Sri Lanka: 2-Day Wildlife Tour; Rainforest and National Park

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka. This 2-day tour promises to immerse you in the country’s rich biodiversity, from the lush Sinharaja Forest Reserve to the expansive Udawalawe National Park. Explore these captivating destinations with expert guides, spotting diverse flora and fauna along the way. Prepare for an exhilarating off-road jeep safari and a scenic train journey through breathtaking landscapes. With limited group sizes, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the natural wonders of this island nation.

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Key Points

A 2-day wildlife tour in Sri Lanka, priced from $299 per person, with a group size limited to 10 participants and guided in English.
Includes a guided rainforest trek in Sinharaja Forest Reserve, an off-road jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, and a scenic train journey to Nuwara Eliya.
Opportunity to spot endemic wildlife, such as birds, butterflies, elephants, crocodiles, and leopards, during the tour.
Offers immersive experiences, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Provides flexibility with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The two-day Sri Lanka wildlife tour, titled "Sri Lanka: 2-Day Wildlife Tour; Rainforest and National Park," is priced from $299.00 per person.

The tour lasts 2 days and limits group size to 10 participants, who’ll explore the country’s natural wonders in English.

Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and they can reserve now and pay later to keep plans flexible.

The tour includes a guided rainforest trek, a safari in Udawalawe National Park, a scenic train journey, and visits to tea plantations and factories in the hill country.

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Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour begins with a pickup from hotels in the Western Province. Guests then travel to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, where they embark on a 3-4 hour guided rainforest trek to explore the diverse flora and fauna.

Next, they venture to Udawalawe National Park for a 4-hour off-road jeep safari, searching for elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Udawalawe.

A 4-hour off-road jeep safari at Udawalawe National Park in search of elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife, followed by an overnight stay.

The second day starts with a transfer to the Ella railway station, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour train journey through the hill country to Nuwara Eliya.

There, visitors tour a tea plantation and factory.

Activities Included

The guided tour of the Sinharaja rainforest allows visitors to explore the diverse trees, plants, birds, and insects within this lush ecosystem.

An off-road jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park offers the chance to spot elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

The scenic train journey through the hill country is a highlight, with stunning views of tea plantations and waterfalls.

Travelers can also opt for self-guided tours, shopping, bird-watching, and visits to tea gardens and spice/herbal gardens to further enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural richness.

Destination 1: Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka’s last remaining primary rainforest, serves as the starting point for the wildlife tour.

Covering over 35,000 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning biodiversity.

Trekkers explore the lush, dense foliage, spotting endemic birds and butterflies.

Expert guides share insights into the forest’s intricate ecosystem, from towering trees to colorful insects.

The moderate hike through the forest is a chance to take in Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving this unique ecological treasure.

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Destination 2: Udawalawe National Park

After exploring the lush Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the wildlife tour takes visitors to Udawalawe National Park.

This 4-hour off-road jeep safari allows guests to spot elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to over 400 Asian elephants, as well as leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.

Knowledgeable guides share insights about the park’s ecology and conservation efforts. The safari is an immersive experience, offering close-up views of majestic elephants and the chance to witness the animals’ behaviors in the wild.

This stop is a highlight of the 2-day tour.

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Destination 3: Scenic Train Journey

After the safari in Udawalawe National Park, the tour moves on to the scenic hill country and the historic city of Nuwara Eliya.

Travelers will take a 2.5-hour train journey on the famous "blue train" through the picturesque tea plantations and lush highlands. This iconic railway route offers stunning vistas of misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and quaint colonial-era towns.

In Nuwara Eliya, the group will visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about the production process and sample the renowned Ceylon tea.

The tour then returns to the Western Province, completing the immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

Destination 4: Nuwara Eliya

The tour then moves to the historic city of Nuwara Eliya, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country.

Here, guests visit a renowned tea plantation and factory to learn about the process of tea production. They’ll witness the skilled workers handpicking fragrant tea leaves and observe the intricate machinery that transforms the raw leaves into the world-famous Ceylon tea.

With its cool climate and colonial-era architecture, Nuwara Eliya offers a refreshing contrast to the tropical lowlands.

The tour concludes with a return to the Western Province, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

Important Considerations

Though the Sri Lanka wildlife tour offers an immersive experience in the country’s natural beauty, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

Preparation is key – Visitors should pack appropriate gear like sturdy hiking boots and lightweight, breathable clothing to navigate the varied terrain and weather conditions.

Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle are also essential.

Flexibility is advised – While the itinerary is well-planned, unforeseen circumstances like weather or wildlife patterns may require adjustments.

Travelers should remain open-minded and adaptable throughout the journey.

Health and safety precautions – The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Participants should consult a medical professional before booking.

Common Questions

Is Private Transportation Available for the Entire Tour?

Yes, private transportation is provided for the entirety of the tour. Guests are picked up from their hotel in the Western Province and transported throughout the 2-day itinerary, including to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and Udawalawe National Park.

Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?

Yes, children under 12 can participate in the tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Parents should exercise discretion and ensure their child’s safety and comfort during the activities.

Are There Any Discounts for Groups or Students?

The tour operator offers discounts for group bookings of 4 or more participants. They also provide a 10% discount for students with valid ID. Travelers should inquire about these offers when making their reservation.

Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Be Arranged?

Yes, the tour operator can accommodate vegetarian and vegan meal options upon request. Travelers should inform the operator of any dietary requirements when booking the tour to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request a longer tour package, typically 3 or 4 days, to explore more of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and natural attractions. Additional fees would apply for the extended itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 2-day wildlife tour in Sri Lanka offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. From the enchanting Sinharaja Forest Reserve to the expansive Udawalawe National Park, this adventure promises unforgettable encounters with diverse wildlife, complemented by a scenic train journey through breathtaking landscapes. With expert guides and limited group sizes, this tour provides an intimate and enriching experience for nature lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: