Best of Sri Lanka's Wildlife - 7 Days

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive & Explore the Capital City of Colombo 

Welcome to Sri Lanka! A melting pot of cultures and commerce, the capital of Colombo is a lively city with a fascinating history. Arab sailors once frequented these ports to trade with the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonists that occupied the city. Today, Colombo has something from everyone. Go on a drive through the city's commercial center, where grand colonial-era buildings stand alongside modern hotels and office structures. Explore the vibrant markets and bazaars in Pettah, then dine on Sri Lankan specialties at a local restaurant before getting some rest at your hotel.

Day 2: Go on Safari in Udawalawe National Park & Cooking Class

Located on the boundary of Sri Lanka's wet and dry zones, Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in the world to see wild elephants. It's not unusual to see big herds gathering to feed and bath by the waterholes — the resident population is around 400.

In addition to this main attraction, Udawalawe is home to many water buffalo, lizards, sambar deer, monkeys, and various birds. You'll have ample opportunities to enjoy native wildlife during a game drive in the park. You'll take a break back at camp for lunch, learning to make a traditional Sri Lankan meal with the resident chef. Then relax in the afternoon before going out on another game drive.

Day 3: Observe Wildlife at Yala National Park 

Today you'll move onward to Yala National Park. Located in the country's southeast region, it's the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. It was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and it's home to a wide variety of wildlife that you'll have the chance to see today on a Jeep safari. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal, and mongoose.

The birds are also fantastic, and numerous species such as Rosy Starlings, Paradise Flycatchers, Crested Hawk Eagles, Blue-tailed Bee-Eaters, and Common Loras inhabit the area. Spend the night at a tented safari campsite before the trip continues.

Day 4: Game Drive & Transfer to Mirissa 

After an early morning game drive in Yala National Park, which offers another chance to see elephants and other wildlife, you'll travel to Mirissa. A fishing village surrounded by rubber and coconut plantations, ancient temples, spice gardens, natural sanctuaries, and exotic wildlife, this destination is famous for its long whale-watching season. Mirissa's stunning crescent beach is a paradise for anyone who loves the sun and the sea. Check into your hotel and take some free time in the afternoon to relax before the next day's whale-watching tour.

Day 5: Whale watch off the Coast of Mirissa 

The south coast of Sri Lanka is one of the world's very best places to see blue whales. From November to April, when the whales are on their annual migratory route from the Horn of Africa up to the Arabian Sea, they can be easily seen in the waters around Mirissa. Sperm whales and various kinds of dolphins may be spotted, too, on your whale-watching boat ride off the coast. You'll start the day early, taking a packed breakfast with you on the excursion, to maximize your chance of spotting whales. Take it easy on the beach in the afternoon — you might need a siesta under the palm trees!

Day 6: Free Day on the Beaches of Mirissa

You'll have a day at leisure at Mirissa as the trip nears its end. Go surfing—you can take lessons if it's your first try—or relax on the soft sands of Secret Beach. Rent a motorbike to explore the coastline, or go for a ride in a colorful tuk-tuk. If you're especially interested in wildlife, you could go out on a boat for more whale-watching, see cobras at a local snake farm, or detour to nearby Polhena Beach (also known as Turtle Beach) to swim in a calm bay and look for the turtles who live here. Go for a seafood dinner in one of Mirissa's many restaurants on your last night in Sri Lanka. 

Day 7: Depart Sri Lanka - End of Trip

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and check out before noon to transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport, about three hours away. Safe travels!