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Lanka Untamed: A 12-Day Wilderness Odyssey

11 nights / 12 days
This immersive 12-day journey through Sri Lanka is masterfully designed for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and conservation-minded travelers seeking to explore the island’s most biodiverse corridors. Lanka Untamed takes you beyond the ordinary, from the coastal wetlands of Negombo to the vast, primeval wilderness of Wilpattu, and from the cultural majesty of Sigiriya to the remote elephant territories of Wasgamuwa and the legendary leopard-rich plains of Yala.
This itinerary is a symphony of varied ecosystems—spanning dry-zone jungles, misty highlands, nocturnal habitats, and golden tropical beaches. As you traverse the island, you will have the chance to spot Sri Lanka’s “Big Five”—including the Asian elephant, leopard, and the elusive sloth bear—while witnessing vital conservation efforts firsthand at the Rekawa Turtle Reserve.

Highlights at a Glance

  • Wildlife Encounters in Wilpattu, Wasgamuwa, Yala & Lunugamwehera: Set off on thrilling jeep safaris through Sri Lanka’s most biodiverse national parks. Explore Wilpattu, the island’s largest and most atmospheric wilderness; Yala, famed for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world; and Bundala, a Ramsar-listed wetland haven for migratory birds and prehistoric crocodiles.
  • Night Drive in Sigiriya: Experience the jungle come alive after dark. On a specialized nighttime wildlife drive through the forests of Sigiriya, you will seek out elusive nocturnal creatures like civets, owls, porcupines, and nightjars under the guidance of expert trackers.
  • Sigiriya Lion Rock & Pidurangala Sunset Trek: Ascend the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient royal citadel rising 200 meters from the jungle floor. For the ultimate perspective, hike the neighboring Pidurangala Rock at sunset for a breathtaking panoramic view of the fortress and the endless plains below.
  • Ethical Elephant Experience in Habarana: Spend an enriching afternoon walking beside, feeding, and bathing an elephant. This is a strictly non-riding environment designed to foster genuine care and connection, supporting ethical conservation for these majestic animals.
  • Birding Walk with a Naturalist: Discover the vibrant endemic birdlife of Sri Lanka on a guided walk. Your naturalist will lead you through forest edges, rice paddies, and lakeside habitats in the Sigiriya region, where the air is filled with the calls of rare and colorful avifauna.
  • Rekawa Turtle Conservation Night Watch: Witness a timeless ritual on the shores of Tangalle. Under the moonlight, join conservation experts at Rekawa to observe sea turtles nesting on the beach, contributing to the protection of these ancient mariners and their fragile ecosystem.
  • Sunset Strolls & City Life in Colombo: Conclude your journey in the capital city. Explore colonial-era streets, dine at world-class restaurants, and enjoy the urban energy of Colombo as you shop for local souvenirs and reflect on your 12-day odyssey.

Day 1: Welcome to Paradise

Morning/Afternoon: After checking in at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to recover from the journey. Negombo is the perfect “soft landing” for your 12-day odyssey.

  • Coastal Recovery: You might wander along the golden sands of Negombo Beach, where traditional catamarans (oruvas) with their distinct sails bob gently on the tide. Watch as fishermen haul in their catch with practiced ease—a scene that has remained unchanged for centuries.
  • Colonial Wanderlust: If you feel like a light stroll, explore the remains of the Dutch Fort or walk alongside the Hamilton Canal, a 17th-century waterway that still serves as a vital artery for the local fishing community.
  • Lagoon Glimpse: For early arrivals interested in a preview of the island’s birdlife, the Muthurajawela Marsh on the edge of the lagoon offers sightings of kingfishers, herons, and perhaps a basking monitor lizard.

Evening: As the tropical sun sinks into the Indian Ocean, painting the sky in hues of violet and amber, your first evening in Sri Lanka offers a gentle initiation into the country’s beauty. Enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel or a local seafood spot, letting the soft sea breeze and the rhythm of the waves prepare you for the untamed adventures beginning tomorrow.

Accommodation: Boutique Beachside Resort, Negombo / Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Negombo to Wilpattu & Half-Day Safari Adventure

Morning: Before leaving the coast, you’ll make a brief stop at the lively Negombo Fish Market (Lellama). Witness the local fishermen’s daily rhythm as they bring in the morning’s haul—from massive tuna to heaps of silver sprats—all laid out on the sand to dry under the tropical sun.

Afternoon: Upon reaching the fringes of the park, you’ll check in at a peaceful campsite nestled close to the forest boundary. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink, then relax and soak in the wild surroundings. At 2:30 PM, the engine roars to life for your first thrilling private jeep safari.

  • The Land of Lakes: Wilpattu is famous for its unique “willus”—natural, rainwater-filled sand-rimmed lakes. These dramatic water bodies act as the lifeblood of the park, drawing animals out from the thick scrub.
  • The Apex Trio: Keep your eyes peeled for the Sri Lankan Leopard and the elusive, shaggy Sloth Bear, both of whom thrive in this undisturbed wilderness. You may also encounter lone bull elephants or herds emerging from the forest to drink at the water’s edge.
  • Avian Abundance: Look for the Painted Stork, the Whistling Teal, and the majestic White-bellied Sea Eagle patrolling the skies above the lakes.

Evening: After the safari, return to camp just as the sky turns a dusty pink. Enjoy sundown tea and biscuits by the campfire before gathering for a warm, delicious dinner served under a canopy of stars. Drift off to sleep to the primeval symphony of crickets and distant animal calls.

Accommodation: Luxury Tented Safari Camp, Wilpattu / Half-Board (Includes Lunch on Day 3)

Day 3: The Citadel of the Sun & Spirits of the Night

Morning/Afternoon: Once you arrive and check in at your hotel, take some time to relax and find your rhythm in this lush landscape. In the cooler hours of the late afternoon, you will begin your ascent of the legendary rock fortress. Built atop a massive column of volcanic plateau, this ancient royal citadel is a marvel of engineering and artistry.

  • The Royal Ascent: Walk through the intricate water gardens and climb the stairs flanked by the massive lion’s paws. From the summit, you are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding forests, ancient tanks, and the mist-covered hills in the distance.
  • Ancient Artistry: En route to the top, witness the vibrant frescoes and the Mirror Wall, which still carries the graffiti of travelers from centuries ago.

Evening: After descending the rock, return to the hotel for a hearty dinner. However, the adventure continues as the sun disappears. Later in the evening, you will set out for a guided night drive through the forests and scrub jungles surrounding Sigiriya.

  • Nightlife in the Wild: Equipped with spotlights and accompanied by an expert naturalist, you will venture into the dark to seek out Sri Lanka’s elusive nocturnal residents.
  • Elusive Encounters: Watch for the reflective eyes of the Grey Slender Loris, the rustle of a Porcupine, or the sleek movement of Civets. With luck, you may even spot a Fishing Cat or Owl perched silently in the canopy, making for an unforgettable night of discovery.

Accommodation: Boutique Eco-Hotel, Sigiriya / Bed & Breakfast

Day 4: Avian Pathways & Ethical Elephant Encounters

Morning: You will be joined by a knowledgeable naturalist for a gentle nature walk through the Sigiriya countryside. As you explore the mosaic of scrubland, ancient lakeside paths, and jungle corridors, your guide will help you spot the vibrant residents of the canopy.

  • Wildlife & Flora: Keep an eye out for endemic birds like the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, as well as kaleidoscopic butterflies, Toque Macaques, and Land Monitors basking in the morning sun.

Afternoon: Travel to nearby Habarana for a truly intimate and ethical elephant encounter. This experience is designed for those who value conservation and respect over performance.

  • A Mindful Connection: In a non-riding environment, you will have the rare privilege of walking alongside a majestic elephant through the forest. Under the guidance of dedicated caretakers, you can help with the elephant’s afternoon bath in the river and participate in its feeding, fostering a quiet and humbling bond with these intelligent creatures.

Evening: In the late afternoon, you have the option for a sunset trek up Pidurangala Rock. This massive granite outcrop sits directly opposite Sigiriya, and the climb rewards you with arguably the most iconic panoramic view in Sri Lanka—the Lion Rock silhouetted against a golden jungle canopy as the sun dips below the horizon. Return to your hotel for a relaxing dinner and your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Boutique Eco-Hotel, Sigiriya / Bed & Breakfast

Day 5: Remote Wilderness & The Elephant Corridors of Wasgamuwa

Morning/Afternoon: Upon arrival, check in at your jungle lodge or hotel—a retreat designed to offer comfort while remaining deeply connected to the surrounding wilderness. Take a little time to refresh and enjoy the stillness of the remote countryside before your afternoon adventure.

Afternoon: At 2:30 PM, you will head into the heart of the park for a private half-day jeep safari. Wasgamuwa is legendary for its “untamed” feel, providing a much quieter and more personal wildlife experience.

  • The Elephant Stronghold: The park is famous for its large herds of wild elephants, often seen grazing in the marshes or moving through the tall grasslands.
  • Diverse Habitats: As your jeep traverses the scrub jungles and riverine forests, keep a sharp eye out for the shaggy Sloth Bear, Purple-faced Leaf Monkeys, and Tufted Gray Langurs leaping through the canopy.
  • Birding Paradise: The park’s many tanks and river edges attract dozens of migratory and resident bird species, including the Lesser Adjutant Stork and the Yellow-fronted Barbet.

Evening: As the sun begins to set, casting long shadows across the Knuckles Mountain Range in the distance, return to your stay. Enjoy a cozy dinner and a well-deserved rest under a star-filled sky, lulled to sleep by the tranquil sounds of the deep jungle.

Accommodation: Jungle Lodge or Eco-Resort, Wasgamuwa / Bed & Breakfast

Day 6: The Scenic Ascent to Haputale

Morning: The drive toward Haputale is one of the most scenic on the island, winding through mist-shrouded peaks and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, we’ll make a few delightful stops to experience the “Little England” charm of the highlands:

  • Ambewela Dairy Farm: Often called “Little New Zealand,” this lush farm is famous for its rolling green pastures and fresh dairy. It’s a scenic spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the panoramic beauty of the high-altitude plains.
  • Jagro Strawberry Farm: Stop for a sweet treat at this renowned farm. Whether it’s fresh strawberries with cream or a chilled frappe, it’s a quintessential highland experience.

Afternoon: Upon reaching Haputale, check in to your charming hilltop hotel. Perched on a ridge, this town offers some of the most spectacular views in the country.

  • Mountain Serenity: Take a leisurely walk through the peaceful town, where life moves at a slower, mist-covered pace. Alternatively, simply relax on your balcony with a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea, watching the clouds float below your feet.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel as the mountain chill sets in. The stillness of the highlands provides a refreshing contrast to the jungle heat of the previous days, ensuring a deeply restful night.

Accommodation: Heritage Hillside Hotel or Boutique Tea Bungalow, Haputale / Bed & Breakfast

Day 7: From Misty Peaks to Golden Savannahs

Morning: The drive south is a sensory journey as the mountain chill gives way to the tropical warmth of the lowlands. You will pass through rural villages and skirt the edges of ancient reservoirs, heading toward the less-traveled corridors of the southern wild.

Afternoon: Before reaching the busier sectors of the coast, you will stop for a private half-day jeep safari at Lunugamvehera National Park.

  • The Hidden Corridor: Serving as a vital buffer zone and elephant corridor between Yala and Udawalawe, Lunugamvehera shares the same rich biodiversity as its famous neighbors but remains a hidden gem.
  • Untamed Sightings: This park is ideal for those seeking a more exclusive wildlife experience. Keep your binoculars ready for wild elephants, Mugger crocodiles basking in the tanks, and a variety of water birds. With fewer jeeps on the tracks, your chances of a quiet encounter with a leopard or sloth bear are significantly enhanced.

Evening: After your safari adventure, continue the short drive to the historic coastal village of Kirinda. Check in to your hotel, situated where the jungle meets the sea. Enjoy a well-earned dinner and unwind to the rhythmic sound of the Indian Ocean crashing against the nearby rocky outcrops under the southern stars.

Accommodation: Beachside Safari Lodge or Eco-Resort, Kirinda / Bed & Breakfast

Day 8: Leopard Trails & The Southern Shores

Morning: With a packed breakfast in hand, you will enter the gates of Yala National Park at first light. This is the optimal time for tracking the park’s most famous resident—the Sri Lankan Leopard. Yala boasts one of the highest leopard densities in the world, and the early morning hours offer the best chance to spot these magnificent cats patrolling their territory or lounging on the ancient rock outcrops.

  • The Big Three & More: Beyond leopards, keep a keen eye out for the shaggy Sloth Bear and majestic Asian Elephants. The park’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from moist monsoon forests to freshwater wetlands—are also home to golden jackals, spotted deer, and prehistoric-looking crocodiles.
  • Avian Spectacle: For bird lovers, Yala is a treasure trove. Watch for the flamboyant dance of the Peacock, the iconic Changeable Hawk-Eagle, and the vibrant Lesser Flamingo in the salt lagoons.

Afternoon: After your thrilling wildlife expedition, bid farewell to the scrub jungles and drive west along the picturesque southern coastline to the tranquil beach town of Tangalle. Known for its wide, palm-fringed bays and turquoise waters, Tangalle is the epitome of tropical peace.

  • Coastal Recharge: Check in at your beachside resort and let the journey’s excitement settle. The rest of the afternoon is yours to unwind—perhaps with a walk on the soft sand or a dip in the pool as the sea spray cools the air.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the resort with the gentle sea breeze for company and the rhythmic sound of the Indian Ocean as your soundtrack. This is your moment to reflect on the wild encounters of the past week and recharge for the coastal adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Luxury Beachfront Resort, Tangalle / Bed & Breakfast

Day 9: Turtles by Moonlight: Leisure & Rekawa Conservation

Morning & Afternoon: Start with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the ocean. The daylight hours are yours to enjoy at an unhurried pace. Tangalle is famous for its seclusion and natural beauty, offering plenty of ways to recharge:

  • Coastal Exploration: Lounge by the resort pool, explore the quiet, rocky coves of Goyambokka, or take a long walk along the pristine stretch of Rekawa Beach.
  • Indulgence: Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment or a soothing massage, letting the scent of sandalwood and the sound of the waves melt away any travel fatigue.
  • Quiet Moments: Simply find a hammock under a palm tree and enjoy the “untamed” beauty of the Indian Ocean as it crashes against the southern headlands.

Evening: After a relaxed dinner at your resort, your day culminates in a truly moving experience: a moonlit excursion to the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project. Unlike a hatchery, this is a protected nesting site where turtles come to lay their eggs in the wild.

  • A Moving Spectacle: Under the guidance of conservation volunteers, you will wait quietly on the dunes for the magical moment when a sea turtle emerges from the surf. Rekawa is a vital nesting ground for five species, including the Green Turtle and the massive Leatherback.
  • Conservation in Action: Witnessing these ancient creatures meticulously excavate their nests and lay their eggs under the stars is a humbling experience. It is a powerful testament to the conservation efforts working to protect these endangered species from extinction.

Late Evening: Return to your hotel filled with awe and a deepened gratitude for the fragile beauty of the natural world.

Accommodation: Luxury Beachfront Resort, Tangalle / Bed & Breakfast

Day 10: Coastal Wetlands & The Capital’s Charm

Morning: For those who haven’t yet filled their wildlife quota, awake early for an optional half-day safari in Bundala National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar-listed wetland is a starkly beautiful contrast to the inland jungles.

  • A Birdwatcher’s Dream: Traverse the park’s unique landscape of salt pans, dunes, and brackish lagoons. Bundala is a sanctuary for thousands of migratory birds, most notably the Greater Flamingo, which often carpets the lagoons in shades of pink.
  • Diverse Shoreline: Keep an eye out for Mugger and Estuarine crocodiles, wild boar, and the rare Indian Star Tortoise navigating the scrub.

Afternoon: Following the safari (or a final morning swim in Tangalle), begin your journey north toward Colombo. The drive along the southern coast offers glimpses of stilt fishermen and turquoise bays before you connect to the expressway for a smooth entry into the city.

Late Afternoon/Evening: Arrive in the bustling capital and check into your hotel. Your final evening in Sri Lanka is yours to spend at leisure, soaking in the city’s unique blend of colonial history and modern ambition.

  • Galle Face Green: Join the locals for a sunset stroll along this iconic oceanfront promenade, perhaps sampling some Isso Wade (shrimp fritters) from the street vendors.
  • Urban Exploration: Explore the colonial-era architecture of the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct or dine in a converted colonial mansion in the leafy streets of Colombo 07.
  • Last-Minute Treasures: This is the perfect time to visit local boutiques for high-quality handlooms, artisanal crafts, or a final stash of premium Ceylon tea to take home.

Accommodation: Luxury City Hotel, Colombo / Bed & Breakfast

You may see the hotels which we have handpicked for you under each accomodation style. However, there are hundreds of other alternative properties for you to select if you wish to and you may mix and match hotels in different categories as well.

Modest Accommodation

(per person rates)
Single Room
Double Room
Triple Room

If you’re looking for a no-frills stay that’s easy on the wallet, and love to spend time with locals and explore the surroundings at your own pace, this is the perfect choice for you. This hotel style is wonderfully cosy, unique, mostly owner-run and provides you with a more personalised service.

Everything you need to know about the tour

We’ve taken every possible measure to ensure your safety and comfort during this tour.
The hotels, tours, add-ons, and chauffeurs who are part of this programme are carefully vetted, so that you enjoy the highest quality standards and enjoy your tour with peace of mind. At any given point of the tour you will always be within reach of your chauffeur, either physically or via phone (e.g: when you are out exploring on your own), for any assistance.

The important stuff

Sri Lanka is a nation where religion and culture occupy an important place in the day-to-day lives of the local people. It is important to be aware of the customs and practices that are particular to the location you are visiting, so here are a few general tips to keep in mind during your travels. Your chauffeur will assist you with more detailed information.

  • If you plan on visiting any temples, ancient or current, you should wear clothing that covers your body from your shoulders down to your knees. Head coverings such as caps or helmets should be removed and shoes must be taken off at the entrance. White coloured clothing is generally a good choice to go with here.
  • Some religious places do not allow photography or videography without prior permission and some may not allow it at all. Refer to signage or ask your chauffeur guide about the policy or protocol. Don’t try to photograph or take videos without permission.
  • If you have any tattoos associated with Buddhism, Hinduism or Islamism, it’s best that you cover them completely in public places.
  • Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport.

Package Inclusions

  • Accommodation: 11 nights of stay in a triple room or a family room, carefully selected for their proximity to nature and character.
  • Meal Plan: As specified in the daily itinerary (typically Half-Board, except where noted).
  • Transportation: Full travel in a private, air-conditioned van with a dedicated English-speaking chauffeur, including all airport transfers.
  • Private Jeep Safaris: Immersive wildlife drives in Wilpattu, Wasgamuwa, Lunugamwehera, and Yala National Parks. This includes the private jeep hire, all entry permits, and official government tracker fees.
  • Monuments & Sites: Entry permits to all sites, temples, museums, and historical monuments explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Curated Experiences: All costs associated with community visits, naturalist-led hikes, village walks, and the ethical elephant experience.
  • Taxes: All service charges at the hotels and current Sri Lankan Government taxes.

Package Exclusions

  • Flights & Visas: Any international or domestic airfare and your Visa/ETA fees.
  • Local Transport: Any tuk-tuk rides (even if mentioned in the itinerary, these are paid locally to support the local drivers).
  • Meals & Beverages: Any additional food or drinks. Lunch throughout the trip is excluded (except for Day 3).
  • Hotel Policies: Charges for early check-in or late check-out.
  • Personal Expenses: Costs such as telephone, laundry, and extra hotel bills (mini-bar, etc.).
  • Gratuity: Tips for the chauffeur, hotel staff, and safari trackers.
  • General: Any additional expenses or services not specifically listed in the “Inclusions” section.

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