Wildlife Gateway Tour in Sri Lanka (11 Days)

Book this Package now, just for FREE, and be pampered with the fascination of the island with Next Travel Sri Lanka. We assure you of the perfect exploration, with the comforts you desire. Need more additions? Yes, you can even plan your holiday to suit your true favours with our Tailor-Made Tour Packages! We are always here to assist you in planning the best holiday. Simply contact us, if you have any doubts about this package, tailor-made tour packages, or the bookings.
Book With Flexibility Number of Days: 11
From Colombo to Colombo

Max Group Size

20

Private Tour

Available

Physical Rating

Active

Age Range

18 to 65

Operated In

English

Tour ID

NTD2040
From $890, Price varies by group size

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Places and Experiences

Highlights

N

Relaxing by the Shorelines of Colombo

N

Trekking Sinharaja

N

Game Drives at Udawalawe National Park

N

Visiting Bundala National Park

N

Jeep Safaris at Yala National Park

N

Relaxing at the Mirissa Shore

N

Dolphin / Whale Watching at Mirissa

Itinerary

When you arrive in Sri Lanka, you will be able to find one of our representatives from Next Travel Sri Lanka at the Arriving Lounge of the Colombo Airport paging your name. Once your identity is confirmed, you will be guided to your hotel by the shores of Colombo. However, we have no special plans for the day, since we believe that you need a good rest after a tiring overseas journey. So, you are free to spend this day at your leisure after checking in at the hotel.
On the second day of this tour, we would be heading to Sinharaja. The drive would take nearly four hours. Still, let us assure you that this trip is never going to be a boring one for you. As you travel, the lush greenery of the paddy fields, the streams that flow through the greenery, and the beautiful shades of blossoms are sure to amuse your eyes. Besides, the stalls and street food carts that you see on the roads, the genuine smiles of the villagers, and the constructions in between that provide evidence of a developing nation are simply to provide you with a good overview of this teardrop island. However, you would be arriving at the hotel in Sinharaja by noon, and upon checking in, you can leisurely spend the evening as your heart desires.
The third day of this tour is simply going to be exciting and wonderful. On this day, we would be trekking the Sinharaja Rainforest, which is the biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this trek, you would be going a 4km trail into the forest, which is split into two segments, whereas the second segment is a bit challenging than the first. However, this exploration is sure to be a memorable experience on this island owing to many reasons. The natural beauty of the verdant surroundings of this rainforest is sure to soothe your soul like no other. Besides, the extensive range of endemic flora and fauna it houses, the wildlife that has made it home, the fascinating bird watching experiences it creates to observe both endemic and migratory bird species, are sure to offer you a bunch of wonderful memories. The overnight stay would be at the hotel in Sinharaja.
Following a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Sinharaja, we would be leaving the premises at around 8.30 a.m to visit the Udawalawe National Park on this day. The ride would approximately take around 3 hours. So, you would arrive at the park by noon. And then is the moment you were waiting for! Yes, you can begin exploring the amazing wildlife in this wonderful nature reserve. While you can observe many species of wildlife in this park, Asian elephants happen to be the star attraction out there. In fact, you can spot a good number of elephants of all ages, up close and personal, while capturing the best moments of their lives as well. Apart from that, you can even observe some wonderful bird species. However, following this exploration, you would arrive at your hotel in Udawalawe for your overnight stay
We surely know that a good exploration at Udawalawe National Park needs more than one day. So, in order to offer you the best experiences on this island, we have dedicated this day as well to enjoy the best of this wonderful national park. The schedule for the day consists of a morning and evening game drive that typically lasts for 3 hours. And the best thing about it is that these game drives are accompanied by a naturalist guide. Therefore, we can surely guarantee you that this exploration would be a real safari experience, that is full of perfect amusements and knowledge. Overnight stay would be at the hotel in Udawalawe.
On the sixth day of this tour, following breakfast at the resort, we would be heading to Yala. And on the way, we are planning to visit the Bundala National Park, one of the best locations for bird watching in Sri Lanka. Simply, it is a wonderful land of greenery that shelters a wide array of mighty bird species, both endemic, and migrant. Thus, this happens to be a favourite of bird lovers, wildlife lovers, and wildlife photographers. And yes, you would realize the amazement of this visit, once you arrive at this beautiful attraction. So, the time you spend there, exploring the charm of the beautiful wildlife, is sure to be a lifetime experience for you. And following this visit, you would be arriving at your hotel, and you have the chance of enjoying your evening leisurely at this hotel.
The seventh day of this tour is dedicated to exploring Yala National Park, a significant attraction on the island of Sri Lanka. We have scheduled two jeep safaris at this park on this day, one in the early morning and the other in the afternoon. So, we expect an early start on this day, to make sure that we do not miss anything in these spectacular surroundings. However, this National Park is home to a wide array of wildlife, so you have so much to explore on this land. Nevertheless, it is a must note that leopards and Asian elephants are the star attractions in this park. Apart from that,  sloth bears, spotted deer, crocodiles, and birds are also widely available. Following this exploration, you would be arriving at your hotel in Yala, to enjoy the relaxation for the day.
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the resort in Yala, we would begin our trip to Mirissa, the scenic coastal town of Southern Sri Lanka. The trip would approximately take around five hours, but it won’t ever be a boring one since you would be passing a scenic environment all the way. However, upon arrival, you would be checking in at the hotel, and then you have time to enjoy your day leisurely on this incredible shore that fascinatingly combines blue and green. Overnight stay would be at the hotel in Mirissa.
Mirissa is simply a bundle of amusements. The views it creates as its blue waves touch the golden shores are impressive beyond words. The pleasing climate out there which soothes your soul with sunshine and the relaxing sea wind is amazing. Besides, the perfect opportunities its mighty blue waves create for water sports are fascinating like no other. So, all these things coupled together make staying at Mirissa one of the best experiences on this island. Thus, we have dedicated this full day to enjoy on the shores of Mirissa as your heart desires. However, our plan is to start the day with a dolphin/whale watching tour, and then you can enjoy the delight of Mirissa all day. Overnight stay would be at the hotel in Mirissa.
Following a pleasing breakfast from the hotel at Mirissa, we would be leaving this scenic coastal town to arrive at Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. However, we are travelling via the small, yet beautiful coastal town of Kosgoda, which also houses a turtle hatchery. So, we are planning to visit it on this day, and we believe that it would be a wonderful experience. You would be able to observe a number of turtle species out there, especially the injured, and the process of protecting turtle eggs, looking after turtle babies and releasing them to the sea. Following this visit, we would continue our trip to Colombo, and the ride would take nearly two hours. After checking in at the hotel, you have the chance to leisurely enjoy the evening. Overnight stay would be at this hotel in Colombo.
This wonderful tour of fun and excitement would end as we drop you back at the Colombo International Airport for your departure. After all, we believe that this tour package features the best of the island, satisfying the true favours. Besides, if you prefer to make your dream trip in Sri Lanka a reality, in exactly the way your heart desires, we are here to offer you tailor-made tour packages as well. Contact us for more information. Happy and Safe Travelling!

What is included

Let it be a stay by the golden stretches, a chill amidst the cool breeze or a holiday surrounded by the lush greenery! Whatever your heart desires, the wide array of star class hotels in Sri Lanka are ready to cater to you. And for this tour, we have chosen a few highly-rated star hotels, and luxury boutiques for accommodation, helping you enjoy your stay in a way that suits your wishes!
Of course, there is so much on this island to explore, and getting around this country is not an issue at all! From arrival transfer to departure transfer, we would offer you a trip with excellent comfort in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Also, we guarantee you that the vehicles we offer are in perfect condition, and thus, a hassle-free ride is ensured for you.
Dishes in Sri Lanka are a true delight! Hence, you should never miss a chance to experience the authenticity and the exclusivity of the mouth-watering Sri Lankan tastes. However, as you might already know, this package includes meals on BB & HB Basis. Yet, you have nothing to worry about because our representatives would help you arrange the rest of the meals upon request. Further, any of the Sri Lankan hotels/restaurants would allow you to choose among the below selections, for each of your main meals.
Breakfast
  • Starters
  • Soups
  • Appetizers
  • Sri Lankan Food
    • Milk Rice
    • String Hoppers
    • Hoppers
    • Rice and Curry
    • Pol Roti
    • Pittu
    • Those
  • Noodles Dishes
  • Seafood Platters
  • International Cuisine
  • Beverages
Lunch  
  • Starters
  • Soups
  • Appetizers
  • Rice and Curry
  • Noodles Dishes
  • Seafood Platters
  • International Cuisine
  • Beverages
  • Deserts
Dinner
  • Starters
  • Soups
  • Appetizers
  • Sri Lankan Food
    • String Hoppers
    • Hoppers
    • Rice and Curry
    • Pol Roti
    • Pittu
  • Noodles Dishes
  • Seafood Platters
  • International Cuisine
  • Deserts
Also, please note that these are the general food items that any of the hotels would offer you, and there may be a wide variety of additional dishes depending on the hotel you dine at. Further, this tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal food options on request
It is true that one can visit the attractions on this island on their own. Still, let us assure you that having a travel guide makes your journey more wonderful, and stress-free. In fact, they know about this island like the back of their hands. They are capable of enlightening you about each and every place you visit. Going beyond, they would turn out to be a companion of yours, inspired with a passion to fulfill your expectations on this beautiful island. Hence, we make sure to provide you with the service of an English speaking driver guide from arrival to departure. And yes, they will surely become a reason for you to make this Sri Lankan trip more amusing than ever!
Certain National Parks, Gardens, Historical Monuments, and Cultural Attractions on this island require the visitors to purchase an entrance fee, in order to enter the site. Yet, you have nothing to worry about because this package includes instructions and entrance tickets for the below-mentioned sites we visit.
  • Sinharaja Rainforest
  • Jeep safaris at Udawalawe National Park
  • Bundala Bird Sanctuary
  • Jeep safaris at Yala National Park
  • Whale watching in Mirissa
  • Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Our sole intention is to offer you the best tour on this island. Thus, we would be providing you with a standard welcome package that includes cold towels, water bottles, mosquito repellants, a welcome letter and emergency contact details, driver biography, etc.
We recommend you have travel insurance to enjoy yourself more and travel stress-free on this paradise island of Sri Lanka. Yet, insurance is NOT INCLUDED in our tour packages. Tourists are responsible for choosing the insurance packages that suit them the most and getting themselves insured.
International Flights are NOT INCLUDED in our packages. It is up to the visitors to take care of their flight bookings and our tour packages, and additional services begin only once they arrive in Sri Lanka.
Of course, you will be provided with accommodation. Still, it is up to the travellers to bear personal expenses for pre and post-tour accommodation. Further, the travellers should bear their cost for anything that is not mentioned in the Itinerary, such as the rest of the meals, alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, visa fees, tips and portage, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grabbing out the best essence out of a wonderful holiday destination indeed requires a good plan. Yet, proper planning surely requires a good knowledge about the destination as well. In that case, you will certainly need a helping hand to know more about what to expect, how to get ready, and mostly, to clear out your doubts. However, as an experienced team working close to the hearts of our travellers, we clearly understand what troubles your mind, and your desire to travel with peace of mind. Thus, we have answered the most frequently asked questions, so that you can easily clear out your doubts just in a second. So, why not? Have a look at the below section, and we are sure that we have answered your question!

Abiding by the new normal, Sri Lanka is now open for tourists after the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, quarantine measures are different for the vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists.
Completing two weeks upon receiving the recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccinations will make you begin travelling on the island sooner. Apart from that, Sri Lanka requires no mandatory vaccinations before arrival.
The natural marvels of the island nation Sri Lanka, which includes the golden shores, charming cascades, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife are indeed capable of attracting any tourist. Besides, its rich cultural heritage, delightful festivals, pleasant climate, exclusive cuisines, and extensive range of facilities for affordable prices, simply make tourists go to Sri Lanka, at any time of the year.
Tourists are only permitted to get to Sri Lanka, by air.
Yes, of course! If you are arriving in Sri Lanka for a holiday, for medical treatments, or to take part in an event, you will require a Tourist Visa.
Any foreigner who plans to arrive in Sri Lanka should obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The website also contains a full guide on obtaining the ETA, along with the payment details.
The Visa is valid for 30 days.
Yes, you can. Still, you have to apply for a visa extension, before your current visa expires. All you have to do is collect the visa extension form from the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (You can also download the form from here), and submit the duly filled application, along with the following.
  • Return Air Ticket
  • Details of the place of accommodation
  • The application along with a photograph of the applicant
Also, please note that the applicant should be present to collect the visa.
It is always better to have your National Identity Card, and Passport with you when travelling around the island.
In brief, Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. Thus, it always has something to do and somewhere to visit on this island. Still, it is always better to choose a time where the monsoon rains do not impact the area you plan to visit in Sri Lanka. This complete overview of the weather and climate of Sri Lanka, and the official website of the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka will help you with regard.
You can either use public transportation which includes the bus and train services. If not, you can even hire a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or hire a vehicle to drive yourself.
Sri Lanka Rupees (SLR) is the currency used in Sri Lanka.
Not really! If you are using public transportation, enjoying meals from budget restaurants, and taking accommodation at budget hotels, you can experience the holiday at your heart’s core, at a low budget. Thus, the cost depends upon your choices. Still, a holiday in Sri Lanka is simply cheaper than many other tourist destinations across the world.
The best is to wear comfortable materials, preferable cotton, linen, or rayon since Sri Lanka is warm most of the time. Besides, if you are visiting a religious place, the best is to wear something light colour that covers from your shoulders to your knees, to blend with the culture there. Besides, having a shawl will help you to cover yourself in instances where your attire is inappropriate to visit such a place.
As long as you are travelling in a populated area it is safe to travel alone in Sri Lanka. Still, if you are a female travelling alone, the best is to wear an attire that covers your body, and also, wearing a fake wedding ring, acting familiar, etc. will help you avoid unnecessary hassles. However, the best is to avoid night rides, and use google location if you are travelling alone!
Most can! Still, some locals would only be familiar with Sinhala and Tamil languages. However, hand signals will help you in instances as such.
  • Simply, cultural and religious values run through the veins of Sri Lankans. So, never disrespect any religion. Avoid posing with funny actions at religious sites. Besides, dresses or tattoos with religious slogans or images might pave the way for unnecessary disturbances.
  • Avoid public nudity and kissing.
  • Never take photographs without permission.

Good to Know

The delight of a Sri Lankan holiday needs no further exaggerations. Its natural splendours, pleasant weather and climate, welcoming smiles of Sri Lankans, and every other bit of this wonderful paradise are surely going to enchant anyone who visits it. Still, in order to witness the true delight of this wonderful destination, knowing a few more things would certainly benefit you. Keep calm, and have a look below. They will help you make the most out of your time on this splendid island nation!

Electricity is not an issue in the present, especially around tourist hotspots. It is true that some extremely rural areas still lack this facility. Still, we can assure you that those areas are out of the tourist zones. However, Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50 Hz. Hence, be mindful of bringing compatible devices or voltage converters. Besides, it is always better to have with you a power bank, rechargeable lamp, etc. because emergency power cuts could occur once in a while.
As you might already know, Sri Lankan Rupees is the currency used in Sri Lanka. The best would be to bring USDs with you and then to exchange them for the local currency once you arrive. Doing so will offer you opportunities to get better exchange rates as well. Besides, Mastercards and Visa Cards are widely accepted, while American Express Cards are also often accepted. Still, it is always better to have cash in hand, since most of the local boutiques around tourist attractions do not have the facilities to accept credit cards. Also, ATMs are available islandwide. Still, not all of them accept international cards. The daily transaction limit usually ranges between SLR 100,000 to SLR 200,000 and a transaction fee is imposed upon every transaction. Moreover, banks are open on weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM and closed on weekends. Still, some main cities have a few banks that are open 24/7, or either till night hours.
Of course, telecommunication facilities are available almost island-wide, except for the extremely rural areas. If you are planning to stay connected during your trip to Sri Lanka, the best would be to buy a local sim since the mobile service providers here offer perfect tourist plans that would simply save you money. Also, buying a sim in Sri Lanka is not that hard. You can buy one easily from the airport premises, or the outlets islandwide.
As you already know, Sri Lanka holds accommodation facilities that cover an extensive range. Starting with the Home StaysGuest HousesBungalows, to Medium-Scale Hotels, and Super-Luxury Hotels, this paradise island has it all. Of course, the price might vary upon your selections and the facilities they offer. Still, accommodation facilities are indeed cheaper in Sri Lanka, when compared with tourist destinations worldwide. However, some of the Home-stays, Guesthouses, and Bungalows might not have AC and hot water facilities. Hence, if you are concerned with regard, it is always better to ask about these little things before placing your bookings. Besides, finding accommodation during the off-season might not be that hard. Still, it is always best to hunt for accommodation a few days earlier, just to travel with pace in mind.
Discovering the unique flavours of Sri Lankan Foodseafood, and cultural dishes would simply be a delightful experience that you can ever imagine! Let it be the luxurious hotels that offer you both local and international cuisine, and the small boutiques or the street stalls that amaze you with their mouth-watering tastes, all of them are impressive beyond words. However, local dishes might be a bit spicy. Thus, it is always better to inform the cook earlier, if you prefer less spicy food. Besides, the cost of food in Sri Lanka highly varies depending on the place you choose to dine, and the dishes you select.
Photography and videography are not forbidden in Sri Lanka. Still, make sure you request permission, especially if you are capturing locals, their boutiques, or their houses. Besides, never turn your back to religious statues, or pose with them with funny poses, since Sri Lanka is a country backed with strong cultural values. Also, whenever you visit a religious or a cultural attraction, or a museum, make sure to check for notices. Photography and videography are strictly prohibited in certain places, and using the flasher is strictly prohibited in some sites with historical paintings, and murals. Going beyond, photography and videography in some places require prior permission or payments. Hence, making memories is always fine, yet, it is always better to be mindful of the restrictions. And yes, your travel guide will simply help you with these concerns!
As you might already know, Sri Lanka is a country with a rich cultural heritage. Thus, we encourage you to follow the below ethics when visiting religious places in Sri Lanka.
  • Most religious places encourage visitors to wear a light colour attire that covers their body, shoulder to knees. Thus, if you are visiting a religious place, make sure that you do not wear shorts, crop tops, skinnies, etc. Also, having a shawl with you will help you cover your body at such times, in order to blend with the culture there.
  • Visitors enter the religious place barefoot and caps, hats, scarfs, etc. are removed before entering the site.
  • The tranquillity of the religious places in Sri Lanka is simply impressive. Hence, make sure you mind your behaviour.
Indeed, safety is first! So, it is always better to keep an eye on animals, especially on the stray dogs on the roads. Be mindful when feeding them, or touching them. And by chance, if a stray dog or any other animal bit you, make sure you arrive at the nearest government hospital, and they will make sure to treat you accordingly.
Verified by MonsterInsights