Detailed Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1
Day 01 - Airport – Colombo (Approx. 40 kms / 1h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Arrival to Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Colombo.
-
Check in to a hotel in Colombo.
-
Leisure time and relaxing, or Colombo city tour in the afternoon.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Colombo (BB).
A melting pot of cultures and commerce, Colombo is a lively city with the most fascinating history. Ancient Arab sailors frequented these ports to trade with the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonists that occupied the city. Today, Colombo has something from everyone! Visit impressive cultural sights, Buddhist Temples and Hindu Kovils scattered throughout the city and experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. Drive through the city's commercial centre known as the “Fort”, where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern hotels and office structures. Explore the vibrant markets and bazaars in Pettah. Discover the Museums and Art Centres with their fine collections of antiques, arts and crafts of Sri Lanka. Or indulge in shopping and tasting Sri Lankan delicacies.
Day 2
Day 02 - Colombo – Kudawa / Deniyaya (Approx. 140-220 kms / 3h30-4h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the hotel.
-
Transfer to Kudawa / Deniyaya, located by the Sinharaja rainforest.
-
Check in to a hotel.
-
Short village trail in the evening.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Kudawa / Deniyaya (HB).
After breakfast, you will head to Sinharaja rainforest, designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The forest reserve has an exceptional importance in terms of its biodiversity and fragility. Birding in Sinharaja is particularly interesting because it is home to 95% of the endemic birds of Sri Lanka! Steeped in deep mystery, this evergreen rainforest was named after a Lion (Sinha) King (Raja). The legend has it that the origin of the Sinhala people is from the union between a princess and the lion king who once lived in the forest.
Day 3
Day 03 - Sinharaja – Udawalawe (Approx. 90 kms / 3 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Early breakfast at the hotel.
-
Nature trail in the Sinharaja rainforest.
-
Transfer to Udawalawe.
-
Half day safari at Udawalawe National Park (from 2:30 to 6:00pm)
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Udawalawe
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
Udawalawe National Park is located on the boundary of Sri Lanka's wet and dry zones, which provides diversity in both flora and fauna. The area, with its fascinating history and culture, offers an array of historical sites and natural wonders, guaranteed to satisfy even the most seasoned traveler. With approximately 400 elephants residing within the park's boundaries, it is not unusual to see big herds gathering to feed and bath at the waterholes in Udawalawe.
In addition to this main attraction, Udawalawe is home to many water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer, monkeys and the occasional leopard. The bird enthusiasts shall be in their own winged paradise with not only the variety, but the quantity of bird species in the park!
Day 4
Day 04 - Udawalawe – Bundala – Yala (Approx. 130 kms / 3 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Early departure (at 5:00am) from Udawalawe with packed breakfast.
-
Bird watching safari in Bundala National Park.
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Yala.
-
Lunch at the campsite.
-
Birding excursion by the ancient irrigation tank of Tissa wewa.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Big Game campsite (FB).
Bundala National Park is a fantastic wetland sanctuary that shelters thousands of colourful birds ranging from little bee-eaters to grotesque open-billed storks. In total, this wildlife wonderland covering 62-sq-km area, is home to 150 species of birds with many imigrating species arriving between August and April. It’s also a winter home to the greater flamingo, and it is possible to see over 1500 flamingos at once! In Bundala, you can observe the both species of crocodiles that inhabit the island. The estuarine crocodile, that is the largest reptile alive today, lives in the lagoons areas and the estuary of River Kirindi Oya, while the mugger crocodile dwells in the small freshwater lakes and in the upper regions of Kirindi Oya.
Day 5
Day 05 - Yala
SCHEDULE
-
Full day safari at Yala National Park with packed breakfast and lunch.
-
Return to the campsite.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite in Yala.
Yala National Park, situated in the southeast region of the country, covers almost 1000 square kilometers and is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, along with Wilpattu, it is one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants as well as to the spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The bird life is also fantastic, and numerous species such as rosy starlings, paradise flycatchers, crested hawk eagles, blue-Tailed bee-eaters and common loras inhabit this natural wilderness.
Day 6
Day 06 - Yala – Galle (Approx. 200 kms / 5h30)
SCHEDULE
-
After breakfast proceed to Galle.
-
Short birding excursion in Lake Koggala (approx. 1 hour).
-
Check in to a hotel in Galle.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Galle
Galle was once the chief port of Sri Lanka. The Galle fort is a vast garrison, spanning 90 acres, which was originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663. Their influences are evident in the eclectic architecture all around, including the famous Dutch Reformist Church. When the British took over the fort, they too added their own influences. Entering the gates of the fort you will experience a much slower pace of life compared to the frenetic movements outside the Garrison’s walls. Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
”We don’t want to miss to say a big thank you to you for our journey in Sri Lanka! We had a fantastic time on the Island, all was planned perfectly and the itinerary met our expectations exactly. Great job! And thanks again to Roshan! We are very grateful for his very kind guidance, ideas and problem solving skills during the trip. It’s a wonderful country and we hope to come back in future.”
Inga & Kay from Germany
Detailed Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1
Day 01 - Airport – Waikkala (Approx. 20 kms / 45 min)
SCHEDULE
-
Arrival to Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Waikkala.
-
Check in to a beach hotel.
-
Leisure time and relaxing in the afternoon.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Waikkala (HB).
Located on the west coast, Waikkala a charming blend of sandy beaches, delectable seafood and lush mangroves that thrive along its river and lagoon. With a dazzling array of birds, butterflies, amphibians and reptiles, the unique mangrove ecosystem provides an ideal location for exciting boat rides, and bird and butterfly watching.
Day 2
Day 02 - Waikkala – Wilpattu (Approx. 140 kms / 3 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the hotel.
-
Morning boat safari in Waikkala.
-
Transfer to Wilpattu.
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite.
-
Evening safari (approx. 4h) in Kalawewa National Park.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the fully-serviced Big Game campsite (HB).
Lined with massive kumbuk trees, Kalawewa National Park is a beautiful expanse of forest surrounding the giant Kalawewa and Balalu Wewa tanks, constructed by King Datusena in the 5th Century. Expanding over 6000 hectares, this park has the largest concentration of tuskers in Sri Lanka.
Kalawewa was designated as national park in 2015, and it is the perfect destinations for the wildlife enthusiasts who love the untouched wilderness. During the dry season, when the water levels recedes and the tank bed becomes a lush grassland providing the animals with fodder, the big herds of up to 50 elephants gather around the banks of the reservoirs. The park has a fascinating birdlife too. During the driest months of the year, large flocks of thousands of open-billed storks can be seen at once.
Day 3
Day 03 - Wilpattu
SCHEDULE
-
Full day safari at Wilpattu National Park with packed breakfast and lunch.
-
Return to the campsite.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
Covering an area of over 130,000 hectares, Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. The park has got its name from the tens of floodplain lakes, called 'villus' in Sinhala, and has an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna. It is home to over 30 mammal species, including leopard, sloth bear, Sri Lankan elephant and spotted deer. Also, various wetland bird species such as the pin tail, whistling teal spoonbill, and white ibis can be found in the serene landscapes Wilpattu.
Day 4
Day 04 - Wilpattu – Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa (Approx. 160 kms / 3h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the campsite.
-
Transfer to Polonnaruwa via Sigiriya.
-
Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
-
Check in to a hotel in Polonnaruwa.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Polonnaruwa (HB).
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, built by the young King Kasyapa in 5th century, was a royal citadel. Combining baffling architectural features and sensual artistic values, the Lion Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as nominated to be the eighth wonder of the world — along with the Grand Canyon and Ancient Pyramids.
The king’s fortress complex was build on the flat top of the rock formation, extending to almost an acre, and the extensive ruins are still visible. The central fortress takes the form of a lion figure with gigantic paws. In English, it translates to 'Lion Rock', alluding to the time when travelers could climb through the open throat, “giriya", of a lion, “sinha”. Today, the only remains are the lion’s gigantic paws, sculpted into the side of a 600-foot-tall rock rising above lush, green jungle.
Day 5
Day 05 - Polonnaruwa – Kandy (Approx. 150 kms / 3h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Early morning excursion to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa with a nature researcher specialized in monkeys.
-
Transfer to Kandy.
-
Check in to a hotel.
-
Visit the famous Temple of the Tooth in the evening.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Kandy (BB).
Early in the morning, you will be taken to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa with a nature researcher specialized in monkeys. The ancient city, with its ruins in a resplendent state of preservation, was the Capital of Sri Lanka from 11th to 13th century and it is dotted with palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. During the tour, you will have a chance to observe several species of monkeys that inhabit this area, and to learn about the social behavior of these intelligent animals.
In the afternoon, your journey will continue to the beautiful city of Kandy is nestled amidst three mountain ranges. Built in this location as a natural fortress against attack, the capital of the Central Province was not an easy target for the foreign invaders. This town is also home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the most sacred site in the Buddhist world. The impressive temple complex is made up of numerous buildings, decorated with paintings and carvings depicting Buddha. The Sacred Tooth of Buddha is kept in a gold casket and stored amidst great security in the Inner Chamber.
Day 6
Day 06 - Kandy – Kalthota (Approx. 200 kms / 6 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the hotel.
-
Transfer to Kalthota.
-
Check in to the luxurious bush walk campsite of Ahaspokuna (located approx. 2 km from the main road).
-
Half day trek, or time to relax in the afternoon.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Ahaspokuna (AI).
Ahaspokuna, nestled in the Hill-Country, is a truly unique experience for adventurers wishing to explore the best of what Sri Lankan wilderness has to offer. Only accessible by foot, this all-suite camp offers you an exclusive bush walk and wilderness living experience with Sri Lankan hospitality at its finest. The wilderness around Ahaspokuna is a mosaic of habitats - wide grasslands, cave systems used by elephants that go there for salt, an eclectic variety of plants and herbs, some of which have medicinal value; streams, hidden waterfalls, and a plethora of mammals and birds.
Day 7
Day 07 - Kalthota – Udawalawe – Kalthota (Approx. 15 kms / 30 min)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the campsite.
-
Half day safari (approx. 4 hrs) in Udawalawe National Park.
-
Lunch at the campsite.
-
Optional half day trek in the afternoon.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Ahaspokuna (AI).
From Kalthota, you will have an excellent access to the least visited section of the famous Udawalawe National Park. Located on the boundary of Sri Lanka's wet and dry zones, the park is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna.
Originally, the national park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir in 1972. The reservoir, surrounded by open plains and foothills, is continuously replenished by River Walawe that draws its waters from the central highlands. The fringes of the reservoir and its creeks are filled with weather-bleached skeletons of thousands of jungle trees, and the area is about to become an important breeding place for aquatic birds.
Day 8
Day 08 - Kalthota – Udawalawe (Approx. 40 kms / 1 h)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the campsite.
-
Transfer to Udawalawe.
-
Check in to the Big game safari campsite in Udawalawe.
-
Lunch at the campsite.
-
Half day safari (approx. 4 hrs) in Udawalawe National Park.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Big Game campsite (FB).
With approximately 400 elephants residing within the park's boundaries, it is not unusual to see big herds gathering to feed and bath at the waterholes in Udawalawe. In addition to this main attraction, Udawalawe is home to many water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer, monkeys and the occasional leopard. The bird enthusiasts shall be in their own winged paradise with not only the variety, but the quantity of bird species in the park!
Day 9
Day 09 - Udawalawe – Yala (Approx. 95 kms / 2 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Early morning safari at Udawalawe National Park with packed breakfast.
-
Transfer to Yala.
-
Check in to the Big game safari campsite in Yala.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Big Game campsite (HB).
Yala National Park, situated in the southeast region of the country, covers almost 1000 square kilometers and is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, along with Wilpattu, it is one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants as well as to the spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The bird life is also fantastic, and numerous species such as rosy starlings, paradise flycatchers, crested hawk eagles, blue-tailed bee-eaters and common loras inhabit this natural wilderness.
Day 10
Day 10 - Yala
SCHEDULE
-
Morning safari at Yala National Park with packed breakfast.
-
Lunch at the campsite.
-
Evening safari at Lunugamvehera National Park.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite in Yala (HB).
Yala National Park has a the highest leopard density in the world. Unlike to elusive, and primarily nocturnal, leopards living in other parts of the world, in the Sri Lankan national parks they are rather easy to spot due to the lack of natural predators. Your best chance to see a leopard is generally early in the morning. Especially, the young males are very confident, and often they are seen walking on the tracks.
Located right next Yala and covering an area of 24,000 hectares, Lunugamvehera National Park was established for protection of elephants migrating from Yala to Udawalawe National Park. The dry-mixed forests are rich in biodiversity and a home to a large number of wild elephants and buffaloes. Also, some other species of mammals such as fishing cat, grey mongoose, wild boar, spotted deer and mouse deer are found in this area.
Day 11
Day 11 - Yala – Bundala – Tangalle (Approx. 100 kms / 2 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Morning safari at Bundala National Park with packed breakfast.
-
Transfer to Tangalle.
-
Check in to a hotel.
-
Dinner at the hotel in Tangalle.
-
After the dinner, turtle excursion on the beach in Rekawa.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Tangalle (HB).
Bundala National Park is a fantastic wetland sanctuary that shelters thousands of colourful birds ranging from little bee-eaters to grotesque open-billed storks. In total, this wildlife wonderland covering 62-sq-km area, is home to 150 species of birds with many imigrating species arriving between August and April. It’s also a winter home to the greater flamingo, and it is possible to see over 1500 flamingos at once!
Five out of 7 species of marine turtles come ashore to nest in Sri Lanka, and all five of them can be observed in Rekawa throughout the year in their natural habitat. Unlike the turtle hatcheries on the west coast, here the eggs are left undisturbed in the sand and protected in site. Even though, there is no guarantee that the marine turtles would come to ashore every night, you can be sure to have an existing night time adventure on one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Day 12
Day 12 - Tangalle – Mirissa (Approx. 50 kms / 2 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the hotel.
-
Transfer to Mirissa.
-
Spend a relaxing afternoon on the pristine beaches of Mirissa.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Mirissa (BB).
Mirissa, surrounded by rubber and coconut plantations, ancient temples, spice gardens, natural sanctuaries and exotic wildlife, has become famous for its long whale watching season, but it still retains the charm of an idyllic fishing village. And the stunning crescent beach is a real paradise for anyone who loves the sun and the sea !
Day 13
Day 13 - Mirissa
SCHEDULE
-
Transfer to the Mirissa harbor early in the morning (by 6:15 am) with packed breakfast.
-
Whale watching excursion (approx. 5h).
-
Leisure time in the afternoon.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Mirissa.
In the entire world, the south coast of Sri Lanka boasts one of the very best places to see Blue Whales, and the season is longer than anywhere else. From November to April, when the whales are on their annual migratory route from the Horn of Africa up to the Arabian Sea, they can be seen in the waters around Sri Lanka. Sperm Whales with pods as well as other cetacean species, such as bryde’s whale, dwarf sperm whale, spinner dolphin, striped dolphin and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, can be seen also.
”We don’t want to miss to say a big thank you to you for our journey in Sri Lanka! We had a fantastic time on the Island, all was planned perfectly and the itinerary met our expectations exactly. Great job! And thanks again to Roshan! We are very grateful for his very kind guidance, ideas and problem solving skills during the trip. It’s a wonderful country and we hope to come back in future.”
Inga & Kay from Germany
14/08/2017
Detailed Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1
Day 01 - Airport – Mirissa (Approx. 180 kms / 3h)
SCHEDULE
-
Arrival in Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Mirissa.
-
Check in to a hotel in Mirissa.
-
Spend a relaxing afternoon on the pristine beaches of Mirissa.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Mirissa (HB).
Mirissa, surrounded by rubber and coconut plantations, ancient temples, spice gardens, natural sanctuaries and exotic wildlife, has become famous for its long whale watching season, but it still retains the charm of an idyllic fishing village. And the stunning crescent beach is a real paradise for anyone who loves the sun and the sea !
Day 2
Day 02 - Mirissa
SCHEDULE
-
Transfer to the Mirissa harbor early in the morning (by 6:15 am) Breakfast at the hotel..
-
Whale watching excursion (approx. 5h).
-
Leisure time in the afternoon.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Mirissa.
In the entire world, the south coast of Sri Lanka boasts one of the very best places to see Blue Whales, and the season is longer than anywhere else. From November to April, when the whales are on their annual migratory route from the Horn of Africa up to the Arabian Sea, they can be seen in the waters around Sri Lanka. Sperm Whales with pods as well as other cetacean species, such as bryde’s whale, dwarf sperm whale, spinner dolphin, striped dolphin and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, can be seen also.
Day 3
Day 03 - Mirissa – Yala (Approx. 140 kms / 3h30)
SCHEDULE
-
2nd whale watching excursion in Mirissa with packed breakfast.
-
Transfer to Yala.
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Yala.
-
Half day safari at Yala National Park (from 2:30 to 6:00pm)
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
Yala National Park, situated in the southeast region of the country, covers almost 1000 square kilometers and is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, along with Wilpattu, it is one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants as well as to the spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The birdlife is fantastic too. Over 215 species of birds have been recorded in Yala, with six being endemic to Sri Lanka.
Day 4
Day 04 - Yala
SCHEDULE
-
Full day safari at Yala National Park with packed breakfast and lunch.
-
Return to the campsite.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Big Game Safari Campsite (HB).
Your best chance to see a leopard is generally early in the morning. Especially, the young males are very confident, and often they are seen walking on the tracks. As our safari campsite is located very close to the park's entrance, you will have an excellent access to the park's core areas and the best wildlife spots. Furthermore, the excellent location allows you to stay in the park until the very last moments, and enjoy a beautiful ride back to the campsite through the wilderness by the time of the sunset.
Day 5
Day 05 - Yala - Udawalawe (Approx. 60 kms / 1h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the campsite.
-
Transfer to Udawalawe.
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Udawalawe.
-
Evening safari at Udawalawe National Park (from 2:30 to 6:00pm)
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
Located on the boundary of Sri Lanka's wet and dry zones, Udawalawe National Park, is one of the best places in the world to see wild elephants. With approximately 400 elephants residing within the area of 31,000 hectares, it is not unusual to see big herds gathering to feed and bath by the waterholes.In addition to this main attraction, Udawalawe is home to many water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer and monkeys.
Udawalawe, with its fascinating wildlife, history and culture, offers an array of historical sites and natural wonders, guaranteed to satisfy even the most seasoned traveler !
Day 6
Day 06 - Udawalawe – Colombo (Approx. 190 kms / 5h)
SCHEDULE
-
Early morning safari at Udawalawe National Park with packed breakfast.
-
Return to the campsite and transfer to Colombo.
-
Check in to a hotel in Colombo.
-
Leisure time in the evening to take a stroll in the centre of the town.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Colombo (BB).
In Udawalawe, the bird enthusiasts shall be in their own winged paradise with not only the variety, but the quantity of bird species. The park is also renowned for the fascinating bird species such as the red-faced malkoha, serpent eagle, hawk eagles, white-bellied sea eagle, black eagle, black-capped bulbul, racket-tailed drongo and peacock. During the winter season, Udawalawe boasts also an array of migratory birds including the forest wagtails, Indian pitta, whiskered terns and osprey sand pipers.
”We don’t want to miss to say a big thank you to you for our journey in Sri Lanka! We had a fantastic time on the Island, all was planned perfectly and the itinerary met our expectations exactly. Great job! And thanks again to Roshan! We are very grateful for his very kind guidance, ideas and problem solving skills during the trip. It’s a wonderful country and we hope to come back in future.”
Inga & Kay from Germany
Detailed Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1
Day 01 - Airport – Colombo (Approx. 40 kms / 1h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Arrival to Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Colombo.
-
Check in to a hotel in Colombo.
-
Leisure time and relaxing, or Colombo city tour in the afternoon.
-
Overnight stay at the hotel in Colombo (BB).
A melting pot of cultures and commerce, Colombo is a lively city with the most fascinating history. Ancient Arab sailors frequented these ports to trade with the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonists that occupied the city. Today, Colombo has something from everyone! Visit impressive cultural sights, Buddhist Temples and Hindu Kovils scattered throughout the city and experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. Drive through the city's commercial centre known as the “Fort”, where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern hotels and office structures. Explore the vibrant markets and bazaars in Pettah. Discover the Museums and Art Centres with their fine collections of antiques, arts and crafts of Sri Lanka. Or indulge in shopping and tasting Sri Lankan delicacies.
Day 2
Day 02 - Colombo – Kudawa / Deniyaya (Approx. 140-220 kms / 3h30-4h30)
SCHEDULE
-
Breakfast at the hotel.
-
Transfer to Kudawa / Deniyaya, located by the Sinharaja rainforest.
-
Check in to a hotel.
-
Short village trail in the evening.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Kudawa / Deniyaya (HB).
After breakfast, you will head to Sinharaja rainforest, designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The forest reserve has an exceptional importance in terms of its biodiversity and fragility. Birding in Sinharaja is particularly interesting because it is home to 95% of the endemic birds of Sri Lanka! Steeped in deep mystery, this evergreen rainforest was named after a Lion (Sinha) King (Raja). The legend has it that the origin of the Sinhala people is from the union between a princess and the lion king who once lived in the forest.
From the calls of birds and the rumbling noise of the Gin Ganga River to the fresh air filtered by its ancient trees, the colourful species of frogs and the bright flowers, Sinharaja leaves you in awe of nature and how species have evolved to suit the environment. It is said that in Sinharaja one square mile may have higher biodiversity than the entire North American continent. Most importantly, this area has a high concentration of endemic species. 20 out of Sri Lanka's 26 endemic bird species, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie and the green-billed coucal, are found in Sinharaja. In addition, it is home to several species of reptiles, such as green-pit and hump-nosed vipers, and some rare species of horned lizards. Also, a few elephants and leopards and many smaller mammals including the rusty spotted cat, purple-faced leaf monkey, fishing cat, mongooses and civets inhabit the forests of Sinharaja.
Day 3
Day 03 - Sinharaja – Udawalawe (Approx. 90 kms / 3 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Early breakfast at the hotel.
-
Nature trail in the Sinharaja rainforest.
-
Transfer to Udawalawe.
-
Half day safari at Udawalawe National Park (from 2:30 to 6:00pm)
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Udawalawe
-
Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
Udawalawe National Park is located on the boundary of Sri Lanka's wet and dry zones, which provides diversity in both flora and fauna. The area, with its fascinating history and culture, offers an array of historical sites and natural wonders, guaranteed to satisfy even the most seasoned traveler. With approximately 400 elephants residing within the park's boundaries, it is not unusual to see big herds gathering to feed and bath at the waterholes in Udawalawe.
In addition to this main attraction, Udawalawe is home to many water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer, monkeys and the occasional leopard. The bird enthusiasts shall be in their own winged paradise with not only the variety, but the quantity of bird species in the park!
Day 4
Day 04 - Udawalawe – Bundala – Yala (Approx. 130 kms / 3 hrs)
SCHEDULE
-
Early departure (at 5:00am) from Udawalawe with packed breakfast.
-
Bird watching safari in Bundala National Park.
-
Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Yala.
-
Lunch at the campsite.
-
Birding excursion by the ancient irrigation tank of Tissa wewa.
-
Dinner and overnight stay at Big Game campsite (FB).
Bundala National Park is a fantastic wetland sanctuary that shelters thousands of colourful birds ranging from little bee-eaters to grotesque open-billed storks. In total, this wildlife wonderland covering 62-sq-km area, is home to 150 species of birds with many imigrating species arriving between August and April. It’s also a winter home to the greater flamingo, and it is possible to see over 1500 flamingos at once! In Bundala, you can observe the both species of crocodiles that inhabit the island. The estuarine crocodile, that is the largest reptile alive today, lives in the lagoons areas and the estuary of River Kirindi Oya, while the mugger crocodile dwells in the small freshwater lakes and in the upper regions of Kirindi Oya.
Day 5
Day 05 - Yala
SCHEDULE
-
Full day safari at Yala National Park with packed breakfast and lunch.
-
Return to the campsite.
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Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite in Yala (HB).
Yala National Park, situated in the southeast region of the country, covers almost 1000 square kilometers and is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, along with Wilpattu, it is one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants as well as to the spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The bird life is also fantastic, and numerous species such as rosy starlings, paradise flycatchers, crested hawk eagles, blue-Tailed bee-eaters and common loras inhabit this natural wilderness.
Day 6
Day 06 - Yala – Nuwara Eliya (Approx. 220 kms / 5h30)
SCHEDULE
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After breakfast proceed to Nuwara Eliya via Haputale.
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En route visit a tea factory and plantations.
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Check in to a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
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Leisure time in the evening to take a stroll in the centre of the town.
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Overnight stay at the hotel in Nuwara Eliya (BB).
Ceylon Tea is undoubtedly the best tea in the world, and one of the main exports of Sri Lanka. When driving through the plantation you will see the colorfully dressed tea-pickers hard at work on the sloping hills abundantly lush with tea bushes. With incredible dexterity they fill several sacks of tea leaves each day. At the tea factory, you will see the entire process, from tea bush to teapot.
Set in the heart of the Tea Country, Nuwara Eliya has a climate unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka. Situated 1890 meters above sea level, it offers a cooler and more invigorating climate than lower regions. Colonized by the British, and often referred to as ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya still retains the feel of the ‘old world’. Famous for its horse racing, the town also boasts an impressive Golf Club which dates back to 1889 and several hotels with grandiose colonial style.
Day 7
Day 07 - Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains – Kandy (Approx. 150 kms / 5h30)
SCHEDULE
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Short birding excursion (45 min) in Victoria Park early in the morning (6:00am).
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Breakfast and transfer to Horton Plains National Park.
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Transfer to Kandy.
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Check in to a hotel.
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Leisure time in the evening free to walk around the sacred city of Kandy.
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Overnight stay at the hotel in Kandy (BB).
Today, the morning will start with a birding trail in the colonial Victoria Park that offers an excellent location for bird enthusiasts. From there you will be taken to the Horton Plains National Park, characterized by a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, forests, and grassland.
The highest plateau in the island, spanning approximately 10,000 hectares, is home to 24 species of mammal - such as elk, deer, giant squirrel, wild boar, wild hare, porcupine, and leopard. The park also hosts unique vegetation and offers a perfect ground to observe many rare and endemic highland birds (87 species, 14 of which are endemic). An impressive physical feature in Horton Plains is the escarpment that falls 880 meters to the lowlands of the southern region of the island. Aptly known as the "World’s End", the precipice boasts a fabulous view of the tea estates below and all the way out to the distant southern coastline.
In the afternoon, your journey will continue to the beautiful city of Kandy is nestled amidst three mountain ranges. Built in this location as a natural fortress against attack, the capital of the Central Province was not an easy target for the foreign invaders. This town is also home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the most sacred site in the Buddhist world. The impressive temple complex is made up of numerous buildings, decorated with paintings and carvings depicting Buddha. The Sacred Tooth of Buddha is kept in a gold casket and stored amidst great security in the Inner Chamber.
Day 8
Day 08 - Kandy – Wasgamuwa (Approx. 130 kms / 3h30)
SCHEDULE
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After breakfast proceed to Wasgamuwa.
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Check in to a hotel / campsite in Wasgamuwa
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Half day safari in Wasgamuwa National Park (from 2:30 to 6:00pm).
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Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel / campsite in Wasgamuwa (HB).
Wasgamuwa National Park is home to incredibly diverse wildlife including 23 species of mammal and reptiles. Its main attraction is a majestic herd of over 150 elephants, that can be seen in their most natural feeding and roaming state. The park derives its name from the once abundant sloth bear or “walasa”. Nowadays, the sloth bear is a highly endangered species, yet it can be seen in Wasgamuwa. On the banks of the rivers, you can spot mugger crocodiles, camouflaged in murky waters. The Torque macaque “rilewa” and the Purple faced langur, both endemic species of monkey to Sri Lanka, can be spotted here also.
Day 9
Day 09 - Wasgamuwa – Negombo (Approx. 230 kms / 5h30)
SCHEDULE
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Morning safari in Wasgamuwa National Park with packed breakfast.
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Transfer to Negombo.
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Check in to a hotel.
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Overnight stay at the hotel in Negombo (BB)
Located near the Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is a fishing town with a fascinating colonial past. British, Dutch, and Portuguese all fought over this town as it was a lucrative source of cinnamon. The spice trade impacted the future of this town, but so did the Catholic church too. Today, Negombo is alive in its own blend of culture and religions and colonial-style architecture, but local traditions appear to have outlived the colonizers. The lagoon has abundant with marine life, and fishermen have been harvesting lobsters, crabs, and prawns here for centuries.
”We don’t want to miss to say a big thank you to you for our journey in Sri Lanka! We had a fantastic time on the Island, all was planned perfectly and the itinerary met our expectations exactly. Great job! And thanks again to Roshan! We are very grateful for his very kind guidance, ideas and problem solving skills during the trip. It’s a wonderful country and we hope to come back in future.”
Inga & Kay from Germany
