Adventures in the Wild

9 Nights / 10 Days

10 Locations

Sri Lanka is often regarded as the “Best for Big Game Safaris” outside Africa. While it may be hard to believe that this small island can rival the vast African continent, the claim holds strong.

The country is famed not just for its beautiful beaches, but for its dense forests and abundant wildlife. Sri Lanka’s “Big Five” include the majestic Asian Elephant, the elusive Leopard, the Sloth Bear, and two magnificent marine species—the Sperm Whale and the Blue Whale.

With such an astonishing variety of wildlife, Sri Lanka has earned its place as one of the top destinations for spotting and photographing large mammals in their natural environments. The combination of terrestrial and marine diversity makes it a unique safari experience that stands out globally.

DAY 1

Welcome to Sri Lanka

On arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be met by our representative and will be transferred to a hotel in Negombo – a fishing town just under a 30–minute drive from the Airport.

Enjoy the comforts of your hotel and the surroundings to overcome the jetlag after a long flight.

(Option: Based on your arrival time we could avoid the Day 01 and commence the Day 02 program directly).

Overnight stay in Negombo.

DAY 2

Discover Sinharaja Rainforest

After breakfast, head south to explore Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot. This lush reserve is home to over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species, including rare birds, butterflies, and amphibians.

Upon arrival at the Rainforest Ecolodge, check-in and relax. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding nature trails or simply enjoy the peaceful environment. The evening is free for you to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

Overnight Stay: The Rainforest Ecolodge

DAY 3

Sinharaja Jungle Trek

Start early for an immersive jungle trek through Sinharaja Rainforest. With no roads through the park, this guided hike offers an authentic encounter with nature. Expert guides will lead you along lush trails, pointing out over 800 species of endemic flora and fauna, from tree frogs to native orchids. Many of these unique species are found nowhere else in the world, making this a truly special experience.

After your trek, return to the lodge and enjoy some leisure time.

Overnight stay at Rain Forest Eco Lodge.

DAY 4

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

After breakfast, check out and drive to Udawalawe, renowned for its large herds of Asian elephants. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.

In the afternoon, visit the Elephant Transit Home, where injured, orphaned, or abandoned elephants are cared for and rehabilitated before being released back into the wild.

Overnight Stay: Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort

DAY 5

Udawalawe National Park & Transfer to Yala

Begin the day with an early morning safari in Udawalawe National Park, home to around 500 elephants, often seen by rivers, streams, and reservoirs. Some of the park’s other inhabitants include the rusty-spotted cat, the sambar deer, Sri Lankan axis deer, wild boar, water buffalo, Asian palm civet, Toque macaque and a variety of other mammals, birds, reptiles and more!

After the safari, return to the hotel for a late breakfast, check out, and drive to Yala, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserve. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight Stay: Yala/Tissamaharama

DAY 6

Safari at Yala National Park

Start your day with a packed breakfast, a full day safari to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated wildlife reserve. Known for having the highest concentration of leopards per square kilometer, Yala is the ultimate destination for spotting and photographing these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.

During your safari, keep an eye out for a diverse array of wildlife. Besides leopards, the park is home to large herds of elephants, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, and water buffalo. You may also encounter the rare sloth bear, agile jackals, and inquisitive mongooses. The park’s varied landscapes, from dense jungle to open grasslands and lagoons, provide the perfect backdrop for this rich diversity of fauna.

Overnight Stay in Yala/Tissamaharama

DAY 7

Mirissa – Beach Time

After enjoying an early breakfast and capturing memories of your jungle adventures, you’ll head to one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating seaside retreats—Mirissa.

Upon arrival at your hotel, take some time to relax on the beautiful beach. Mirissa offers a perfect blend of stunning coastlines, inviting surf waves, and vibrant dining options. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, indulging in delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun, this area has something for everyone. (For the best surfing conditions, visit from October to March.)

Overnight Stay in Mirissa

DAY 8

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Start your day early with a whale watching expedition. Arrive at Mirissa Harbour by 6:30 a.m. for this unforgettable experience (season runs from November to April).

As you embark on your boat cruise, keep an eye out for playful pods of dolphins, including Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, and striped dolphins, as they leap and dance across the waves.

In the deeper waters, you may encounter majestic blue whales traveling in groups, as well as solitary sperm whales. So, if you’re lucky you will see more than one whale! Killer whales, also known as Orcas, occasionally visit Marissas’ warm waters and seeing them is quite magical.

After your thrilling marine adventure, return to the hotel to relax and enjoy the beach at your leisure.

Overnight Stay in Mirissa

DAY 9

Galle Dutch Fort and Arrival in Colombo

After eight days immersed in the wild and enjoying the coastal beauty of Mirissa, drive to Colombo for a change of pace.

En route, visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This impressive fortress was originally established by the Portuguese in the 16th century and flourished during the Dutch colonial period in the 18th century, before coming under British control in 1796. Explore its well-preserved ramparts, charming streets, and colonial architecture that tell the story of its rich history.

Upon arrival in Colombo, take your time to check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, venture out to discover the vibrant attractions and local flavors of the city.

Overnight Stay in Colombo

DAY 10

Departure from Sri Lanka

After enjoying breakfast, take some time to relax and savor the comforts of your hotel.

Your guide will meet you in the lobby at the scheduled time to drive you to Colombo International Airport for your departing flight home. As you prepare to leave, reflect on the ten days of unforgettable memories and the beautiful photos that capture your incredible journey through Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Accommodation on Twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.
Tour includes all meals except Dinner in Colombo on Lunch & Dinner on Day 10 and lunch on Day 11 in Colombo prior to leaving to Airport.
Tour also includes all Entrance fees, cost of hiring Jeeps/4WD for the visit to National parks.
All taxes applicable pertaining to the tour