Over 250 international women have arrived in Sri Lanka for the globally recognised adventure challenge Raid Amazones 2026, which began yesterday in Kalutara.
The contingent included competitors event organisers, media representatives and medical personnel. The 2026 Raid Amazones will be conducted until 10 November bringing international attention to the country’s adventure tourism potential, natural landscapes and distinctive hospitality.
Founded in 2001 by French adventure event specialist Alexandre Debanne, Raid Amazones is an internationally recognised women-only adventure challenge that combines physical endurance, teamwork and outdoor exploration with cultural discovery. The event encourages women to step beyond their comfort zones, build connections and experience destinations through meaningful interactions with local communities.
Returning to Sri Lanka for its eighth edition, the event will take participants through the diverse landscapes of Kalutara, including its coastline, rivers, wetlands, tropical vegetation and rural communities. Beyond the adventure activities, participants will have opportunities to discover Sri Lankan traditions, cuisine and the warmth of local hospitality.
Connaissance de Ceylan, one of Sri Lanka’s leading destination management companies, is serving as the official ground handling partner for Raid Amazones Sri Lanka 2026. The company is coordinating local ground operations, transfers and logistical arrangements, working closely with the international organising team and relevant stakeholders to ensure a seamless experience for the visiting participants and delegation.
Connaissance de Ceylan Director – Marketing and Business Development Maxime Wickramasinghe said: ‘Welcoming an international community of this scale is a wonderful opportunity to showcase what Sri Lanka has to offer. As the official ground handling partner, Connaissance de Ceylan is working closely with the Raid Amazones team to ensure that participants enjoy a smooth and memorable experience from the moment they arrive in the country. Beyond the operational aspects, we want every participant to experience our hospitality, discover our diverse landscapes and take home a genuine appreciation of Sri Lanka.’
The event is being delivered through a collaborative partnership between Raid Amazones, SriLankan Airlines and Connaissance de Ceylan, with the support of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. Turyaa Kalutara serves as the official accommodation partner, hosting participants and the international delegation throughout the event.
Raid Amazones 2026 provides another valuable opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka as a destination where adventure, nature, culture and authentic experiences come together.