Home / Packages / Beauty of Sri Lanka – Nature & Wildlife Explorer

Beauty of Sri Lanka – Nature & Wildlife Explorer

9 Days / 8 Nights
4.9 / 5
Up to 10 people
English, Sinhala
Free Cancellation Instant Confirmation Pickup Included
9 Days / 8 Nights
4.9
Free Cancellation
From
USD 1,450
Book Now

Gallery

Overview

Sri Lanka is one of the world's top biodiversity hotspots, packed with incredible wildlife and stunning natural landscapes within a compact island. This 9-day Nature & Wildlife Explorer tour takes you on a journey through the island's most spectacular national parks, misty cloud forests, and pristine coastlines.

From the majestic elephants of Minneriya to the elusive leopards of Yala, from blue whales breaching off Mirissa to colorful bird species in Sinharaja Rainforest — this tour is a nature lover's dream come true. Each destination has been carefully selected to showcase the incredible diversity of Sri Lankan wildlife.

Stay in eco-lodges surrounded by nature, wake up to bird songs, and experience the raw beauty of one of Asia's most ecologically diverse islands. Our expert naturalist guides ensure unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Highlights

  • Jeep safari in Yala National Park – home to the highest leopard density in the world
  • Witness the famous elephant gathering at Minneriya National Park
  • Blue whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa
  • Trek through UNESCO-listed Sinharaja Rainforest
  • Visit the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe
  • Bird watching in Bundala National Park (over 200 species)
  • Explore the stunning Horton Plains and World's End viewpoint
  • Kayaking through mangrove forests in Bentota
  • Night safari experience in Wilpattu National Park
  • Relax on pristine beaches of the southern coast

Tour Itinerary

1

Day 1: Arrival & Negombo Wetlands

Welcome at Bandaranaike Airport. Transfer to Negombo. Afternoon boat safari through the Muthurajawela Wetlands — home to purple herons, kingfishers, monitor lizards, and crocodiles. Welcome dinner featuring fresh seafood. Overnight at beach hotel.

2

Day 2: Wilpattu National Park Safari

Early morning drive to Wilpattu — Sri Lanka's largest national park known for its unique natural lakes (villus). Full-day safari spotting leopards, sloth bears, elephants, spotted deer, and diverse birdlife. Wilpattu is less crowded than other parks, offering intimate wildlife encounters. Overnight near the park.

3

Day 3: Minneriya Elephant Gathering

Drive to the Cultural Triangle area. Afternoon jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to witness the famous "Gathering" — one of Asia's greatest wildlife spectacles where hundreds of wild elephants congregate around the ancient reservoir. Spot sambar deer, buffalo, and eagles. Overnight in Habarana.

4

Day 4: Knuckles Mountain Range Trek

Full-day guided trek through the Knuckles Mountain Range — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through cloud forests, mountain grasslands, and cascading waterfalls. Spot endemic birds, giant squirrels, and rare orchids. Picnic lunch with mountain views. This is one of Sri Lanka's most biodiverse environments. Overnight in Kandy.

5

Day 5: Horton Plains & World's End

Very early departure (4:30 AM) to Horton Plains National Park. Trek to World's End — a sheer 880-meter cliff drop with panoramic views on a clear day. Continue to Baker's Falls through cloud forests with sambour and highland birds. Afternoon visit to a tea plantation. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

6

Day 6: Sinharaja Rainforest Expedition

Drive to Sinharaja Forest Reserve — Sri Lanka's only remaining tropical rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Full-day guided trek spotting endemic birds (95% of Sri Lanka's endemic birds are found here), exotic insects, rare reptiles, and lush vegetation. Visit stunning waterfalls deep in the forest. Overnight at eco-lodge.

7

Day 7: Udawalawe & Yala Safari

Morning visit to Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home — a rehabilitation center for orphaned baby elephants. Drive to Yala for an afternoon safari in Sri Lanka's most popular national park. Spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, jackals, and over 200 bird species. Sunset game drive. Overnight near Yala.

8

Day 8: Mirissa Whale Watching & Beach

Early morning whale watching boat expedition from Mirissa — one of the best places in the world to spot blue whales and sperm whales. Dolphins frequently escort the boats. Afternoon free to relax on Mirissa's pristine beach or explore the charming coastal area. Visit the Weligama Bay to see stilt fishermen. Overnight in Mirissa.

9

Day 9: Bentota Mangroves & Departure

Morning kayaking through Bentota River mangrove forests — home to monitor lizards, water birds, and diverse aquatic life. Spot crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. Farewell lunch at a beachside restaurant. Transfer to the airport for departure with memories of Sri Lanka's incredible natural beauty.

What's Included & Excluded

Included
  • Airport pickup and drop-off
  • 8 nights in eco-lodges and boutique hotels
  • Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, and all dinners
  • Private 4x4 jeep safaris in all national parks
  • Expert English-speaking naturalist guide
  • All national park entrance fees and permits
  • Whale watching boat trip
  • Sinharaja Rainforest trekking guide and permits
  • Kayaking equipment and guide
  • Binoculars for bird watching (provided during tours)
  • Bottled water and snacks during safaris
  • All applicable taxes
Excluded
  • International flights and visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Camera permits in national parks (USD 10-15 per park)
  • Any additional activities not mentioned

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 14 days before the tour for a full refund.

Cancellations 7-14 days before: 75% refund.

Cancellations 3-7 days before: 50% refund.

Within 3 days: No refund (safari bookings are non-refundable from parks).

Weather-related changes to the itinerary will be accommodated with alternative activities at no extra cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sri Lanka has incredible biodiversity. You can expect elephants, leopards (Yala has the highest density in the world), sloth bears, blue and sperm whales, dolphins, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and over 400 bird species. Sightings depend on season and luck, but our expert guides maximize your chances.
The trek is moderate — expect 4-5 hours of walking on uneven forest trails with some steep sections. Leeches are common during wet months (May-September). We provide leech socks and insect repellent. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
The southern coast (Mirissa/Dondra) is best from November to April. Blue whales are most commonly spotted between December and March. Our tour dates are optimized for whale watching season. We guarantee a second trip free of charge if no whales are spotted.
For wildlife photography, a telephoto lens (200-400mm) is ideal for safaris. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. Bring extra memory cards and batteries. Waterproof bags are essential for whale watching and rainforest treks. Drones are not permitted in national parks.
Our eco-lodges offer comfortable accommodation with modern amenities while maintaining an eco-friendly approach. Expect clean rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot water, fans/AC, and restaurant facilities. WiFi may be limited in remote locations which is part of the nature experience!

Location Map

Starting From
USD 1,450
Price varies by group size
  • 9 Days / 8 Nights
  • Free Cancellation
  • Instant Confirmation
  • Pickup Included
  • Group Size: Up to 10 people
  • English, Sinhala
Download Brochure (PDF)