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Immersive Safari and Eco-Focused Journey
12 Night / 13 Day Itinerary
Venture deep into Sri Lanka’s wild heart, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” where untamed landscapes, rare wildlife and eco-conscious retreats await.
This nature-focused journey begins with a tranquil night in Kotugoda before heading into the wilderness of Wilpattu, Sigiriya’s wetlands and the rugged Knuckles Range. Continue through Yala’s leopard-rich plains and finish on the southern coast, where whales, dolphins and sea turtles bring your adventure full circle.
This carefully curated itinerary reveals the full spectrum of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty – from arid forests and mountain rivers to grasslands and the Indian Ocean. Along the way, you’ll stay in sustainable luxury lodges and tented camps that complement their wild surroundings, combining comfort with a genuine sense of place. Guided by expert naturalists, you’ll gain rare insight into the island’s biodiversity through safaris, night walks, and scenic hikes, while supporting conservation initiatives that protect its precious ecosystems.
This 12 Night / 13 Day Itinerary Includes:
- 1 night in The Wallawwa – Wallawwa Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast, Kotugoda
- 2 nights in Leopard Trails Safari Camp – Suite Tent, All Inclusive, Wilpattu
- 2 nights in Jetwing Vil Uyana – Paddy Dwelling, Bed & Breakfast, Sigiriya
- 2 nights in Santani Wellness Resort & Spa – Garden Chalet, Full Board, Knuckles Range
- 2 nights in Wild Coast Tented Lodge – Cocoon Suite, All Inclusive, Yala
- 2 nights in Niira Mirissa – Wave, Bed & Breakfast, Mirissa
- Private transfers, guided safaris and eco-experiences throughout
- Scheduled domestic flight from Kandy to Weerawila
- Experiences: Wilpattu and Yala safaris, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Minneriya elephant herds, slender loris night walk, Knuckles Range hikes, Temple of the Tooth, whale watching and turtle hatchery visit
- Direct return flights from London to Colombo
Prices From £4,100 per person
(Based on 2 adults sharing)
Day 1 – 2
Day 1 – Overnight Flight London to Colombo
Depart London on your overnight flight to Colombo, ready to begin your wildlife and wilderness journey.
Day 2 – Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Kotugoda
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to your peaceful hotel in Kotugoda. Spend the evening unwinding amid tropical gardens and colonial charm.
Overnight: The Wallawwa – Wallawwa Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast
Day 3 – 4
Day 3 – Transfer to Wilpattu National Park
Travel north to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest wildlife reserve, known for its natural lakes and thriving leopard population. Settle into your luxury tented camp and enjoy your first evening in the wilderness.
Overnight: Leopard Trails Safari Camp – Suite Tent, All Inclusive
Day 4 – Wilpattu Safaris & Wildlife Encounters
Experience morning and afternoon safaris through Wilpattu’s forests and wetlands. Spot elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles while learning about the park’s unique ecosystems from your naturalist guide.
Overnight: Leopard Trails Safari Camp – Suite Tent, All Inclusive
Day 5 – 6
Day 5 – Transfer to Sigiriya & Nocturnal Wildlife Walk
Head east to Sigiriya, staying at a luxurious eco-retreat surrounded by paddy fields and wetlands. In the evening, take a guided night walk to seek out the elusive slender loris, one of Sri Lanka’s rarest mammals.
Overnight: Jetwing Vil Uyana – Paddy Dwelling, Bed & Breakfast
Day 6 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Minneriya Elephant Safari
Climb the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress early morning for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. In the afternoon, visit Minneriya National Park for a jeep safari to witness the famous elephant gatherings.
Overnight: Jetwing Vil Uyana – Paddy Dwelling, Bed & Breakfast
Day 7 – 8
Day 7 – Kandy & Journey to the Knuckles Range
Travel south to Kandy and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth before continuing to the Knuckles Mountain Range. Arrive at your wellness retreat set amidst forested hills and tea-covered slopes.
Overnight: Santani Wellness Resort & Spa – Garden Chalet, Full Board
Day 8 – Knuckles Range Hiking & River Trails
Explore the Knuckles Conservation Area on guided hikes through cloud forests, rivers and waterfalls. Learn about endemic flora and fauna in this UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.
Overnight: Santani Wellness Resort & Spa – Garden Chalet, Full Board
Day 9 – 10
Day 9 – Scenic Flight to Yala National Park
Board a short domestic flight from Kandy to Weerawila and transfer to your luxury tented lodge near Yala. Spend the afternoon relaxing before a sundowner by the dunes.
Overnight: Wild Coast Tented Lodge – Cocoon Suite, All Inclusive
Day 10 – Yala Game Drives & Wilderness Experiences
Join morning and afternoon safaris in Yala National Park, famed for its leopard density and diverse wildlife. Return to camp for a relaxed evening and dinner under the stars.
Overnight: Wild Coast Tented Lodge – Cocoon Suite, All Inclusive
Day 11 – 13
Day 11 – Transfer to Mirissa
Travel south to the coast and check into your ocean-view villa in Mirissa. Spend the afternoon at leisure by the beach or pool.
Overnight: Niira Mirissa – Wave, Bed & Breakfast
Day 12 – Whale Watching & Turtle Hatchery Visit
Head out on an early-morning whale-watching cruise to spot blue whales and spinner dolphins. Later, visit a turtle hatchery and learn about ongoing marine conservation efforts.
Overnight: Niira Mirissa – Wave, Bed & Breakfast
Day 13 – Departure from Colombo
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your return flight home, reflecting on Sri Lanka’s extraordinary wilderness and wildlife.
Additional Inspiration
Browse our other destination itineraries and blog posts for insider tips, personalised recommendations, and advice on avoiding tourist traps – helping make every journey smoother, smarter, and more memorable.
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