Wander Women Sri Lanka:
A Yoga + Adventure Retreat
Colombo, Weligama, Ella + Beyond
February 13-21, 2026
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey of surfing, safaris, spas and waterfall summits through Wander Women’s latest “it” destination — Sri Lanka! Nine days of friendship, curated experiences and core memories loading.
This is a real-life land where golden beaches meet jungle-clad mountains, ancient temples neighbor colonial forts, and wildlife roams freely under vast tropical skies. Diving in, we’ll journey from the historic charm of Galle to the lively surf breaks of Weligama, and from the untamed wilderness of Yala to the emerald tea plantations of Ella. Our adventure ends in the bustling capital of Colombo; a final taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse and unforgettable destinations.
Once a whispered secret, the teardrop-shaped isle of Sri Lanka has earned its spot on the global stage. Come see why it’s more than “the next Bali” — it’s a destination that’s entirely its own. After falling for the island’s soul on her first visit in 2024, Alex will be bringing you along on a deeply personal invitation to explore.
Throughout the week, we’ll rest our heads in soul-stirring stays, ranging from chic urban boutique hotels to glam jungle lodges and a beachside wellness wanderland — each handpicked for its style and sense of place. We’ll eat local, travel thoughtfully, and share moments that only a Wander Women trip can deliver.
And you won’t have to worry about the memories ever fading, because our Wander Women capture queen, Rayna, will be behind the lens every step of the way.
As with all Wander Women Retreats, we travel mindfully by partnering with small, locally-owned businesses and doing our best to leave only the smallest of footprints.
“Island hopping” sound appealing? Join us on our Wander Women Maldives retreat immediately following Wander Women Sri Lanka to soak up the sea, sun and finned friends of the Deep South – it’s just a ninety minute flight away!
The Details
This nine day retreat will be held from February 13-21st, 2026, and is $3,800 for shared accommodation.
Update – This retreat has met the minimum booking number and is now a guaranteed departure!
What’s Included
• Eight nights of unique accommodation
• Two meals a day
• Daily yoga
• All outlined activities
• All local transportation + airport transfers
• A custom welcome bag
• Tipping handled—so you don’t have to stress
• Professional photos of the trip
• Donation to local NGOs
What’s Not Included
• Flights
• Additional meals, alcohol or activities not specified in the itinerary
• Mandatory travel insurance
The Itinerary
Subject to change, but you’re going to have a magical time — here’s the general idea!
Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be whisked away by private transport to our first stop on the map — Galle. This quaint seaside gem is famed for it’s UNESCO-listed fortress walls, chic cafes, and vibrant boutiques. After checking into our oasis-like accommodation, join us poolside for an unwinding yoga session before we head into town by tuk-tuk (the country’s main form of transport!). We’ll cheers to the trip ahead with rooftop sunset drinks before a welcome dinner at a buzzy East-meets-West restaurant on the cobbled streets. Perhaps we’ll even stop for an arak cocktail nightcap on the way home, a local specialty distilled from the fermented sap of coconut palm flowers!
Day 2: Start your day with breakfast by the pool, then join our local guide for a tour of the historic Dutch Fort and an insider’s look at the stories behind this charming city. We’ll make plenty of stops along the way, browsing local shops and scoping out tempting spots for a leisurely lunch of your choosing. After lunch, with bellies full and step counts high, we’ll bid farewell to Galle and follow the coastline to our next destination — Weligama. Once we’ve checked in to our beachside wellness oasis, the afternoon is yours to unwind — stretch it out in the yoga sala, cool off in the pool, or simply enjoy some “toes up time!” As the day winds down, we’ll head to a local viewpoint for sunset, followed by dinner at an authentic Sri Lankan curry house — sampling a mouthwatering spread of regional specialties.
Day 3: Rise and shine for a relaxed morning yoga flow and breakfast at your leisure. After fueling up, we’re headed to the shores of Weligama for a surf lesson at a world famous break uniquely enjoyable for both beginners and intermediate surfers alike! Salty-haired and sun kissed, we’ll make our way into town for lunch at a funky cafe oozing with organic options to feast on. Dream day alert! We’ve got the perfect afternoon plans – a total takeover of a barefoot luxury riverfront local spa. Melt into an hour long massage and wrap or scrub combo, choosing from locally-inspired options like a seasalt scrub or a honey, sandalwood and turmeric wrap. Tonight, we’re headed to a trendy rooftop tapas + cocktail bar with live music and epic seaside views. Stick around for a few post-dinner sips or stroll home for an early night — the choice is yours!
Day 4: Enjoy a morning slow flow and breakfast before saying farewell to Weligama as we swap our surfer sanctuary for the wild wonders of Yala National Park. On arrival to our boutique jungle lodge we’ll enjoy lunch in the canopy of the jungle by the rooftop pool. After lunch and check-in, the afternoon is yours to explore the rugged beach dunes, dip in the pool, check out the spa, or finally read a page of that book you ambitiously packed. Head to raw coast for sunset by the sea and dinner in the dunes – a pinch-me private BBQ with stargazing and a bonfire.
Day 5: Set those alarms early because we’re waking up with the wildlife this morning and heading into Yala National Park at dawn for a thrilling morning of animal spotting. We’ll be led by local guides in private jeeps through Sri Lanka’s wildlife hotspot, home to the world’s densest leopard population, roaming herds of elephants, shy sloth bears, lazy crocodiles and countless exotic birds. Upon returning to the lodge, we’ll take inspiration from the fauna we sighted with some animal yoga before lunch! In the afternoon we’ll make our way up into the mountains of Ella for a change of scenery. After checking into our hillside villas, we’ll don aprons for a cooking class, trying our hands at whipping up local dishes with the unique spices of Sri Lanka. Then, we’ll enjoy the fruits of our labour for dinner, mountainside.
Day 6: An optional early morning for the shutterbugs and insta-obsessed amongst us — we’re headed to the famous Nine Arch Bridge viewpoint! We’ll arrive at sunrise to capture the iconic train tracks in all their glory — with perfect golden hour lighting. Memory cards full and profile pics upgraded, we’ll head back to the hotel for a quick breakfast before adventuring further into the mountains for a visit to a local tea plantation! You can’t swing a teacup around Ella without catching a leaf – but this estate in particular is committed to sustainable practices and actively empowers women in Sri Lanka’s tea industry; providing them fair wages, skill training, and leadership opportunities. Here, you’ll tour the farm, learn the art of tea-making, and enjoy a Teaology tasting paired with local flavors. Afterward, we’ll embark on a guided hike to hidden river pools for yoga and a dip — the perfect midday refresh at 1,000 meters above sea level. End your day with a relaxing poolside dip at Sri Lanka’s first pool club – you know Wander Women can’t resist cocktails at a pool club! – until the sun sets over the majestic mountain views.
Day 7: Today we’ll trade mountain air for ocean breezes as we journey back to sea level and return to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s lively capital. Along the way, we’ll venture off the beaten path — pausing to walk to the country’s tallest waterfall and wander through a local gem market. On arrival at our waterfront hotel, we’ll unwind from the road with a gentle slow-flow yoga session in the onsite movement studio framed by sweeping sea views. Need to further relax? There’s an onsite spa with a sauna and jacuzzi – and yup, another endless ocean vantage point! For dinner, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure: explore the neighborhood’s dining scene, savor a meal at the hotel’s rooftop Japanese restaurant, or cozy up with room service. You earned it!
Day 8: No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without diving into the heart of its vibrant capital — and we’ve got you covered with a private tuk-tuk tour of the city’s highlights. We’ll start the morning with an energizing flow and a fueling breakfast before hitting the streets in our three-wheeled chariots. Our day will take us from rainbow-hued temples and mosques — reflecting the city’s Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic influences — to the bustling, fragrant streets of Pettah, where the vibrant market reveals Sri Lanka’s rich cultural blend. After lunch, the afternoon is yours — relax by the pool, get a massage, hunt for last-minute souvenirs (we’re certain Alex will be stocking up on tea!), or head to the Sri Lanka Museum, the oldest and largest in the country. Dinner and our closing circle tonight will be at a toast of the town; highlighting Colombo’s hip hidden gem modern dining scene.
Day 9: Blink and you’ll miss it! Today we say our farewells over breakfast… unless you’re sticking around for more!
Joining our Maldives Deep South Liveaboard? The fun continues with a week of diving and luxuriating at sea, just a ninety minute included direct flight away!
The Adventure
Why sightsee when you can sight do! We’re going to enjoy Sri Lanka the way Alex first fell in love with it — in motion.
Daily yoga
Galle Fortress historic tour
Weligama surf lesson
Luxury spa experience
Yala National Park jeep safari tour
Sri Lankan cooking class
Nine Arches Bridge viewpoint
Ella tea plantation tour + tasting
Guided highlight hike + swim
Pool club afternoon
Colombo tuk-tuk city tour
We get that you don’t want to end your trip needing a vacation from a vacation — while we’re offering a lot of fun and activity, always feel free to opt out to rest and recharge.
Where We’ll Stay and What We’ll Eat
Our accommodations are as much a part of the adventure as the destinations themselves — each one chosen to complement its surroundings and offer a taste of Sri Lanka’s signature warmth and style. For this journey, we’re offering double-occupancy rooms only, as some of our charming boutique stays have limited space, making the experience feel even more intimate and exclusive.
Our adventure begins at Olinda Galle, a charming boutique hotel where colonial architecture meets coastal charm. Grounds include a lush garden, terrace, outdoor swimming pool with built-in swings, and spa and wellness services.
Our base in Weligama is Meraki, set in the serene beach‑side village of Polhena. Its minimalist-chic design centers around a saltwater pool, lush gardens, and stepped architecture that offers privacy while inviting connection. Rooms are refreshing and bright, with private bathrooms (bidet included!), balconies overlooking pool or garden, plus a yoga studio and an in-house café acclaimed for its breakfast selections.
A change of scenery takes us deep into nature at Jetwing Jungle Lodge. Tucked at the edge of Yala National Park, this eco-luxe hideaway is all about starlit skies, the calls of the wild, and a peaceful night’s rest after safari adventures. Think refreshing dips in the outdoor canopy-level pool, blissful spa treatments, and sunset cocktails at the bar.
In Ella, we’ll unwind at 02 Villas, a modern hillside haven with sweeping views over emerald tea plantations. Spacious rooms, crisp mountain air, and serene surroundings make it a perfect highland retreat. Between refreshing dips in the pool, relaxing spa treatments, and evenings spent watching the sunset from your private balcony, this is where we’ll slow down and savor the mountain magic.
We’ll close our journey in style at Granbell in Colombo, a sleek waterfront hotel with sea views, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the capital’s buzzing energy. Between dips in the infinity pool, indulgent spa treatments and amenities, rooftop cocktails, and a gorgeous yoga studio on site, it’s the perfect spot for a final toast to our Sri Lankan adventure.
Now onto the food — because no Wander Women adventure is complete without unforgettable meals to match the scenery. From coastal cafés to rooftop bars, our dining stops are as vibrant and varied as the landscapes we’ll explore. Every day, two meals will be included; typically breakfast and either lunch or dinner. Expect a mix of local dishes and fusion favorites with plenty of healthy and balanced options — and vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and other diets can be accommodated.
We’ll savor fresh seafood and fusion plates in the heart of Galle, tuck into fragrant curries in Weligama, and enjoy farm-to-table feasts in the misty hills of Ella. Along the way, we’ll linger over poolside cocktails, share wood-fired pizzas to the soundtrack of live music, and wake up to safari breakfasts surrounded by the sounds of the wild. In Colombo, we’ll wrap up our culinary journey with a mix of laid-back brunches and bold, flavor-packed dinners — the perfect way to toast to new friendships, unforgettable adventures, and the flavors of Sri Lanka.
Extend Your Adventure
Not ready to go home yet? Us either! This retreat transitions perfectly into our Maldives Deep South: Dive + Spa Liveaboard. Our seven-night floating oasis retreat starts the same day, February 21st, and is a mere ninety-minute direct flight away. Alex and Rayna will of course be on hand to expertly guide you from one to the other and, best part is — when you book both trips, your international flight from Sri Lanka to the Maldives is included! Think of it as an undersea safari to complement the topside one you just toasted to.
Not a diver? Not a problem! The indulgent spa + snorkel package allows you to experience the Maldives in ultimate luxury with daily included spa treatments and guided snorkels.
Never wanna head home? Add on the Overwater Bungalow Extension and tick off a bucket list moment waking up on the water and enjoying a dinner under it – in one of the world’s only underwater villas!
Travel With Us
On this trip, you’ll be traveling with Alexandra Baackes as your host, and Rayna O’Nan as your private photographer.
Alexandra Baackes is the founder of Wander Women Retreats and Alex in Wanderland, and will lead your yoga practices throughout this trip. Alex is as a RYT 200 Registered Yoga Teacher, a Buti Bands and Sculpt instructor, an aerial vinyasa and yin instructor, and a regular yoga practitioner for over a decade.
Alex first travelled to Sri Lanka in 2024 and was immediately drawn to the vibrant culture, laidback vibes, abundance of nature and… well, the tea, of course! This initial taste of Sri Lanka instantly got her creative retreat wheel’s turning; and after another year of research and fine-tuning with a longtime friend and business owner on the island, Wander Women Sri Lanka was born — and she can’t wait to travel with you!
Your photographer Rayna is the owner of Ocean Rays Photography and a beloved fixture at Wander Women. Rayna has joined us in Key Largo, Maldives, Raja Ampat, Fort Lauderdale, Bimini, Bali, Komodo, and in her home of West Palm Beach! After becoming a scuba instructor in the Florida Keys, she picked up an underwater camera and fell in love, allowing her to travel the world taking photos of underwater life to inspire marine conservation. While she loves to snap sharks under the sea she can’t wait to capture your best angle amongst the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Getting There and Away
Our Sri Lanka Retreat begins and ends in Colombo, with all international travel through Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), the country’s main gateway. Upon arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to whisk you to our first stop on the map — Galle.
We’ll wrap up our journey back in Colombo, making departures from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) seamless. An included transfer to the airport ensures your trip ends just as smoothly as it began.
Please feel free to reach out to us for help with flight recommendations — we’re always available at retreats@alexinwanderland.com. We offer an hour of complimentary consultation on booking your trip, after which we will offer our hourly consulting at a special retreat guest rate. You will receive a packet at the time of booking with more details regarding travel.
Join Us
Your deposit will be the first of four total payments for this trip, spread into convenient monthly installments.
This trip is now a guaranteed departure! We have met the minimum required bookings – so you can go straight into holiday planning mode!
Can’t make this one? Don’t sweat — sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when enrollment opens on future retreats. Don’t hesitate to email us at retreats@alexinwanderland.com with any and all questions or concerns over if this is the right retreat for you. We’re always here to chat.
F.A.Q.
So does non-refundable really mean non-refundable?
Yes, all payments are non-refundable. If the trip must be postponed or canceled due to events beyond our control, you will be offered the choice between a full refund and applying your payments to a future trip.
The reason payments are non-refundable is that we start incurring costs from the moment someone presses “book” — from credit card fees to high hourly wages for our team who correspond with guests, manage trip inventory and our e-commerce platform, analyze forms to create room assignments, coordinate with our local vendors, and beyond.
There’s nothing we want more than for our guests to take and enjoy the travel they have worked hard and paid for. Thank you so much for your understanding and respect of our need to enforce this policy strictly. We want to be here to travel with you for years to come!
Will I need travel insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory for all Wander Women Retreat guests to have personal travel insurance for the duration of the trip. Our affiliate, World Nomads offers coverage at affordable rates. We recommend you book your travel insurance as soon as you make your trip deposit to protect your investment.
What about visas?
To join us in Sri Lanka, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) — an easy and hassle-free way to get your visa. The ETA is an official authorization for a short visit to Sri Lanka, and it’s all done online! No need for passport copies, photos, or extra paperwork.
Once you arrive in Sri Lanka, just show your passport to the immigration officer, and you’ll receive a 30-day Short Visit visa. We recommend applying for your ETA online ahead of time — it’s quicker, and the airport process is way smoother. The cost is $50, but if you choose to do it in person at the airport, expect higher fees and a longer wait time.
Do I need to be good at yoga?
Absolutely not. (And frankly, we don’t believe in the idea of being “good” at yoga!) We have a range of yogis from brand-new beginners to talented instructors join us on our trips. You’ll get the opportunity to sample a wide range of yoga styles, and you can opt in or out of as many classes as you wish.
Will I have time to do my own thing?
This is your retreat and we want you to make it exactly what you want! There’s a lot to see and experience, so we’ve tried to design an itinerary that balances the best of activity and downtime. But any time you want to bow out to have some “me-time” or do your own thing, we’re going to cheer you on.
How much spending money will I need?
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of dining and shopping options to suit every budget. For local restaurants and street food stalls, you can expect to spend around 1,000–2,500 LKR ($3–8 USD) for lunch and 2,500–5,000 LKR ($8–15 USD) for dinner, depending on the location and what you order. At higher-end or tourist-focused spots, meals may run 6,000–10,000 LKR ($18–30 USD). Alcohol prices vary widely — a local beer is often 600–1,200 LKR ($2–4 USD), while cocktails in upscale bars or hotels can range from 2,000–4,000 LKR ($6–12 USD).
Tipping is appreciated in Sri Lanka, though not always expected. At restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill; if it’s not, rounding up or leaving a small tip is a nice gesture. Keep some cash on hand for smaller purchases, tuk-tuks, and market stalls, though most mid-range and upscale venues accept cards.
Is there an age requirement?
You must be 18 years old or older.
Is there a waiting list?
There will be a waiting list on a first-come, first-served basis in case spaces open up. If the retreat is full and you’re still interested, email us at retreats@alexinwanderland.com to be added to the waiting list.
I still have questions, or cute photos of my dog. Can I contact you?
Um, yes please! Our email is retreats@alexinwanderland.com.