Wildlife, Wilderness & Marine Encounters Across Sri Lanka
Udawalawe Elephant Encounters
Visit the Elephant Transit Home before heading into Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its wild elephant population and diverse wildlife.
Yala Leopard Safari
Explore the wild landscapes of Yala National Park on an evening game drive through one of Sri Lanka’s most famous leopard territories.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Set out from Mirissa into the Indian Ocean in search of majestic blue whales, playful dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Birds & Conservation
Discover Sri Lanka’s remarkable avian biodiversity at the Birds Park and Bird Research Centre, surrounded by wetlands, lagoons and dry-zone habitats.
Galle Fort & Southern Coast
Visit the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and explore its colonial architecture, historic streets, boutiques and cafés before relaxing along the southern coast.
Private Chauffeur-Guided Journey
Travel throughout Sri Lanka in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide, allowing you to discover the island at your own pace.
“From wild elephants and elusive leopards to blue whales, tropical birdlife and the historic shores of Galle, experience Sri Lanka at its wildest and most captivating.”
Discover the wild side of Sri Lanka on a seven-day journey through some of the island’s most remarkable wildlife and coastal landscapes. From the bird-rich wetlands around Hambantota and the elephant country of Udawalawe to the leopard territory of Yala and the marine waters off Mirissa, this carefully designed escape brings together Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, nature and culture in one unforgettable holiday.
A Journey Into Sri Lanka’s Wild Heart
Travelling from Colombo through Udawalawe and Yala before reaching the southern coast, this itinerary combines wildlife encounters with conservation, scenic landscapes and Sri Lanka’s historic heritage. Travel by private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide, allowing you to experience the island comfortably as you move between each destination.
Birds, Wetlands & Conservation
Visit the Birds Park and Bird Research Centre near Hambantota, offering an insight into Sri Lanka’s rich avian biodiversity and the conservation work taking place across its varied habitats.
Elephant Country in Udawalawe
Experience the Elephant Transit Home before heading into Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s best-known destinations for observing wild elephants in open landscapes.
Into Leopard Territory
Continue to Yala National Park for an evening game drive through one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife regions, with the opportunity to encounter leopard, elephant, sloth bear, deer, buffalo and abundant birdlife.
From Wilderness to the Indian Ocean
After your wildlife experiences in southern Sri Lanka, the journey continues towards Galle and the Indian Ocean. The final part of the itinerary combines history, coastal scenery and an unforgettable marine wildlife experience from Mirissa.
Galle Fort
Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, discovering its colonial architecture, historic streets, boutiques and cafés before enjoying time along the southern coast.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Set out from Mirissa into the Indian Ocean in search of majestic blue whales, playful dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Southern Coast Escape
Enjoy time by the Indian Ocean after your wildlife adventures, with the relaxed atmosphere of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline providing a natural contrast to the safari experiences.
Private Chauffeur-Guided Travel
Travel between destinations in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide, making the journey comfortable and seamless throughout.
“From wild elephants and elusive leopards to blue whales, tropical birdlife and the historic shores of Galle, experience Sri Lanka at its wildest and most captivating.”
Best Time to Experience Sri Lanka’s Wildlife
Sri Lanka is a year-round wildlife destination, although conditions vary between regions and seasons. The period from November to April offers particularly appealing opportunities for combining southern wildlife experiences with the beaches and coastal attractions of the south.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the diversity of habitats visited on this itinerary provides opportunities to encounter elephants, leopards, birds and marine wildlife while experiencing some of Sri Lanka’s most scenic landscapes.
Your Wild Side of Ceylon Escape
From your arrival in Colombo, this seven-day journey takes you deep into Sri Lanka’s wildlife heartland before ending beside the Indian Ocean in Galle. With 6 nights of accommodation, private chauffeur-guided transport, wildlife safaris, conservation experiences, Galle Fort and whale and dolphin watching, the itinerary brings together the very best of Sri Lanka’s wild and coastal character in one carefully planned escape.
Explore More Sri Lanka Holidays
Discover more Sri Lanka holidays with Perfect Holidays, from wildlife adventures and cultural journeys to scenic escapes and relaxing beach holidays along the island’s beautiful coastline.
The Wild Side of Ceylon
6 Nights / 7 Days
Sri Lanka Wildlife, Wilderness & Marine Wildlife Escape
- ✓ 6 nights accommodation at carefully selected 4★ & 4★+ hotels
- ✓ Arrival & departure airport transfers
- ✓ Airport assistance on arrival
- ✓ Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the itinerary
- ✓ Services of an English-speaking chauffeur-guide
- ✓ All entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
- ✓ All applicable taxes and service charges
Wildlife & Experiences Included
- ✓ Birds Park & Bird Research Centre visit
- ✓ Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home visit
- ✓ Udawalawe National Park game drive
- ✓ Yala National Park evening game drive
- ✓ Galle Fort UNESCO World Heritage Site visit
- ✓ Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa
Meal Plan
Colombo: Breakfast
Udawalawe: Half Board
Yala & Galle: Half Board / Breakfast as specified in the itinerary
Not Included
- – International airfare
- – Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary
- – Travel insurance
- – Sri Lanka entry visa fees
- – Optional Turtle Conservation Project – US$10 per person
- – Personal expenses
- – Tips, porterage, early check-in and late check-out
Wildlife sightings are subject to natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Rooms and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
✓ ATOL Protected Holidays | ✓ ABTA Member | ✓ UK-Based Travel Experts
The Wild Side of Ceylon Itinerary
From your arrival in Colombo to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Udawalawe and Yala and the coastal beauty of Galle, this seven-day Sri Lanka journey combines wildlife encounters, conservation experiences, safari adventures and marine wildlife in one carefully designed escape.
Arrival in Colombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your private chauffeur-guide and introduced to Sri Lanka, an island renowned for its remarkable wildlife and biodiversity.
After completing airport formalities, enjoy a short transfer to Colombo and check in at Cinnamon Lakeside. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Colombo to Hambantota & Udawalawe
After breakfast, travel south towards Hambantota and visit the Birds Park and Bird Research Centre, offering an insight into Sri Lanka’s rich avian biodiversity and conservation work.
Continue to Udawalawe and check in at Kalu’s Hideaway. The surrounding region of forests, wetlands and lagoons provides a wonderful introduction to Sri Lanka’s diverse natural habitats.
Udawalawe Elephants & National Park Safari
Today focuses on one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals, the Asian elephant. Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a conservation facility caring for orphaned and injured elephants with the aim of eventual release back into the wild.
Later, enjoy a game drive through Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s best-known locations for observing wild elephants in open landscapes. Wildlife may also include water buffalo, spotted deer, wild boar, crocodiles, jackals, monkeys and abundant birdlife.
Udawalawe to Yala – Into Leopard Territory
After breakfast, travel towards Yala National Park and check in at Koragaha Lodge. Relax before heading out for an afternoon and evening wildlife experience.
Enjoy an evening game drive through Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife destinations and renowned for its leopard population. The park’s varied landscapes provide opportunities to encounter elephants, sloth bears, deer, buffalo, crocodiles, monkeys and a wide range of birdlife.
Yala to Galle – From Wilderness to the Indian Ocean
After breakfast, travel along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline towards Galle.
Visit Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its historic streets, colonial architecture, boutiques and cafés. Continue to the Radisson Blu Resort Galle and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure by the Indian Ocean.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Early this morning, head out from the southern coast for a memorable whale and dolphin watching experience in the waters off Mirissa.
Set out across the Indian Ocean in search of majestic blue whales, playful dolphins and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and opportunities to capture memorable photographs before returning to the hotel.
The remainder of the day is at leisure. An optional visit to a Turtle Conservation Project is also available at an additional cost of US$10 per person.
Galle to Colombo Airport – Farewell to Sri Lanka
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and beginning your private transfer to Colombo Airport. Your journey concludes after experiencing Sri Lanka’s wildlife, conservation, landscapes, cultural heritage and southern coastline.
From elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka’s national parks to blue whales in the Indian Ocean, discover a remarkable side of Ceylon where wildlife, conservation, culture and coastal landscapes come together.
The Wild Side of Ceylon FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about this Sri Lanka wildlife holiday, including accommodation, transport, safaris, meal plans, whale watching and what is included in your journey.
How many nights are included in this Sri Lanka holiday?
This package includes 6 nights and 7 days, travelling from Colombo through Udawalawe and Yala before continuing to Galle on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Are international flights included in this package?
No. The quoted land package rate excludes international airfare. Return flights from London to Colombo can be added separately to create a complete holiday package.
What flight routing is recommended for this holiday?
The recommended international routing is London Heathrow (LHR) to Colombo (CMB) and Colombo (CMB) to London Heathrow (LHR). There are no internal flights required for this itinerary.
Are there any domestic flights within Sri Lanka?
No. The entire itinerary is travelled by private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide, making this a seamless overland journey through southern Sri Lanka.
What type of transport is included?
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included throughout the itinerary, together with the services of an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Arrival and departure airport transfers are also included.
Which wildlife experiences are included?
The itinerary includes a visit to the Birds Park and Bird Research Centre, the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a game drive in Udawalawe National Park and an evening game drive in Yala National Park.
Will I see elephants and leopards on the safaris?
Udawalawe is particularly well known for its wild elephant population, while Yala is renowned for its leopard population. However, wildlife sightings are subject to natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Is whale and dolphin watching included?
Yes. The itinerary includes an early-morning Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa, where you can search for blue whales, dolphins and other marine wildlife in the Indian Ocean.
Is Galle Fort included in the itinerary?
Yes. You will visit Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and have the opportunity to explore its colonial architecture, historic streets, boutiques and cafés.
What meal plan is included?
The meal plan varies by hotel. Breakfast is included in Colombo and Galle, while Half Board is included during your stays in Udawalawe and Yala, as specified in the itinerary.
Is the Turtle Conservation Project included?
No. The Turtle Conservation Project is an optional visit and costs US$10 per person. It can be added to the itinerary at an additional cost.
Are lunch and dinner included throughout the holiday?
Lunches and dinners are not included unless specifically stated as part of the Half Board arrangements. Any meals included will be provided according to the meal plan shown in the itinerary.
Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?
Entry visa requirements apply to travellers visiting Sri Lanka. Visa requirements and application procedures can change, so travellers should check the latest official Sri Lankan immigration guidance before travelling.
What is the validity period for this package?
The quoted rate of USD 1,275 net per person is valid from 1 November 2026 to 30 April 2027. A separate rate of USD 1,455 net per person applies from 1 November 2027 to 30 April 2028. Stop-sale dates apply during the Christmas and New Year periods.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No. Wildlife encounters take place in natural environments, so sightings of elephants, leopards, whales, dolphins and other animals cannot be guaranteed. The itinerary has been designed to visit recognised wildlife areas where these experiences are possible.
Discover Sri Lanka’s wildlife, from elephants and leopards to blue whales and dolphins, combined with conservation experiences, Galle Fort and the beauty of the southern coast on one unforgettable 6-night journey.
The Wild Side of Ceylon
6 Nights / 7 Days
Sri Lanka Wildlife, Wilderness & Marine Wildlife Escape
- ✓ 6 nights accommodation at carefully selected 4★ & 4★+ hotels
- ✓ Arrival & departure airport transfers
- ✓ Airport assistance on arrival
- ✓ Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the itinerary
- ✓ Services of an English-speaking chauffeur-guide
- ✓ All entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
- ✓ All applicable taxes and service charges
Wildlife & Experiences Included
- ✓ Birds Park & Bird Research Centre visit
- ✓ Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home visit
- ✓ Udawalawe National Park game drive
- ✓ Yala National Park evening game drive
- ✓ Galle Fort UNESCO World Heritage Site visit
- ✓ Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion from Mirissa
Meal Plan
Colombo: Breakfast
Udawalawe: Half Board
Yala & Galle: Half Board / Breakfast as specified in the itinerary
Not Included
- – International airfare
- – Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary
- – Travel insurance
- – Sri Lanka entry visa fees
- – Optional Turtle Conservation Project – US$10 per person
- – Personal expenses
- – Tips, porterage, early check-in and late check-out
Wildlife sightings are subject to natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Rooms and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
✓ ATOL Protected Holidays | ✓ ABTA Member | ✓ UK-Based Travel Experts
