Sri Lanka Ultimate Wildlife Safari

An adventurous safari exploring Sri Lanka's best wildlife havens. Seek out leopards, elephants, sloth bears, diverse bird species and more with visits to Wilpattu, Yala, Gal Oya and Udawalawe National Parks and the Sinharaja Rainforest, while also experiencing some of the islands cultural sights.

Focusing on the diverse and fascinating wildlife of Sri Lanka, you will spend 22 days discovering the flora and fauna of some of the islands best national parks. From leopards prowling the forests of Wilpattu and Yala National Parks, to the elephant herds of Udawalawe and the colourful birdlife that abounds in the Sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka boasts a variety of unique ecosystems. You will also experience a taste of the rich cultural history of Sri Lanka, with visits to the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the famous tea gardens of the Hill Country. Spend your final few days on the stunning beaches of the south coast, the perfect way to relax after your safari.

During your journey you'll have the pleasure of staying at some of Sri Lanka's best safari lodgings. These include the grand Horathapola Estate with its pepper gardens, paddy fields and groves of coconut trees; the eco-friendly Gal Oya Lodge, where you can take a dip in a turquoise pool while gazing out at the greenery of Gal Oya National Park; and the idyllic retreat of Cape Weligama, where guests can partake in a multitude of water sports or indulge in a spot of relaxation on the shores of the Indian Ocean.

Upon your arrival into Sri Lanka you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel, about an hours drive from the airport. The rest of the day is at your leisure; relax by the pool or explore the plantation surrounding your hotel.

Drive north along the coast to Wilpattu National Park. The largest and one of the oldest national parks on the island, Wilpattu is renowned as one of the best places to see Asiatic leopard. Arriving in time for lunch at your camp, you will head out in the afternoon for your first game drive in the park. Enjoy dinner back at camp under the stars.

Embark on your final game drive in the park in the morning before being driven to your hotel within the 'cultural triangle'. This area is famous for its ancient cultural sites, including the imposing Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Buddhist temple at Dambulla and the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura. Upon arrival, settle in to your hotel before enjoying a guided walk to the local village in the evening, where you will have the opportunity to meet the locals.

Visit the incredible Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on top of a 600ft rock column, the fortress is decorated with colourful frescoes and offers unparalleled views over the surrounding landscapes. After enjoying lunch in a local restaurant you will visit Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital city of Sri Lanka, witnessing the many Buddha statues, stupas and monuments that adorn this archaeological site.

Drive to the remote Gal Oya National Park, home to elephants and diverse reptile and bird species, as well as Senanayake Samudraya, the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka. Spend the afternoon exploring the park by jeep, boat or on foot, before enjoying an evening under the stars back at your lodge.

Spend your day exploring the rolling hills and verdant tea plantations of the surrounding area. Enjoy a guided tour of a working tea factory, take a hike through the plantation or simply relax by the pool. Visit Sri Lanka's last remaining tract of tropical rainforest, the Sinharaja.

Drive east to Udawalawe National Park, best known for its excellent elephant sightings. Pay a visit to the elephant transit home, where you can witness orphaned elephants being bottle-fed, before continuing on to your lodge close to the park entrance. In the late afternoon, embark on a jeep safari into the park.

Transfer to Yala National Park, the second largest park in Sri Lanka. Home to one of the world's largest Asiatic leopard populations, Yala is also home to elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, deer and sloth bears. Arriving into your camp in time for lunch, settle in before venturing out on a late afternoon game drive in the park.

Spend your days in Weligama relaxing by the pool or on the beaches; the perfect way to unwind following your adventure.

Gal Oya Lodge

Situated in the relatively unexplored east province of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya Lodge is a paradise for wildlife-lovers looking to explore on foot, in jeeps and even by boat on Sri Lanka’s only boat safari. Stay in sumptuous eco-friendly accommodation with a combination of traditional and modern features and spectacular views of the mountainous region.

Cape Weligama

Cape Weligama is a luxurious coastline resort spanning 12 acres of headland and boasts beautifully designed villas and suites, excellent gourmet food, and several different swimming pools to enjoy. Cape Weligama has no end in its abilities to entertain you throughout your stay; it is great for water sports such as kayaking, diving and surfing, spotting marine life such as dolphins and whales, and visiting local Southern Sri Lankan sights.