Truly escape the tourist trail with a visit to Delft, an island that sits just off the coast of Jaffna. This remote area has striking scenery and celebrates a simple way of life. Incredibly, it’s also home to a herd of wild horses, a centuries-old legacy of the Portuguese who colonised Sri Lanka in the 16th century.
- Experience the strangeness and simplicity of this remote island
- Learn about the island’s fascinating heritage and modern
- Discover untouched beaches rich in beauty and marine diversity
What's Included ?
Private Ferry, Host, Transport inside the island, Lunch
What to wear ?
Light cool clothing, sunscreen, a hat and shades, Swim Suites
Sail out into the Indian Ocean on a private ferry for a day exploring Delft, an alluring island with a fascinating past. Humble earthen houses protected by sturdy coral walls speckle the landscape, evidence of the simple way of life here. Your guide will take you to the serpent-shaped ‘Growing Rock’ and the grand Baobab tree which was a gift from ancient Arabic traders, and to the remnants of a colonial-era fort where the guiding Smoking Tower stands tall. You can also see the stupa where locals still worship each day. Next, follow the herds of wild horses down to the beach with its untouched sands and clear waters to discover the marine wonders of this diverse ecosystem. Complete the adventure with a taste of authenticity – an aloe vera juice and local rice and curry lunch.
What are the main attractions to see on Delft Island during the day trip?
The main attractions on Delft Island include the serpent-shaped ‘Growing Rock’, the grand Baobab tree gifted by ancient Arabic traders, remnants of a colonial-era fort with the notable Smoking Tower, the local stupa, and the pristine beach where wild horses roam.
What activities are included in the day trip to Delft Island?
The day trip to Delft Island typically includes exploring historical landmarks, witnessing local customs and rituals at the stupa, observing wild horses on the beach, and enjoying marine activities such as snorkeling or swimming in the clear waters.
What culinary experiences can visitors expect during the day trip?
Visitors can expect to taste authentic flavors of Delft Island with a refreshing aloe vera juice and a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch. These culinary delights offer a glimpse into the local cuisine and culinary heritage of the island.
“Our family had an incredible day trip to Delft Island, thanks to the well-organized tour. The guide provided fascinating insights into the island’s history and culture, and we were amazed by the unique attractions we visited, including the serpent-shaped ‘Growing Rock’ and the grand Baobab tree. The remnants of the colonial-era fort and the stupa were also highlights of the tour. The beach was breathtaking, and we enjoyed watching the wild horses roam freely. The aloe vera juice and local rice and curry lunch were delicious and provided a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience for our family.”
“Our day trip to Delft Island was a memorable adventure filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. The guide was knowledgeable and provided interesting information about the island’s landmarks. We particularly enjoyed seeing the Baobab tree and exploring the colonial-era fort. The beach was stunning, and we loved observing the wild horses. The aloe vera juice and local rice and curry lunch were delightful. Our only suggestion for improvement would be to include more time for marine activities like snorkeling. Nonetheless, it was a fantastic experience that we highly recommend.”
