Wild Sri Lanka
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
The beautiful island of Sri Lanka is blessed with a wealth of fauna, bird, amphibians and flora species. Home to the Sinhalese since the 6th century BC and steeped in the myths and legends, the island is a stunning fusion of ancient traditions and staggering natural beauty that is home to numerous species, from a high density of leopards, huge gatherings of wild elephants, incredible marine life and spectacular bird species. Beginning amongst the wetland marshes and mangroves of the Muthurajawela ...
The beautiful island of Sri Lanka is blessed with a wealth of fauna, bird, amphibians and flora species. Home to the Sinhalese since the 6th century BC and steeped in the myths and legends, the island is a stunning fusion of ancient traditions and staggering natural beauty that is home to numerous species, from a high density of leopards, huge gatherings of wild elephants, incredible marine life and spectacular bird species. Beginning amongst the wetland marshes and mangroves of the Muthurajawela Nature Reserve, you’ll then go on to explore the pristine coastline of Kalpitiya a marine bio diversity spot, before continuing to explore the rich wildlife reserves of Wilpattu, Minneriya, Gal Oya, Udawalawe and Yala National Parks. For those keen on bird-watching the ample time and hikes through the virgin jungles of the Sinharaja Rainforest is prefect to discover the numerous rare endemic species. We have also included wonderful access at wildlife research centres and interaction with the wildlife researchers at the Primate Center at Polonnaruwa. Apart from guided wildlife safaris by jeeps, you will also be taken on walks and hikes, boat and canoe safaris, all with expert naturalist guides. The ancient Buddhist sites of Dambulla presents a fascinating insight into the island’s cultural heritage. Finally ending your journey beside the waters of the south coast in Galle, allowing for some leisure time to explore the cultural highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE COLOMBO - NEGOMBO
DAY 1: ARRIVE COLOMBO - NEGOMBO
Flying into Colombo today you'll be collected at the airport and driven on to your hotel in Negombo, on Sri Lanka's western coastline. Located at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon, the city provides the starting point for this afternoon's boat ride into the Muthurajawela Nature Reserve, where you will explore its wetland marshes and mangrove forests. Set within a rich area of tropical wetlands, the 7,000-hectare site is home to a staggering array of bird and animal life including herons, egrets, monkeys and estuary crocodiles.
DAY 2: NEGOMBO - KALPITIYA
DAY 2: NEGOMBO - KALPITIYA
After breakfast this morning you'll drive on Kalpitiya, located north on the coast, a journey of 3 hours. Set on a pristine and remote stretch of coastline, a marine bio diversity spot, with pristine coral reefs in the country, the region provides a rich haven for different types of coral, species of reef fish, molluscs, manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks among others. The region has wonderful dolphin (spinner, bottlenose and Indo-pacific humpback dolphins) sightings between November and March, alongside sightings of sperm whales which are more commonly seen, and even the rare blue whales. Today take a short boat ride to one of the best snorkelling sites in Kalpitiya.
DAY 3: KALPITIYA - WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
DAY 3: KALPITIYA - WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
Early this morning (depending on time of year) you will be taken for a dolphin and whale watching boat trip. Returning to the hotel for late breakfast, you'll then drive north on to Wilpattu National Park, a journey of an hour and a half. Scattered with natural, sand-rimmed watering holes, the park is home to a variety of flora and fauna including monsoon forests, salt grass, elephant, sloth bear and leopards. This afternoon you can enjoy your first safari experience in Wilpattu.
DAY 4: WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
DAY 4: WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
This morning and afternoon you will be taken on a safari through the rich landscapes of the Wilpattu National Park. It is the largest national park in Sri Lanka and is mostly dry, dense forest, meaning wildlife is more elusive but you will see less jeeps than you would see in Yala or Minneriya. You will drive through the forest on dirt tracks, stopping at watering holes and lakes. Hopefully you will see the splendid sight of an elephant having a cooling dip or a leopard having a drink. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna including sloth bear, mongoose, buffalo, crocodiles and a myriad of birdlife. Lunch can be provided back at the camp or as a picnic lunch, surrounded by nothing but nature.
DAY 5: WILPATTU - SIGIRIYA
DAY 5: WILPATTU - SIGIRIYA
Following a final jeep safari through the park, after lunch you'll continue on to Sigiriya. This afternoon visit the Primate Center in Polonnaruwa. Primates are a species that have enthralled and intrigued humans for centuries, and a trip to the ‘lost city’ of Polonnaruwa offers the chance to see the oldest primate centre in Asia, to explore the work done there in the capable hands of guides who are also wildlife biologist researchers. The colony of highly intelligent and socially active primates roam freely here. On the walk you will see three species; toque macaques, hanuman langurs, and purple-faced langurs.
DAY 6: SIGIRIYA
DAY 6: SIGIRIYA
Sri Lanka is globally respected as a biodiversity ‘hotspot’, and a visit to the Sam Popham Arboretum in Dambulla is testament to this. Here you will see a fascinating array of the country’s wildlife, as well as insects, trees and plants, all on one protected and easy to access site. This is the island’s only dry zone arboretum and a source of great pride to the Sri Lankan environmentalists. Later this afternoon enjoy an afternoon's jeep safari in Minneriya National Park searching for elephants, sloth bears, leopards and some 160 species of birds.
DAY 7: SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 7: SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK
The journey to Gal Oya today takes you by way of the UNESCO caves at Dambulla, where you'll find a remarkable collection of temples and statues that date back to the 1st century BC. Filled with images of the Buddha and sculptures of the Hindu gods, the caves have become an important pilgrimage site for countless thousands of worshippers. Continuing into the mountains, our day's journey then ends in the jungles of Gal Oya National Park, a remote and beautiful wilderness area. Late today join one of the in-house naturalists on a night walk in the jungle.
DAY 8: GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 8: GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK
Early this morning you will be taken on a boat safari to spot the unique and diverse species of birdlife and if lucky you may well see elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. Return to the lodge and later this afternoon explore the park on a jeep safari to spot elephants and other species of wildlife and birds.
DAY 9: GAL OYA - BANDARAWELA
DAY 9: GAL OYA - BANDARAWELA
This morning you will be taken on a walk in the forest with a Vedda as your guide. The Vedda are a forest dwelling community, indigenous to the country, and on this walk you will learn about their fascinating history and traditions and close relationship with the forest. This afternoon continue west on to Bandarawela, a journey of around 4 hours.
DAY 10: BANDARAWELA - HORTON PLAINS - UDAWALAWE
DAY 10: BANDARAWELA - HORTON PLAINS - UDAWALAWE
This morning enjoy a visit to the misty grasslands of the Horton Plains, Sri Lanka's highest and most isolated plateau. Located some 2,000 metres above sea level, it provides an ideal spot for some captivating nature walks, with a wealth of birds and animals calling this grassland home. From here we continue to Udawalawe for the night, another 4 hour drive.
DAY 11: UDAWALAWE
DAY 11: UDAWALAWE
Today go on a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. Situated around a reservoir in the south-central area of the island, the park is largely comprised of bush trees and grasslands, and home to wonderfully large herds of elephants, as well as several species of deer, wild boar, water buffalo and jackals. Spend the day exploring this peaceful area and admiring the array of flora and fauna, with an additional visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
DAY 12: UDAWALAWE - SINHARAJA RAINFOREST
DAY 12: UDAWALAWE - SINHARAJA RAINFOREST
Early this morning you will explore Udawalawe further as you set off on a morning jeep safari. After breakfast you will be driven to the contrasting environment of Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve, a World Heritage Site and the only remaining virgin rain forest in all of Sri Lanka. The journey will take approximately 4 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Upon arrival check in to your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.
DAY 13: SINHARAJA
DAY 13: SINHARAJA
Today you will explore the forest with your expert naturalist guide, seeking out the different species of flora and fauna in the rainforest. Sinharaja has a rich birdlife with over 147 species and is the only location where you can spot 21 of the 26 bird species endemic to Sri Lanka.
DAY 14: SINHARAJA - GALLE
DAY 14: SINHARAJA - GALLE
Sinharaja Rainforest is a biosphere reserve that protects a vast assortment of endemic species, rare orchids and birds. A single trail leads into this primeval forest and today you'll accompany the guide on a walk through its fascinating layers. The dense vegetation hides a wealth of fauna including elephants, leopards, purple-faced langurs and all 21 species of Sri Lanka's endemic rainforest birds. After your visit you continue on to Galle this afternoon.
DAY 15: GALLE
DAY 15: GALLE
Your final day has been left to enjoy at your leisure. You could spend a relaxing day soaking up the tranquillity of this stunning setting, or perhaps take one of the excursions on offer. There are wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls to experience or you can choose to explore the historic Galle Fort, the largest European fortress left in Asia. Colonised by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it is still infused today with a graceful charm that perfectly encapsulates its European heritage and a wander through its meandering streets reveals a wealth of ageing colonial buildings.
DAY 16: GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
DAY 16: GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
Drive back along the coast today towards Colombo. For those interested in Geoffrey Bawa you can stop along the way to explore his iconic country home and gardens - Lunuganga Estate. Continue on to Colombo airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Jetwing Blue, Negombo
The beachfront Jetwing Blue hotel is located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, only 1.5 hours away from Colombo International Airport. On the journey to the Cultural Triangle and hill country, this is a perfect stop between recuperating after a long flight and starting to explore this fascinating country. The 120 rooms and suites are designed with natural materials, white walls and tiled floors, the accommodations have a bright and airy atmosphere, complimented by the views from the private terrace or balcony. With a variety of dining and drinking options guests can find something to suit their particular taste, from multi-cuisine The Kitchen restaurant to the more informal beachfront Centre Point Grill and Bar. Take advantage of the two outdoor pools and well-equipped gym or pamper yourself with a treatment from the spa during your stay.
41 Lighthouse Street, Galle
This private villa located in the heart of Galle Fort has only three guestrooms, so guests can expect ultimate relaxation and privacy. The tastefully decorated rooms are all air-conditioned with private en suite bathrooms, king-sized beds and plush bedding. Relax by the pool in the quaint outdoor terrace, use the free Wi-Fi in the library, or enjoy a meal cooked freshly to order by your own personal chef. Located at just a short walk from the shops and restaurants, guests can look forward to returning back to the comforts of 41 Lighthouse Street after a day of sightseeing.
Wild Grass Nature Resort, Sigiriya
The Wild Grass Nature Resort is a tranquil eco property set in 30 acres of open forests and surrounded by the beautiful Kandalama hills. With just 8 unique en suite villas, you can enjoy the panoramic views from the large ceiling to floor windows in privacy and seclusion. Wildlife such as monkeys, deer, wild boar and many species of birds regularly visit the grounds, which makes the Wild Grass resort a great spot for nature lovers or those who simply want to escape the hustle and bustle. The Wild Grass restaurant lies beside the Lenawa Lake and serves a variety of local and international dishes and, keeping with the property’s eco ethos, all the produce is organically farmed and locally sourced.
Bar Reef Hotel, Kalpitya
In a quaint little seaside fishing village on the west coast of the island, the eco-friendly Bar Reef Hotel makes for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The 14 cabanas and 2 villas are built using traditional materials such as straw thatched roofs and feature interesting natural touches such as shell taps and private outdoor bathrooms. Each room has its own private terrace and garden area, and the secluded cabanas are just a short walk to the beach. You can enjoy delicious local and traditional Sri Lankan dishes or a drink by the infinity pool before watching a beautiful sunset across the Indian Ocean from the beach hut bar. There are activities for anyone; from cycling, whale watching and kayaking to cultural tours and bird watching.
Leopard Trails, Wilpattu National Park
Leopard Trails is the luxury tended camp offering for the lesser known parks. Located in this off beaten location, it offers privileged access to one Sri Lanka’s largest national park, teaming with wildlife and without the crowds. The lodge has a team of the most experienced naturalist guides. This luxury tented camp deluxe and luxury tests are spread out in natural surroundings, all equipped with modern amenities and ensuite bathrooms. Beautifully designed the lodge has ample spaces to relax after safaris and walks, you can choose to have private meals setups or enjoy a drink by the campfire in the evening swapping wildlife stories with other guests and the naturalist team.
Gal Oya Lodge, Gal Oya National Park
Located outside the remote Gal Oya National Park, with easy access to the park, this eco lodge is set in 19 acres of the most beautiful landscape with stunning views. This lodge incorporates beautiful eco sensitive design and local design elements and materials, with all the comforts and aesthetics of an exclusive luxury lodge. There are 10 independent cottages spread across the stunning natural environment. The restaurant serves some of the most authentic and delicious Sri Lanka dishes on offer and a carefully curated menu of international cuisine, all using locally sourced produce from the nearby farmers. There is a large swimming pool overlooking the lush forested hills and landscape, and the lodge has one of the best in-house teams of local naturalist guides who offer some truly special experiences throughout the national park.
Bandarawela Hotel, Bandarwela
Bandarawela Hotel is a charming heritage bungalow located in Bandarawela. The 33 rooms are decorated in a heritage colonial style and are well-appointed. The hotel has lovely gardens, where you can choose to have breakfast or high tea. The food in the bungalow at the main restaurant has a good selection of western and local cuisine, using local produces and fresh ingredients.
Mahoora Elite Udawalawe, Uda Walawe
Mahoora Premium Safari Camp provides tented accommodation on the edge of the national park. The wild location occasionally attracts elephants and invites guests for alfresco meals overlooking the dry forest. The canvas tents feature a private bathroom area, a bed, a living space and attractive artwork. Between safaris, mingle with other guests over drinks in the communal tent. Free alcoholic drinks are served at the jungle bar, while barbecued dishes are served by the nightly campfires. All game safaris and full board dining is included with your stay.
Rainforest Eco Lodge, Sinharaja Rain Forest
The rainforest Eco Lodge offers prime access to exploring the Sinharaja rainforests. The lodge has been built using sustainable material, incorporating solar power panels and blending into the natural landscape. The 16 charming ensuite chalets offer stunning views of the rainforests canopy from the private room deck. The lodge has a restaurant serving international and local dishes, a well-stocked reference library. The main highlight of staying at the lodge is the wonderful access to the different nature and birdwatching hiking trails into the rainforest.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
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