Wildlife Photography Tour in Sri Lanka (5 Days)

One of our representatives would pick you up from your hotel in Colombo, or any other beach destination on the South West Coast of the island, and then head to Sinharaja. This trip would approximately take around 3 hours, and it won’t ever be a boring ride for you. As you travel, you would be able to witness the scenic beauty of the island, as well as the lives of Sri Lankans. And why not? You can even taste the Sri Lankan food, and fruits from the boutiques by the roads. Further, quenching your thirst with ‘Thembili’ (King Coconut) under the warm sun would certainly be enlivening. Besides, how the villagers sell cashew nuts, pineapple, etc. beside the roads near their farms, and the small stalls and carts with mouth-watering street food would simply be some wonderful sights to witness. So, all these things together would make your trip more interesting, and finally, once you arrive in Sinharaja, you would be able to check in to the Rainforest eco-lodge. And then in the evening, you would be visiting the Sinharaja Rainforest, the eighth UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Sri Lanka. Once you visit there, you will surely be able to realize why this place is known as the biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka. In fact, the extensive array of wildlife, flora and fauna it houses, the amazing bird watching opportunities it offers are sure to surprise you. Besides, an experienced nature guide will accompany you on this visit. Thus, we would assure you that this would be one of the most memorable trekking tours that you ever experience in your life. Further, the fascinating photography opportunities it creates will certainly add some beautiful memories to your travel diary. However, following this exploration, you would arrive back at the Sinharaja Rainforest Eco Lodge to spend the night this day.

Following breakfast this day, you would be heading to Udawalawe, another popular national park on the island of Sri Lanka. This trip would approximately take around 3 hours, and once you arrive there, you would be able to start a game drive at this wonderful national park. This visit will offer you a completely different experience than trekking at Sinharaja. The ecosystem out there, the range of wildlife, flora and fauna it houses are all different. Besides, this is well known as one of the best homes for Asian Elephants. Thus, we can assure you that you would be able to observe large herds of elephants in this premise, living in their natural habitat itself. Further, these wild creatures together with the scenic greenery out there are sure to offer you some wonderful photographic opportunities. In fact, this would be one of the best places to capture the rare natural movements of the animals, especially elephants. And thus, this visit would offer you a bunch of great additions to your wildlife photography collection for sure. However, upon completing the safari experience at Udawalawe, you would enjoy a delicious lunch at Grand Udawalawe Hotel, and then begin your drive to Yala. Dinner and overnight stay would be at the Leopard Nest Campsite.

We would be aiming at an early start on this day, and thus, you would be waking up at around 5.00 a.m in the morning, in order to begin your exploration for the day. A cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea or coffee would magnify the delight of this morning, and after experiencing it, you would leave the premise to begin your morning game drive at Yala National Park. It is expected to begin at 5.30 a.m because it is the perfect time to observe the best of the wildlife at Yala. In fact, along with the elephants, and leopards, you would be able to observe a good number of wild creatures at this time, making your visit worthwhile. Besides, the photography opportunities that this safari would create are priceless. Capturing some of the best moments of wildlife, along with the scenic beauty of the surroundings coupled with sunrise, will offer you a large collection of amazing photographs by the end of this safari. However, following this thrilling adventure, you would be returning to freshly squeezed juices from seasonal fruits. And after enjoying your breakfast, you can relax a bit, and unwind by taking a nap in the hammock or checking books about wildlife in the library. And then after enjoying lunch at the campsite, you would be heading to Bundala National Park, which is one of the best bird watching attractions on the island. So, after enjoying the beauty of the park and the birdlife out there, and after capturing some amazing photographs at Bundala, you would be arriving back at Leopard Nest Campsite for the overnight stay.

We would be expecting an early start on this day as well. So, as same as the previous day, you would be waking up at around 5.00 a.m to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea or coffee. Then, you would begin your trek on a path through the wonderful greenery that leads to a wonderful lake. And believe us, the views its surroundings offer, along with the lake in the backdrop, are simply breathtaking. So, without a doubt, you would have the ability to start the day with some fascinating captures of nature. And why not? If you are lucky enough, even some elephants, deers, palm squirrels, wild boars, etc would further enhance the beauty of the scenic settings. Moreover, this place is a perfect location for bird watching as well. In fact, you would be able to observe both endemic, and migratory birds. So, they are sure to enhance the photography opportunities that this place would offer you. However, after enjoying your breakfast at a private location by the lake, you can then set off to explore the beauty of the village around. Afterwards, you would be arriving back at the campsite for lunch, and then in the afternoon, you will start your game drive at Yala National Park, to observe more wildlife up close and personal. Dinner and overnight stay would be at Leopard Nest Campsite.

Following breakfast on this day, the tour would end as we drop you back at Colombo or your beach hotel situated on the southwest coast. 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!

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 wonderful places to accommodate you, as mentioned in the itinerary, 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 an 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, this package includes the following meals. 

• Lunch at Grand Udawalawe on Day 2
• All meals at Campsite from Dinner on Day 2 to Breakfast on Day 5
• Dinner and Breakfast at Rainforest Eco Lodge
• Beach BBQ Dinner on Day 3

Still, take it easy because our representatives may help you arrange the rest of the meals of the day upon your 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. Note: We would be providing you with mineral water bottles during the tour and safaris

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 throughout the tour. And yes, they will surely become a reason for you to make this Sri Lankan trip more amusing than ever!

Certain National Parks, and Gardens on this island, require the visitors to purchase an entrance fee, in order to enter the site. However, this package includes entrance tickets for national parks, trekking charges, and jeep hires for game drives.

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, lunch, and dinner, and for snacks, alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, etc.

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.

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 Stays, Guest Houses, Bungalows, 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 Food, seafood, 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.