Sri Lanka Wildlife Exploration
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This 11-day tour begins in Colombo and ends back there, offering a fantastic blend of wildlife, culture, and coastal charm. Youll explore stunning national parks like Wilpattu, Minneriya, Kaudulla, Gal Oya, and Yala, with plenty of chances to spot elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. Along the way, enjoy unique experiences such as cycling through ancient Anuradhapura, visiting traditional villages, and witnessing the famous stilt fishermen near Galle. The journey balances active safaris and cultural discoveries with relaxing moments by the sea and in serene nature resorts, making it a well-rounded adventure through Sri Lankas diverse landscapes and heritage.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
11 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
ColomboEnds
ColomboMinimum age
No minimum ageMaximum age
100Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Country
Sri LankaMeals included
None ProvidedPassengers
$5,425.00
$1,628.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 3
Trip Type
Private Tours
Range
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
Demands a higher level of physical effort, including extended walking, hiking, or more challenging terrain. You must be able to walk around 5-kilometres without stopping and on overland trips, you must be able to manage steps up into overland trucks.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Group Size
Min 1 / Max 3Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
Demands a higher level of physical effort, including extended walking, hiking, or more challenging terrain. You must be able to walk around 5-kilometres without stopping and on overland trips, you must be able to manage steps up into overland trucks.
Trip Type
Private ToursTour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Colombo - Negombo
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to the coastal city of Negombo. After checking in at your hotel, take some time to relax by the beautiful sea as you prepare for the journey ahead. Negombo is known for its rich cultural mix and is dotted with numerous charming churches. The beach here is popular for its scenic beauty. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner served at your hotel by the ocean. Please note that alcohol will not be served in public areas of hotels and restaurants during religious holidays. Overnight accommodation is arranged in Negombo.
Day 2 - Negombo - Pomparippu
After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the bustling fishing market in Negombo, lively with activity in the early morning. Afterwards, we depart for the renowned Wilpattu National Park, famous for its unique willus natural sand-rimmed basins that collect groundwater, creating vital habitats for reptiles and birds. Within the park, we may spot a variety of wildlife, including the elusive Sri Lankan sloth bear. The area also holds archaeological interest, featuring ruins such as the Palace of Kuweni. As evening falls, we embark on a safari to explore the parks white sandy terrain, where leopards are often seen resting. Remember to have your camera ready. We return to our campsite for a barbecue dinner and an overnight stay near Wilpattu National Park.
Day 3 - Anuradhapura
Begin the day by experiencing the tranquil beauty of Wilpattu National Park in the soft morning light. Early hours often reveal herds of deer and flocks of birds soaring against the clear blue sky. We spend a few hours in the park, keeping an eye out for elusive sloth bears and leopards. After returning to the campsite for breakfast and a refreshing shower, we depart for Anuradhapura. Here, we enjoy a scenic cycling tour lasting two to three hours, passing through lush paddy fields and manmade reservoirs en route to the ancient city. The ride follows a shaded tarmac road, making for a comfortable journey despite the sun. Highlights include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhia sacred fig tree grown from a branch of the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenmentalong with several pagodas, ancient ruins, and a visit to a local village. You can cool down with a refreshing King coconut during the ride. We conclude the day with dinner in a peaceful garden setting at the hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 4 - Anuradhapura - Habarana
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we travel to the village of Hiriwadunna to experience the simple, traditional lifestyle of the locals. We explore the historic manmade reservoirs on foot and enjoy a tasting of authentic local dishes prepared by village residents. The visit concludes with a relaxing catamaran ride, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, we head to Minneriya National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds. Here, you have the chance to observe these majestic animals up close, along with a variety of other mammals, birds, butterflies and fish. After the safari, we return to our hotel in Habarana, a peaceful nature retreat, where you can unwind before dinner.
Day 5 - Habarana
Begin the day with a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, spending the early morning hours observing the diverse wildlife. You may encounter endemic species such as the purple-faced langur, Sri Lankan sambar deer, and grey slender loris. Enjoy a packed breakfast within the park before returning to the hotel for a shower and lunch. In the afternoon, head to Kaudulla National Park for a second safari. This park is home to around 200 Sri Lankan elephants and supports 24 mammal species, as well as 435 bird species, making it an Important Bird Area. After your safari, return to the hotel in Habarana and savour a dinner featuring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
Day 6 - Habarana - Ampara
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we set off to explore the stunning Gal Oya National Park. En route, you will have the chance to enjoy a traditional local lunch. Within the park, we offer both boat and jeep safaris. Choosing the boat safari allows you to visit Bird Island, a haven for large flocks of colourful birds. You may also witness the remarkable sight of elephants swimming in the shimmering waters of the Senanayake Samudra reservoir. After the safari, we return to the hotel where you can relax and enjoy dinner. Overnight accommodation is in Gal Oya.
Day 7 - Ampara
Depart your hotel with packed breakfast and lunch for another day at Gal Oya National Park. Begin with a morning boat safari to Bird Island, where you can observe large flocks of birds in their natural habitatan ideal time for photography. Enjoy your breakfast on board before heading to the Nilgala entrance of the park. From there, we take an exciting jeep safari through the rugged terrain, rich with birdlife and butterflies. You may also visit Makara Place, known for its underground river. Lunch will be served during the safari. After the tour, return to your hotel to relax and enjoy your evening. Overnight in Gal Oya.
Day 8 - Tissamaharama
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the surroundings of your hotel and the nearby village, taking in the local atmosphere at a relaxed pace. Later, you will drive to Yala, travelling via Monaragala. En route, we will stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival near Yala National Park, settle into your accommodation and enjoy dinner at the hotel. Overnight will be near Yala National Park in Tissamaharama.
Day 9 - Tissamaharama
After breakfast, depart with a packed meal for Yala National Park, renowned for having one of the highest leopard densities worldwide. We will explore the parks diverse habitats, offering excellent opportunities to spot leopards and a wide variety of other wildlife. The park also contains several archaeological sites nestled within dense foliage, reflecting the regions rich history. Enjoy lunch on the beach inside the park, then spend the afternoon immersed in the unspoiled natural beauty and abundant fauna. After the safari, return to the campsite near Yala National Park for dinner and overnight.
Day 10 - Galle - Colombo
After breakfast at the campsite, we set off for Galle, stopping en route at the charming town of Ahangama. Here, you will observe the unique tradition of stilt fishing, where fishermen balance on slender poles above the watera practice passed down through generations. Continuing to Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we explore the historic Galle Fort, originally built by the Portuguese in 1588. Within the forts walls, you can visit notable sites such as the Dutch Museum and the Dutch Reformed Church, reflecting the citys rich colonial heritage. Afterwards, we travel to Colombo, Sri Lankas bustling commercial capital. Here, you will have the opportunity to see key landmarks including the Old Parliament, Independence Memorial Hall, Colombo City Hall, National Museum, Khan Clock Tower, Gangaramaya Temple, Red Mosque, and the vibrant Pettah Bazaar. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant celebrated for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, followed by an overnight stay in Colombo.
Day 11 - Colombo
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo for your departure. This marks the end of your journey through Sri Lankas diverse landscapes and rich heritage, until your next visit.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Dates for 2027 haven't been released yet.
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