Wild (May to Oct)

Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka & Journey to Wilpattu National Park

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you to Sri Lanka, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure. After a brief orientation, you will embark on a scenic 4.5-hour drive (approximately 170 km) towards Wilpattu National Park, one of the island’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. As you journey northward, the bustling cityscape of Colombo will gradually give way to lush countryside, vast coconut plantations, and rural villages that offer an authentic glimpse into local life.

Arriving in Wilpattu by late afternoon, you will settle into your wilderness lodge, surrounded by serene jungle ambience. Take a moment to unwind and breathe in the fresh forest air while enjoying a welcome drink. The park, famous for its “Willus” – natural sand-rimmed water basins – is the largest in Sri Lanka and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including elusive leopards, sloth bears, and majestic elephants.

Depending on your arrival time, you may have the option to enjoy a short nature walk near the lodge to acclimatize to the sights and sounds of the forest. As dusk falls, the air will fill with the calls of nocturnal animals, and the canopy will become alive with the rustling of leaves and distant roars.

Dinner will be served at the lodge, featuring authentic Sri Lankan flavors crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Tonight, you will sleep to the natural lullaby of the wilderness, preparing yourself for the first thrilling safari experience awaiting you tomorrow. Your journey has begun, and the call of the wild will guide your path over the coming days.

Overnight stay: Wilpattu

Day 2 – Wilpattu Safari & Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Wake up to the calls of the jungle as the first rays of sunlight filter through the canopy. After an early breakfast, you will depart for your morning safari in Wilpattu National Park (5:30 AM – 10:00 AM). This 4-hour game drive offers prime opportunities to spot Sri Lanka’s apex predator – the leopard – as well as sloth bears, elephants, spotted deer, crocodiles, and over 200 species of birds. Your naturalist guide will interpret the park’s diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open grasslands and shimmering lakes.

Returning to the lodge for refreshments, you will check out and begin your 3.5-hour drive (around 160 km) to Sigiriya. The route passes through charming rural towns, paddy fields, and spice gardens, giving you glimpses of the agricultural backbone of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival in Sigiriya, you will have a short rest before heading to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Climbing the rock in the cooler late afternoon (around 4:00 PM), you’ll follow ancient pathways flanked by water gardens and giant boulders. Halfway up, admire the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly Maidens” and the mirror wall, once polished so perfectly it reflected the king’s image. At the summit, the remains of King Kashyapa’s palace and panoramic views of the surrounding jungle will reward your effort.

Descend as the golden hour bathes the fortress in a warm glow, making for spectacular photographs.

In the evening, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at your hotel. The peaceful night in Sigiriya, surrounded by nature and history, will leave you energized for another exciting day ahead.

Overnight stay: Sigiriya

Day 3 – Sigiriya Village Life & Trincomalee Coastal Wonders

After breakfast, set off for a Sigiriya Village Tour (2–3 hours). Your journey begins on a traditional ox cart through quiet dirt paths, followed by a serene catamaran ride across an artificial lake. You will stroll through paddy fields and home gardens, learning about local farming techniques, and conclude with a live Sri Lankan cooking demonstration — an authentic farm-to-table experience.

By late morning, begin your 3.5-hour journey (approximately 180 km) to Nilaveli, a pristine beach north of Trincomalee. En route, enjoy coastal scenery and small fishing hamlets. Upon arrival, you will take a short boat ride (20 minutes) to Pigeon Island National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s best snorkeling sites. The coral reefs teem with vibrant marine life — parrotfish, angelfish, blacktip reef sharks, and sea turtles. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer, the crystal-clear waters offer an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Returning to Nilaveli Beach, you’ll have time to relax on its powdery sands before heading to your hotel in Trincomalee (20 minutes drive). The evening is yours to enjoy a leisurely beach walk as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal. Dinner will feature fresh seafood, the specialty of the region.

Overnight stay: Trincomalee

Day 4 – Whale Watching & Koneswaram Temple

Begin the day early with a transfer to Trincomalee’s harbor for your whale watching excursion (5:30 AM departure). The waters off Trincomalee are renowned for sightings of blue whales, sperm whales, and pods of playful dolphins. The 3–4 hour voyage offers both thrilling encounters and tranquil moments at sea, with the sunrise painting the horizon.

After returning to shore and enjoying a late breakfast, explore the Koneswaram Temple, perched atop Swami Rock. This sacred Hindu shrine, with its colorful statues and panoramic sea views, is steeped in legend. Beneath the cliffs lies “Lovers’ Leap,” a dramatic viewpoint with fascinating local lore.

By midday, you will depart for Pasikuda (around 3.5 hours / 150 km), famous for its calm, shallow waters. Upon arrival, check in to your beachfront resort. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax by the pool or stroll along the curved bay.

The day ends with a candlelit dinner under the stars, with the soft sound of waves as your backdrop.

Overnight stay: Pasikuda

Day 5 – A Day of Coastal Leisure in Pasikuda

Today is all about rest and rejuvenation. After breakfast, spend your morning soaking in the tropical sunshine. The turquoise lagoon of Pasikuda is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply floating in the warm waters.

If you wish, optional activities include cycling along the coast, visiting nearby fishing villages, or indulging in a spa treatment. Lunch can be enjoyed at the resort or at a local seafood restaurant.

By evening, watch the sun melt into the horizon, casting shades of gold and pink across the bay. This serene interlude will refresh your mind and body for the cultural exploration ahead.

Overnight stay: Pasikuda

Day 6 – Pasikuda to Minneriya National Park

After breakfast, set off for Minneriya National Park (around 3.5 hours / 150 km). Famous for “The Gathering” — the seasonal congregation of elephants — Minneriya offers one of the most spectacular wildlife displays in Asia.

Your afternoon safari (2:30–6:00 PM) will take you across grasslands, wetlands, and forest patches in search of wild elephants, sambar deer, and exotic bird species. As the sun sets, golden light reflects off Minneriya Tank, creating a magical scene.

Continue to Polonnaruwa (1 hour drive) for your overnight stay.

Overnight stay: Polonnaruwa

Day 7 – Polonnaruwa Ancient City & Negombo

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Royal Palace complex, the Vatadage relic house, and the striking Gal Vihara — four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. The city’s advanced irrigation system, still in use today, showcases the engineering brilliance of the ancient Sinhalese civilization.

By midday, begin your journey to Negombo (around 5.5 hours / 280 km), passing through changing landscapes — from dry plains to coastal lagoons. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel near the beach. Spend your final evening strolling through Negombo’s vibrant fish markets or relaxing by the ocean.

Overnight stay: Negombo

Day 8 – Departure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (20 minutes / 10 km) for your onward flight. As you bid farewell, carry with you memories of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling encounters with Sri Lanka’s wild heart.