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Monsoon Migration Begins
Peak birdwatching season is here. Join now to witness rare sightings.
Monsoon Migration Begins
Peak birdwatching season is here. Join now to witness rare sightings.
Monsoon Migration Begins
Peak birdwatching season is here. Join now to witness rare sightings.
Wilpattu National Park | Big Cat Safari
Anuradhapura, sri lanka
Sri Lanka Endemic Birding
| Hidden Gems
Wilpattu National Park | Big Cat Safari
Anuradhapura, sri lanka
Sri Lanka Endemic Birding
| Hidden Gems
Wilpattu National Park | Big Cat Safari
Anuradhapura, sri lanka
Sri Lanka Endemic Birding
| Hidden Gems
Level
Intermediate +
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Group Size
6–12 travelers
Price (per person)
£3,950 / €4,740 / $5333
Basic Info
Day breakdown
DAY 03:
Morning & afternoon visits at Sinharaja Rainforest (a UNESCO world heritage site) for lowland endemics and mixed species bird flocks. According to a study of the mixed species bird flock, on average 42 individual birds occur in the flocks, which makes this the world's largest mixed species bird flock. This study done in Sinharaja forest has been continuing since 1981 and is considered as the World's longest continued bird flock study. Birding highlights include Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, White-faced Starling and Scaly Thrush. Also Look for the sub continental endemic Sri Lanka Frogmouth & also look for the endemic owls Chestnut-backed owlet and newly discovered Serendib Scops Owl in day roost.
Dinner & overnight Martine’s Simple Lodge.
DAY 01:
Arrival in Sri Lanka and transfer to Villa Talangama, Colombo, for one night.
Afternoon, visit Talangama Wetlands for water birds, where around 50 species in total of migrants & endemics have been recorded specially during November & April. Highlights include Cinnamon, Black and Yellow Bittern, while the endemic Ceylon Swallow may also be seen here. The Western race of the endemic and critically endangered Purple-faced Leaf Monkey may also be seen here, usually in the late afternoons. As dark falls, look for Brown Hawk owl & collared scopes owl.
Dinner & overnight at Villa Talangama.
DAY 02:
After breakfast leave for Martine’s Simple Lodge, Sinharaja for two nights.
En route, visit Bodhinagala Forest Reserve for endemics.
This is a small tract of secondary lowland rainforest reserve dominated by thick undergrowth of Bamboo. There is a Buddhist Monastery inside the forest and often local people visit the monastery for Alms giving ceremonies. Bodhinagala is famous as the ‘Coucal Forest’ among birders as the rare endemic Green-billed Coucal is the highlight. The Sri Lanka Hanging Parrots, often heard in swift flight atop the canopy, is likely to be the first few endemics to be bagged together with Yellow-fronted Barbets. The creek close the ‘Alms-giving & Kitchen Hall’ in the middle of the forest is ideal for the diminutive Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. Also the endemic Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl, sometimes with females and chicks can be seen feeding on the kitchen waste. Also Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill is been recorded in Bodhinagala, which is often found feeding gregariously in the morning. In addition you may see Malabar Trogon, potential split Crested Drongo, Black-naped Monarch, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, the winter visiting Forest and Grey Wagtails and Brown-breasted and Asian Brown Flycatchers. We also check out a nearby stake out of a pair of Collard Scops Owls.
On completion, continue to Martine’s Simple Lodge for dinner & overnight stay.
DAY 04:
Morning, local birding before leaving for Plantation Hotel, Kitulgala for two nights. Afternoon visit Kelani Valley Forest Reserve for another look at the lowland endemics. Cross the Kelani River in a dugout canoe and reach the Kelani Valley Forest Reserve, which is a lowland tropical rainforest rich in endemic fauna and flora. The Kelani Valley Forest Reserve is ideal for any missed lowland endemics such as Sri Lanka Myna, Green-billed Coucal, Spot-winged Thrush, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Brown-capped Babbler and Red-faced Malkoha. In day roost, look for Chestnut-backed owlet & Serendib Scops Owl.
Dinner & overnight at Plantation Hotel.
DAY 05:
Morning & Afternoon, birding and owl watching at Kelani Valley Forest Reserve for endemics.
Dinner & overnight at Plantation Hotel.
DAY 06:
After breakfast, leave for Cocoon Hills, Nuwara Eliya for two nights.
Afternoon, visit Victoria Park for highland species which includes Yellow-eared Bulbul, Sri Lanka Hill White-eye and Dull blue Flycatcher. Also visit a nearby wetland for proposed endemic Black-throated Munia, Paddyfield Pipit, Pied Bush Chat, Pintail Snipes, Zitting Cisticola, Plain Prinia, Blyth's Reed Warbler and if lucky Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler.
Dinner & overnight at Cocoon Hills.
DAY 07:
Morning, visit Horton Plains National Park for its cloud forests and rare montane fauna and also see the endemic Rhino-horned Lizard. Birding highlights include the scarce endemic Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush. Also look for Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Sri Lanka Hill White-eye, Dull-blue Flycatcher & Sri Lanka Bush Warbler. Afternoon, visit Hakgala Botanical Garden for highland endemics.
The Hakgala Gardens and the cloud forest above the botanical gardens, are good places for birds. The real draw here for birdwatchers are the montane endemics like Sri Lanka White Eye, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Ceylon Hill Munia and Dull-blue Flycatcher. A montane bird common here is the Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher. The Black Bulbul and Indian Scimitar Babbler are two birds that give themselves away by their loud calls and song. During the northern winter Indian Blue Robin can be seen.
Dinner & overnight at Cocoon Hills.
DAY 08:
After breakfast leave for Amaya Hills, Kandy for one night.
Afternoon, visit Udawattakelle Forest Reserve.
There can't be very many places in the world, where a few kilometers out of the heart of town, so many endemic birds can be seen. The endemics here, includes the noisy Layard’s Parakeet, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Black-capped Bulbul and Brown-capped Babbler. Other forest birds include the Gold-fronted & Blue-winged Leafbird, Emerald Dove, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Brown-breasted Flycatcher and Chestnut-headed Bee-eater. More than one species of the beautiful kingfishers are found here including the Stork-billed, and Common Kingfisher. The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is sometimes seen beside the lake.
Dinner & overnight at Amaya Hills.
DAY 09:
After breakfast, leave for Hotel Sigiriya for two nights.
Afternoon, birding at Kaludiya Pokuna, by Kandalama Lake for Dry Lowland endemics.
Dinner & overnight at Hotel Sigiriya.
DAY 10:
After breakfast, visit Polonnaruwa (a UNESCO World Heritage site).
Birding highlights include seeing a large colony of Rose-ringed Parakeets which holds the Lion's share of the nest holes found on the tall Colon Trees (Adina cordifolia). We also look for the endemic Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, well-camouflaged Blue-winged Leafbird, highly vocal Large Cuckooshrike, the beautiful songster White-rumped Shama and the migrants Forest Wagtail, Asian Brown Flycatcher and Indian Pitta. Afternoon at leisure or walk in the hotel's birding walks. The hotel holds a checklist of 130 species of birds.
Afternoon, a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park.
Minneriya National Park is dominated by the Minneriya tank. The tank, surrounding flood plains, forest and wooded hills cover an area of 8889 hectares and extend north from the Sudu Kanda mountain range. In 1997, this area was declared a National Park to protect the fauna and flora within the reservoir. For the role as a wetland, the reservoir and the surroundings have played; it has been included in the list of Asian wetlands of international importance. The tank provides water to 8900 hectares of paddy field and is thriving with fresh water fish. As well as providing water for irrigation, this tank and its environs have provided the necessary resources to harbor many wildlife and plant life.
Dinner & overnight at Hotel Sigiriya.
DAY 11:
Morning, birding at Sigiriya Senctuary.
Birding around birding around the Sigiriya Senctuary, which will be your final chance to get any missed dry zone birds. Look for Orange-headed Thrush, Purple Sunbird, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, White-rumped Shama and Shahin. Look for also see the rare Blue-eared Kingfisher around Sigiriya Moat. You may also visit the World Heritage Site of Sigiriya Rock Fortress to see frescos of celestial nymphs.
On completion, proceed to Tamarind Tree, Katunayake one night.
Dinner & overnight at Tamarind Tree.
DAY 12:
Transfer to Bandaranayake International Airport for departure.
Basic Info
Day breakdown
Sri Lanka Endemic Birding
On this Wild Outside safari you’ll journey deep into Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and most legendary wilderness. Known for its thriving leopard population and unique villus (natural lakes), Wilpattu is a haven for both predators and birdlife.
Basic Info
Day breakdown
DAY 01:
On this Wild Outside safari you’ll journey deep into Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and most legendary wilderness. Known for its thriving leopard population and unique villus (natural lakes), Wilpattu is a haven for both predators and birdlife.
Highlights
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
Daily jeep safaris led by seasoned naturalists with deep expertise in big cat and elephant tracking.
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
Small group experiences to ensure personalized guidance and uninterrupted wildlife sightings.
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
Strategic early morning and late afternoon game drives for optimal animal activity.
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
In-depth interpretation of animal behavior, tracking techniques, and ecosystem dynamics.
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
Access to diverse habitats, from open grasslands to dense forest corridors.
Daily jeep safaris led by expert naturalists specializing in big cat tracking.
Ethical wildlife viewing practices focused on conservation and minimal disturbance.
reviews
Aug 18, 2025 by Sarah Mitchell +
Have You Ever Dreamed of Seeing Leopards in the Wild Well, let me tell you about an incredible way to do it.
Picture this: the soft light of dawn, the jungle coming alive, and suddenly, a leopard emerging from the shadows near one of Wilpattu’s shimmering villus. Our naturalist guides knew exactly where to take us, making each safari feel like a true expedition. In between game drives, we relaxed at the eco-lodge, enjoying authentic Sri Lankan meals and the warm hospitality of the staff.It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed the wild side of Sri Lanka with Wild Outside.They made our trip truly special. I’ll definitely be back.
Aug 18, 2025 by Sarah Mitchell +
Have You Ever Dreamed of Seeing Leopards in the Wild Well, let me tell you about an incredible way to do it.
Picture this: the soft light of dawn, the jungle coming alive, and suddenly, a leopard emerging from the shadows near one of Wilpattu’s shimmering villus. Our naturalist guides knew exactly where to take us, making each safari feel like a true expedition. In between game drives, we relaxed at the eco-lodge, enjoying authentic Sri Lankan meals and the warm hospitality of the staff.It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed the wild side of Sri Lanka with Wild Outside.They made our trip truly special. I’ll definitely be back.
Sep 02, 2025 by Daniel Harper
I have been on safaris in Africa and Southeast Asia, but this experience with Wild Outside stood out in a completely different way.
From the very first morning drive, you could tell this was not a typical tourist safari. Our naturalist did not just search for animals, he read the landscape. Fresh tracks on the sand, alarm calls in the distance, subtle movements in the grass. Every sighting felt earned. The highlight was watching a leopard resting on a low branch as the golden evening light filtered through the trees. There was no rush, no crowding of vehicles, just a quiet respect for the moment. What impressed me most was the balance between adventure and comfort. After each drive, we returned to a peaceful lodge, enjoyed thoughtfully prepared local meals, and had conversations that deepened our understanding of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. Wild Outside does not simply show you wildlife. They teach you how to see it. And that made all the difference.
Sep 02, 2025 by Daniel Harper
I have been on safaris in Africa and Southeast Asia, but this experience with Wild Outside stood out in a completely different way.
From the very first morning drive, you could tell this was not a typical tourist safari. Our naturalist did not just search for animals, he read the landscape. Fresh tracks on the sand, alarm calls in the distance, subtle movements in the grass. Every sighting felt earned. The highlight was watching a leopard resting on a low branch as the golden evening light filtered through the trees. There was no rush, no crowding of vehicles, just a quiet respect for the moment. What impressed me most was the balance between adventure and comfort. After each drive, we returned to a peaceful lodge, enjoyed thoughtfully prepared local meals, and had conversations that deepened our understanding of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. Wild Outside does not simply show you wildlife. They teach you how to see it. And that made all the difference.
Aug 18, 2025 by Sarah Mitchell +
Have You Ever Dreamed of Seeing Leopards in the Wild Well, let me tell you about an incredible way to do it.
Picture this: the soft light of dawn, the jungle coming alive, and suddenly, a leopard emerging from the shadows near one of Wilpattu’s shimmering villus. Our naturalist guides knew exactly where to take us, making each safari feel like a true expedition. In between game drives, we relaxed at the eco-lodge, enjoying authentic Sri Lankan meals and the warm hospitality of the staff.It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed the wild side of Sri Lanka with Wild Outside.They made our trip truly special. I’ll definitely be back.
Sep 02, 2025 by Daniel Harper
I have been on safaris in Africa and Southeast Asia, but this experience with Wild Outside stood out in a completely different way.
From the very first morning drive, you could tell this was not a typical tourist safari. Our naturalist did not just search for animals, he read the landscape. Fresh tracks on the sand, alarm calls in the distance, subtle movements in the grass. Every sighting felt earned. The highlight was watching a leopard resting on a low branch as the golden evening light filtered through the trees. There was no rush, no crowding of vehicles, just a quiet respect for the moment. What impressed me most was the balance between adventure and comfort. After each drive, we returned to a peaceful lodge, enjoyed thoughtfully prepared local meals, and had conversations that deepened our understanding of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. Wild Outside does not simply show you wildlife. They teach you how to see it. And that made all the difference.
Our Trusted Travel & Stay Partners
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Explore our adventures
Have
Question?
What makes Wild Outside tours different from others?
Our journeys are not pre-packaged or generic. Every itinerary is designed in collaboration with naturalists, researchers, and local experts to immerse you in rare wildlife encounters, ecological storytelling, and conservation-driven experiences. We prioritize depth over speed, and insight over checklists.
Are the tours suitable for beginners or non-hikers?
Yes. Many Wild Outside tours are suitable for beginners and travelers with limited hiking experience. Each experience clearly outlines its physical requirements, pace, and terrain in advance. Where activities involve walking or trekking, routes are chosen thoughtfully, and guides adapt the experience based on the group’s comfort and ability. No technical hiking skills are required unless explicitly stated.
Is it safe to travel in remote wildlife areas?
Safety is a core priority. All tours are led by experienced field guides with deep local knowledge and wildlife training. Routes are planned based on seasonal conditions, animal movement patterns, and environmental risk assessments. We also maintain clear safety protocols, emergency preparedness measures, and responsible wildlife viewing practices to ensure both guest safety and animal welfare.
Can I book a private or customized experience?
Yes. Wild Outside offers private and fully customized journeys for individuals, couples, families, or small groups. These experiences are co-created based on your interests, travel dates, pace preferences, and areas of curiosity, whether that is wildlife photography, conservation learning, or slow exploration. Private journeys allow for deeper flexibility and a more personal connection with the landscape and guides.
What should I pack for a typical Wild Outside tour?
Packing requirements vary slightly by destination and season, but generally include comfortable, breathable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and reusable water bottles. Once you book, you will receive a detailed, destination-specific packing guide covering clothing, gear, and optional items to ensure you are well prepared without overpacking.
How does Wild Outside support local communities & conservation?
Wild Outside works closely with local guides, trackers, researchers, and community partners to ensure tourism directly benefits the regions visited. A portion of each journey contributes to conservation initiatives, habitat protection, and local livelihoods. By prioritizing small groups, ethical wildlife practices, and local expertise, Wild Outside supports long-term conservation efforts rather than extractive tourism models.
Explore our adventures
Have Question?
What makes Wild Outside tours different from others?
Our journeys are not pre-packaged or generic. Every itinerary is designed in collaboration with naturalists, researchers, and local experts to immerse you in rare wildlife encounters, ecological storytelling, and conservation-driven experiences. We prioritize depth over speed, and insight over checklists.
Are the tours suitable for beginners or non-hikers?
Yes. Many Wild Outside tours are suitable for beginners and travelers with limited hiking experience. Each experience clearly outlines its physical requirements, pace, and terrain in advance. Where activities involve walking or trekking, routes are chosen thoughtfully, and guides adapt the experience based on the group’s comfort and ability. No technical hiking skills are required unless explicitly stated.
Is it safe to travel in remote wildlife areas?
Safety is a core priority. All tours are led by experienced field guides with deep local knowledge and wildlife training. Routes are planned based on seasonal conditions, animal movement patterns, and environmental risk assessments. We also maintain clear safety protocols, emergency preparedness measures, and responsible wildlife viewing practices to ensure both guest safety and animal welfare.
Can I book a private or customized experience?
Yes. Wild Outside offers private and fully customized journeys for individuals, couples, families, or small groups. These experiences are co-created based on your interests, travel dates, pace preferences, and areas of curiosity, whether that is wildlife photography, conservation learning, or slow exploration. Private journeys allow for deeper flexibility and a more personal connection with the landscape and guides.
What should I pack for a typical Wild Outside tour?
Packing requirements vary slightly by destination and season, but generally include comfortable, breathable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and reusable water bottles. Once you book, you will receive a detailed, destination-specific packing guide covering clothing, gear, and optional items to ensure you are well prepared without overpacking.
How does Wild Outside support local communities & conservation?
Wild Outside works closely with local guides, trackers, researchers, and community partners to ensure tourism directly benefits the regions visited. A portion of each journey contributes to conservation initiatives, habitat protection, and local livelihoods. By prioritizing small groups, ethical wildlife practices, and local expertise, Wild Outside supports long-term conservation efforts rather than extractive tourism models.
Explore our adventures
Have
Question?
What makes Wild Outside tours different from others?
Our journeys are not pre-packaged or generic. Every itinerary is designed in collaboration with naturalists, researchers, and local experts to immerse you in rare wildlife encounters, ecological storytelling, and conservation-driven experiences. We prioritize depth over speed, and insight over checklists.
Are the tours suitable for beginners or non-hikers?
Yes. Many Wild Outside tours are suitable for beginners and travelers with limited hiking experience. Each experience clearly outlines its physical requirements, pace, and terrain in advance. Where activities involve walking or trekking, routes are chosen thoughtfully, and guides adapt the experience based on the group’s comfort and ability. No technical hiking skills are required unless explicitly stated.
Is it safe to travel in remote wildlife areas?
Safety is a core priority. All tours are led by experienced field guides with deep local knowledge and wildlife training. Routes are planned based on seasonal conditions, animal movement patterns, and environmental risk assessments. We also maintain clear safety protocols, emergency preparedness measures, and responsible wildlife viewing practices to ensure both guest safety and animal welfare.
Can I book a private or customized experience?
Yes. Wild Outside offers private and fully customized journeys for individuals, couples, families, or small groups. These experiences are co-created based on your interests, travel dates, pace preferences, and areas of curiosity, whether that is wildlife photography, conservation learning, or slow exploration. Private journeys allow for deeper flexibility and a more personal connection with the landscape and guides.
What should I pack for a typical Wild Outside tour?
Packing requirements vary slightly by destination and season, but generally include comfortable, breathable clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and reusable water bottles. Once you book, you will receive a detailed, destination-specific packing guide covering clothing, gear, and optional items to ensure you are well prepared without overpacking.
How does Wild Outside support local communities & conservation?
Wild Outside works closely with local guides, trackers, researchers, and community partners to ensure tourism directly benefits the regions visited. A portion of each journey contributes to conservation initiatives, habitat protection, and local livelihoods. By prioritizing small groups, ethical wildlife practices, and local expertise, Wild Outside supports long-term conservation efforts rather than extractive tourism models.
Ready to Step Into the Wild?
Enquire Now
Let’s plan your Sri Lankan wildlife experience together
Ready to Step
Into the Wild?
Enquire Now
Let’s plan your Sri Lankan wildlife experience together
Elephant Tracking.
Bird Watching.
Leopard Safaris.
Endemic Species Trails.
Endemic Species Trails.
Elephant Tracking.
Bird Watching.
Leopard Safaris.
Endemic Species Trails.
Endemic Species Trails.
Elephant Tracking.
Bird Watching.
Leopard Safaris.
Endemic Species Trails.
Endemic Species Trails.
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Elephant Trails
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Birdwatching Season
Monsoon Wildlife
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Let's start an adventure
Book Now!
Newsletter sign up
Featured Packges
Elephant Trails
Dragonfly Spotting
Birdwatching Season
Monsoon Wildlife
Resources
Blogs
Articles
User Stories
social
YouTube
Let's start an
adventure
Book Now!
Newsletter sign up
Featured Packges
Elephant Trails
Dragonfly Spotting
Birdwatching Season
Monsoon Wildlife
Resources
Blogs
Articles
User Stories
social
YouTube