Wildlife and Adventure in Sri Lanka: An 8-Day Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Waskaduwa

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome as you’re picked up from the airport or your hotel in Negombo, Colombo, or Mount Lavinia. You will be driven to Waskaduwa, where you will check into a comfortable four-star hotel. After settling in, you can take some time to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings. The day concludes with a delicious dinner, setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Madu River and Sinharaja Rainforest

After enjoying breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic boat ride along the Madu River, a rich biodiversity hotspot teeming with aquatic life and wetland creatures. After your river adventure, you will drive approximately three hours to the renowned Sinharaja Rainforest. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a major ecotourism destination, and in the afternoon, you’ll set out on a guided trek through its lush greenery, immersing yourself in the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this stunning ecosystem. You will spend the night at the Rainforest Eco Lodge or a similar accommodation.

Day 3: Udawalawe National Park

Early in the morning, you’ll depart for Udawalawe, a drive of about four hours. Upon arrival, you will check in at the Grand Udawalawe Hotel. Later in the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating game drive in Udawalawe National Park. This park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly its population of Sri Lankan elephants and various water birds. After an exciting day of wildlife viewing, you will return to the hotel for a restful night.

Day 4: Yala National Park

After breakfast, you’ll head to Yala National Park, a drive of approximately two hours. This park is famous for its leopard population and stunning landscapes. In the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy another game drive, giving you the chance to spot leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Tonight, you will camp in the heart of Yala National Park, complete with a BBQ dinner under the stars, providing a memorable wilderness experience.

Day 5: Ella Adventures

Today, you will journey to Ella, a scenic drive of about three hours. Upon arrival, you will have the afternoon free to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Ella. Join your guide for a hike to Ella Gap, Little Adam’s Peak, and the picturesque Rawana Waterfalls. The breathtaking views and lush surroundings make this a perfect day to connect with nature and capture unforgettable memories.

Day 6: Horton Plains National Park

After breakfast, you will drive approximately two hours to Horton Plains National Park. Here, you’ll take a guided walk along the nature trails to reach the viewpoint known as the World’s End, where sheer cliffs drop dramatically to the valley below. This area is rich in biodiversity, and you’ll have the opportunity to encounter various wildlife species as you explore the park. Following your adventure, you will head to a four-star hotel at Plantation Villa for the night.

Day 7: Kelani River Rafting and Cycling Tour

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping day as you tackle whitewater rafting on the Kelani River in Kitulgala. This thrilling experience will challenge your nerves as you navigate through the exciting rapids. After an exhilarating morning, you’ll have the afternoon to relax or take a cycling tour through a nearby village, immersing yourself in the local culture. After a day filled with adventure, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 8: Departure

As your remarkable wildlife tour of Sri Lanka comes to an end, enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your travel plans, you’ll be taken to your hotel in Colombo or dropped off at the airport, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife.