Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Island Safari
Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Island Safari Experience
Welcome to a true tropical paradise where an extraordinary Sri Lanka wildlife tour awaits you! Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this enchanting island boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity and natural wonders, making it a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Sri Lanka is an island paradise, lined with golden sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters. Sri Lanka has rich natural heritage, with amazing wildlife and iconic mega fauna such as leopards, elephants and sloth bears. The island is also a biodiversity hotspot and teems with endemic birds, reptiles, amphibians as well as plant species found nowhere else on earth. With numerous lakes and rivers throughout its interior, lush tropical rainforests, mangroves and coastal lagoons, misty highlands laden with waterfalls and dry zone scrub jungles, Sri Lanka comprises of a wide range of picturesque landscapes and natural habitats.
What sets this Sri Lankan adventure apart is the depth of immersion into the island’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From private access to renowned wildlife researchers at the Smithsonian Primate Research Center to expertly guided game drives in the best spots for leopards and sloth bears, every moment is tailored for true nature enthusiasts. You’ll explore hidden corners of national parks, witness breathtaking sunrises over misty highlands, and experience ancient rituals at sacred temples. With small group sizes and personalized guidance, this journey is an extraordinary blend of wildlife, history, and local charm.
Highlight and Target wildlife
- Sri Lankan Leopards—the largest leopard subspecies
- More enigmatic mammals like Sloth Bear, Asian Elephant, and Jungle cat
- A wealth of unique primates like the endemic purple-faced langur and toque macaque
- Hundreds of bird species including endemics and stunning species such as the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, and Red-faced Malkoha
- Colorful reptiles and amphibians like the green pit viper, mugger crocodile, and the bizarre Indian Chameleon
KEY LOCATIONS
Wilpattu National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Kandy, Temple of the Tooth, Horton Plains National Park, Yala National Park
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Embark on several safaris among the highest density of leopards in the world, plus hundreds of species of birds and wildlife.
- Experience the amazing Gathering of Elephants within national parks as hundreds gather, bulls compete, calves play, and herds move across open grasslands.
- Take a morning walk through awe-inspiring Polonnaruwa, the ancient city where primates now thrive in ruins, with a Smithsonian Primate Research Center guide.
- Enjoy a thrilling nighttime walk in search of Grey Slender Loris – a small, nocturnal primate – plus chances to photograph Fishing Cat, Collared Scops Owl, Indian Civet, and Golden Palm Civet.
- Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, built in the 16th century, the Royal Palace complex, and more in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital and a UNESCO world heritage site
More Details
Accommodations
Tamarind Tree Garden Resort (1 night), Claughton Wild Wilpattu (3 nights), The Other Corner (2 nights), Cinnamon Citadel (1 night), Galway Heights Hotel (2 nights), Kithala Resort (2 nights), Centauria Wild (1 night), Jansens Bungalow (3 nights)
Weather and climate
Sri Lanka’s climate varies across regions, with the coastal areas typically hot and humid, while the central highlands are cooler. Rainfall can occur year-round, with the southwest experiencing monsoon rains from May to September and the northeast from October to January. Expect warm days with cooler nights in the highlands, and be prepared for sudden showers during hikes and safaris.
Tour Details
Price: $5,718 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: $750
Included: Lodging, meals, in-country transportation, guide, park entrance fees.
Not Included: Passport Fees, Visa Fees, International Airfare, alcoholic beverages, personal items, tips, travel insurance.
From: Colombo
Minimum Participants: 4
Participant Limit: 10
Activity Level: Easy
Deposit: $1,000 per person is required to hold your spot on this tour (with your registration form)
Tour Leaders: James Adams and local guide
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