We have a bit of a habit of organizing dusty, muddy trips—where you get seriously dirty and truly live every moment. And then there’s our second obsession: the tuk-tuk! How awesome is it? It’s our absolute favorite way to travel. So for years now, we’ve been running this questionable, unhealthy, fantastic, and absolutely incredible adventure: This Epic Sri Lanka trip... by tuk-tuk!
On this Sto Gran Viaggio group adventure, we travel slow for 13 days. We rent super-powerful tuk-tuks, form a massive buzzing swarm led by us, and roam for a thousand kilometers to discover this epic Sri Lanka at 30 km/h.
And that’s the beauty of it, because it lets us travel through the countryside and connect with local families. We avoid the main roads and follow smaller ones instead—quiet, rural routes that take us through ancient temples, tropical forests, and soaring mountains covered in tea plantations: always dusty, hands covered in grease, eyes wide with wonder. Probably exhausted, 100% happy. We start in Negombo. From there, we head to Dambulla to receive a blessing (we’re going to need it) in a UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple. Then we zip along—very slowly—to Sigiriya for a safari in search of Sri Lankan elephants. By this point, we’ve become one with our tuk-tuks and continue on to Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella, and then—plot twist—we hop off the tuk-tuks and board the legendary Sri Lankan train (which is even slower than our buzzing little rides). What else? Tangalle to relax a bit, Galle for another UNESCO World Heritage site, and we finish in Hikkaduwa for some more sea and sunshine—because that never hurts.
There’s a lot to experience, but that’s a job for your Sto Gran Tour Leader: that (saintly!) person who’s a seasoned pro at handling the trip logistics and dealing with any unexpected twists. For now, here’s a big recap of some of the amazing highlights we’ll experience together:
We don’t travel just to say “I’ve been there,” but to feel “damn, I’ve changed.” We’ll take you on the most unforgettable adventure road trip of your life. Everything you’re imagining—and then some. Sri Lanka, here we come!
Experiences you'll live
Driving a tuk tuk at 30 km/h through the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya.
Foist holiness upon us in Dambulla at a UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple.
Getting our hair blown into shape by sticking our heads out of that little train you surely know.
Get thrashed at cricket in a rural village where everyone knows us by name.
What we've got
(And the others don't, MUAHAHA)
Certified team leader with an official tour escort license
Self-drive: you drive yourself (if you want)
You can depart from the airport you prefer
We don’t stay in hostels or dormitories.
Discover this gran trip
Check out the itinerary
1
START THE ADVENTURE
Day 1
We sink into the seats of a direct flight departing from Italy, with a layover somewhere in the world. After spending the night on the plane, sleeping 10 kilometers above the ground at 900 kilometers per hour, we will wake up in Sri Lanka.
We sink into the seats of a direct flight departing from Italy, with a layover somewhere in the world. After spending the night on the plane, sleeping 10 kilometers above the ground at 900 kilometers per hour, we will wake up in Sri Lanka.
2
WE ARE IN NEGOMBO
Day 2
After the long flight, there would be only one thing to do: throw ourselves onto the beach and relax under the palm trees. But that’s not our style: we’ll have the return flight to rest. By now, you’re all in.We’re in Negombo, and we’re staying here to collect our tricycles: at last we’ll meet our tuk-tuks, companions on this adventure. Once we’ve gotten familiar with our powerful, ramshackle rides, and after the pre-departure briefing, we can stretch out on the warm Sri Lankan sand. We’ll have dinner all together by the sea and sleep in a villa.
After the long flight, there would be only one thing to do: throw ourselves onto the beach and relax under the palm trees. But that’s not our style: we’ll have the return flight to rest. By now, you’re all in.
We’re in Negombo, and we’re staying here to collect our tricycles: at last we’ll meet our tuk-tuks, companions on this adventure.
Once we’ve gotten familiar with our powerful, ramshackle rides, and after the pre-departure briefing, we can stretch out on the warm Sri Lankan sand. We’ll have dinner all together by the sea and sleep in a villa.
3
DAMBULLA
Day 3
Rise and shine! We’re setting off early today—more than 130 kilometers await us. And sure, you might say, what’s the big deal… yes. Except we’re traveling on tricycles. In Sri Lanka. Even so, our first day of driving will be insanely awesome. Today’s destination is Dambulla, where we’ll visit a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple carved into the rock. It’s the first of five one-of-a-kind sites in the world that we’ll visit, and each one will be more beautiful than the last. Today’s temple sits atop a hill, and after making it there and receiving a blessing (we’ll need it), we’ll head back on the road, driving north.We then make our way to Sigiriya to spend the night, right next to Sri Lanka’s most famous rock.
Rise and shine! We’re setting off early today—more than 130 kilometers await us. And sure, you might say, what’s the big deal… yes. Except we’re traveling on tricycles. In Sri Lanka. Even so, our first day of driving will be insanely awesome.
Today’s destination is Dambulla, where we’ll visit a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple carved into the rock. It’s the first of five one-of-a-kind sites in the world that we’ll visit, and each one will be more beautiful than the last. Today’s temple sits atop a hill, and after making it there and receiving a blessing (we’ll need it), we’ll head back on the road, driving north.
We then make our way to Sigiriya to spend the night, right next to Sri Lanka’s most famous rock.
4
SIGIRIYA AND THE ELEPHANTS
Day 4
We slept in Sigiriya, so we wake up in Sigiriya too. It’s that place with the fortress built on top of that giant rock. If we didn’t climb the rock yesterday, we’ll do it today. After the big effort and once we’ve enjoyed the view enough, we head back down to the valley. We’ll see loads of elephants along the way, but this afternoon it will be nice to swap our tuk-tuks for Jeeps and go on a safari in search of Sri Lankan elephants* in a National Park. Tonight we sleep nearby.*Please note: the elephant safari will depend on local availability.
We slept in Sigiriya, so we wake up in Sigiriya too. It’s that place with the fortress built on top of that giant rock. If we didn’t climb the rock yesterday, we’ll do it today. After the big effort and once we’ve enjoyed the view enough, we head back down to the valley.
We’ll see loads of elephants along the way, but this afternoon it will be nice to swap our tuk-tuks for Jeeps and go on a safari in search of Sri Lankan elephants* in a National Park. Tonight we sleep nearby.
*Please note: the elephant safari will depend on local availability.
5
KANDY AND THE TOOTH OF BUDDHA
Day 5
With our backpacks loaded into the back of our tuk-tuks, we set off again on this Great Adventure: today’s stop is Kandy. Besides being a stop along the way, it’s a very charming city, where we can visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, said to house Buddha’s tooth relic.Then there’s a small lake and a place to sleep. And that’s where we’ll be staying.
With our backpacks loaded into the back of our tuk-tuks, we set off again on this Great Adventure: today’s stop is Kandy. Besides being a stop along the way, it’s a very charming city, where we can visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, said to house Buddha’s tooth relic.
Then there’s a small lake and a place to sleep. And that’s where we’ll be staying.
6
NUWARA ELIYA AND THE TEA PLANTATIONS
Day 6
It’s day six, and the time has come to put our tricycles to the test. Come on, a great climb begins! Nuwara Eliya is today’s destination and the first mountain stop of our journey. We drive for several hours along beautiful mountain roads, surrounded by tea plantations. It will be the perfect excuse to go even more slowly and fully enjoy our trip. Here, we visit a village with which we have built a friendship over the years. And we all enjoy a great game of cricket together. Tonight, we stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya, near the lake.
It’s day six, and the time has come to put our tricycles to the test. Come on, a great climb begins! Nuwara Eliya is today’s destination and the first mountain stop of our journey. We drive for several hours along beautiful mountain roads, surrounded by tea plantations. It will be the perfect excuse to go even more slowly and fully enjoy our trip.
Here, we visit a village with which we have built a friendship over the years. And we all enjoy a great game of cricket together. Tonight, we stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya, near the lake.
7
Ella and the Nine Arch Bridge
Day 7
Today’s stop is Ella. We spend the morning driving through lush green hills and reach our destination around lunchtime. Ella is the perfect base for relaxing: it’s one of the best places to slow down (this whole trip is all about slowing down) and enjoy nature. But it’s also an excellent starting point for visiting mountain villages, tea plantations, and tea factories.After dropping off our things at the house, we walk along the railway to see the Nine Arch Bridge, which hits us with an absolutely incredible view. If we’re lucky enough, we might even see one of those beautiful colorful trains passing right in front of us. We hardly ever stop, so before long we hop into our tuk-tuks and head to one of the area’s tea factories to follow the preparation and processing of the leaves.Okay, now we’re exhausted. It’s time to sleep, and we stay here in Ella.
Today’s stop is Ella. We spend the morning driving through lush green hills and reach our destination around lunchtime. Ella is the perfect base for relaxing: it’s one of the best places to slow down (this whole trip is all about slowing down) and enjoy nature. But it’s also an excellent starting point for visiting mountain villages, tea plantations, and tea factories.
After dropping off our things at the house, we walk along the railway to see the Nine Arch Bridge, which hits us with an absolutely incredible view. If we’re lucky enough, we might even see one of those beautiful colorful trains passing right in front of us. We hardly ever stop, so before long we hop into our tuk-tuks and head to one of the area’s tea factories to follow the preparation and processing of the leaves.
Okay, now we’re exhausted. It’s time to sleep, and we stay here in Ella.
8
THE CINGALESE LITTLE TRAIN
Day 8
Up early again—of course! Today is one of the coolest days of the whole trip: a journey within the journey. We’re still in Ella, where we’ll hop on one of those famous Sri Lankan trains—super slow and incredibly crowded—that everyone loves so much.It will be a round trip, just so we can lean out of the carriage doors while the train is moving, take in the countryside up close at a leisurely pace, and watch the tea pickers at work.On the way back, we’ll wrap up our full immersion in Sri Lankan nature with one of the area’s most famous treks, offering some of the best views you’re likely to see in Sri Lanka. By the time we return from our walk, we’ll all smell so much like tea that not even a Lipton tea bag could compete.
Up early again—of course! Today is one of the coolest days of the whole trip: a journey within the journey. We’re still in Ella, where we’ll hop on one of those famous Sri Lankan trains—super slow and incredibly crowded—that everyone loves so much.
It will be a round trip, just so we can lean out of the carriage doors while the train is moving, take in the countryside up close at a leisurely pace, and watch the tea pickers at work.
On the way back, we’ll wrap up our full immersion in Sri Lankan nature with one of the area’s most famous treks, offering some of the best views you’re likely to see in Sri Lanka. By the time we return from our walk, we’ll all smell so much like tea that not even a Lipton tea bag could compete.
9
Tangalle and lots of sea
Day 9
At last, today we reach the coast: we’re heading to Tangalle to dip our toes in the water. We can kick back and relax, or get out and do something! We can arrange a lovely yoga class, a surf lesson, a cooking class, or even a wonderful kayaking trip through a mangrove forest. There’s something for everyone.How beautiful is the sea? We’ll spend the night here.
At last, today we reach the coast: we’re heading to Tangalle to dip our toes in the water. We can kick back and relax, or get out and do something! We can arrange a lovely yoga class, a surf lesson, a cooking class, or even a wonderful kayaking trip through a mangrove forest. There’s something for everyone.
How beautiful is the sea? We’ll spend the night here.
10
Tangalle, still by the sea
Day 10
Our relaxation continues! And for us, relaxation means doing a whole lot of amazing things: we have an entire day at our disposal to explore the coast or enjoy a variety of activities. Everyone can choose whatever they like most: surf lessons, scuba diving, SUP, a kayak tour through the mangrove forest, heading out to sea to spot whales, and anything else you can dream of.In the evening, we’ll all enjoy a big dinner featuring fresh fish. Then, overnight stay in our bungalows. What incredible experiences we’re having! Aaaaah, this great Sri Lanka, Aaaaah, this great journey.
Our relaxation continues! And for us, relaxation means doing a whole lot of amazing things: we have an entire day at our disposal to explore the coast or enjoy a variety of activities. Everyone can choose whatever they like most: surf lessons, scuba diving, SUP, a kayak tour through the mangrove forest, heading out to sea to spot whales, and anything else you can dream of.
In the evening, we’ll all enjoy a big dinner featuring fresh fish. Then, overnight stay in our bungalows. What incredible experiences we’re having! Aaaaah, this great Sri Lanka, Aaaaah, this great journey.
11
Galle and Hikkaduwa
Day 11
Off we go again! We fire up the engines, hoping they start on the first try. Otherwise, we roll up our sleeves and start pushing the tuk-tuks all the way to Galle, an ancient town in Sri Lanka. We’re not really sure why we’re speaking so badly about tuk-tuks, though: they’re the most indestructible and reliable vehicles we’ve ever seen. But we’re only trying to scare you.In Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we visit its main highlight: the Fort, a fortified citadel full of charm.After visiting the ancient citadel, we head to Hikkaduwa for one last glimpse of the Sri Lankan sea. Hikkaduwa is our home for the night.
Off we go again! We fire up the engines, hoping they start on the first try. Otherwise, we roll up our sleeves and start pushing the tuk-tuks all the way to Galle, an ancient town in Sri Lanka. We’re not really sure why we’re speaking so badly about tuk-tuks, though: they’re the most indestructible and reliable vehicles we’ve ever seen. But we’re only trying to scare you.
In Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we visit its main highlight: the Fort, a fortified citadel full of charm.
After visiting the ancient citadel, we head to Hikkaduwa for one last glimpse of the Sri Lankan sea. Hikkaduwa is our home for the night.
12
WE’RE GOING BACK TO NEGOMBO
Day 12
We say goodbye to Hikkaduwa and set off for Negombo, the final stop of our journey. We pack our bags and face one of the saddest moments of the trip: saying farewell to our tuk-tuks, our faithful travel companions and unforgettable partners on the road. We hope we’ll be able to say goodbye to all of them, because that would mean we made it safely to the finish line. Incredible, but true. We get ready to catch our return flight in the evening. Sigh.
We say goodbye to Hikkaduwa and set off for Negombo, the final stop of our journey. We pack our bags and face one of the saddest moments of the trip: saying farewell to our tuk-tuks, our faithful travel companions and unforgettable partners on the road. We hope we’ll be able to say goodbye to all of them, because that would mean we made it safely to the finish line. Incredible, but true.
We get ready to catch our return flight in the evening. Sigh.
13
THE SADDEST RETURN
Day 13
During the night, we set off for Italy. It’s time to head home. Sigh. By evening, we’ll be home.It’s still too early to fully process it, but the question is already starting to arise: “Damn, what an experience we’ve had?!” It was the trip you imagined, and then some.
During the night, we set off for Italy. It’s time to head home. Sigh. By evening, we’ll be home.
It’s still too early to fully process it, but the question is already starting to arise: “Damn, what an experience we’ve had?!” It was the trip you imagined, and then some.
Boring but important stuff to know
Deposit and registration
To sign up for the trip, you need to: 🍌 Pay a deposit, which you will see indicated during registration, to confirm your spot. 🍌 The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before departure.
And what about the payment method? 🍌 You can pay by bank transfer. 🍌 You can pay by card (secure payment method via Revolut). 🍌 You can pay for your trip in up to 12 installments with HeyLight.
We will show you the final cost of the trip, including any extras you select, during the registration process and in your personal area.
Flight
🍌 Your flight is included in the price, with departure from Milan or Rome. 🍌 You can also depart from other airports — just select your preferred one during sign-up. If you can’t find the airport you want, write to us and we’ll help you. 🍌 A No-Flight option is available. Basically, if you prefer to arrange your own flight, we’ll deduct the airfare from the trip price and you can book your flights independently. Then we’ll coordinate to meet at the destination. 🍌 You can find your flight times in your personal area once you’ve completed your registration. 🍌 And who does the check-in? That’s up to you! By default, you do it yourself, but if you prefer, we can take care of it: just choose that option during sign-up. 🍌 Be sure to read all the flight-related FAQs at the bottom of this page.
Transport and accommodation
🍌Transport: we’ll travel as a caravan of tuk-tuks, with 3 people in each one. Every tuk-tuk must have a driver and a co-driver. Driving is not mandatory, and you don’t need to know how to drive, but it’s an absolutely amazing experience. The tuk-tuks will be rented from local owners, fully serviced, insured, and compliant with Sto Gran Viaggio* requirements. 🍌 Accommodation: we’ll stay in good-quality hotels and apartments, with double, triple, and quadruple rooms. Bathrooms may be private and/or shared.**
*Traveling with these “three-wheelers” is one of the most fun things you can do in life. It’s a wild experience worth trying: the slow pace, the wind on your face, the connection with local people make the trip… a real journey! Can you imagine how incredible that is? **Depending on availability and/or changes on site, alternatives to the proposed accommodations may be used. A double room is never 100% guaranteed. We’ve created a dedicated FAQ just below.
Luggage and equipment
🍌 We recommend traveling with a 60-liter backpack to carry everything you need, plus a small daypack to keep with you at all times for your valuables. Tuk-tuks have very limited luggage space: the lighter we travel, the less we’ll have to push the tuk-tuk uphill! 🍌 Checked baggage is not included, and this time we do not recommend it: it simply won’t fit in the tuk-tuk! 🍌 You’ll find the baggage size and weight limits in your personal area. 🍌 You’ll also find the list of equipment to bring for the trip in your personal area.
Extra activities
Optional activities are experiences that aren’t included in the itinerary, but that you can choose to add to personalize your trip. They’re amazing experiences, but they might not be everyone’s thing. And that’s totally fine! So instead of being stuck with an “all-inclusive” package and paying for things you don’t enjoy, you have the freedom to choose.
🍌 You can book them during registration or later in your personal area. 🍌 It’s not necessary for the whole group to do the same activities. 🍌 For those who don’t join the optional activities, there’s always a free alternative. It’s never a less meaningful part of the itinerary, so no one has to miss out on anything. 🍌 When specific equipment is needed for an activity, we’ll let you know.
If you feel excited about any optional activities, we recommend booking them as soon as possible. Especially if you’re traveling in high season, they can sell out very quickly. We don’t control the sales, so if spots are no longer available, there’s nothing we can do about it.
There’s also a dedicated FAQ in the section “You might have questions, we definitely have answers.” Take a look.
Country entry requirements
🍌 Before signing up for the trip, we recommend checking any entry requirements requested by the country. You can do so here by consulting the Viaggiare Sicuri website: https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/find-country/country/LKA 🍌 It will be your responsibility (yep, it’s on you!) to make sure you meet all entry requirements for the destination country or countries. Sto Gran Tour declines all responsibility in the event of refusal of entry to the country. If you have any questions at this point, feel free to ask and we’ll be happy to answer! 🍌 Any visa or government fee will be at your own expense.
International Driving Permit
For this Great Journey, an international driving permit is required, as it is mandatory for driving in the country. This cost will then be shared among all participants and will give you the freedom to drive far and wide without breaking the law and ending up behind bars. Did you know we can help you obtain your international driving permit? Take a look at the extra activities section.
Vaccinations and health
🍌 There are no mandatory vaccinations for traveling to Sri Lanka. 🍌 We’re not doctors, so we can’t hand out medical advice left and right. Call your doctor before you leave so they can recommend any medical precautions or vaccines you may need.
Meals
🍌 Do you have any food intolerances? 🍌 Do you have any food allergies? 🍌 Are you vegetarian? Vegan? Pastafarian?! Do you only eat things that start with Z?!?
Nooo problem! Food doesn’t have to limit your trip. There’s always a solution, whether at a restaurant or at the supermarket.
What's included, and what's not
Included in the trip price
Not included in the trip price
Common fund
What about shared expenses? How do they work? No one likes traveling with stacks of local currency cash and doing the math with a calculator every evening. So, we’ll spare you that stress: traveling with us is much easier.
Each participant takes turns paying shared expenses and recording them in the SplitUp app, which at the end of the trip splits everything equally among the group. We estimate these costs will be between €140 and €190 for this trip, depending on the number of participants.
🍌 Fuel for the tuk-tuks. 🍌 Sri Lankan driving permits for those volunteering to drive the tuk-tuks. 🍌 Full coverage damage insurance for the vehicles, which costs €69. 🍌 Entrance fees to monuments (around €12). 🍌 Tips for local people. 🍌 Team Leader expenses.
Pick your extra activities
Customize your itinerary!
Great idea, with us you can. You can tweak every itinerary by adding the extra activities you want to do on the trip. We've tested and approved every single one. So instead of putting up with an "all inclusive" and paying for stuff you don't like, you're free to choose.
You might have questions, we definitely have answers
Deposit, balance and insurance
Here’s how payments work:
🍌 A deposit is due at the time of booking to confirm your spot.
🍌 The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before departure, directly in your personal area.
🍌 You can pay by bank transfer or by card (secure payment method via Revolut).
🍌 The final trip price, including any extras you select, will be shown during the booking process, in the confirmation email, and in your personal area.
🍌 Before departure, you can purchase trip cancellation insurance, which covers you in the event of cancellation according to the cases listed in the insurance PDF. You can view and download this PDF during the booking process, before confirming your trip.
🍌 If you feel that the insurance we offer does not meet your needs, you are free to take out your own policy—and we’ll still be friends and travel companions.
🍌 Sto Gran Tour accepts no responsibility if the participant’s reason for cancelling the trip does not fall within the cases covered by the insurance policy.
🍌 Medical and baggage insurance is always included in the trip price.
How air travel works
🍌 With us, your airfare is always included in the trip price, departing from Milan or Rome depending on the departure date.
🍌 For an additional fee, you can choose a different departure airport.
🍌 The group may have different flight schedules, depending on airline availability and the order in which participants book.
🍌 We’ll share your flight times in your personal area as soon as they become available.
🍌 Booking for two people does not guarantee seats together on the plane, as seat selection comes at an extra cost. However, you can request it and we’ll provide a separate quote.
🍌 Unless otherwise stated, the flight booking does not include checked baggage. If you really, really want to add it, alright then! Write to us at hello@stograntour.com and we’ll see what we can do.
🍌 If you are absent at the airport on the day of departure due to personal unforeseen circumstances, delays or cancellations of connecting flights, or other means of transport, you will need to reach the destination independently on another flight at your own expense. We’ll help you find a flight, provided you buy the first round of beers when you catch up with us.
The option without flights
If you’d prefer to arrange your own flights, no problem! You can select the “without flights” option when signing up. We’ll deduct the flight cost from the trip price, and that’s it. Please note:
🍌 With the “without flights” option, airport transfers and any domestic/internal flights are not included, unless otherwise stated.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, we cannot directly assist or protect you in the event of delays or cancellations.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, we ask you to share the flight times you would like to book so we can confirm whether they are compatible with the rest of the group.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, before purchasing your flights you must wait until the trip is confirmed. If you buy them before confirmation, we will not reimburse the airfare portion.
Self-drive
What a pain it is when, on your trip, you have to rely on buses and drivers stuck to standard working hours. And have you ever seen a backpacking adventurer rolling around on a 50-seat coach with a private driver? Nah. On our trips, we prefer the self-drive formula. In other words: you plant yourself in the driver’s seat and drive — you experience the road firsthand. You’re the one behind the wheel, if you want. And if you don’t, that’s fine too. You always need someone to play navigator in the middle of the desert, put on the perfect playlist, and notice that “guys, I think that explosion might have been our tire… hold on.”
🍌 Can we take turns driving?
Yes. This epic trip is designed to make driving flexible: anyone in the group can get behind the wheel, as long as it’s communicated in the personal area before departure.
🍌 Insurance and what it covers
You’ll find all the information in the “vehicle insurance” FAQ. Off you go!
🍌 Vehicle pick-up
To collect the vehicle, Sto Gran Tour provides its own credit card, so even travelers who don’t have one can still join the trip (you’re welcome).
🍌 Route and flexibility
We created the itinerary ourselves, after experiencing it firsthand. It’s designed to cover the coolest stops, at the right pace and with sensible breaks along the way. But it’s not set in stone: if we want to stay longer, change route, and explore a place, we decide it together as a group. That’s the beauty of self-drive!
🍌 What happens if we wreck the car or have a breakdown?
We won’t get arrested or end up behind bars. The vehicle is covered by insurance (see the “vehicle insurance” FAQ). In any case, the Team Leader will handle the process by contacting the company or the local partner for assistance. And the Team Leader will always be backed up remotely by the Sto Gran Tour staff, 24/7. Seriously: day and night, every single day.
Vehicle insurance
In the true spirit of adventure and to enjoy a more authentic journey, the group will drive the rental vehicles in self-drive mode.
🍌 An extra convenience for those traveling with us: Sto Gran Tour provides its own credit card as the guarantee for the vehicle rental, taking on the required guarantee with the rental company, including any possible damages or additional costs. This means that even travelers who do not have a credit card can drive, and the vehicle pick-up procedures are simpler for the whole group.
🍌 Each vehicle will be covered by full Kasko insurance. The cost (a small amount), shared among the participants, is included in the common expenses. You can pay your share directly in your personal area before departure. We believe this is the best way to avoid significant unexpected costs if needed and not place all the responsibility on the volunteer drivers.
🍌 If you do not wish to pay the small Kasko fee, you can choose to rent the vehicle using your own personal credit card, or pay the rental excess/deposit required by the rental company. You will be able to select this option in your personal area.
At the time of pick-up, all participants (not only the drivers) are responsible for checking that the insurance is in place and for taking photos of the vehicle, to avoid any unpleasant surprises when returning it.
Types of accommodation
Accommodation arrangements are indicated in the “Accommodation and Transport” tab in the “Boring but Important Things to Know” section on this page. Depending on the departure date and the trip, the arrangement shown on the website may differ from what is described. For this reason, you will never see it stated that a specific room type (whether double, triple, or quadruple) is guaranteed with 100% certainty. This is simply because we often do not have full control over supplier availability. Also keep in mind that on a group trip, sharing is part of the travel experience: besides an amazing adventure, you may also end up sharing rooms and bathrooms. Every traveler for themselves? Not at all. If having a double room is absolutely essential for you (like, really non-negotiable), please write to us before departure! That way we can avoid issues, misunderstandings, and headaches for both sides. Sounds like a fair deal?
Lead Guide Sto Gran Tour
When you travel with Sto Gran Tour, a Trip Leader is always by your side.
We don’t work with polished bloggers who turn travel into something just for social media, and we don’t collaborate with people who only want a free trip. Our Trip Leaders are certified guides: experienced and passionate young women and men, as well as licensed tour escorts.
The Trip Leader supports the group throughout the trip, handling logistics and technical matters. From choosing the right tire pressure in Namibia to giving advice on tuk-tuks in Sri Lanka. From declaring the winner of an axe-throwing contest in Iceland to judging the right amount of supplies before heading into the desert. The Trip Leader coordinates the schedule and stays in constant contact with the office staff and local partners.
Typically, a Sto Gran Tour Trip Leader is a young, good-looking, friendly, and fun human being. And we are absolutely not biased.
Crews
For Sto Gran Viaggio, we create crews made up of 3 people. Each crew needs to coordinate to ensure the adventure goes smoothly, managing their own transportation, meals, and in some cases accommodation.
The group usually comes from all over Italy and is made up of open-minded people who love new experiences. You don’t need to be an experienced traveler, nor have you taken part in group trips before. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling alone, with your girlfriend, or with your dad. What matters is the spirit you set off with: the desire and curiosity to explore and experience the world. It will be what you imagine—but even more.
One month before departure, we’ll open the Wazzzzup group where you can start getting to know the other participants. You’ll find the link to Sto Gran Gruppo in your personal area.
Group and travel companions
Groups usually consist of 3 to 17 people, plus a Trip Leader. The exact number varies depending on the trip. The average age on our trips is generally between 25 and 45, with a few exceptions.
Our groups usually include people from all over Italy, and they’re open-minded travelers who love new experiences. You don’t have to be an experienced traveler, and you don’t need to have joined group trips before. It also doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling solo, with your girlfriend, or with your dad. What really matters is the spirit you bring with you: the desire and curiosity to explore and experience the world. It’ll be what you imagine — and then some.
About a month before departure, we’ll open the Wazzzzup group so you can start getting to know the other participants. You’ll find the Sto Gran Gruppo link in your personal area.
We confirm and activate the trip once there are at least 4 to 6 participants. If we don’t reach the minimum number of travelers, you can change your date free of charge to the closest available departure — either for the same destination or for a different one. Or you can request a full refund. So when will you know whether the trip is confirmed or not? About a month before departure, when we review the final number of participants.
P.S.
Are you cursing us out because you’d love to travel with us, but you think you’re over the age limit? Write to us — we might still be able to travel together. And in the worst-case scenario, at least you can insult us in person.
Group confirmation
Almost all of our trips are confirmed. For groups that are still awaiting confirmation, we will send you regular updates through your personal area. If we do not reach the minimum number of participants (generally 6), you may change your date free of charge to the nearest available departure, either for the same destination or for a different one, or receive a full refund. For trips with only one departure date, the "Trip Status" is shown.
How extra activities work
You can customize your trip with extra activities, which you can choose either when you book or later on. Please note:
🍌If an activity is canceled by the provider, you will be refunded.
🍌Any special equipment required for each activity will be provided on site.
🍌You can also choose activities after booking and add them from your personal area for an additional €5.
🍌We cannot guarantee activity availability if you add them close to your departure date.
🍌During peak seasons, such as New Year’s and summer, we cannot guarantee activity availability unless you book well in advance.
🍌Activity prices may increase at the discretion of the providers.
One more thing: the activities are organized by local providers, and we at Sto Gran Tour are not responsible for changes, availability, or cancellations.
Travel itinerary and changes
Even if you’re joining an organized trip, the spirit is that of a real road trip. Absolutely! This is a real journey: unexpected events, pleasant unplanned moments along the itinerary, stops, weather-related disruptions, and more. So, what does that mean in practice?
🍌The program, as well as the order of the days, may change.
🍌Nature is in charge. We do not provide refunds of the amount paid for itinerary changes caused by weather conditions.
🍌Mechanical issues can happen. We do not provide refunds of the amount paid for itinerary changes caused by mechanical problems (for example, a flat tire, a blown fuse, a broken window, a stolen side mirror, and things like that).
🍌If travel days or activities are missed due to bad weather or issues caused by suppliers, we will try to make them up if the group agrees on the new travel solution and only if the Trip Leader considers it feasible.
🍌The layout/size of the means of transport and accommodations may differ from what is indicated in the travel program due to local availability.
How much adaptability is needed
A four-star place here might come with scratchy towels and a gurgling drain. And a place without even a single star might serve the best dinner of your trip. Ratings are local, and so are the standards used to measure them. In practice, this means:
🍌Cleanliness can sometimes fall short. Let the Tour Leader know and we’ll step in, but don’t expect a polished seaside hotel on the Romagna Riviera.
🍌We work directly with suppliers, without middlemen, and that helps us sort out a lot of issues. But we’re not masters of other people’s time, so please allow for some waiting now and then.
Courtesy and respect are always the foundation of exploring the world!
Got questions buzzing around your head? Write to us
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Just don't send us voice messages, life is hard enough as it is. Other than that, we reply Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Imagine yourself outside our guesthouse, sitting on a blue plastic chair that has already buckled twice and probably won’t make it to tomorrow. You’re barefoot, your flip-flops tossed aside, and the tuk-tuk is parked nearby, still warm and covered in dust and glory. You’ve spent half the day driving through cows, horns, and hairpin bends, with a bus overtaking you in a spot where it physically should not have been possible—and now it all feels normal. The owner brings you an extra-sweet milk tea and sits down for a chat, asking whether the engine acted up on the climb. You can’t help laughing, because until five days ago, even a traffic light made you anxious. Tomorrow, the impossibly green hills of Ella are waiting for us, along with visits to mountain villages, tea plantations, and tea factories. It feels crazy when you think about it: you can’t wait to get back on the road.
This Grand Sri Lanka by tuk-tuk trip is exactly what you imagine—only even more so.
Our documentaries
Episode 1: Sri Lanka
This is the story of a journey through Sri Lanka. We set off from the coast and head inland, through tea plantations, temples, and roads that wind their way up through the hills. A small island on the map, yet one that changes completely with every hour of travel.
The first stop on our Sri Lankan journey in our “Slow Travel” series, every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
In the previous episode, our journey through Sri Lanka began. Today the road continues: from the island’s green heart, we head down toward areas where nature grows wilder, among parks, wildlife, and villages that live off what the land provides.
The second chapter of the Sri Lankan journey in the series "Slow Travel", every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
This is the final chapter of the Sri Lankan adventure. Before heading home, we stop at a school that welcomes girls from difficult backgrounds, and we deliver the bus our group chose to donate: a vehicle that means being able to get to class every day. A journey that ends by leaving something meaningful behind.
Here the Sri Lankan journey in the series "Slow Travel" comes to a close, airing every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
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The tour was absolutely positive and well organized, the itinerary complete and balanced, also taking winds and tides into account. Every day had something special: a sunset, a hidden spot, a fun fact about the place... Our team leader Bibi was simply fantastic. The fact that she has lived in Fuerte for a while was certainly a big plus: it let us experience the island authentically, with a few surprising unplanned moments too. At the same time she was very professional despite being "at home", which is not a given and was much appreciated. We felt Fuerteventura a little more ours thanks to her too, as she took us by the hand to every place with sensitivity and friendliness.
Francesca Stanco
December 2025
Iceland with Nic
A fantastic experience! The trip was beautiful, well organized and with a great variety and diversity of experiences. All made even more exciting thanks to Nic, his contagious enthusiasm for adventure and his ability to keep the group together.
Mariangela Viceconte
November 2025
Sta Gran Review
The assistance and support I received from the organization before departure were excellent and allowed me to arrive prepared on the first day of this adventure. (Even with a few refunds, everything was clear and simple.) During the trip, the skills and practical abilities of our team leader proved to be the key to making us enjoy the experience to the fullest: from handling the unexpected to organizing the downtime, from helping build the bond between travel companions to supporting each member's individual needs. I'm coming home from this trip very satisfied and sure that, if in the future I choose to take on another similar adventure, "Sto Gran Tour" will definitely be the first travel company I'll consider.
Marco Milan
January 2026
Unforgettable Lapland
A perfect experience from every point of view! A trip lived 100% that met all my expectations! Visiting Lapland means putting yourself to the test, and I can say that without the organization, but above all without the involvement of our leader Alberto, I would have backed out. Alberto balanced every phase of our trip, staying serious while bringing a great spirit of involvement. His presence made all the difference! Every phase of our trip went smoothly, with no issues in timing, transfers or organization. Even for the little hiccups a quick and effective solution was found. I'd choose Sto Gran Tour again for my next trip with my eyes closed.
Rosita Pavone
November 2025
A truly memorable first trip to Japan
I joined the trip with my partner and it was our first time in Asia. The experience went beyond expectations. The itinerary was carefully planned, and credit also goes to our tour leader, Michele, who enriched every stop with clear explanations and his enthusiasm for Japanese culture. The route offered a really pleasant balance between cultural visits, discovering the local food and moments immersed in nature. The group we shared the trip with was a nice surprise too: curious, engaged people with a genuine desire to enjoy every moment. All in all, an experience I'd absolutely recommend to anyone who wants a first introduction to Japan that's well structured and engaging at the same time!
Fabio Rosato
January 2026
Unique experiences
I've traveled with StoGranTour three times, visiting South Africa, Iceland and Morocco. On all three trips I met extremely well-prepared and knowledgeable guides, with a truly impeccable wealth of knowledge about the land, the flora and the local cultures. I warmly recommend traveling with them to anyone who wants to live a unique experience, thanks to itineraries and experiences planned down to the smallest detail and to fantastic tour leaders.
Chiara Nordera
July 2026
Ring Road in Iceland
The itinerary let us discover incredible and very different landscapes, alternating waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black beaches, small villages and scenery that seems to belong to another planet. The added value was the group and our coordinator Nicola Ferrucci, a real expert and in love with Iceland. Thanks to him we had unforgettable experiences and visited places off the most touristy spots… he told us legends, curiosities and anecdotes that only someone passionate who knows the place perfectly can know.
Chiara Giammaroli
January 2026
My first group trip
It was my first group trip, and I was really satisfied with the organization and with how the trip was structured! Fantastic group, and what can I say about the guide: fantastic and super active! She showed us wonderful places and told us about Iceland from the heart!
Mirco Pieralisi
October 2025
Sto Gran Kenya
My first solo trip, and I couldn't have had a better guide! The legendary Cruz in the Bush took me among lions, giant animals, breathtaking sunsets and ocean waves. He knows every corner of Kenya, almost as if it were his home. If you need someone to rely on, trust him. There's never a shortage of laughs, but I won't spoil anything else: meet him in person and you won't regret it.
Denise Camboni
January 2026
Hakuna Matata!!!
Exciting trip to Kenya! Andrea made us live the "safari" to the fullest, cheerfully carting us from one animal to the next (he even knew the exact number of hairs on their bu...). Almost everything worked and even the hiccups were handled like a pro. Fantastic group, as only happens on unforgettable trips.
Amerigo degli Atti
November 2025
An exceptional first experience
An unforgettable experience in Vietnam: even though I left on my own, I immediately felt at ease with all the other participants (18 people). Very beautiful places, excellent organization, even considering that three days had to be rescheduled because of a typhoon that hit the central part of the country. Several bus transfers, some of them hours long, due to the shape of Vietnam itself, but we knew about it before departure. Team leader Roberto: a great person and an excellent professional. Happy I took part, I'd leave again tomorrow.
Matteo Monteverdi
March 2026
Trip to Morocco
I left for Morocco at the end of March for my second trip with Stograntour and once again it was an all-round positive experience. The real added value for me is the organization, flawless and never trite in an itinerary that always goes a bit beyond expectations, and the skill of the team leaders: Ilaria was perfect! The group worked really well too, I'm taking home a great memory and I'm already thinking about the next trip!
Eleonora Tronconi
March 2026
If you're thinking about it, do it!
A wonderful experience, cleverly divided into daily goals; I never imagined I could visit so many spectacular places in a single day despite the distances. Our guide Sara was marvelous, super prepared and ready to solve any problem. I recommend this experience to those traveling solo too. The places we rested in were excellent as well, both for comfort and for their position to see the aurora.
Serena
May 2026
The best trip I've ever...
The best trip I've ever taken. Not only for the place, which is breathtaking, but for the group and our guide, Roberta, Bibi to her friends. Yes, friends, because on this trip a fantastic synergy is created, thanks not only to the personality of each participant but also to Bibi's ability to involve everyone. Bibi was an amazing guide, she looked into everything, from the restaurant to every single grain of lava, so that we could experience Iceland to the fullest, passing on her enthusiasm and sensing, in every single moment, the mood of the group and the needs of each of us.
Mariateresa Vigilante
April 2026
Namibia with Federica :)
I joined a trip to Namibia with Federica at the end of April 2026; besides her flawless organization, I want to praise her excellent preparation and her passion, which made this trip unforgettable. Very happy with the group of people I had the pleasure of meeting too! It was a rich trip in many ways, and what can I say about Namibia, it's undoubtedly a wonderful place!
Alessia
April 2026
Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
My experience in Vietnam with Sto Gran Tour turned out to be magical. I loved every second of our trip and appreciated the organization and the attention to detail. The difference was certainly also made by Giulia, our team leader, from whom I learned so much: right from the start she proved very professional and knowledgeable. I'd do it again a thousand times. Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
Valeria Maresca
March 2026
Trip to the Lofoten
It was my first group trip and it far exceeded my expectations. Besides the breathtaking landscapes, I have to say everything was organized down to the smallest detail, from the very nice and comfortable accommodation where we stayed to the itinerary and the activities chosen. Our team leader Nic was very well prepared and patient, ready to solve any hiccup and always offering us alternatives on what to do. With a group made up only of women, he managed to create a unique harmony. I recommend everyone travel with StoGranTour! See you on the next trip together ❤️
Giulia Ottaviani
February 2026
Sta Gran Lapland
Second trip with Sto Gran Tour and once again my expectations weren't let down! Thanks to a great group, a great team leader (Alberto) and an enchanted Lapland, even the -30° and the little mishaps turned into memories and stories to laugh about. The experiences on offer were all authentic and completely out of the comfort zone, which in my opinion is what you look for in a trip like this, a trip I'll always carry in my heart while waiting for the next one 💝
Cristina Intrieri
August 2026
Madeira with Marco
It's my second trip with StoGranTour and once again I was satisfied. I found the organization punctual and well structured, with clear directions and the peace of mind of being able to rely on the people in charge. My compliments go to our team leader, Marco Rotunno, who contributed a lot to the success of these eight days. He was engaging but never intrusive, kind, funny and always available, attentive to everyone's needs. An experience I recommend to those who love trekking and active holidays and, above all, to those who want to let themselves be surprised by a landscape, the beauty of a sunrise or a starry sky.
Simona Giordanengo
February 2026
Best experience ever
One of the best experiences of my life! I've done plenty of group trips, but this one beat them in every way! A team leader (Cate) full of enthusiasm and passion, perfect organization and better accommodation than many others! Not to mention all the extras. Thank you, Sto Gran Tour really is a great blast, but thanks above all to our Great Team Leader 🍌
Miriam Forte
January 2026
Trip to Morocco 🇲🇦
My first trip with Stograntour couldn't have gone better! I was lucky enough to live a very intimate experience, traveling with a tiny group of wonderful people. Morocco is marvelous and gave us intense emotions. The itinerary was well structured: we went from snowy mountains to the desert, crossed hills of argan trees to reach the immense ocean, and then ended up in the chaos, but also the chill, among the rooftops and gardens of Marrakech. Along the way we met fantastic people. In particular, I won't forget Jawad's welcome and generosity and the beautiful experience at his home. We were guided flawlessly by Rob, a perfect team leader: professional and passionate, but above all a true travel companion. Always smiling and helpful, sensitive and attentive. Thanks to everyone, and see you on the next adventure!
Cristina F.
May 2026
Sta Gran Cappadocia 🇹🇷
I'm writing this review just back from a fantastic trip to Turkey (Istanbul + Cappadocia), what can I say, I couldn't have asked for better! It wasn't my first time with SGT and, as I'd already seen in the past, the trip definitely lived up to my expectations. A special thanks to our super team leader Marco Rotunno, who made us experience these magical places at their best ✨🫶🏼
Letizia Callegari
April 2026
Japan on the rails
This had been my dream trip since I was a child, so I left with high expectations… but it still managed to exceed them. I chose StoGranTour because it seemed the tour most in line with my way of traveling, and it turned out to be the right choice. The organization was excellent: every day had a well-structured program, with the chance to make small changes based on the group's needs. Plus, at the end of the activities, we always had some free time to explore on our own. The itinerary was carefully planned, but the real added value was our guide, Michele. With his passion and enthusiasm for Japanese culture, he made every visit interesting and never heavy. His explanations were clear and full of fun facts, some tied to the world of anime and video games, creating original connections with what we were seeing. We also really appreciated his choice of restaurants: he had us try excellent food in authentic places we would hardly have found on our own. Another thing that struck me positively was the group: on these trips you never know who you'll end up sharing the experience with, but I got along really well, which made everything even more enjoyable.
Maurizio Minetti
August 2026
Scotland tour, August '26
It lets you drive all over Scotland and its gorgeous islands, focusing on its natural wonders, which you enjoy through scenic treks: the right balance between effort and views, doable for everyone. Yes, it will rain and it will be fantastic. Our tour leader Alberto was attentive to everyone's needs, balancing the sights of the towns we visited, Edinburgh above all, with the beauty of the land and the right dose of lightness, alternating effort and breaks to recharge.
Dario Conti
March 2026
Lapland, hunting for the northern lights
I did the trip to Lapland organized by Sto Gran Tour (Dec–Jan) and the experience was excellent from every point of view. The itinerary was carefully planned: well-spread activities, zero downtime and the chance to truly live the essence of Lapland. From the northern lights to the husky excursions, every moment was handled with professionalism and care. Federico, our coordinator, was very knowledgeable, helpful and always ready to share fun facts about the area. I also really appreciated the punctuality and clarity of the organization: transfers, excursions and equipment always perfect. It's a trip I'd recommend to anyone who wants to experience Lapland without stress, with the reassurance of a serious organization and a level of care that really makes the difference. Sto Gran Tour passes with flying colors: an unforgettable experience.
Antonio
November 2025
10 fantastic days in India
This was my fourth experience with Sto Gran Tour and once again I came back truly enthusiastic. A special thanks goes to our guide Chiara, a precise young woman, attentive to everyone's needs, reliable and always available, who accompanied us with professionalism, great passion and friendliness. The tour was organized impeccably: well-studied itineraries, perfect timing and a management of the trip that let us enjoy every moment without worries. I warmly recommend Sto Gran Tour to anyone looking for a serious, competent organization that brings out the best of every stop thanks to the professionalism of its guides. An experience to remember!!
Nicolò Verando
January 2026
Fantastic trip to Vietnam
Back from a fantastic trip to Vietnam with Chiara, a flawless tour leader, always present and ready to talk things through with the group for any decision to be made. Wonderful places, between the chaos of the cities and the quietest, most magical green of nature. This is my third group trip and the first with Sto Gran Tour: really well done, with excellent organization.
Fabio Niero
July 2026
Staff always on the ball
The staff was always available and quick to answer my questions. I had to change my departure date and didn't have the slightest problem. Our tour leader was wonderful, took us to every stop and even more. The travel group was a great mix and we had a blast!
