 31°C
Average lows: 25°C
Winter:
Average highs: 29°C
Average lows: 23°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March, during the dry season, when the weather is generally sunny and pleasant.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet access is widely available in Sri Lanka, especially in major towns, cities, and tourist areas. Mobile data coverage (mainly 4G) is generally reliable, though speeds and availability can drop in rural or remote regions. Wi-Fi is common in hotels and restaurants, but mobile data is often the most dependable option while travelling.
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
TELEPHONE
The international code for Sri Lanka is +94, followed by the area code or mobile prefix and the individual telephone number.
If you wish to call overseas from Sri Lanka, dial 00, then the country code, area code, and the number of the person you wish to reach.
MOBILE TELEPHONES
Using roaming with your foreign mobile can be very expensive, so check with your service provider before you travel.
It is easy and inexpensive to buy a local SIM card on arrival. Major providers offer prepaid and tourist SIMs with data and local call packages. If you plan to use one, make sure your smartphone is unlocked.
Electricity and Plug Standards
Sri Lanka uses a range of sockets, so your full range of travel adaptors may come in useful. Specialised Sri Lankan adaptors can be bought in major hotels and many shops. UK sockets (square pinned) tend to be used, although older hotels, especially in the hill country, may use older UK sockets (round pinned). The voltage in Sri Lanka is 230 and not 110. Adapters are available in most hotels.
Plug Type: Type D, Type G
Voltage (V): 230V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz
Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
General Guidance
Time Zone
Sri Lanka is 05.30 hours ahead of the United Kingdom (SLST).
Language
Sinhala and Tamil are the primary languages of most Sri Lankans, and English is widely spoken in urban areas. It is always helpful to know a few phrases in the spoken language, especially in more rural areas.
Hello = Hallo
Please = Vennligst
Thank you = Takk
Goodbye = Adjø
How much is it? = Hvor mye er det?
Excuse me = Unnskyld meg
Yes = Ja
No = Nei
I don’t understand = jeg forstår ikke
Help! = Hjelp!
Religion
Most of the population is Buddhist.
