Best of Wildlife - Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka

Your journey begins in Negombo, a charming coastal town just a short drive from the international airport. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative at the Bandaranayake International Airport and transferred to your hotel. Negombo is famous for its wide sandy beaches and its vibrant fishing industry. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the evening strolling along the beach or visiting the bustling local fish market to see the traditional "oruwa" sailing boats. You’ll spend the night at Jetwing J (or similar) on a Bed & Breakfast basis.

Day 2: Ancient Caves and Wild Safaris

Head inland to Sigiriya. Your first major stop is the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five caves filled with ancient Buddhist statues and murals. In the evening, the adventure continues with a safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, famous for "The Gathering" of wild elephants. Your stay for the night is at Fresco Water Villa (or similar) on a Half Board basis.

Day 3: The Ascent of the Lion Rock

Today is dedicated to one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks: Sigiriya Lion Rock. This ancient rock fortress rises 200 meters above the jungle and features the famous "Mirror Wall," colourful frescoes, and the massive stone lion paws at the entrance to the summit. In the afternoon, you have the flexibility to choose between bird watching, a traditional Habarana Village Tour to experience rural life or a soothing Ayurvedic Massage to unwind after your climb. Your stay for the night is at Fresco Water Villa (or similar) on a Half Board basis.

Day 4: Spiritual Heart of the Hill Capital

Travel to Kandy, the spiritual capital of Sri Lanka. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses the island’s most important Buddhist relic. The temple complex is a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture and a site of deep devotion. You will stay overnight at the Oak Ray City Hotel (or similar) on a Half Board basis.

Day 5: Forest Exploration and Cultural Rhythms

Nature meets culture today as you explore the Udawattakale Forest Sanctuary. This historic "Forbidden Forest" is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts right in the city to spot highland birds. In the evening, you have the option to attend a Kandyan cultural live dance performance featuring traditional drums and fire-walking. You will stay overnight at the Oak Ray City Hotel (or similar) on a Half Board basis.

Day 6: The Misty Tea Country

Take a scenic drive into the mountains of Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England." You will visit a tea factory to learn about the production of Ceylon tea and enjoy a tasting. The afternoon is spent birdwatching at Victoria Park, known for its rare Hill Country birds and lush gardens. You will stay overnight at the Oak Ray Summer Hill Breeze (or similar) on a Full Board basis.

Day 7: Trekking the Plains

Rise early for a trek through Horton Plains National Park. This high-altitude plateau offers a unique ecosystem and is one of the best spots for birdwatching and spotting endemic wildlife. The trail leads to the famous "World’s End" precipice and Baker’s Falls. You will stay overnight at the Oak Ray Summer Hill Breeze (or similar) on a Full Board basis.

Day 8: Lakeside Birding in Tissamaharama

Descend from the hills to Tissamaharama, a gateway to the southern wild. The day is dedicated to birdwatching around the beautiful ancient lakes that surround the town, which attract a vast array of waterbirds and migratory species. You will stay overnight at the Big Game camp Yala (or similar) on a Full Board basis.

Day 9: Into the Wilds of Yala

Prepare for a full-day adventure in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve. Known for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world, Yala also offers sightings of elephants, sloth bears, and a diverse range of birdlife across its varied terrains. You will stay overnight at the Big Game camp Yala (or similar) on a Full Board basis.

Day 10: Bundala and Udawalawe National Parks

Today features two distinct wildlife experiences. In the morning, you will visit Bundala National Park, a Ramsar wetland site teeming with flamingos and waterbirds. In the evening, you head to Udawalawe National Park, famous for its large herds of wild elephants and open grasslands. After the adventure, retreat to the Mastodon Safari Resort (or similar) for an overnight stay on a Full Board basis.

Day 11–13: Deep in the Sinharaja Rainforest

Spend three immersive days in the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a global biodiversity hotspot. This is the ultimate destination for birdwatchers seeking Sri Lanka’s endemic species. Guided treks through the dense canopy will reveal rare flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. You will enjoy an overnight stay at the Blue Magpi Lodge (or similar) on a Full Board basis.

Day 14–15: Relax on a sun-kissed beach

After the intensity of the rainforest, head to the western coast, Kalutara or Wadduwa, for two days of relaxation. These days are entirely at your leisure to enjoy the beach, the tropical sun, and the amenities of your resort. You will enjoy an overnight stay at the Paradise Beach Club (or similar) on a Half Board basis.

Day 16: Departure from Colombo

On your final day, you will be transferred from the south coast back toward the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo for your departure. While no accommodation is provided for this night, a full breakfast is included to start your travel day. You’ll head home with memories of ancient ruins, misty mountains, and the warm hospitality of Sri Lanka.

Price from £ 2180* per person

(Minimum 2 persons required for this price).

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