A Sri Lanka wildlife safari is an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Blessed with lush jungles, wetlands, and open grasslands, this tropical paradise—often called the Pearl of the Indian Ocean—is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife. Sri Lanka’s national parks provide the perfect setting to witness animals in their natural habitats, from the majestic Asian elephant and elusive leopard to sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Among the most popular safari destinations are Yala National Park, world-renowned for its high density of leopards, and Udawalawe National Park, famous for large elephant herds. Minneriya National Park offers the breathtaking seasonal “Elephant Gathering,” while Wilpattu National Park boasts remote wilderness and scenic lakes. Each park presents unique landscapes and diverse ecosystems, making every safari experience different.
A Sri Lanka wildlife safari is an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Blessed with lush jungles, wetlands, and open grasslands, this tropical paradise—often called the Pearl of the Indian Ocean—is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife. Sri Lanka’s national parks provide the perfect setting to witness animals in their natural habitats, from the majestic Asian elephant and elusive leopard to sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Among the most popular safari destinations are Yala National Park, world-renowned for its high density of leopards, and Udawalawe National Park, famous for large elephant herds. Minneriya National Park offers the breathtaking seasonal “Elephant Gathering,” while Wilpattu National Park boasts remote wilderness and scenic lakes.
Safari in Wilpattu, Minneriya, Udawalawe & Yala National Parks
Witness the Minneriya Elephant Gathering (seasonal)
Spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles & exotic birds
Visit UNESCO sites – Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Galle
Experience cultural heritage & tea country landscapes
Meet & greet at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Transfer to Negombo, a coastal town near Colombo.
Relax at the beach or enjoy a lagoon boat ride.
Overnight stay in Negombo.
Drive to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest park.
Afternoon jeep safari to spot leopards, sloth bears, and birdlife.
Overnight stay near Wilpattu.
Morning and evening safaris in Wilpattu.
Explore the park’s unique willus (natural lakes).
Overnight stay near Wilpattu.
Transfer to Sigiriya.
Evening jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to witness the Elephant Gathering (seasonal).
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Morning safari in Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park (depending on elephant movement).
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Visit Dambulla Cave Temple en route to Kandy.
Evening cultural show in Kandy or visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
Scenic train journey or drive to Nuwara Eliya (Little England).
Visit tea plantations and waterfalls.
Optional hike in Horton Plains National Park (World’s End viewpoint).
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Drive to Udawalawe.
Evening safari in Udawalawe National Park, famous for wild elephants.
Overnight stay near Udawalawe.
Morning safari in Udawalawe.
Transfer to Yala National Park.
Evening jeep safari in Yala, famous for its leopard density.
Overnight stay near Yala.
Early morning safari in Yala for leopard and sloth bear sightings.
Scenic drive to Galle Fort (UNESCO site).
Continue to Colombo for departure flight.
Yala National Park is the most popular for leopard sightings, while Udawalawe is best for elephants. Minneriya is famous for the Elephant Gathering, and Wilpattu offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path safari experience
A jeep safari in Sri Lanka usually costs between $35–$60 per person for a half-day tour. Prices vary depending on the park, duration, and whether it’s a private or group safari.
You can spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, water buffalo, and over 400 species of birds depending on the park and season.
The dry season (May–September) is the best time, as animals gather around water sources. For the famous Minneriya Elephant Gathering, plan between June and September.
Most safaris last between 3–4 hours (half-day) or up to 8 hours (full-day). Evening safaris are great for elephants, while morning safaris are ideal for spotting leopards.
Yes, safaris are safe and enjoyable for families. Shorter jeep safaris with professional guides are recommended for children.
Yes, wildlife tours can be family-friendly. Many itineraries include wildlife safaris, soft adventures, and beach days, which are enjoyable for kids as well as adults.
Sri Lanka, often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a small island nation that packs a big punch when it comes to travel experiences. From UNESCO World Heritage sites and stunning mountain views to golden beaches and thrilling wildlife encounters, this tropical paradise has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or beach lover, you’ll find plenty of unforgettable things to do in Sri Lanka.
read more There are many reasons why travelers worldwide trust us as their Sri Lanka travel agent:
✅ Experienced and licensed Sri Lanka tour operator
✅ Customizable private tours tailored to your needs
✅ Professional driver-guides with local expertise
✅ Comfortable vehicles and safe transport
✅ 24/7 support throughout your journey
✅ Affordable packages with premium service quality
We combine professional service with authentic experiences so you can travel confidently, knowing every detail is taken care of.
With a friend we have made a one week tour in Sri Lanka. We went at Colombo, Pinnawala, Harabana, Sirigia, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Bentota. Every day schedule was full and we get some surprise and great sight. Place to see and guide kind and calm to travel with to relax and enjoy the country.
Reliable company.
Very nice 9-days trip with Dream Round Tour.
We were visiting Sri Lanka two weeks ago, in March 2017, and had really good experience with Mr.Samantha and Mr.Tusharha Dream Round Tour travel agency.
Mr. Samantha was really quick in responding and handling all our specific requests, he sent us itinerary in advance and after confirming it he booked hotels and managed meeting us at the airport in Colombo
For the accuracy and perfect travel plan with great hotels, comfortable and clean car and with reliable driver - I would recommend Dream Round Tour to everyone and would use this Mr. Samantha´s travel agency glad again. I am convinced we will come again to Sri Lanka - nice green country and friendly people!!!
Milan and Zuzana Piskulovi. Czech republic
We were a family of 7 who travelled with Dream Round Tours for a 10days trip in Sept 2017. Samantha was our guide and Chandi was our driver. Prior to the trip, Samantha ensured everything was planned in detail and answered all our questions patiently. During the trip, Samantha and Chandi were extremely patient and took care of all our needs. They did not complain even when we ended pretty late on certain days. They were easy going and made sure that there were no hiccups during our holiday. We will definitely recommend Dream Round Tours to anyone who want to experience the best of Sri Lanka. In Dream Round Tours we trust!
We travel to Sri Lanka with our family a group of 20. Mr.Samantha gives us all the support during the inquiry. Mr. Thushra our tour guide really very good person and full fill our needs during the tour. Our Family really enjoys the trip. Thushra and his team did not complain even when we ended pretty late on certain days. We will definitely recommend Dream Round Tours to anyone who want to experience the best of Sri Lanka.Thanks to Samantha, Thushra and not forgot our driver Banthu and the assistant. In Dream Round Tours we trust!
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