Explore the Sri Lanka Animal World
7
Nights
8
days
This nature-packed adventure is perfect for wildlife lovers, nature photographers, and eco-travelers. Starting from Colombo, the journey leads deep into the Sinharaja Rainforest, across the southern coast for whale watching and turtle conservation, and then into the untamed jungles of Yala or Udawalawe. Wind through scenic hill country, ride the train from Ella to Nanu Oya, and end with elephants and safaris in the cultural heart of Sigiriya and Minneriya.
From rainforest trails to open savannah, marine mammals to majestic elephants — this tour reveals the full spectrum of Sri Lanka’s vibrant animal world.
Arrival in Sri Lanka | BIA → Sinharaja
- Warm welcome at Colombo Airport (BIA).
- Transfer to Sinharaja Rainforest, a biodiversity hotspot.
- Leisure time or nature walk.
- Overnight Stay in Sinharaja eco-lodge
Sinharaja Trekking → Bentota
- Morning guided rainforest trek through dense jungle and birdlife.
- Afternoon drive to Bentota.
- Overnight Stay in a beach hotel in Bentota.
Bentota → Turtle Hatchery → Madu River / Fishing Tour → Mirissa
- Visit Turtle Hatchery conservation center.
- Enjoy Madu River boat safari or an evening lagoon fishing tour.
- Continue to Mirissa.
- Overnight Stay near the beach in Mirissa
Whale Watching (Nov–Apr) → Udawalawe / Yala
- Early morning whale watching tour in Mirissa (best from Nov to April).
- Drive to either Udawalawe (great for elephants) or Yala (best for leopards).
- Optional: Evening safari.
- Overnight Stay in a safari lodge or hotel
National Park Safari → Ella
- Morning safari to spot elephants, birds, and possibly leopards.
- Scenic drive to Ella, relax among the hills.
- Overnight Stay in a peaceful hotel in Ella
Ella → Nanu Oya (Train Ride) → Sigiriya
- Transfer to Ella train station.
- Board the iconic train to Nanu Oya (through tea estates & hills).
- Pick-up at Nanu Oya → Drive to Sigiriya.
- Overnight Stay near Sigiriya Rock
Sigiriya Elephant Ride → Minneriya Safari
- Morning elephant back ride through jungle paths near Sigiriya.
- Evening Jeep Safari in Minneriya National Park – famous for the elephant gathering.
- Overnight Stay in Sigiriya
Sigiriya → BIA (Departure)
- Breakfast and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
- Departure with unforgettable wildlife memories .
Inclusions
- Private vehicle with English/German speaking chauffeur guide
- 7 nights hotel/accommodation (eco-lodges, safari camps, beach stays)
- Daily breakfast
- Sinharaja Rainforest trekking guide
- Whale watching ticket (Nov–Apr)
- National park entrance + jeep safaris (Yala/Udawalawe & Minneriya)
- Turtle Hatchery entrance
- Madu River boat safari or lagoon/Deep Sea fishing
- Train ticket (Ella → Nanu Oya – 2nd or 1st class)
- Government taxes and service charges
Exclusions
- International airfare & visa
- Lunch & dinners (unless mentioned)
- Personal expenses (drinks, tips, spa, souvenirs)
- Whale watching off-season (May–Oct may have no sightings)
- Elephant ride at Sigiriya
What destinations are included in the itinerary?
The tour covers:
• Sinharaja Rainforest: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity.
• Bentota: Coastal town offering beach relaxation and water activities.
• Mirissa: A prime location for whale watching (best from November to April).
• Udawalawe or Yala National Park: Renowned for elephant sightings and leopard tracking.
• Ella: Scenic hill country offering picturesque landscapes.
• Sigiriya: Home to the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress and nearby Minneriya National Park, famous
for its elephant gatherings.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Depending on the chosen national park:
• Yala National Park: Known for its high leopard density, along with elephants, sloth bears, and a
variety of bird species.
• Udawalawe National Park: Famous for large herds of elephants, along with water buffalo, deer,
and numerous bird species.
• Minneriya National Park: Hosts the “Gathering,” one of the largest elephant congregations in
the world.
Additional wildlife experiences include whale watching in Mirissa and turtle conservation visits in
Bentota.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes:
• Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English/German-speaking chauffeur-guide.
What accommodations are provided?
The tour offers a mix of:
• Eco-lodges in Sinharaja.
• Beach hotels in Bentota and Mirissa.
• Safari lodges or hotels near Yala/Udawalawe.
• Hotels in Ella and Sigiriya.
All accommodations are selected for comfort and proximity to key attractions.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, Lankaawo Travels offers tailor-made experiences. You can adjust the itinerary to focus more on specific wildlife experiences, add extra days, or modify activities to suit your preferences.
What should I pack for this tour?
Recommended packing list:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime.
• Warm layers for cooler evenings, especially in hill country.
• Comfortable walking shoes for treks and safaris.
• Swimwear for beach and pool activities.
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Insect repellent for forested areas.
• Personal items: camera, binoculars.
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Departure or Ayurvedic Wellness Extension
- After breakfast, your chauffeur will transfer you to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your departure. OR
- Continue your journey with an Ayurvedic Panchakarma Cure at a selected wellness retreat. Tailored to your body type, this program includes detox, massage therapies, herbal medicines, yoga, and consultation with Ayurvedic doctors (advance booking required).
