Wild, Bird, and Community Based Tour – 17 Days

After a hearty breakfast, your journey takes you to Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka. The city’s unique blend of land and water creates a distinctive landscape dotted with canals and the picturesque Beira Lake. You’ll have ample time to explore the various districts of Colombo, where old meets new, and experience a wide array of culinary delights, from traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to international fare at fine dining restaurants and cozy cafes. In the evening, explore Colombo’s vibrant nightlife or simply relax at your hotel, soaking in the lively city atmosphere.

Today, you’ll explore the natural beauty of Colombo with visits to some of its best-kept ecological treasures. Start with a visit to Gangaramaya Park, a serene spot perfect for relaxation, before heading to Beddagana Wetland Park, which is home to a variety of bird species. You’ll then visit the Diyasaru Park, a lush expanse of wetlands and forests, perfect for birdwatching and nature photography. The tour also includes a stop at the Attidiya Bird Sanctuary, known for its migratory birds, and a visit to the Dehiwala Zoological Park, where you can observe a wide range of exotic wildlife.

From the urban jungle of Colombo, you’ll head to the serene Bentota Lagoon. The lagoon offers a wide range of water-based activities for the adventurous traveler, including windsurfing, water-skiing, canoeing, and even banana boating. You’ll also have the option to go deep-sea fishing, a thrilling experience that lets you connect with the region's rich marine life. Later in the day, embark on a boat tour up the Bentota River, where you can observe a wide variety of wildlife, including herons, crocodiles, and other wetland species, as you drift through mangrove forests.

Today, you’ll delve deep into the heart of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity with a visit to the Sinharaja Rain Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast, untouched lowland rainforest spans over 11,000 hectares and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including many endemic species. Your expert guide will lead you on a trek through the dense forest, pointing out rare birds, reptiles, and plant species. Sinharaja is also known for its unique micro-climates, which allow it to sustain a rich ecosystem. The natural beauty of this rainforest, combined with the sheer tranquility of being surrounded by nature, makes for an unforgettable experience.

After a morning spent enjoying the natural wonders of Sinharaja, you’ll travel to the iconic Yala National Park in southeastern Sri Lanka. Covering 1,259 square kilometers, Yala offers one of the best wildlife experiences in the country. Its diverse landscape, ranging from open plains to thick jungle, is teeming with wildlife, including leopards, elephants, wild boar, and sloth bears. The park is particularly famous for its leopard population, giving you a rare chance to spot these majestic creatures. Your guide will lead you on a thrilling safari, either in the early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active.

Your stay at the Wild Coast Tented Lodge, a luxury tented camp located where the jungle meets the sea, will provide a truly unique experience. This award-winning eco-lodge, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offers guests the chance to experience the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka in luxury. The camp’s tents are designed in the shape of cocoons and open out to views of the Indian Ocean. Spend the day at leisure, enjoying the stunning scenery, or take part in additional safaris, nature walks, or even beach activities. In the evening, dine under the stars and listen to the sounds of the jungle as you unwind in this remarkable setting.

Today’s journey takes you from the lowland jungles of Yala to the cool, misty heights of Horton Plains National Park. Located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Horton Plains is known for its stunning landscapes, panoramic views, and rich wildlife. The park is home to species such as the Sambar deer, the elusive slender loris, and the endemic purple-faced leaf monkey. One of the main attractions is World’s End, a sheer cliff with a dramatic 800-meter drop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Trek through the scenic trails and enjoy the refreshing climate of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

From Horton Plains, continue to the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England" due to its colonial-era architecture and cool climate. Here, you’ll visit Galway’s Bird Sanctuary, a peaceful 27-acre park home to a variety of rare and tropical bird species. This serene location is perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to spot birds in their natural habitat. Afterward, take a tour of Nuwara Eliya, with its picturesque tea plantations, lush green hills, and charming town center.

Your journey continues to Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most significant cultural and religious hubs. Nestled amidst mist-covered hills, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics. If you're traveling in August, you'll witness the Esala Perahera, a vibrant and colorful procession that honors the sacred tooth relic. The Perahera features fire-juggling acrobats, elephants adorned in lavish costumes, traditional dancers, and thousands of pilgrims. It’s an awe-inspiring celebration that has been taking place since 300 AD, blending Buddhist and Hindu traditions.

Today, you’ll visit Dambana, a remote village home to the Veddha, Sri Lanka’s indigenous people. Known as the "people of the forest," the Veddha have lived in Sri Lanka for over 10,000 years, making them the island’s original inhabitants. During your visit, you’ll learn about their ancient traditions, survival techniques, and their unique relationship with the natural environment. Participate in a honey-gathering expedition, learn about their hunting methods, and observe the intricate rituals that are an integral part of their lives. This experience offers a rare and intimate glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for millennia.

Your next destination is the rural farming community of Mahaoya Village, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience traditional village life. The locals here rely on agriculture and fishing for their livelihoods, growing crops such as paddy, maize, and cowpeas. You can join the farmers in their daily activities or take a boat ride with the local fishermen on Borapola Lake, where elephants are often spotted grazing by the water. In the evening, join in a traditional dance performance, where villagers showcase their vibrant cultural heritage. You’ll spend the night in a village house, enjoying the warmth and hospitality of your hosts.

Today, you’ll explore the Maduru Oya National Park, a vast wilderness spanning over 58,000 hectares. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including endemic bird species, reptiles, and mammals. The park also preserves ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history. After your safari in Maduru Oya, travel to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most important archaeological locations. Explore the Royal Citadel, the intricately carved Gal Vihara, and the Vatadage, which once served as the heart of the ancient city.

The next leg of your journey takes you to Sigiriya, a towering rock fortress that rises 200 meters above the surrounding plains. Often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Begin your climb to the top, passing the frescoes of Sigiriya maidens and the Mirror Wall, which still reflects light after centuries of exposure to the elements. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the remnants of an ancient royal palace. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Travel to Wilpattu National Park, the largest national park in Sri Lanka, covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers. Unlike other parks, Wilpattu is known for its dense jungle and hidden lakes or villus, which provide vital water sources for the park's wildlife. Wilpattu is famous for its leopard population, as well as the elusive sloth bear, making it an exciting destination for wildlife enthusiasts. A guided safari through the park will give you the opportunity to track animals and witness the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this pristine wilderness.

On your final day, depart from Wilpattu National Park and travel along the scenic coastline, passing through quaint fishing villages and coastal towns, on your way back to Katunayake International Airport. Reflect on your incredible journey through Sri Lanka’s wildlife reserves, cultural heritage sites, and beautiful landscapes before catching your flight home.