Wild Encounters: Sri Lanka’s Big Five is a captivating 12-day, 11-night private wildlife expedition through Sri Lanka’s most spectacular wilderness landscapes. Journey from the untamed forests of Wilpattu to the elephant-rich plains of Wasgamuwa National Park the scenic highlands and Udawalawe’s wildlife haven, before venturing deep into legendary Yala National Park in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears and wild buffalo. Blending thrilling private jeep safaris, breathtaking nature, authentic local experiences and relaxing moments on the golden shores of Mirissa, this carefully curated adventure offers an unforgettable encounter with the wild heart of Sri Lanka.

Here are the Big Five Animals in Sri Lanka

Air Port pick up & Overnight stay in Negombo

Upon arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional chauffeur guide and privately transferred to the wilderness gateway of Wilpattu.

* Overnight stay at Claughton Wild Villa- Wilpattu

Wilpattu – A Full Day in the Wild – Wilpattu National Park

• Embark on the Full Day private game drive of Wilpattu National Park. – Sri Lanka’s largest national park, renowned for its pristine wilderness, tranquil villus (natural lakes), and remarkable diversity of wildlife.
• Picnic lunch will be served by the safari team inside the park.

* Overnight stay at Claughton Wild Villa- Wilpattu

Sigiriya – Wilderness to Heritage

• Travel to Sigiriya – the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautifully surrounded by lush wilderness and abundant wildlife.
• Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of rural Sri Lanka with a traditional village tour, discovering local lifestyles, lush surroundings, and everyday village traditions, followed by a delicious homemade Sri Lankan Rice & Curry lunch at a local village home.
• Climb Pidurangala Rock in the evening and witness a breathtaking sunset painting the vast wilderness of Sigiriya in golden hues.

* Overnight stay at Aliya Resort & Spa- Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa- Cycling Through a Lost Royal City

• Embark on a scenic journey to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, travelling through the lush landscapes surrounding Minneriya National Park.
• Pedal through the fascinating ruins of medieval Polonnaruwa, weaving past ancient stupas, royal palaces, sacred temples, and magnificent stone sculptures. Experience Sri Lanka’s rich history at your own pace while cycling through the peaceful landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Taste Sri Lanka at Its Heart – A Mouthwatering Village Lunch

* Overnight stay at The Deer Park Hotel, Girithale

Wasgamuwa- A Hidden Elephant Territory

• Journey to Wasgamuwa National Park – A Hidden Wilderness Haven: Discover this less-crowded national park, renowned as a true paradise for witnessing large herds of majestic Sri Lankan wild elephants in their natural habitat.
• Embark on an exhilarating private 4×4 Jeep safari through Wasgamuwa National Park, venturing deep into its pristine wilderness in search of majestic Sri Lankan elephants and other fascinating wildlife.
• Travel to Polonnaruwa – Enjoy a scenic two-hour journey through Sri Lanka’s lush countryside, passing verdant landscapes, tranquil villages, and picturesque rural scenery along the way.

* Overnight stay at Lavendish Wild Safari Hotel, Wasgamuwa

Ella – A Picturesque Paradise in the Uva Highlands

• After breakfast, bid farewell to Wasgamuwa and embark on a scenic three-hour journey through picturesque countryside landscapes to the enchanting hill-country paradise of Ella, nestled in the lush Uva Highlands.
• Hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak and soak in breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Ella’s lush valleys, misty mountains, and dramatic landscapes.
• After your hike to Little Adam’s Peak, enjoy a scenic walk through a charming village and tranquil pine forest before arriving at the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, one of Ella’s most picturesque landmarks.

* Overnight stay at The Pinnacle Ella

Yala-  Leopards, Elephants & Wild Horizons

• Bid farewell to Ella and embark on another spectacular journey towards Sri Lanka’s southern coast, leading to the renowned Yala National Park—one of the island’s most visited and scenic wildlife destinations, famed for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
• En route, uncover the hidden ancient marvel of Buduruwagala, a remarkable Buddhist site nestled deep within a tranquil forest, featuring magnificent rock-carved Buddha statues dating back centuries.
• Arrive in Yala and set out on an exciting afternoon game drive through Yala National Park. Embark on a three-hour private Jeep safari into the untamed wilderness, renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s prime habitats for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

* Overnight stay at Jetwing Yala Safari Hotel- Yala

Yala- A Wild Morning Adventure

• Embark on an early-morning four hour safari through Yala National Park, witnessing the wilderness come alive at sunrise and capturing unforgettable moments of wildlife in their natural habitat bathed in the magical golden light.
• Return to your safari resort and unwind amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, while enjoying the surrounding wilderness and the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka’s captivating wildlife.

* Overnight stay at Jetwing Yala Safari Hotel- Yala

Mirissa – Whales, Waves & Wanderlust

• Journey to Mirissa, the enchanting ocean paradise on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, famed for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back tropical charm.
• Check in to your beachfront hotel and unwind beside the pristine golden sands of Mirissa, soaking up the tropical beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

* Overnight stay at Mirissa Beach Villa- Mirissa

Mirissa – Chasing the Aquatic Big Five

• Set sail from Mirissa at 6:00 AM on an exciting 3-4 hour whale-watching adventure across the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Keep your eyes on the horizon for magnificent marine giants, including majestic Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, and playful dolphins, while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.
• Return to your hotel after the exhilarating whale-watching adventure and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach and soaking up the tropical sunshine.

* Overnight stay at Mirissa Beach Villa- Mirissa

  Colombo – A City of Colors & Contrasts

• Continue your journey to Sri Lanka’s vibrant metropolitan capital, Colombo, where colonial heritage, modern city life, and coastal charm come together.
• En route, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Dutch Fort, a remarkable colonial masterpiece steeped in history and charm. Wander through its atmospheric streets and discover fascinating colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and the rich cultural heritage that has shaped this iconic fort.
• Continue to Colombo and embark on an engaging city sightseeing tour, discovering the capital’s iconic landmarks and modern highlights, including the Lotus Tower, Independence Square, BMICH, Lotus Theatre, Galle Face Green, and the Parliament precinct. Round off your city experience with time to explore Colombo’s vibrant shopping malls.

* Overnight stay at Galle Face Hotel- Colombo

Farewell After an Unforgettable Big Five Wildlife Adventure!

After an unforgettable Big Five Wildlife Tour with Traumland Tours, you will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure, taking home wonderful memories of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, nature, and breathtaking landscapes.