Wildlife Tour, The Big Four

Sri Lanka is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna to explore. The island nation is home to four iconic species, often referred to as the "big four". These include the Asian elephant, leopard, sloth bear, and blue whale.

Sri Lanka's big four are a unique and fascinating collection of creatures that are sure to delight wildlife enthusiasts. From the majestic Asian elephant to the elusive leopard, the shaggy sloth bear to the awe-inspiring blue whale, these creatures are a testament to the incredible diversity of Sri Lanka's wildlife.

Day 01 - Colombo l Mirissa

Welcome to Sri Lanka! After you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, your chauffeur will be waiting to take you to Mirissa. We've arranged for you to stay overnight at the Mandara Resort, a luxurious colonial-style hotel. Take some time to unwind and recover from your journey while enjoying a delicious dinner. On your first day, bask in the comfort of the hotel and soak up the sun on the sandy, golden beach.

Overnight stay in Mirissa.

Day 02 - Mirissa

Rise and shine early for an exciting day ahead! You will be taken to Mirissa Harbor by 6:15 am to embark on a whale watching adventure (season is from November to April). Look forward to catching a glimpse of the magnificent Blue Whales and Sperm Whales - two of Sri Lanka's 'Big Five' - in their natural habitat. Sri Lanka is located within the International Whaling Commission's protected zone in the Indian Ocean, where 26 identified cetacean species are found in the Bay of Bengal. Sri Lanka's southern coast is one of the world's best locations to observe Blue Whales, with the longest Blue Whale season coinciding with their annual migratory route from the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Sea. In the evening, you will visit the remarkable Galle Fort, an archaeological and architectural monument initially constructed by the Portuguese in 1587 and later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Dinner and overnight stay in Mirissa.

Day 03 - Mirissa l Yala

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Wildlife Experience in Yala.

Before your transfer to Yala, embark on an incredible whale watching tour. Upon arrival, check in at the Big Game Camp and prepare for an evening safari at Yala National Park. This renowned park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, which are a highlight of the "Big Five" species. Male leopards in the Yala National Park are brave and unafraid of safari jeeps, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to photograph and film them.

The Big Game Camp, located on the park's borders, offers the ultimate tented camping experience.

Dinner and overnight stay in Yala.

Day 04 - Yala

Experience a Full-Day Safari Adventure at Yala National Park Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Yala National Park, home to a vast expanse of 97,878 hectares. Witness wild elephants and water buffalo grazing by watering holes throughout the park, and catch a glimpse of the Sri Lanka Sloth Bear – a principal feature of the five. For bird enthusiasts, Yala is a must-visit destination, with its diverse habitats offering an array of endemic and resident birds.

Among them is the country's largest bird, the Lesser Adjutant, which can often be spotted in the park. As an added bonus, join an expert naturalist for a night walk and discover the park's nocturnal wonders.

Dinner and overnight stay in Yala.

Day 05 - Yala l Udawalawe

Experience the Wonders of Udawalawe National Park

Once you arrive in Udawalawe, indulge in a delightful lunch before embarking on an evening safari at the world-renowned Udawalawe National Park. The park has earned a reputation for hosting over 600 resident elephants, making it a popular destination for "Big Five" enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for other majestic creatures such as water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer, monkeys and possibly even a leopard!

Rest comfortably after your safari at the Big Game Tented Camp in Udawalawe, where nature and luxury converge.

Dinner and overnight stay in Udawalawe

Day 06 - Udawalawe l Colombo

Early-Morning Safari and Bird Watching at National Park

Join us for an early-morning safari at the National Park, where you'll get to see some of the most beautiful birds in the world. Keep an eye out for the Red Faced Malkoha, Serpent Eagles, Hawk Eagles, White Bellied Sea Eagles, Black Eagles, Black Capped Bulbuls, Racket Tailed Drongos, and even peacocks! If you're lucky, you may even spot a migratory bird or two, like the Forest Wagtails, Indian Pitta, Whiskered Terns, and Osprey Sand Pipers.

After the safari, head back to the campsite for breakfast before returning to Colombo. If you're interested, we can make a pit stop in Ratnapura, also known as "the Gem City."

Dinner and overnight stay in Colombo.

Day 07 - Colombo or beach hotel

On the final day you will be transferred to the Bandaranaike International Airport in time for your flight, bringing your exotic Sri Lankan wildlife experience to an end or to a beach hotel.

Inclusions :

• Accommodation in standard rooms as per the itinerary

• Transport is based on 01 Air-conditioned Luxury private vehicle

• Service of an English-speaking Chauffeur Guide during sightseeing tour

• Entrance and service fees mentioned on the itinerary

• 4 star hotel accomodation and can be upgraded if required at an extra cost

• All current taxes as on date

• Parking and highway tickets

Exclusions :

• Sri Lanka Visa

• Cost of Lunch & Dinner during the tour (if not mentioned in the itinerary)

• Any International Airfare / Airport taxes

• Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff.

• Items of personal nature like tips, laundry, phone calls etc.

• Any video / still camera fee to the monuments and places of visit

• Any other item not explicitly mentioned under price includes.

• Bar, telephone and laundry bills

• Tips to guides, restaurants, and hotel lobby. Tipping is expected.

• Any others expenses

Other Conditions :

Optional excursions and additional services could be provided for which we will charge additionally. Visits to wildlife parks will be at client's own risk.

Safari vehicles (none air-conditioned) available are very basic with basic insurance cover (not comprehensive as in the case of vehicles used for tours).