Weekends are free to relax and to explore the local area.
During their weekends off, volunteers often visit; Veddha Village, Sorabora Lake, Mahiyangana Temple, Knuckles Mountain Range, the anciet cities of Anuradhapura, Sigirjya (considered the 8th wonder of the world), hiking or even visit a nearby beach to relax or go on a Whale watching tour.
Wild Elephant Project
Accommodation at the Wild Elephant project is in shared rooms (2-4 people per room) with electricity/power outlets and modern bathrooms with showers. Although there is only cold water for showering and washing. The rooms are very basic and rustic but have comfortable beds. Electric fans, pillows and clean bedsheets are provided, but please remember to bring your own towel. Safe bottled drinking water is also provided and volunteers help with cleaning and chores. There isn't Wi-Fi at the camp. Accommodation is not included if arriving on a Saturday, additional nights cost EUR 43 per night.
Turtle Conservation Project
Your accommodation at the Turtle Conservation project is at our center which is located a few meters from the ocean. The basic, dorm style rooms are shared by 4-6 people on a single-gender basis. Bathroom and toilet facilities are shared, please note that only cold water is available. There is a refrigerator which you are welcome to use to store food and beverages. Safety lockers are available to store your belongings. There is also a beautiful garden to relax in and dining and lounge areas where you can hang out with your fellow volunteers. Wi-Fi is not available (internet cafes are available in the city). Laundry facilities are available at an additional fee. Mosquito nets, toilet paper, washing powder will not be provided by us.
Arrival Information
If your flight arrives anytime Saturday or Sunday until 21.00 only, we will pick you up from the relevant airport. Look out for the coordinators holding a signboard with the Green Lion Logo on it. If you arrive any other a day, a transfer can be requested and will cost EUR 50, which is paid directly to the person picking you up. If we are not picking you up at the airport, you must contact us when you are in the country at the latest on the Friday before your arrival to arrange your pick-up accordingly. If you can't find the coordinator stay at the meeting point and try calling the coordinator.
Please note that if you arrive on Saturday your transfer is included but you will need to pay for an additional night's accommodation.
Transfer Coordinator
Mobile: 00947-1065 6506
If you are lost or have any major concerns regarding the transfer, please try to contact the coordinator at the airport first.
Tourist Police: Dial 011-2421052
The Tourist Police of Sri Lanka are trained to assist you in English. Direct any safety concerns to them.
Departure Information
The latest check-out time from the accommodation on the last Saturday is 12:00. Departure transfer is not included as due to the many different personal plans and return flight times, it's logistically simpler for you to make your own way. Our coordinator can help you with the different transportation options, but you will have to cover the cost.
Meals at the Elephant Camp
Three fresh meals per day are prepared for you at the volunteer house. Food is prepared in the local style, with milder spices if preferred. Most meals will be vegetarian, with egg, fish and soy for protein.
Meals at the Turtle Camp
You will be provided with three meals a day on weekdays and two meals per day on weekends (we are not responsible for meals if applicants are traveling on their own during weekdays or weekends). The meals are a mix of Western and Sri Lankan food, consisting mainly of vegetarian dishes including rice and vegetables. You can also eat out at any of the local restaurants.
Breakfast menu: toast, jam, butter, eggs, two choices of fruits, tea and coffee (oat meal, cereal, yogurt, etc… will not be provided by us).
What to Bring
Toilet paper, towels, toiletries, mosquito nets, mosquito repellant and flashlight are NOT provided so you will have to bring these along with you. Please also take care of malaria precautions. Suitable shoes for hiking.
Visa
Please remember to take care of the visa arrangements on time.
SIM Card
We highly recommend buying a cheap local SIM Card for your whole time in Sri Lanka, not only for your own personal safety, but also for easier and cheaper communication with the other volunteers, staff and family back home, and especially if you are traveling to us by yourself. You can usually get one at the airport for free or at a low cost.
