Sri Lanka Safari

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your journey starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to unwind on our golden sandy beaches, bask in the sun, or enjoy a delicious meal of fresh seafood. For a bit of adventure, explore the scenic countryside by renting a bicycle through our hotel reception. Tonight, don’t hesitate to ask your trip leader for recommendations on the best local dining spots.

Embark on a scenic drive to Wilpattu this morning, with a visit to the Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary en route. Anawilundawa is renowned for its unique location at the intersection of three distinct ecosystems: the coast, mangroves, and freshwater tanks. As one of Sri Lanka’s six RAMSAR Wetlands, it serves as a prime habitat for a diverse range of bird species, including herons, open-bills, great cormorants, white ibis, egrets, storks, pheasant-tailed jacanas, and the purple swamp hen. The sanctuary is also home to 20 mammal species, such as the rusty-spotted cat, fishing cat, Indian otter, slender loris, toque monkey, and 74 butterfly species.

Upon reaching Wilpattu, prepare for an exciting evening safari in the national park. This vast, dry jungle, interspersed with floodplain lakes, offers a rich array of flora and is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, elephants, wild boar, sloth bears, and elusive leopards.

After breakfast this morning, embark on a journey to Dambulla. Along the way, visit the Vessagiriya Complex, where 500 monks once resided during the Anuradhapura kingdom. Explore the historic caves before continuing to Minneriya National Park for an exciting afternoon safari. Renowned for its large herds of Sri Lankan elephants, Minneriya offers one of the best opportunities in the world to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat, especially from July to August. This evening, you’ll head to Dambulla, where you’ll have the rest of the night free to relax and rejuvenate.

Start your day early to escape the heat and visit Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top of this ancient fortress for breathtaking views and enjoy the vibrant birdlife in the surrounding forests. After your adventure, return to your hotel for a leisurely breakfast and a chance to recharge. Later, join a local cooking class where you’ll learn to make traditional dishes such as Pol Sambol and Dhal Curry, which you’ll savor for lunch. In the evening, explore Popham’s Arboretum on a night-time nature walk, where you might spot the elusive slender loris and pangolin.

Embark on a scenic drive to Ampara and discover the untouched beauty of Gal Oya National Park. This pristine park is a haven for wildlife, featuring elephants, axis deer, muntjacs, water buffalo, mugger crocodiles, and over 150 bird species. Nestled beside the expansive Senanayake Samudraya Lake and framed by towering mountain peaks, the park offers a lush landscape ripe for exploration. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk through the verdant terrain, followed by a relaxing boat cruise on the lake. Head to the area where local elephants gather for their evening splash—an unforgettable experience!

Start your day with an early dawn safari in Gal Oya National Park. Board a 4WD and journey into the Kossapola section, once home to ancient royalty due to its rich array of medicinal plants and unique birdlife. Keep an eye out for elusive wildlife, including herds of elephants and the four species of deer that inhabit the park. Enjoy the symphony of birdcalls as you explore this distinctive landscape. Later, transfer to Arugam Bay for an overnight stay. Check into your hotel and relax with a free evening—perhaps unwind on the beach or explore the nearby Kumana National Park.

Embark on a morning safari through Kumuna National Park, where the network of waterways offers excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife. You’ll also have the chance to visit Arugam Bay Lagoon or Panama Lake to see crocodiles before heading to Kataragama. Spend your afternoon at your own pace, perhaps exploring the Kataragama Temple, dedicated to both the Buddhist guardian deity Kataragama deviyo and the Hindu War God Murugan. For wildlife enthusiasts, an optional safari in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s second-largest national park, is available. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at your resort with your group.

Experience the thrill of wildlife spotting with two included safaris in Yala National Park, one in the morning and one in the evening. As you explore, you’ll have the chance to encounter crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, and buffaloes. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard, as Yala is renowned as one of the world’s premier destinations for leopard sightings. Don’t forget to look out for the 215 bird species residing in the park, including the Sri Lankan wood pigeon, painted stork, crimson-fronted barbet, and the magnificent peacocks proudly displaying their plumage.

Today, drive to the Singharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity. Upon arrival, check into the Rainforest Eco Lodge, where you’ll be staying for the night. Nestled in the misty rainforest, these eco-lodges are elevated on stilts to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. In the evening, embark on a guided nature walk through the forest, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings and spotting local wildlife such as jackals, big cats, wild boars, and toque monkeys. As night falls, drift off to the soothing sounds of the forest.

Start your day early with a refreshing forest walk led by your trip guide. Stroll along the verdant trails, spotting butterflies, vibrant blue magpies, playful squirrels, mongoose, and various bird species. Following the walk, journey to Rekawa for an overnight stay. As evening falls, join your group for a beach excursion to search for nesting turtles under the twilight sky.

Get ready for an exciting final day as you make your way to Colombo. From October to April, seize the opportunity to embark on an early morning whale-watching adventure. While it might make for a long day, Sri Lanka’s waters are renowned for their exceptional whale sightings. You could catch glimpses of various whale species, including sperm whales, orcas, fin whales, and the grand blue whales.
En route to Colombo, you’ll visit Galle Fort, a historic city blending Portuguese and Dutch influences. Wander through its charming narrow streets and bustling promenades, and admire the architecture that spans from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafes, where you can savor traditional Sri Lankan dishes with a modern twist.
Upon arriving in Colombo, the evening is yours to explore as you wish. Sample the city’s famous street food, such as crispy vegetable samosas, hoppers, and kotthu (a delicious mix of sliced roti, vegetables, and your choice of eggs or meat), or unwind at a local bar and celebrate the end of your journey.

Your journey concludes after breakfast this morning. If you wish to extend your stay in Colombo, please contact your booking agent for arrangements.