If you are energetic and adventurous we have a list of all the safaris that can be enjoyed.Take a look at the range of safaris available from boat safaris to jungle safaris. To explore the different species of birds check out the bird watching trails available at certain sanctuaries.
Jungle safari
Sri Lankan safaris have a flavour of their own and although they cannot compare with the African safaris, are exciting for the variety of fauna that may be observed. There are various organisations that arrange safaris with or without Accommodation, or you can even just hire a jeep from a hotel near the National Parks for a day. Some hotels offer guided nature trails with informative personnel in the general vicinity of the hotel
(e.g. Hotel Sigiriya, Kandalama Hotel, Hotel Ranweli).
A jungle safari through rainforest is yet another unique and rewarding experience. Guides will accompany you on walks through verdant undergrowth under the high canopy of the forest, teeming with stunning fauna and flora.
Boat Safaris
Boat Safaris are available on some rivers like the Kalu Ganga and the Bentota River. The Muthurajawela Swamp bordering the Negombo Lagoon can be toured by boat safari. Its unique aquatic fauna puts on a superb daily display with endless colour and movement on its quiet waterways. The Panadura Wildlife Resource Centre just south of Colombo is a tropical treat of mangrove forests and swamp life. A canoe paddle which can be arranged through the Centre will reveal the secrets hidden in between the mangroves.
Accommodation in Safari Areas
Accommodation in Safari Areas is generally restricted to bungalows within the National Parks and a few hotels on the fringes outside the Parks. Park Accommodation can be booked through the Department of Wildlife Conservation and it is advisable to do so at least a month before. These bungalows can accommodate up to 10 people and are available in five wildlife reserves: Yala West, Uda Walawe, Wasgamuwa, Gal Oya, and Maduru Oya. Some operators (eg Hemtours, Walkers Tours) will arrage Accommodation in tents or bungalows on private camping sites near the major Parks.
Information on Safaris
Information on Safaris can be obtained from
The Department of Wildlife Conservation
No.8 Gregory’s Road ,
Colombo 7.
Groups of visitors must be accompanied by a Park tracker and guide at all times and must follow the Park rules. Walking within the Parks is strictly prohibited.
For information on forest reserves contact:
Forest Department
82 Rajamalwatte Road ,
Battaramulla .
Photo Credit – Buddhika De Silva
