Welcome to the “Sri Lanka’s Big Five” Tour! Prepare for an extraordinary adventure through the diverse and stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka, where you will experience the country’s most famous national parks and encounter its majestic Big Five: the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, sloth bear, blue whale, and sperm whale. This multiday safari tour is meticulously designed to provide you with an unparalleled wildlife experience, blending thrilling safaris, serene nature walks, and unforgettable marine excursions.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Sri Lanka Upon your arrival at the Colombo International Airport, we will collect you and transfer you to the Negombo Beach resort. Here, you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings for the rest of the day. You will spend the night in Negombo, ensuring that you are fully rested and ready to begin your adventure the next day.
Day 2: Transfer to Wilpattu National Park After breakfast, we will transfer you to Wilpattu National Park, the largest wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka. This expansive park covers an impressive 131,693 hectares with altitudes ranging from sea level to 152 meters. Wilpattu is known for its extensive network of gravel roads, particularly around the numerous water holes, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Upon arrival, check in to your tented camp and spend the night near the park, surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquility of this remarkable wilderness.
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Wilpattu National Park Today, we will spend the entire day exploring the vast landscapes of Wilpattu National Park. Our mission is to search for a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and an array of diverse bird species. Prepare for an exciting and immersive safari experience as we venture deep into one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic national parks.
Day 4: Minneriya National Park This morning, we transfer you to Sigiriya, aiming to arrive by lunchtime. Upon arrival, you’ll take a captivating village tour and indulge in an authentic rice and curry meal. Afterward, a 45-minute drive will take you to Minneriya, where a thrilling jeep safari awaits you at Minneriya National Park. Minneriya is renowned for “The Gathering,” ranked 6th on Lonely Planet’s “Top Ten Wildlife Spectacles of the World.” This annual elephant gathering, occurring from June to September, attracts hundreds of elephants to the park’s reservoir. This event creates one of the largest congregations of Asian elephants globally, offering a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll see elephants engaging in social behaviors, playing, and bathing in the waters, providing an unparalleled wildlife experience. This natural phenomenon makes Minneriya a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers, ensuring unforgettable memories and incredible photo opportunities.
Day 5: Tincomalee
Today Morning We transfer you to Trincomalee, a destination renowned for its unparalleled whale watching experiences. In the tranquil waters of Trincomalee, witnessing a blue whale or a sperm whale breaching the surface and making a massive splash is truly breathtaking. The playful antics of sperm whales, known to wave their tail flukes when diving, fascinate tourists. Being surrounded by the clear blue waters near Trincomalee while observing these magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience. Afternoon: You have the option to visit Pigeon Island National Park for a wonderful snorkeling experience. The park boasts vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, offering an exciting underwater adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Day 6: Whales Watching in Trincomalee Today, we start with an early morning sea safari to observe the magnificent whales off the coast of Trincomalee. After this thrilling experience, we return to Trincomalee for a brief rest before driving to Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England” due to its cooler climate and charming colonial architecture. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and relax for the remainder of the day, enjoying the serene atmosphere of this picturesque hill town.
Day 7: Trek to Horton Plains National Park Start your day with an early morning trek through Horton Plains National Park. This trek offers a wonderful opportunity for wildlife photographers to capture a diverse range of birds and butterflies in their natural habitat. The park’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for capturing breathtaking wildlife moments. Enjoy the serene beauty and fresh mountain air as you explore this unique highland plateau.
Day 8: Transfer to Yala National Park This morning, we will transfer you to Tissamaharama, located near Yala National Park, for an exhilarating game drive. Take this opportunity to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings as you prepare for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Day 9: Yala Full-Day Safari Yala, the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, boasts the world’s highest density of leopards. Today, we’ll spend the entire day exploring Yala National Park in search of leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife.
Day 10: Transfer to Mirissa Today morning, we depart for Mirissa, where you’ll have the opportunity to unwind by the beach for the remainder of the day.
Day 11: Whales Watching in Mirissa Early in the morning, we embark on a sea safari from Mirissa, setting out to witness the awe-inspiring sight of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Accompanied by seasoned guides, our journey takes us into the expansive Indian Ocean, where these magnificent creatures often roam. Picture the breathtaking moment when a colossal blue whale breaches the surface, its majestic tail fin creating a splash that resonates across the sea. We observe these gentle giants gracefully navigating the waters, sometimes in pairs or pods, offering a rare glimpse into their serene world. The tranquil ambiance is enhanced by the refreshing sea breeze, the misty ocean spray, and the soothing sounds of marine life. Mirissa’s whale watching tour is not just an excursion but an enchanting encounter that promises to leave an indelible mark, offering a profound connection with Sri Lanka’s marine wonders.
Day 12: Departure Sri Lanka As your adventure exploring Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife draws to a close, we will arrange comfortable transportation for you from your accommodation to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable moments spent encountering the Big Five of Sri Lanka and the breathtaking landscapes you’ve explored. Depart with cherished memories and the hope to welcome you back to this beautiful island nation soon. Safe travels and until we meet again!
