Sri Lanka Safaris

Endless beaches, timeless relics, welcoming locals, countless herds of elephants, invigorating landscapes, famous tea, spectacular train rides and divine food make Sri Lanka irresistible. An almost over-looked safari destination, the country is quickly moving forward as more people begin to discover its myriad charms.

Laying in between the more trodden parts of India and Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka is the ideal tropical escape. Dazzling waters, laden with white beaches, are a sanctuary for some of the ocean's giants, whilst a retreat into the flourishing tea plantations and rainforested peaks uncovers a plethora of life, including leopards, water buffalo, primates and birds. Wander beside ancient temples, enjoy a bounty of delicious cuisine, follow in Buddha’s footsteps on a pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak, and take an iconic train journey through rolling hills.

With a combination of some of the world's most incredible wildlife encounters and legendary temples set in outstanding national parks, Sri Lanka is undeniably alluring. Spectacular, affordable and still often uncrowded, now is the best time for you to discover it.

Why NWS for your Sri Lanka Safari?

As specialists in travel to Sri Lanka, we have been able to craft some of the most incredible itineraires and sought after trips to this often overlooked wildlife destination. Our safaris are led by hand-picked passionate local wildlife guides with years of experience across Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes. Our carefully-crafted itineraries combine unique access to some of the best wildlife lodges supporting local communities.

To ensure a truly exclusive experience, we use locations rarely used by other tour agents, working closely with Marine and National Park Specialists on non-intrusive encounters with full permits. Working beside conservationists, we can offer the chance to join habituation safaris and more. Our exclusive network on the ground allows us to add that little NWS twist to your trip, transforming it into something really special.

How Much Does Sri Lanka Cost?

Typically, expect to budget around $5,500 per person for a 15-day safari in Sri Lanka. This will generally include airport transfers, food and accommodation in eleven camps in different locations. For a shorter 10-day experience staying at five camps, expect to budget $7,000 per person. Journeying through the heart of tiger country, you will be staying in a range of rustic guest houses, treetop hideaways and even luxurious Indian Palaces.

Contact us for a bespoke quote

Sri Lanka is by and large a relaxed and friendly country and, although it still bears some of the scars of its more turbulent recent history, the infrastructure is progressing all the time. Traffic can still be somewhat unpredictable, but the road quality is improving. Outside of the main cities of Colombo and Kandy, facilities can be more basic but the standards of accommodation and food are high throughout the country; Natural World Safaris has access to some beautiful boutique lodges.

You may wish to include the following in your Sri Lanka itinerary:

• Jeep Safaris: Enjoy a jeep safari in the elephant-rich Udawalawe National Park
• Forest Walks: Hike in the tropical rainforests of the Sinharaja in search of endemic wildlife
• Tea Plantations: explore the tea plantations whilst enjoying high teas, guided walks and luxurious accommodation in the cool climate of Dickoya
• Beach Relaxation: Relax on the stunning beach at Kuchchaveli
• Whale Spotting: Swim with whales and watch these majestic creatures on boats off Sri Laka’s East Coast
• Culture & History: Explore the cultural triangle of ancient cities, temples and monuments or wander through the atmospheric streets of Kandy
• Leopard Tracking: Yala National Park is home to the highest number of leopards anywhere in the world
• Elephant Gathering: During the dry season, hundreds of Asian elephants gather around the Minneriya tank in search of water and fresh food.:

Where to stay?

Wildlife enthusiasts may wish to consider some of the tented safari camps that can be found in the national parks and which put you in the heart of the action, or try out some mobile camping for the ultimate authentic adventure. Many converted colonial houses and tea estates are bursting with character, whilst more boutique guest houses and beach retreats provide the ultimate in relaxation.

When to go?

Generally, the best time to visit the west and south coasts as well as the Cultural Triangle is between December and April, while on the east coast the climate is at its finest from May through to October. Here, separate distinct weather systems affect the climate dramatically from coast to coast. Read more on when to go.