Sri Lanka Wildlife Tour
Discover the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka on this immersive 9-day wildlife adventure, designed for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking close encounters with the island’s most iconic creatures.
From dense rainforests and dry-zone scrublands to coastal lagoons and ancient reservoirs, this tour takes you deep into the habitats of elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Your journey begins in the coastal town of Negombo, where the rhythm of the ocean and the charm of colonial architecture offer a gentle welcome. But the real adventure begins as you head north to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and most enigmatic wildlife reserve. Known for its unique “willus”, natural lakes scattered throughout the forest. Wilpattu is a haven for elusive leopards, herds of elephants, and a rich diversity of birds and reptiles. With two safaris in this park, you’ll have ample opportunity to witness its quiet majesty and thriving ecosystems.
From Wilpattu, the tour moves to Anuradhapura, not just a city of ancient ruins but a gateway to more wildlife experiences. Here, you’ll explore sacred sites in the morning and embark on a boat safari along the Malwathuoya River in the afternoon, gliding past crocodiles and waterbirds in their natural habitat. The nearby Kalawewa National Park offers another thrilling encounter, where elephants roam freely among ancient reservoirs built by kings over 1,500 years ago.
The journey continues to Sigiriya, where you’ll climb the iconic rock fortress before heading into the highlands of Mahiyanganaya, a region rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. From here, you’ll travel to the southeastern coast and the laid-back town of Arugam Bay, a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s the gateway to Kumana National Park, a coastal sanctuary renowned for its birdlife and sightings of elephants and leopards. With two evening safaris in Kumana, you’ll experience the park’s magic as the sun sets over its lagoons and mangroves.
Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in comfortable, well-located accommodations that offer easy access to nature and local culture. Each day is carefully balanced between adventure and relaxation, allowing you to absorb the sights, sounds, and stories of Sri Lanka’s wild heart.
Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka
Touch down at Bandaranaike International Airport, where your personal English-speaking chauffeur guide awaits to greet you with a warm Sri Lankan welcome. A short drive brings you to Negombo, a lively coastal town steeped in colonial history. With its palm-fringed beaches, Dutch-era architecture, and bustling fish markets, Negombo offers a gentle introduction to island life.
Drive time: Approx. 20 minutes
Accommodation: Goldi Sands Hotel – Standard Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 2 – Into the Wild: Wilpattu Safari & Ancient Anuradhapura
After breakfast, journey north through lush countryside to Wilpattu National Park. This vast wilderness, once closed for decades, is a mosaic of dense forest and shimmering lakes known as “willus.” It’s a haven for elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a chorus of birdlife.
Drive time to Wilpattu: Approx. 4 hours
Activity: Afternoon safari in Wilpattu National Park
Later, continue to Anuradhapura, the sacred heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization. As dusk falls, the city’s towering stupas and serene reservoirs create a timeless atmosphere.
Drive time to Anuradhapura: Approx. 1 hour
Accommodation: The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa – Standard Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 3 – Sacred Stones & Sunset Safari
Begin your day exploring the UNESCO-listed city of Anuradhapura, a spiritual and archaeological marvel. Walk among centuries-old temples, colossal dagobas, and the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree—believed to be the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
In the evening, return to Wilpattu for a second safari, where the golden light of sunset casts a magical glow over the park’s wildlife and landscapes.
Accommodation: The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa – Standard Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 4 – River Safari, Ancient Buddha & Elephant Encounters
Start with a tranquil boat safari along the Malwathuoya River, gliding past mangroves and spotting crocodiles basking on the banks. This river, winding through the heart of the North Central Province, offers a peaceful contrast to the wild terrain.
Next, visit the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha Statue, a towering 5th-century masterpiece carved from solid rock. Its serene expression and intricate detail reflect the artistry and devotion of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen.
Later, venture into Kalawewa National Park, where elephants roam freely among ancient reservoirs and lush forest. The park’s landscape, shaped by centuries of history, is as captivating as its wildlife.
Drive time to Aukana: Approx. 1 hour
Accommodation: The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa – Standard Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 5 – Sigiriya’s Sky Palace & Scenic Highlands
After breakfast, ascend the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Rising dramatically from the plains, this ancient citadel is a marvel of engineering and art, with frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic views from its summit.
Drive time to Sigiriya: Approx. 1.5 hours
Continue to Mahiyanganaya, a tranquil town nestled in the central highlands. Surrounded by misty mountains and serene lakes, it offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s indigenous Vedda culture and untouched natural beauty.
Drive time to Mahiyanganaya: Approx. 3 hours
Accommodation: Mapakada Village – Deluxe Room
Meal Plan: Dinner & Breakfast
Day 6 – Coastal Escape & Kumana Safari
Travel southeast to Arugam Bay, a laid-back beach town known for its surf breaks and bohemian vibe. The journey takes you through changing landscapes—from forested hills to sun-drenched coastlines.
Drive time: Approx. 3 hours
In the evening, explore Kumana National Park, a sanctuary for migratory birds and elusive wildlife. Its coastal lagoons and mangrove swamps are alive with color and movement, offering a truly immersive safari experience.
Accommodation: Blue Wave Hotel – Deluxe Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 7 – Leisure & Wild Encounters
Spend the morning at leisure—relax on the beach, explore local cafés, or take a stroll through the village. Arugam Bay’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty.
In the evening, return to Kumana National Park for another safari, where the fading light reveals a different side of the wilderness.
Accommodation: Blue Wave Hotel – Deluxe Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 8 – Journey Back to Negombo
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Negombo. Reflect on your journey as you pass through rural villages, lush paddy fields, and coastal towns.
Drive time: Approx. 7 hours
Accommodation: Goldi Sands Hotel – Standard Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 9 – Departure
Your chauffeur guide will transfer you to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure. As you leave, take with you the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality and memories of a journey through ancient cities, wild landscapes, and coastal serenity.
Get in touch with Our Local Tour to book the Sri Lanka Wildlife Tour
Departure Dates
Private Tour - Scheduled to your requirements
Price from £1395 per person (based on two people sharing per room)
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All the transfers between hotels and sites in a Standard A/C Car Or Van with English Speaking Chuffer Guide
- All accommodation as shown or of a similar quality
- Meals as shown in the itinerary
- Entrance tickets to Anuradhapura, Sri Mahabodiya, Aukana, and Sigiriya.
- Jeeps and Entrance tickets at National Parks
- International travel to the start and end point - contact us for information and flight options
- Any airport taxes
- Travel Insurance
- Any visa requirements
- Drinks and meals other than those mentioned on the program.
- Expenditure of a personal nature, laundry, telephone bills, drinks, souvenirs, tips etc.
- Tips for drivers and guides
- Early check in/ late checkout fees if required
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice. Please refer to the COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry.
Visa and Passport Information
Passport validity
If you are visiting Sri Lanka, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
Visas
All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Visitors can apply for an ETA on the ETA website. On arrival visa facilities are available, however applying for an ETA before travel is advised for ease of travel and to prevent delays on arrival. All visitors need to comply with the guidelines imposed for tourists by the Government of Sri Lanka. Tourist visas are normally valid for 30 days. If you overstay your visa you could be fined or detained by the police.
Health Care
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 011 2691111 and ask for an ambulance or dial 1990. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment. Emergency medical treatment isn’t easily available outside main cities, and you may have to be brought to Colombo for treatment. Fuel shortages may delay your ability to access emergency services. Medical facilities are not always of a standard expected in the UK, particularly outside Colombo. Treatment in private hospitals can be expensive and the options for repatriation to the UK or neighbouring countries in an emergency are limited and very expensive. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
Diseases
All regions of Sri Lanka experience outbreaks of the mosquito-borne dengue fever. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
What to bring on your Best of Sri Lanka Tour
Clothing
Lightweight clothing which can be layered is adviseable and a warmer jumper for cooler evenings. A light rain coat is suggested. There is a laundry available in most hotels.
Footwear
Lightweight comfortable shoes/trainers and sandals. Waterproof footware is recommended.
Luggage while on your tour
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suit case.
Equipment
We recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a waterbottle. A solar charger for your phone and other electronics is a good idea.
Currency
The Sri Lanka Rupee is the unit of currency used in Sri Lanka, symbolized by Rs., or SLRs to distinguish it from other Rupees. The Rupee is sub-divided into 100 cents. You can’t exchange Scottish or Northern Irish bank notes in Sri Lanka. Travellers’ cheques aren’t normally accepted. Most major banks will allow Visa and Mastercard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major towns and cities but not all of them accept international cards.
It’s relatively easy to send funds to Sri Lanka. However, money can’t be transferred out of the country without an exchange control permit issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Use of electronic devices
For Sri Lanka there are two associated plug types, types D and G. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular patternand plug type G is the plug which has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Shortages
There are shortages of basic necessities, including medicines, some food and fuel, and there may be long queues at shops and pharmacies. Hospitals and other medical services including ambulance services may be affected by shortages, including fuel shortages. If you have a health condition, you should speak to your health care provider before travelling to Sri Lanka. Make sure you have adequate supplies of any medicines you need with you. Major shortages of fuel (diesel and petrol) are affecting transport and businesses. Fuel rationing is in place. There is now a QR code system in place for fuel purchases, however at times there have been long queues at fuel stations (sometimes over 24 hours). Travellers should ensure transport plans are in place ahead of any journeys and have contingency plans. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has announced an emergency assistance service to provide fuel for tourist service providers.
There are ongoing daily power cuts due to electricity rationing. This could impact services including at shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels. You should check before travelling to a business, hotel or restaurant in case they are affected by shortages or power cuts. Have a torch to hand at night and know how you would leave your accommodation in the dark in case of emergency.
Swimming
Many beaches in Sri Lanka have dangerous surf or rip tides at certain times of the year. Always take local advice before entering the sea. A number of foreign nationals drown every year.
Time Zone
Time zone in Sri Lanka (GMT+5:30)
Internet Availability
Wi-fi is common in hotels, hostels, restaurants and cafes across the touristed areas of Sri Lanka. Travellers can also purchase a tourist SIM card for the duration of their Sri Lanka tour if they wish to stay connected or check with your normal provider regarding roaming charges.
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