We sent our in-house influencer, Zeeba Shaikh, to Sri Lanka on a travel research mission. Her firsthand experience brings you the most authentic tips and recommendations straight from the field.

We’ve all seen those documentaries on National Geographic and Animal Planet—glued to our screens watching the leopard cub trying to survive the night with his vigilant mother on the lookout for predators (and prey).

Believe it or not, you can actually get up close with the cast—right here in Sri Lanka. After all, with over 20 national parks covering around 13% of the island, Sri Lanka has a strong network of protected areas that offer incredible safaris and trekking experiences.

Trust me, you’re sure to find yourself staying put for the view in Sri Lanka… or because an elephant just blocked the only way out.

Don’t worry - they're only begging for bananas.

The A-Z of Planning For Your Sri Lankan Safari

Types of Safaris

1. Half-Day and Full-Day Safaris: Half-day safaris (typically 3-4 hours) are great for those on a tighter schedule, while full-day safaris offer a more immersive experience with lunch breaks inside the park.

2. Guided Jeep Tours: Safari jeeps typically come with a trained driver/guide who knows the best spots for sightings and can navigate the park safely, in addition to sharing information on animal behavior and local flora.

3. Night Safaris: Although uncommon in most Sri Lankan parks, some areas, like the fringes of Yala and Udawalawe, offer a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife, such as the slender loris and civet.

Best Seasons for Wildlife Viewing

• Dry Season (May to September): Most parks are best visited during the dry season, as water sources within the parks attract wildlife, making animals easier to spot.

• Rainy Season: Although wildlife sightings may decrease during the rainy season, this is the best time for bird-watching. Parks like Bundala come alive with migratory birds from October to April.

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Photography Tips

• Equipment: Bring a camera with a zoom lens (200mm or higher) to capture close-up shots without disturbing the animals. A DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow you to adjust settings for low light and fast-moving subjects.

• Best Times of Day: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light and are also when animals are most active. Avoid harsh midday sunlight if possible.

• Respect the Animals’ Space: Avoid flash photography and keep a respectful distance to ensure animals feel undisturbed.

Entry Fees and Safari Costs

• Entry Fees: Entry fees for foreign visitors are generally around 3,500–5,000 LKR per person, depending on the park. Additional charges may apply for vehicles and guides.

• Safari Costs: Expect to pay approximately 4,000–8,000 LKR per jeep for a half-day safari, split among the group. Full-day safaris cost more, around 10,000–15,000 LKR per vehicle.

Packing List for a Safari

• Essentials: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars, and plenty of water.

• Clothing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing is ideal to avoid attracting insects and to blend in with the surroundings.

Top National Parks to Drop By in Sri Lanka

There’s a deeper story to Sri Lanka’s parks. They’re more than just “tourist destinations.”

They’re at the heart of the country’s wildlife conservation efforts. They’re vital sanctuaries for preserving the island’s rich natural heritage. Nothing short of a paradise for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

1. Go Leopard-Spotting at Yala National Park

Yala National Park, located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, is the country's most famous and frequently visited wildlife park. Featuring diverse ecosystems like dry forests, grasslands, and wetlands, the park’s temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C (78°F to 90°F).

This park boasts one of the highest leopard densities in the world. But leopards aren’t the only stars here—you’ll find large herds of elephants grazing near the park’s waterholes, along with other animals like sloth bears, spotted deer, crocodiles, and more than 200 species of birds.

Best Time to Visit: February to June, when water levels are low and wildlife is easier to spot. Early morning or late afternoon jeep safaris provide the best chance for sightings.

How to Get There

• By Car: Driving from Colombo takes about 5-6 hours (about 280 km), costing around 12,000-15,000 LKR with a hired driver.

• By Bus: Public buses run from Colombo to Tissamaharama, which is near the park. From Tissamaharama, you can hire a tuk-tuk to the park (around 300-500 LKR).

• By Train: You can take a train from Colombo to Matara, followed by a bus or taxi ride to Tissamaharama and then to the park.

What to Watch Out For

• The park can get quite crowded, especially in peak tourist season, so book your safari in advance.

• Be prepared for bumpy roads, and bring plenty of water, as safaris can last several hours.

Pro Tip: Book a morning safari if you’re interested in bird-watching, as many birds are most active at sunrise.

2. Get Up Close with Elephants at Udawalawe National Park

Situated in the central southern plains of Sri Lanka, Udawalawe spans 308 square kilometers and is an elephant lover’s paradise. Udawalawe has a more open landscape compared to Yala, with grassy plains, shrub lands, and marshes, which offer easy visibility for wildlife spotting.

In addition to elephants, you’ll also spot water buffalo, peacocks, and a variety of bird species.

Best Time to Visit

The park’s temperature ranges between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making it a comfortable place to explore year-round, though the dry season from May to September provides optimal viewing conditions.

Check Out The Orphaned Baby Elephants at The Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home is located near the entrance to Udawalawe National Park and provides visitors with the chance to watch young elephants being fed before they are reintroduced to the wild. Founded in 1995, it has released over 100 elephants into the wild. The viewing platform allows for a close look at feeding time, which is a heartwarming experience.

How to Get There

• By Car: Udawalawe is a 4-hour drive from Colombo (around 165 km), costing 10,000-13,000 LKR with a private driver.

• By Bus: Take a bus from Colombo to Embilipitiya and then hire a tuk-tuk to the park (approximately 200 LKR for the tuk-tuk).

• By Train: There’s no direct train to Udawalawe, but you can take a train to Matara and then continue by bus or car.

What to Watch Out For

• Avoid feeding the elephants or trying to interact too closely with them. Respect their space to ensure their natural behavior isn’t affected.

• Bring binoculars for the best view, as visitors are not allowed to get too close to the elephants.

Pro Tip: Visit around feeding time (usually between 9 am and 12 pm) for the most activity at the Elephant Transit Home.

3. Marvel at The ‘Villus’ of Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu, known for its unique natural lakes, or "villus," is the largest and one of the oldest national parks in Sri Lanka. Located in the northwestern part of the country, the climate is hot and dry, and the landscape is dotted with numerous shallow lakes. These waterholes serve as magnets for wildlife, especially during the dry season.

This park is far less crowded than Yala. It’s especially famous for its elusive leopards, but you’ll also find sloth bears, spotted deer, and a variety of bird species including junglefowl and eagles.

Best Time to Visit: February to October, when the dry season reveals more wildlife activity around the villus.

How to Get There

• By Car: Driving from Colombo takes about 4-5 hours (around 180 km), costing approximately 10,000-12,000 LKR.

• By Bus: Take a bus from Colombo to Puttalam, then a local bus or tuk-tuk to the park entrance.

• By Train: There’s no direct train, but you can take a train to Anuradhapura and then a car or bus to the park.

What to Watch Out For

• The park is rugged and remote, so bring enough water, snacks, and any necessary supplies.

• The lack of tourist amenities means fewer restroom facilities, so plan accordingly.

Pro Tip: Wilpattu’s quieter environment is perfect for photographers who want uninterrupted views. Bring a zoom lens for close-up shots of leopards and birdlife around the villus.

4. Attend The Elephant Gathering at Minneriya National Park

Famed for the Gathering, where hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank during the dry season, Minneriya National Park is a must-visit for elephant enthusiasts. Located in the North Central Province, this park covers 88.9 square kilometers (34.3 square miles) and is characterized by lowland forest and grassland ecosystems. 

Beyond elephants, you’ll also spot birds, toque macaques, water buffalo, and diverse birdlife, including painted storks and cormorants.

Best Time to Visit: July to October, during the dry season when elephants gather around the reservoir.

How to Get There

• By Car: From Colombo, it’s about a 4-hour drive, costing around 10,000 LKR with a private driver.

• By Bus: Take a bus to Habarana, and then a tuk-tuk or taxi to the park entrance.

• By Train: Travel by train to Habarana, then take a tuk-tuk (about 300 LKR) for the final stretch to the park.

Pro Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon for the best chance to witness elephants interacting at the Minneriya Tank, with the golden light enhancing the experience.

5. Go Bird-Spotting at Bundala National Park

Situated on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, Bundala is a UNESCO-designated Ramsar Wetland and home to diverse bird species, including flamingos, spoonbills, storks, and pelicans. Covering 62 square kilometers (24 square miles), Bundala’s wetland ecosystems are ideal for migratory and resident birds alike.

Unlike other parks, Bundala has a relaxed, marshy landscape, and its appeal lies in the abundance of waterbirds. The park also has populations of crocodiles, monitor lizards, and even wild boar.

Best Time to Visit

October to April, when migratory birds arrive from northern regions.

During the migratory season (November to March), you can see large flocks of greater flamingos, along with other migratory birds such as Eurasian spoonbills and black-necked storks.

How to Get There

• By Car: From Tissamaharama, it’s a short 30-minute drive, costing about 1,500 LKR.

• By Bus: Buses from Colombo to Hambantota run regularly, then a tuk-tuk ride to the park.

• By Train: Travel to Matara by train, then take a bus or taxi to reach Bundala.

What to Watch Out For

• Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, so bring insect repellent.

• Make sure to wear light, breathable clothing, as it can get hot and humid.

Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise for the best bird-watching experience, as this is when the birds are most active, and the morning light enhances the views over the wetlands.

6. Visit The Flooding Swamp at Kumana National Park

Kumana National Park is renowned for its Kumana Villu, a 200-hectare (494-acre) natural swamp that floods during the rainy season, attracting a variety of waterbirds. During migration, visitors can expect to see thousands of birds, including rare and endemic species such as the Sri Lanka spurfowl and brown-capped babbler.

The park’s birding experience rivals those found in Ranthambore in India or Yellow Water Lagoon in Australia’s Kakadu. For those visiting outside of migration season, Kumana still offers sightings of other wildlife, including elephants, deer, leopards, and jackals.

How to Get There

• By Car: From Colombo, it’s about a 6-hour drive (350 km), costing around 15,000 LKR with a private vehicle and driver.

• By Bus: Take a bus from Colombo to Pottuvil, followed by a local taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the park.

• By Train: Take the train to Ella and then a taxi or bus for the remaining distance, which can be arranged through local services.

What to Watch Out For

• Kumana can be humid and hot, so wear light, breathable clothing and bring plenty of water.

• The park can experience heavy rain during the monsoon season, so check the weather before planning your visit.

Pro Tip: Bring a good pair of binoculars for bird-watching, and arrive early in the morning when bird activity is at its peak.

7. Trek Through The Impenetrable Sinharaja Forest Reserve

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is Sri Lanka’s last major undisturbed rainforest, covering over 8,864 hectares (21,900 acres) of lush forest. Unlike the savannah-like plains of Yala or Udawalawe, Sinharaja is an impenetrable forest filled with thick, vibrant greenery, massive trees, and sunlight barely reaches the forest floor. Sinharaja is a paradise for biodiversity, with 60% of the trees considered rare or endangered. 

The forest is teeming with purple-faced langurs, Sri Lankan blue magpies, and various reptiles and amphibians. Because of its remote location and rugged terrain, Sinharaja is best suited for experienced hikers.

How to Get There

• By Car: From Colombo, it’s about a 4-hour drive (around 160 km), costing 10,000-13,000 LKR for a private car.

• By Bus: Buses from Colombo to Deniyaya are available, followed by a local taxi or tuk-tuk to the park entrance.

• By Train: You can take a train to Matara, then continue by bus or taxi to Deniyaya, which is the closest town to Sinharaja.

What to Watch Out For

• Leeches are common, especially during the rainy season, so wear leech socks or use a repellent.

• The trails can be slippery and challenging, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

• Pay careful attention to the guide's instructions on observing wildlife from a safe distance.

Pro Tip: Visit with a knowledgeable guide who can point out hidden species and explain the unique ecosystems within the forest. Early morning hikes offer the best chances to see wildlife.

8. Boat Safari Through Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya National Park is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s national park network, offering boat safaris on Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir, Senanayake Samudraya. This park covers 25,900 hectares (64,000 acres) and is located in the east-central part of the island. The nearby local Vedda tribe, one of Sri Lanka’s indigenous communities, is happy to offer you guided cultural experiences.

While boat safaris are the main attraction, you’ll also have the chance to see water buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The park’s quiet, undisturbed environment allows for up-close wildlife encounters, making it a popular spot for bird-watchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

If you’re lucky, you might also find elephants swimming from island to island in the reservoir. 

How to Get There

• By Car: From Colombo, it’s about a 7-hour drive, costing around 15,000 LKR for a private car or van.

• By Bus: Buses from Colombo to Ampara are available, and then you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the park entrance.

• By Train: Take a train to Badulla and continue by bus or car from there.

What to Watch Out For

• Boat safaris may be cancelled due to heavy rains or weather changes, so check in advance.

• Since it’s a quieter park, it’s wise to bring any snacks and essentials, as facilities are limited.

Pro Tip: Pair your boat safari with a guided tour from a local Vedda community member to gain insight into Sri Lanka’s indigenous heritage and ancient traditions.

Take a Moment to Practise Responsible Tourism

1. Responsible Tourism: Choose safari operators committed to ethical practices that prioritize animal welfare. Ethical operators will have guides trained in conservation and will avoid overstimulating animals or chasing them with vehicles.

2. Leave No Trace: Stick to designated trails, avoid littering, and refrain from feeding wildlife. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels can harm local ecosystems.

3. Support Conservation Efforts: Consider donating to reputable wildlife organizations, such as the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society, to support ongoing conservation projects in the country.

Best Wildlife Tours and Operators

Reputable Safari Companies

• Jetwing Eco Holidays: Known for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

• Kulu Safaris: Offers luxury camping and personalized safari experiences.

• Leopard Trails: Specializes in Yala and Wilpattu, with knowledgeable guides and high-quality service.

Custom Safari Packages

• Many operators offer packages that cover multiple parks. Consider custom safari packages combining Yala, Minneriya, and Udawalawe for a well-rounded wildlife experience.

• Look for operators that provide options for bird-watching, photography tours, and cultural experiences with local communities.

Leaving Sri Lanka with Wild Memories

Sri Lanka’s national parks are essentially a window into its beating heart. So don’t leave empty-handed! Take home some eco-friendly souvenirs like handwoven items, ethically sourced gems, or a packet of Ceylon tea from one of the nearby highland tea estates. These little pieces of Sri Lanka will remind you of the island’s natural wonders long after you’ve returned home. 

I've also covered my experience with the country's flag carrier, SriLankan Airlines, an arrival guide to Colombo airport, a guide to exploring Colombo, and a beginner's guide to Sri Lanka.