Sri Lanka
Group / Max 16
14 days
Group Tour
Colombo to Colombo – 14 Days
Explore Sri Lanka’s diverse natural and cultural wonders on this 14-day small group adventure. From the golden shores of Negombo to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Dambulla, you’ll discover sacred temples, royal ruins, and striking rock fortresses. Visit traditional villages, meet indigenous communities, and travel through misty mountains, tea estates, and cloud forests in the scenic Knuckles and Nuwara Eliya highlands. This beautiful country is a tropical paradise, offering lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife that make it truly captivating for travellers. As a wildlife lover's paradise, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for those seeking unforgettable encounters with nature and rare species.
Wildlife lovers will enjoy thrilling safaris in Wilpattu and Udawalawe National Parks, home to leopards, elephants, and exotic birdlife. Enjoy a scenic train journey through the hill country and unwind by the beaches of Ahangama. Along the way, you’ll hike to panoramic viewpoints, share home-cooked meals with locals, and witness Sri Lanka’s rich cultural traditions. Designed for travellers seeking an active yet immersive experience, this wildlife tour is part of our Sri Lanka wildlife holidays, blending heritage, wildlife, nature, and local life — all with expert guidance and comfortable accommodations throughout.
WILDLIFE SAFARIS IN WILPATTU AND UDAWALAWE: Explore two of Sri Lanka’s top national parks. Spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife on guided jeep safari game drives. These safaris offer unforgettable encounters with the country’s incredible wildlife and various species in their natural habitats, combining thrilling adventure with conservation-focused travel in scenic forest and wetland landscapes.
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES AND ANCIENT CITIES: Visit iconic landmarks such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temples, and the sacred city of Anuradhapura. These UNESCO-listed sites reveal Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, royal history, and architectural brilliance — a fascinating journey into the island’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
TEA COUNTRY AND SCENIC HIGHLANDS: Travel through the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya and the Knuckles Range. Enjoy a scenic train ride, hike mountain trails, and visit local tea estates. The landscape shifts from lush plantations to cloud forests, offering fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and peaceful rural charm.
LOCAL ENCOUNTERS AND VILLAGE EXPERIENCES: Connect with local people and communities in Mahiyanganaya, Hiriwadunna, and Dambana. Enjoy traditional meals, learn indigenous customs, and witness everyday Sri Lankan village life. Engaging with local communities enhances your understanding of Sri Lanka’s culture, traditions, and resilience, providing authentic experiences beyond typical tourist routes and adding meaning and depth to your journey.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Experience Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, wildlife and culture on a 14-day group expedition. Explore ancient cities, hike the central highlands, spot elephants and leopards on safari, and unwind on the south coast. Scenic train rides and local encounters add depth to this blend of nature, heritage and adventure. As a year-round destination, Sri Lanka rewards travellers in any season—plan your next journey and visit Sri Lanka for exceptional wildlife, cultural highlights and unforgettable scenery.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by a local representative and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. This friendly beach town is known for its fishing heritage, relaxed vibe, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxation and scenic walks. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. You may want to take a stroll along the beach or simply unwind at your hotel. It’s the perfect place to relax after your flight and get ready for the exciting journey ahead.
Paradise Road Tintagel
Paradise Road Tintagel is a boutique hotel, situated in one of Colombo's most fashionable districts. Named after the castle in Cornwall where King Arthur was purportedly born, it has been redesigned by Colombo trendsetter Shanth Fernando. Having founded Paradise Road, the design and lifestyle brand, he soon added a hospitality element to his style empire. Today, Tintagel is his vision of Colombo as a cosmopolitan capital, filled with artwork and stylish elements.
After breakfast, drive to Wilpattu National Park, one of the largest and oldest national parks in Sri Lanka. Arrive at your nature camp and check into a deluxe tent surrounded by the forest. In the evening, head out on a game drive in search of leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants, wild boar, and sambar deer. Keep an eye out for colourful birdlife as well. Return to camp for a delicious dinner under the stars and listen to the sounds of the forest as night falls.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leopard Safaris Wilpattu
Leopard Safaris Wilpattu offers mobile camping safaris in Wilpathu National Park, North Western Sri Lanka. This extremely beautiful reserve comprises of about 50 ‘Willus’ (or natural lakes) forming an intricate network of waterways, providing a water source to the animals in the surrounding dry-zone forest. The park offers excellent leopard, sloth bear and bird-spotting opportunities. The safari camp is owned by Noel Rodrigo, a wildlife specialist with deep knowledge about the Sri Lankan leopard.
Start with breakfast before heading to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first capital of Sri Lanka. Explore sacred sites including towering stupas, ancient water tanks, and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree—believed to be the oldest tree planted by humans. Continue your journey to Dambulla and visit the famous Cave Temple complex, also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with painted murals and statues of Buddha. Afterwards, check into your hotel and relax for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Jetwing Vil Uyana
Water Garden Sigiriya
Jetwing Vil Uyana sits on its own man-made eco-reserve which boasts a wetland, secondary monsoon forests and paddy lands. What was formerly a barren patch of land has now emerged into a nature lover's paradise with more than a hundred varieties of wildlife inhabiting the area. Amongst one of the eco-friendliest hotels in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka the Jetwing Vil Uyana is surrounded by nature on all sides with an environment full of animals and birds that live there.
Water Garden Sigiriya is a boutique nature resort, set about 8 km north of Sigiriya in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Inspired by the ancient water gardens of the nearby Sigiriya rock fort, Channa Daswatte, a renowned Sri Lankan architect and protégé of the late Geoffrey Bawa, created a unique luxurious resort providing an oasis of peace and serenity. Situated in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, it serves as a perfect base from which to explore its surrounding cultural and heritage sites.
Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock, early in the morning. This iconic 5th-century fortress is renowned for its lion-shaped entrance, ancient frescoes, and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top to see the frescoes and enjoy panoramic views from the summit. After descending, head to Hiriwadunna village. Enjoy a tractor ride through the countryside, spot birds, spotted deer, and possibly crocodiles near the lake, and take a catamaran ride if conditions allow. Share a traditional lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, you can relax at the hotel or join an optional wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Sigiriana Resort – Deluxe Room
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Mahiyanganaya. The road takes you through beautiful rural landscapes, tea plantations, and forested hills, which serve as the natural habitat for much of Sri Lanka's wildlife. This quiet part of Sri Lanka offers peace and a slower pace. On arrival, check into your comfortable hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. You may want to take a gentle walk nearby or simply enjoy the quiet surroundings. Prepare for the cultural experiences awaiting you tomorrow.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kevans Casa – Superior Room
This morning, visit Dambana village to meet the Veddhas, Sri Lanka’s indigenous forest-dwelling people. Learn about their traditional way of life, including ancient hunting methods and herbal medicines. Afterwards, drive through scenic mountain roads towards the Knuckles mountain range. On arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy a tasty meal in the cool, fresh mountain air. Later, take a serene nature walk to observe the region's diverse flora and fauna at a leisurely pace. The rest of the evening is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Corbert’s Rest – Standard Room
Start early with a packed breakfast and begin your hike in the Knuckles mountain range, which is influenced by the south western monsoon, bringing lush greenery and unique weather patterns to the region. Walk through tea plantations, forests, and open meadows, enjoying breathtaking views and spotting local wildlife along the way. After lunch with local villagers, return to your lodge to freshen up before continuing your journey to Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, check into your hotel and attend a lively cultural show featuring Kandyan drumming and traditional dancing.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Kings Pavilion Kandy
Kings Pavilion is a boutique hotel, set outside the town of Kandy in Central Sri Lanka. Situated on a hill overlooking the lush valley below, it offers a serene oasis with great vistas of the Hunnasgiriya and Knuckles mountain ranges. Spread across 3-acres of luscious gardens in the residential area in the suburbs of Kandy, this resort offers a perfect base from which to explore the historic Kandy town and the fascinating region of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.
Begin with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites. Walk around Kandy Lake and explore the city's local markets and colonial buildings. In the evening, visit a local family home where you'll enjoy a cooking demonstration and help prepare a traditional Sri Lankan dinner. Share the meal together and gain insight into everyday life and food culture in Kandy.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, board the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya, known for its rolling hills and tea plantations (subject to availability). Watch as the landscape changes from tropical greenery to misty highlands. In the surrounding national parks near Nuwara Eliya, there is also the opportunity to spot the Asian elephant in its natural habitat, especially within more secluded and exclusive camps. Once in Nuwara Eliya, take a short tour of this colonial-era hill town. Visit a tea factory to see how world-famous Ceylon tea is made, and enjoy a tasting session. Relax in the cool mountain air and settle in for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Grand Hotel
Wake early and head to Horton Plains National Park. Hike across grasslands and forests to the famous viewpoint at World's End and the beautiful Baker's Falls. Enjoy a packed breakfast during the trek. After your hike, travel to Belihuloya, a peaceful hill country village. On arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. The cooler climate and quiet setting make this a lovely place to unwind.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, hike to Ha Gala (Rabbit Rock), a gentle climb through forest and tea estates that offers wide views over the region. With a local guide, learn about the area’s plants and wildlife. After your walk, return to the resort to refresh and have lunch. Then continue your journey to Udawalawe, a national park area known for elephants. On arrival, visit the Elephant Transit Home, a renowned wildlife conservation facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing orphaned elephants and orphaned baby elephants back into the wild. This important centre offers a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Afterwards, settle into your hotel and relax.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort
Begin with a morning safari in Udawalawe National Park. Look for elephants, crocodiles, water buffalo, wild animals such as buffalo, and many bird species. Return to the hotel for breakfast or enjoy a packed meal during the game drive. Afterwards, drive south to the historic city of Galle. Explore the colonial Dutch Fort, walk along its walls, and enjoy the charming old town atmosphere. Continue to Ahangama for a relaxing overnight stay by the beach.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Amangalla
Amangalla is a historic hotel located within the walls of the historic Galle Fort. The 17th-century Dutch fort is a collection of Colonial buildings including Amangalla, that offers discerning travellers a distinctive experience of modern-day comforts within its 300-year-old heritage building. Many original features such as the teakwood-floors have been carefully restored and rooms furnished with a charming mix of antiques and faithful colonial reproductions.
Enjoy a relaxing day by the beach or pool in Ahangama. If you like, join an optional whale-watching excursion off the coast of Mirissa, a nearby town known for its marine life. With luck, you might see blue and sperm whales, as well as enjoy dolphin watching—Mirissa is renowned for sightings of both blue whales and sperm whales, the largest toothed predator in the ocean, alongside playful dolphins. Or simply stay at the resort and enjoy a restful day, reflecting on your journey through Sri Lanka.
Meals Included: Breakfast
On your final day, drive to Colombo for a short city tour. Visit a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple, and colonial sites such as the Dutch Wolvendaal Church and Town Hall. Take in the mix of old and new in this lively capital. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of your time in Sri Lanka.
Meals Included: Breakfast
The inspiration for this unique Sri Lanka tour stems from our love for the island’s breathtaking diversity and cultural richness. During our travels, we were enchanted by its seamless blend of history, nature, and vibrant traditions. From climbing the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the deep connection to the past was palpable. Witnessing the lives of the Veddha people and sharing meals with local families offered a window into traditions that have been preserved through centuries.
Equally compelling were the pristine landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. The serene beauty of Horton Plains and the thrill of spotting elephants and leopards in national parks like Wilpattu and Udawalawe left an indelible mark. In Minneriya National Park, we were amazed by the large population of elephants, especially during the famous gathering when herds congregate in impressive numbers. It's important to note that the monsoon season in Sri Lanka plays a key role in wildlife viewing and travel planning, as rainfall patterns affect animal movements and the best times to visit different regions. We designed this tour to weave together these transformative experiences, creating a journey that captures the soul of Sri Lanka—a perfect balance of cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation by the coastal shores.
YOUR TRIP DESIGN, PACE & FLEXIBILITY: This Sri Lanka Wildlife & Highlands Expedition is fully private and built around your preferred dates, pace and comfort level, combining national-park wildlife with cooler tea-country highlands and scenic overland journeys. We will advise the best routing to balance safari timing with realistic travel days, then refine the day-by-day with you. The programme can be tailored—adding extra safari time, slowing the pace in the hills, or adjusting the order to match seasonal conditions. Monsoon patterns and park dynamics can influence where viewing is strongest, so we plan with practical buffers and sensible sequencing.
PRIVATE GUIDES, DRIVERS & ON-THE-GROUND SUPPORT: This is a high-end private journey with a dedicated vehicle and driver throughout, and specialist guiding arranged where it adds real value—particularly for wildlife and key cultural or scenic visits. We manage airport meet-and-greet, seamless hotel arrivals, and well-timed departures for game drives, when early mornings and late afternoons are often best for animal activity. Park access rules, traffic and road conditions can affect the day’s flow, so we build contingency into the plan and re-sequence when needed to protect the core experiences.
ACCOMMODATION STANDARDS & MEAL BASIS: We select premium, well-located accommodation to match your brief, typically combining high-comfort stays near the parks with characterful highland properties for cooler nights and views. We prioritise comfort, service and positioning to reduce transit time and maximise time in the places that matter—wildlife zones and hill-country scenery. Breakfast is typically included, with other meals arranged around your preferences and the day’s logistics; some lodges may be more inclusive. Your final itinerary will confirm what is included each day, and we will advise realistically where dining options are limited.
FLIGHTS, VISAS, HEALTH & TRAVEL INSURANCE: This itinerary is primarily overland with private touring between regions; domestic flights are not usually required, but can be considered if they materially reduce long transfers. International flights are optional: we can arrange the trip as land-only, or include flights as part of a flight-inclusive package under our ATOL (where applicable). Entry requirements depend on your passport; we will guide you on typical requirements and timing, while you remain responsible for meeting visa and entry rules. Expect warm conditions in lowland parks, cooler temperatures in the highlands, and moderate activity on safaris and short walks. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
COSTING, PAYMENTS, CHANGES & CANCELLATIONS: Tailor-made pricing is built from live supplier rates (accommodation, private transport, safari logistics and excursions), so availability and costs can change until bookings are secured. The main price drivers are seasonality, lodge category near the parks, the number of safari activities, and limited-inventory highland properties in peak periods. Some high-demand lodges may require advance payments to secure space; we will confirm exactly what is due and by when before taking payment. Changes after booking can trigger supplier fees or rate differences, particularly in peak periods; we will explain the impact before actioning changes and provide documentation so you understand deadlines and terms.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014