Leopards and Endemic Birds of Sri Lanka
Eight days through national parks, ancient forests and wild coastlines in search of Sri Lanka's most elusive wildlife
This eight-day round-trip from Colombo is designed for travellers who want to experience Sri Lanka leopard safari opportunities alongside some of the island's most biodiverse landscapes, from the dry-zone savannahs of Yala to the mist-covered canopy of Sinharaja Rainforest.
The itinerary moves through a carefully selected sequence of habitats, each offering a distinct cast of wildlife. Yala National Park delivers multiple game drives across different sectors, while Udawalawe National Park centres on elephant watching and a visit to a genuine rehabilitation facility for orphaned elephants.
The final stretch of the journey brings you to the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve that shelters the highest concentration of endemic species anywhere on the island. Guided treks with a senior biologist provide a close look at rare birds, reptiles and amphibians found nowhere else on earth.
Tour Highlights
Multiple game drives in Yala National Park targeting the Sri Lankan leopard, one of the highest-density leopard populations in the world.
Guided treks inside Sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka's last remaining primary lowland rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A visit to the Elephant Transit Home at Udawalawe, an ethical rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured elephants.
Birdwatching for over 12 endemic species in Sinharaja, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie and the Serandib scops owl.
A stop in the UNESCO-listed fortified city of Galle, with its Dutch colonial architecture, narrow streets and artisan boutiques.
A guided tour of Handunugoda Tea Estate, home of Virgin White tea, with tastings of more than 20 varieties produced on site.
Accommodation at the Rainforest Eco Lodge, holder of the LEED Platinum for Sustainable Tourism award, on the edge of the Sinharaja reserve.
Itinerary Overview
Transfer from Bandaranaike International Airport to your hotel in Colombo. Meet your specialist wildlife guide and settle in for the journey ahead.
Travel south along the coast, pausing to explore the fortified heritage city of Galle before touring the Handunugoda Tea Estate. Continue to Yala for check-in.
An early morning jeep safari targets leopards, sloth bears and elephants. A second afternoon safari covers a different sector of the park for additional sightings.
A dawn departure into Block 1 focuses on leopard photography. A second afternoon drive in the same sector allows for prolonged wildlife observation.
Visit the Elephant Transit Home to observe orphaned elephants in rehabilitation, then explore Udawalawe National Park for elephant herds, deer and birdlife.
Travel to the Rainforest Eco Lodge on the edge of Sinharaja. Spend the late afternoon exploring the surrounding forest and adjusting to the cooler mountain climate.
What Is Included
Included
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Seven nights accommodation as per itinerary
- Meals as specified (breakfast daily, selected lunches and dinners)
- Services of a specialist wildlife guide throughout
- Jeep safaris in Yala National Park (four drives)
- Entrance fees to Yala National Park
- Visit to Elephant Transit Home, Udawalawe
- Game drive in Udawalawe National Park
- Two guided treks in Sinharaja Rainforest with senior biologist
- Tour of Handunugoda Tea Estate with tasting
- Visit to Galle Fort
- All ground transportation between destinations
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- City tour of Colombo (optional, not included)
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Any optional activities not listed
Important Information
Reserve Your Place
Spaces on this tour are limited to ensure a quality experience and minimal impact on the wildlife areas visited. Secure your spot today and start planning your Sri Lanka wildlife journey.
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