Morocco Travel Guide | Beyond the Dunes

Morocco is beauty in contrast — desert silence and souk chaos, sunrise surf and sunset tea, Berber mountain trails and Atlantic breeze.

It’s one of the most captivating destinations on the planet, and travellers are catching on fast: the country welcomed 14.5 million visitors in 2023, up 35 % from 2022 (Moroccan National Tourism Office).

This guide will walk you through Morocco’s most magnetic regions — the coast, the desert, and the cities between — and show you why it’s a perfect playground for movement, mindfulness, and a little mystery.

Why Morocco

Perched on Africa’s northwest tip, Morocco blends Arab, Amazigh (Berber), Mediterranean, and French influences into something wholly its own.

It’s ancient and modern, wild and grounded — a place where you can surf Atlantic swells in the morning, wander spice markets by afternoon, and end the night beneath Saharan stars.

Why travelers fall hard for it:

• Depth of culture. 1,200-year-old medinas, mosque calls at dusk, and the art of hospitality woven into daily life.

• Geographic variety. Surf beaches, Atlas peaks, dunes, and palm oases — all within a day’s drive.

• Wellness in motion. Hammams, mint tea, movement, and food that nourishes without trying.

• Safe and stable. Friendly locals, strong tourism infrastructure, and simple visa rules for most nationalities.

• That energy. Every corner hums with color, sound, and life — balanced by long stretches of quiet horizon.

If you crave experiences that wake you up inside — Morocco delivers.

Regions & Top Activities

We’re focusing on Morocco’s western and southern corridor — where ocean, culture, and calm collide.

Taghazout & Tamraght (Coastal Wellness Hub)

The country’s laid-back surf capital. Once a fishing village, now a global surf-yoga destination.

• Do: Surf Anchor Point or Banana Beach; sunrise yoga on rooftop terraces; hammam steam and argan-oil massage afterward.

• Eat: Let’s Be Healthy Café, World of Waves, Sunset Taghazout.

• Stay: Amouage by Surf Maroc, Darna Surf House, or Beyond the Dunes Retreat Villa.

• Move: Morning workouts, coastal runs, SUP sessions at low tide.

  Best for: Wellness travelers and surf beginners.

Essaouira – The Wind City

Bohemian port town with blue-and-white alleys, sea air, and centuries of trade history.

• Do: Kite-surf or windsurf in the bay, walk the 18th-century ramparts, visit the Skala de la Ville lookout.

• Eat: La Table by Madada (seafood), Tara Café, Triskala Organic Restaurant.

• Shop: Hand-carved thuya wood, woven rugs, argan oil straight from cooperatives.

• Stay: Salut Maroc Riad, Madada Mogador.

  Vibe: Artistic, musical, restorative.

Agadir – Gateway to Adventure

Modern beach city south of Essaouira.

• Do: Longboard mellow waves at Devil’s Rock, hike Paradise Valley, or ATV the dunes.

• Eat: Pure Passion Restaurant on the marina.

• Wellness: Beachfront running paths and hammams in nearly every hotel.

• Day Trips: Drive inland to the Souss-Massa National Park for flamingo sightings.

Marrakesh – The Heart of the Kingdom

A sensory overload that somehow restores you.

• Do: Lose yourself in the Jemaa el-Fna square, visit Jardin Majorelle, explore riads and rooftop cafés.

• Eat: Nomad, Café Atay, Dar Yacout.

• Wellness: Try a traditional hammam at Les Bains de Marrakech or a yoga class on a riad terrace.

• Stay: Riad Be Marrakech, El Fenn.

  Best for: Culture lovers and shoppers with stamina.

Atlas Mountains – Into the Air

The contrast after the city.

• Do: Hike Toubkal National Park, visit Amazigh villages, have mint tea at Kasbah du Toubkal.

• Stay: Dar Imlil or Kasbah Tamadot.

• Wellness Note: Clean air, cold rivers, and deep sleep guaranteed.

Casablanca – Modern Gateway

Morocco’s cosmopolitan face.

• Do: Tour the Hassan II Mosque, stroll La Corniche, and eat seafood by the Atlantic.

• Stay: Barceló Anfa, Hotel Le Dogon.

• Fly in/out: Best international connections, just 4 hours from Taghazout by road.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Morocco’s culture is rooted in respect, hospitality, and modesty — and travelers are warmly welcomed when they honor that.

Dress & Respect

• Cover shoulders and knees in cities, mosques, and rural towns.

• Swimwear is fine on resort beaches, not in town streets.

• Ask before photographing people, especially women.

Greetings & Language

• Salam alaikum (hello) → reply Wa alaikum salam.

• Shukran = thank you; La shukran = no thank you.

• Bslama = goodbye.

  Arabic and French are most common; English widely understood in tourist areas.

Religion & Customs

• Islam is the national religion; calls to prayer echo five times a day.

• During Ramadan, eat/drink discreetly in public daylight hours.

• Friday is the holy day; expect slower service mid-day.

Social Tips

• Accept mint tea — it’s hospitality, not optional.

• Use right hand for giving/receiving items.

• Bargaining in souks is expected; smile, be patient.

Practical Travel Logistics

Currency & Payments

• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

• ATMs: Common in cities; carry cash in small bills for taxis and markets.

• Cards: Accepted in hotels/restaurants, less so in souks.

• Tipping: 10 % standard in cafés and restaurants.

Airports & Entry

• Casablanca (CMN) – main international hub.

• Marrakesh (RAK) – tourist favorite.

• Agadir (AGA) – best for surf coast.

• Visa: Most countries = 90 days visa-free. Passport valid 6 + months required.

• Check official entry updates: visitmorocco.com.

Best Time to Visit

• March–June / Sept–Nov: Ideal temps (20–28 °C).

• July–Aug: Hot inland; cooler coast.

• Dec–Feb: Mild, great for surf & city travel.

Getting Around

• Domestic flights connect main cities.

• Trains (ONCF) = comfortable & punctual.

• Buses (Supratours/CTM) = budget option.

• Car rental = best for surf coast flexibility.

• Grands taxis (shared vans) for short hops.

Connectivity

• SIMs from Orange, Inwi, Maroc Telecom at airport kiosks.

• Wi-Fi solid in cities, slower on the coast — download offline maps.

Health & Safety

• Tap water safe in cities; bottled elsewhere.

• Recommended vaccines: Hep A & Typhoid.

• Emergency = 190 (police) / 141 (ambulance).

• Hospitals: Excellent private care in Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir.

• Insurance: Essential for surf and trekking coverage.

• Safety: Petty theft possible in medinas; violent crime rare. Locals protective of guests.

Packing Checklist

✅ Passport (6 + months)

✅ Travel insurance

✅ Lightweight layers & scarf

✅ Modest clothing for towns

✅ Swimwear for coast

✅ Sunglasses / sunhat / sunscreen

✅ Reusable water bottle

✅ Offline maps & translator app

✅ Patience & openness

Final Checklist

✅ Passport & return ticket

✅ Dirham cash & card

✅ Sunscreen & electrolytes

✅ Respectful clothes

✅ Travel insurance & health docs

✅ Curiosity & sense of adventure

Wellness, Movement & Retreat Travel

Morocco has a rhythm that moves you — from ocean flow to desert stillness.

If you crave a week that blends surf, sweat, and souk energy, join our SALTY Beyond the Dunes Retreat | May 16 – 23 2026.

Seven days of movement, surf, and Moroccan magic — from the beaches of Taghazout to the colors of Marrakesh — led by Erin, Nate, and guest coaches TBD.

Structure when you want it. Space when you need it. Fun always optional — except the kind that finds you.

Paradise Found - Nicaragua Travel Guide

There are many reasons tourism is rising in Nicaragua, lush jungles, wild waves, colourful colonial cities, volcanoes you can climb, and beaches where you might chase a sunset beer after surf. In fact, the country saw a 28.9 % increase in foreign tourist arrivals in 2023, with more than 1.2 million non-resident visitors.

If you’re into exploring somewhere a little under-the-radar but full of character, pack your bag — Nicaragua’s calling.

Why Nicaragua

Nicaragua sits between the Pacific and the Caribbean — a country of surf, volcanoes, and warm-hearted people that’s quietly stepping into the spotlight. Once nicknamed the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” it’s the largest country in Central America and one of its most diverse. Here, history and nature live side by side: colonial cities painted in every shade of pastel, towering volcanoes that glow at sunset, and coastlines that still feel undiscovered.

After years of being Central America’s best-kept secret, Nicaragua is really getting the flowers it deserves. Travellers talk about it the way they once did about Costa Rica fifteen years ago — raw, beautiful, and full of possibility. Reddit threads and backpacker forums are full of love letters to its mix of affordability, safety, surf, community, and culture. It’s the kind of place that hooks you with its personality and the variety of experiences you can search out in this beautiful country.

Regions & Top Activities

Nicaragua is compact, but the landscapes feel massive. Each region feels distinct, from surf towns bursting with waves and nightlife, quiet colonial streets brought alive with live music, and islands that slow time down to a crawl. Here’s what not to miss:

San Juan del Sur (Pacific Coast)

Nicaragua’s surf capital and soul of its coastal scene. San Juan del Sur blends wave culture with vibrant nightlife, it’s as social as it is scenic.. and surfers, don’t forget those offshore winds.

• Surf breaks: Playa Maderas (consistent all year, great for beginners to intermediates) and Playa Hermosa (long right-handers, occasional offshore winds). Boards can be rented beachside.

• Eat: Ding Repair for incredible and big breakfasts, Simon Says for smoothies and veggie wraps, Dale Pues for tacos, and El Timón for fresh ceviche at sunset.

• Nightlife: The town’s legendary Sunday Funday Pool Crawl connects beach clubs like Arribas, The Naked Tiger Hostel, and Pelican Eyes — expect music, dancing, and views.

• For calm energy: Watch the sun set from Jesus of the Mercy statue or grab a hammock at Maderas Village for yoga sessions.

Popoyo & Tola Region

Further north up the Pacific, Popoyo is a surfer’s dream. It’s remote, peaceful, and blessed with some of the best reef and beach breaks in Central America.

• Surf breaks: Popoyo Outer Reef for experts, Santana Beach for all levels, Beginner’s Bay which lives by its name, and nearby Playa Colorado (private but accessible via local surf camps).

• Stay: Magnific Rock (clifftop sunsets and infinity views), Malibu Popoyo (wellness-minded luxury), or Hostel Popoyo for budget surf vibes.

• Eat & Drink: Finca Popoyo for fresh seafood and craft cocktails, Café Con Leche for brunch, Waves & Wifi for a great coffee, lunch and of course wi-fi, and NicaWaves Bar for a post-surf beer.

• Energy: Quieter than San Juan del Sur — think sunrise yoga, sunset surf, and bonfires under the stars.

Granada & Masaya

Granada is a living postcard. It has pastel colonial façades, horse carriages clopping through cobblestone streets, and a beautiful lakeshore. Founded in 1524, it’s one of the oldest cities in the Americas and still the heart of Nicaragua’s cultural identity.

• Do: Climb Iglesia de La Merced Bell Tower for panoramic views, kayak through Las Isletas de Granada (tiny jungle islands in Lake Nicaragua), or explore the Mombacho Volcano Reserve.

• Masaya Volcano: A 40-minute drive from Granada — watch lava glow at night inside an active crater. (Yes, it’s safe – just surreal.)

• Eat: Pita Pita (Mediterranean fusion), Garden Café (farm-to-table brunch), and Boca Boca Wine Bar for tapas.

• Stay: Tribal Hotel or Casa Lucía Boutique Hotel & Yoga Retreat.

León

Once the revolutionary capital, León now pulses with youth, art, and adventure. It’s the cultural counterweight to Granada — less polished, more expressive.

• Volcano boarding: Hike Cerro Negro, strap on a board, and literally surf down black volcanic sand — it’s the country’s most famous thrill.

• Art & Culture: Explore Ortíz Gurdián Museum of Art or catch live music in Parque Central.

• Eat: Pan & Paz Bakery for morning coffee, El Bodegón for traditional Nica fare, and Kiss Me Ice Cream to cool off after sightseeing.

• Nightlife: University bars around Calle Real host live salsa and open-mic nights; travelers often end up at ViaVia Hostel Bar.

Ometepe Island

Formed by two volcanoes — Concepción and Maderas — rising from Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe feels otherworldly. It’s all slow travel, jungle hikes, and barefoot authenticity.

• Do: Hike Volcán Maderas to a crater lagoon, kayak the Rio Istián Wetlands, or swim at Ojo de Agua Springs. Also a great place for an ATV and jetting off around the island, taking it all in.

• Eat & Stay: El Zopilote Permaculture Farm for backpacker-meets-eco-retreat, Totoco Ecolodge for views and local cuisine.

• Vibe: Think “off-grid detox” — motorbikes, hammocks, fireflies, plenty of yoga, and slowing down.

Corn Islands ( Big & Little )

Off the Caribbean coast, the Corn Islands are everything you picture when you think “tropical escape” — turquoise water, colorful houses, and lobster for breakfast.

• Getting there: Fly from Managua to Big Corn (1 hr), then hop a panga (boat) to Little Corn Island (30 min).

• Do: Snorkel coral reefs, dive shipwrecks, take a yoga class at Firefly Yoga Studio, or rent a bike and circle the island.

• Eat: Turned Turtle Restaurant, Tranquilo Café, or Desideri Bar & Grill.

• Vibe: No cars, no stress — just hammocks, reggae, and stars.

Matagalpa & Coffee Country

The lush highlands of Matagalpa and Jinotega are the lungs of Nicaragua — cooler, greener, and steeped in coffee.

• Do: Visit coffee cooperatives like Selva Negra Eco Lodge, hike in Peñas Blancas Massif Reserve, or tour La Bastilla Coffee Estate.

• Eat: Café Girasol in Matagalpa serves some of the best espresso and homemade pastries.

• Why go: Perfect change of pace if you’ve had your fill of beach sun and need mountain mist.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Nicaraguans are great people, used to happy travellers, and proud of their country. The culture here is grounded, warm, and unhurried — a mix of Latin passion and small-town kindness.

Whether you’re sharing gallo pinto at a roadside café, catching a ride in a tuk-tuk-style taxi, or chatting with locals after surf, these small gestures of respect make a big difference.

Dress & Respect

• In beach towns, flip-flops and swimsuits are standard. But in cities like Granada or León, keep it casual-modest — shoulders covered, light fabrics, no shirtless wandering.

• Inside churches, remove hats and avoid loud conversation.

• Personal space is smaller here, greetings can include a quick hug or cheek kiss among friends.

Useful Sayings & Gestures

1. “Hola” (OH-lah) — Hello

Simple, friendly, and universal. A warm Hola with eye contact goes a long way.

2. “¿Cómo estás?” (KOH-moh es-TAHS?) — How are you?

Reply: Bien, gracias. (bee-EN GRAH-see-ahs) — I’m good, thank you.

3. “Mucho gusto” (MOO-choo GOO-stoh) — Nice to meet you

Use it when meeting anyone new — it’s polite and common everywhere.

4. “Gracias” / “Muchas gracias” (GRAH-see-ahs / MOO-chas GRAH-see-ahs) — Thank you / Thank you very much

Pair it with a smile or small nod — gratitude is big here.

5. “Por favor” (POR fah-VOR) — Please

Still the magic word in Spanish. Use it when ordering food or asking for help.

6. “Con permiso” / “Perdón” (Cone pair-MEE-so / pair-DOHN) — Excuse me / Sorry

Say con permiso when passing through a tight crowd or leaving the table, perdón if you accidentally bump someone.

7. “Pura vida” / “Todo bien” (POO-rah VEE-dah / TOH-doh bee-EN) — All good / Everything’s great

Borrowed from neighboring Costa Rica but used freely here — laid-back and friendly.

Cultural Do’s & Don’ts

✅ Do greet everyone when entering small shops or cafés — a simple Buenos días / Buenas tardes is polite.

✅ Do tip about 10 % at restaurants; small bills appreciated.

✅ Do ask before photographing locals or children.

🚫 Don’t raise your voice or appear impatient, calm energy gets you help faster.

🚫 Don’t flush toilet paper (trash bin beside toilet).

🚫 Don’t assume everyone speaks English, even basic Spanish effort is appreciated.

Nicaragua is friendly and real. If you meet people with openness — learning a few words, slowing your pace, and smiling first — the country opens itself up in ways no guidebook can describe.

Practical Travel Logistics

Alright, time for the real-world stuff: money, visas, timing, transport, and packing — everything that keeps your trip smooth from touchdown to take-off.

Currency & Arrivals

Nicaragua’s official currency is the Córdoba (NIO), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist towns. ATMs are common in cities like Managua, Granada, and San Juan del Sur; smaller surf villages often prefer cash. Bring low-denomination bills and keep both currencies handy.

Airports:

• Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua – main gateway.

• Liberia (Costa Rica) – viable if you’re headed straight to San Juan del Sur; the border at Peñas Blancas is 1–2 hours away.

Visa & Entry Basics

For most travelers, Nicaragua is refreshingly easy:

• Visitors from Canada, U.S., U.K., and most EU countries receive a 90-day tourist entry on arrival.

• This falls under the CA-4 Agreement (Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala) — you can move between those nations within 90 days on one entry stamp.

• Bring: passport valid 6 months beyond entry, proof of onward travel, $10 USD cash for the entry fee.

• Overstays = small fine (~$2 USD per day).

Check entry requirements via immigration.gob.ni or your embassy for updates before flying.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (High Season): November – April → sunny, dry, best for surf and travel.

• Green Season (Low Season): May – October → lush landscapes, afternoon showers, smaller crowds.

• Festivals: Semana Santa (Easter Week) and Granada Poetry Festival (February) fill towns with music and energy.

Getting Around & What to Pack

• Buses & Shuttles: Reliable and cheap for intercity routes.

• Taxis & Private Drivers: Easiest option from Managua to San Juan del Sur (~$90 USD).

• Ferries: To Ometepe Island from San Jorge port (1 hour).

• Packing List:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen & bug spray – musts.

  • Light linen or cotton clothes for the coast.

  • A sweater or rain shell for highlands.

  • Reusable water bottle (filtration cap ideal).

  • Flashlight for island stays with low lighting.

  • Power adapters (110 V, U.S. plugs work).

Health, Safety & Medical FAQs

Nicaragua is generally safe and laid-back. Common sense travelling — daytime transit, registered taxis, secured valuables — goes a long way.

• Hospitals & Clinics: Managua has private hospitals like Hospital Metropolitano Vivian Pellas and Hospital Monte España with English-speaking staff. Smaller towns have clinics for minor care.

• Emergencies: Dial 118 (police) or 128 (ambulance).

• Vaccines & Health Tips: CDC recommends Hepatitis A and Typhoid; malaria risk is low except in remote Caribbean areas. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

• Safety: Petty theft can occur in busy bus stations or nightlife areas, keep an eye on bags. Locals and travelers consistently describe the country as friendly and safe.

• Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance that covers adventure sports and evacuation is non-negotiable if you’re surfing or trekking remote areas.

Keep hydrated, use sunscreen, and respect the sun, it’s closer to the equator than it feels.

Wellness, Movement & Surf Travel

Travel can be pure magic — but also a lot to coordinate. Flights, gear, schedules, surf reports, finding the right crowd to explore with. That’s where SALTY comes in.

If you like the idea of seeing a country through movement — surf in the morning, train under palms, hike a volcano, dance at night — you’ll fit right in. Our retreats blend daily classes and adventure with plenty of freedom to wander and rest.

The SALTY Nicaragua Retreat: Paradise Found | Nov 22–29, 2025 is seven nights and eight days of surf, sweat and connection — coast to culture, sunrise to sunset. A little guidance, a lot of good energy, and a crew you’ll never forget.

Final Checklist

Packing for Nicaragua is about being ready for everything — beach days, volcano hikes, sunset sessions, and maybe a Sunday Funday or two. Here’s your checklist.

✅ Passport & Visa: Valid 6 + months, $10 USD entry fee, 90-day CA-4 stamp.

✅ Insurance: Covers surfing, trekking, and medical evacuation.

✅ Health: Vaccines checked, first-aid kit packed.

✅ Money: Mix of USD and córdobas in small bills.

✅ Dress Code: Lightweight coastal gear, layers for highlands, modest outfits for cities.

✅ Eco Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent.

✅ Tech & Docs: Offline maps, Waze app for GPS, hotel bookings, digital copies of ID and insurance.

✅ Mindset: Stay curious, flexible and open — this is a country that loves spontaneity.

Ready to Dive In?

Join the SALTY Nicaragua Retreat: Paradise Found | Nov 22–29, 2025.

A week of movement, surf, connection and culture — from beach to volcano and back again.

Island Tides: Sri Lanka Travel Guide & Wellness Escape

There’s a reason that tourism is BOOMING in Sri Lanka. Scratch that… There are, many reasons, tourism is booming in Sri Lanka. Whethere you’re buying the claim that “Sri Lanka is the new Bali”, or not, what’s not debatable is the fact that it is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. In fact, Sri Lanka welcomed over 2.05 million international visitors in 2024, up roughly 38 percent from 2023.

From Ahanagama’s surf culture & beautiful breaks, to jungle mist rolling over the tea fields of Ella, the magic and wilderness of Yala National Park, or the deep and rich culture of the Cultural Triangle, this nation has a magic worth exploring.

This guide is here to give you some practical answers, how-tos, area breakdowns, and most importantly… get you amped to book a flight to Sri Lanka immediately.

Why Sri Lanka? Why Now?

How many places on earth can you see such diversity of experiences, in such a small place? How many places allow you to surf a point break in the morning, explore a safari in the afternoon, and be sleeping in rolling green tea hills by evening? While I don’t have the exact answer, what I can say for sure is, not many!

Post-pandemic, the beautiful island of incredible humans has surged for tourism. January through June arrivals in 2024 grew 61.6% from the year prior, a whopping 1,010,000+ visitors. With this, has come a rise in boutique hotels, surf camps, and retreats heading towards the island to enjoy all of the wonders it offers.

With the diversity of offerings, as well as the growth, Sri Lanka has something to offer almost all types of travellers. From hikes, to surf, wellness and restoration, a deep history and culture, there is so much to see, and almost never enough time!

Regions & Activities

Most travellers are going to want to take their time to have a plan in place before they arrive. Where to go, what they want to see, and how long in each location. Don’t panic if planning isn’t your forte, the relatively small size of the island does make it possible to go with the flow if that’s more your speed. We’ve laid out what each main area in the country can offer you to start your planning. Just know, there’s no blog post on the planet that can fully map out what a country and its people can offer, this is just your appetizer. The only way to fully get the feeling is to dive in, preferably head-first.

• South Coast: Ahangama, Weligama, and Mirissa are classic surf towns in all of the best ways. Waves that welcome beginners and barrel-hunters, palm-tree lined beaches, boutique hotels, you name it. Mornings you paddle out with the sun, or watch from the beach. Afternoons are for cafés with smoothie bowls named after local surf breaks and a cold drink. When sunset hits, Mirissa’s bars will shine music onto the beach, and Ahangama wil host DJ nights where locals, travellers, and nomads dance under string lights in the open air.

• East Coast: For a little more off-the-beaten-path, you can head to Arugam Bay. A hotspot for backpackers and surf addicts, this part of the island is most loved from April-September. Long, clean right hand breaks,, open-air beach shacks, and a tight knit community feel, the eastern coast is drier and a bit less polished. It’s perfect for those who prefer their flip flops off.

• Highlands: Trade in the salt for mountain mist in the south-central highlands of Sri Lanka. Your days start with tea picked from the same hills you slept atop, you’ll likely hike Little Adam’s Peak, and stand on Nine Arches Bridge (either from the train or off of it). Ella can bring an added level of calm, with yoga centres, the option for deep sleeps in wooden lodges, and enjoying local curries — but don’t think there isn’t a bit of night life for those looking for it!

• Cultural Triangle: The culture buffs rejoice. The Cultural Triangle is the heartbeat of much of Sri Lanka’s ancient soul. The climb up Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a portal, a citadel built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century CE; Polonnaruwa’s stone carvings are over 800 years old, and Anuradhapura’s beautiful Bodhi trees and candlelit rituals exist in Sri Lanka’s first capital city, with many of the monasteries being older than 2,000 years old.

• Yala National Park: Lions Leopards, tigers elephants, and bears water buffalo, oh my! Yala National Park is a breathtaking safari teeming with wildlife. It’s often enjoyed first thing in the morning, or at sunset, a half-day is recommended to drive through the beauty of the grasslands, and lagoons. A must-see for animal lovers.

• Colombo: And then there’s Colombo, the island’s gateway city. Most travelers only pass through, but it’s worth a stop. Rooftop bars, colonial-era cafés, art galleries, and markets give a taste of Sri Lanka’s cosmopolitan side. Spend a day here for great food, spicy arrack cocktails, and some of the best shopping on the island.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Sri Lanka has a beautiful and rich culture of warmth, kindness, and community. Locals are kind, curious, and quick to smile, but small gestures of respect go a long way. Whether you’re chatting with a tuk-tuk driver, wandering through a temple, or ordering your third coconut for the day, here’s how to show up right.

Dress & Respect

Temples and religious sites call for modesty: cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes before stepping inside, and never point your feet toward a Buddha statue. When taking photos, avoid posing with sacred imagery — it’s respectful to keep cameras low and body language calm.

Useful Sayings & Gestures

1. “Ayubowan” (ආයුබෝවන්) — Sinhala

• Pronunciation: Ah-yoo-bo-wan

• Meaning: “May you live long.”

• Use: A warm hello or goodbye. Palms together at your heart, small bow — you’ll instantly win hearts.

2. “Vanakkam” (வணக்கம்) — Tamil

• Pronunciation: Vah-nahk-kum

• Meaning: “Greetings / Hello.”

• Use: Common in Tamil-speaking communities (north & east Sri Lanka). Similar gesture to Ayubowan — palms together, slight nod.

3. “Istuti” (ස්තුතියි) — Sinhala

• Pronunciation: Iss-thoo-tee

• Meaning: “Thank you.”

• Use: Everyday gratitude. Whether for tea, directions, or great hospitality, this word lands warmly.

4. “Nandri” (நன்றி) — Tamil

• Pronunciation: Nahn-dree

• Meaning: “Thank you.”

• Use: Your go-to for gratitude in Tamil regions — polite, simple, always appreciated.

• “Kohomada?” (කොහොමද?) — Sinhala

• Pronunciation: Ko-ho-mah-da?

• Meaning: “How are you?”

• Reply: “Hondai” (Hon-die) = “I’m good.”

• Use: Easy icebreaker with locals — they love when travelers try.

6. “Hari” (හරි) — Sinhala

• Pronunciation: Huh-ree

• Meaning: “Okay / Alright / Sure.”

• Use: You’ll hear it constantly — short, happy, universal.

Practical Travel Logistics

Logistics time… Let’s get into the nitty gritty — currency, best seasons, transport quirks — and a deep dive into visas so you slide through immigration like a pro.

Currency & Arrivals

The official unit is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Chip in local cafés, hit beachside ATM machines and carry some small-notes for the remote surf towns — not all spots accept cards. Keep a few USD or CAD handy just in case.

When you land: passport checked, possibly a visa gate, then you’re into the island rhythm.

Visa & Entry Basics

Most travellers arriving for tourism apply for an online entry permit called an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

• Apply in advance at https://eta.gov.lk

• Requirements: passport valid for at least six months from arrival.

• Return/ onward ticket often required.

• ETA initially covers a stay of 30 days, extendable up to six months from inside the country.

• If you’re from a country with restrictions, you may need to apply at a Sri Lankan embassy rather than via ETA.

Visa Process – Step by Step

1. Head to the official ETA portal.

2. Fill out the online form: personal details, passport info, travel dates, accommodation.

3. Pay the fee via credit/debit card.

4. Receive approval/confirmation email — print or screenshot it.

5. On arrival, present the ETA notice, your passport (6 + months validity), return ticket and sufficient funds.

6. Want to stay longer? Visit the local Department of Immigration & Emigration to extend your permit.

Best Time to Visit

• South & West coast (surf mecca): December–March for the cleanest waves and sun.

• East coast: April–September for dry weather and awesome breaks.

• Highlands (chill-down time): year-round, but bring a jacket — it gets cold in the hills.

Getting Around & What to Pack

• Roads? Beautiful, winding, sometimes steep. Motion-sickness meds aren’t a bad idea for the hills.

• Trains: scenic. The ride from Kandy to Ella is iconic.

• Tuk-tuks: part of the experience. Tentative bargaining is fine.

• Pack list: reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a light rain shell, layers for mountain nights, reef shoes, swim trunks and a respect-ready outfit for temple visits.

Health, Safety & Medical FAQs

• Hospitals: Major private facilities in Colombo include Asiri Hospital and Lanka Hospitals (Apollo Colombo).

• Emergencies: Call 1990 for ambulances nationwide; Colombo emergency line +94 11 269 1111.

• Vaccines & Health Tips: Drink bottled water only. Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A and Typhoid.

• Safety: Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, with welcoming locals and active tourism zones. That said, official travel advisories list some risk: you should exercise increased caution, especially around large crowds, demonstrations or in remote areas.

• Insurance: Bring comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation if you plan remote surf or trekking days.

Sri Lanka is relaxed & safe, but the smart traveler keeps a little structure—sunblock, hydration, and a plan if things go sideways. It’s how you stay free to enjoy every wave, curry, and mountain trail.

Wellness, Movement & Surf Travel

Travel can be magic — but let’s be real, it can also be a lot. Planning, moving, figuring things out solo (or with friends who run on different time zones and energy levels). That’s where SALTY comes in.

If you’ve considered exploring the magic of Sri Lanka, consider doing so with a crew of like-minded humans, people who want to move their bodies, surf, eat, explore, and laugh hard. Our retreats mix just enough structure to keep you grounded (daily workouts, surf sessions, movement classes) with all the freedom you need to wander, rest, or extend your adventure after the trip.

The SALTY Sri Lanka Retreat is ten days of surf, sweat, and fun — coast to highlands, sunrise to sunset. A little guidance, a lot of good energy, and a community you’ll never forget.

Final Checklist

Packing for Sri Lanka is about being ready for everything: sunrise surf, temple visits, mountain hikes, a safari, and maybe a night or two barefoot under disco lights. Here’s your final checklist.

Before You Go:

✅ Visa: Apply for your ETA online before you fly (eta.gov.lk) and double-check passport validity (6 + months).

✅ Travel Insurance: Must-have. Make sure it covers adventure activities and medical evacuation.

✅ Vaccines & Health: Check your Hep A + Typhoid shots and pack basic meds.

✅ Money: Sri Lankan Rupees for day-to-day; ATMs are easy to find, but rural cash goes fast.

✅ Dress Code: Lightweight gear for the coast, layers for the hills, and covered shoulders/knees for temples.

✅ Eco Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent.

✅ Tech & Docs: Offline maps, hotel confirmations, and your ETA approval saved to your phone.

Ready to Dive In?

Join us for the SALTY Sri Lanka Retreat: Island Tides | Feb 12 – 21 2026.

A week of movement, sweat, fun, and energy, from coastline to highlands.