Classic Sri Lanka Explorer Safari

This safari combines wildlife, culture and beaches to provide you with a fantastic overview of Sri Lanka. From the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to the leopards of Wilpattu, the imposing Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the palm-fringed beaches of Galle, there is something for everyone on this beautiful isle.

Travel to some of Sri Lanka's natural and cultural highlights, from the jungles of Wilpattu and Gal Oya National Parks to the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the important pilgrimage site of the Temple of the Tooth. Journey off the beaten track as you search for leopards in Wilpattu, the largest and oldest national park on the island, before heading south to the ‘cultural triangle’ to explore the historical cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura. You will also get the chance to visit the indigenous Veddha people in the remote Gal Oya National Park, and hike through the rolling hills of Sri Lanka’s famous tea plantations.

On your arrival into Sri Lanka you will be met by your guide and transferred to your first hotel, located on a beautiful pineapple plantation an hour from the airport. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and recover from your flight. You may wish to relax by the pool or explore the plantation on a gentle hike.

Transfer north along the coastal road to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest national parks. Wilpattu, also known as the land of lakes owing to its many ‘willus’, is one of the best locations for spotting leopard in Sri Lanka. Arrive in time for lunch at your jungle camp before heading out on your first game drive in the later afternoon. In the evening, return to camp for dinner under the stars.

Transferr to your base in the ‘cultural triangle’. The area is home to countless historical and cultural sites, from the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, to the incredible engineering-feat of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Buddhist temple of Dambulla, as well as many lesser known sites. In the afternoon, settle in to your new surroundings and relax before tomorrow’s adventures.

Head to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, situated atop a high limestone monolith and enjoying incredible views over the surrounding countryside. The rock is best climbed in the cool of the early morning, when you can take time to enjoy the ancient frescoes found in caves as you climb. After lunch in a local restaurant, you will be taken to the ancient site of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second capital city. While afternoon visits can be warmer, they enjoy much smaller crowds, enhancing your visits to the many Buddha statues, stupas and monuments found across the site.

Explore Sri Lanka’s first capital city, the ancient city of Anuradhapura. This well-known historical site is vast, and is home to ancient stupas, pagodas and Buddha statues, as well as a sacred Bo Tree which dates back to 245 BC.

Transfer to the mountains and Gal Oya National Park. The park is one of the few parks in Sri Lanka where you can enjoy safaris by jeep, on foot or by boat, on the largest reservoir in the country, Senanayake Samudraya. Spend the afternoon exploring the park before enjoying an evening under the stars in this remote region of the island.

Drive out of the mountains to Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy. The city is known for its beautiful botanical gardens and the famed Temple of the Tooth, a popular pilgrimage site where a relic of the Buddha’s tooth is housed. Head to the Temple of the Tooth for the morning unveiling of the Buddha’s tooth before moving down to the railway station to board your train into the hills. Winding through the tea plantations, you will be able to observe a variety of wildlife from the open doors of the train. Your driver will meet you in Hatton, from where you will be transferred to your hotel.

Spend time enjoying the Sri Lankan coast and exploring Galle. Take an evening walking tour of the fort, where you will get the chance to learn all about its history and seek out the hidden nooks and crannies that only the locals know about! The rest of your time is at your leisure to explore or relax as you wish.