📍 Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA WILD: SAFARI TRAILS TO SUN-DRENCHED SOUTHERN SHORES

Leopards prowling through golden grasslands, blue whales rising from depths, jungle tumbling toward deserted beaches. Wild Sri Lanka.

≈ 11
Days
461
Km
10
Stops
📖 6 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Follow dawn in Yala's plains searching for leopards, then reach Udawalawe and its elephants. Head out to Mirissa to watch whales, then relax on Tangalle beaches where jungle meets sea. Southern Sri Lanka blends wildlife, coastal villages and wide tropical horizons.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Udawalawe

elephant gathering grounds reservoir shores graze

🔍

Discover

1
Udawalawe National Park, sanctuary for wild elephants with more than 500 individuals.
🎯

Activities

Jeep safari to observe elephants, water buffalo and aquatic birds.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 81 km
Travel time: 1h09
2
Day

Yala

highest leopard density thorny wilderness prowl

🔍

Discover

1
Yala National Park, reserve with the highest density of leopards in the world.
🎯

Activities

Morning safari in search of elusive leopards.
Evening safari to observe sloth bears and marsh crocodiles.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 81 km
Travel time: 1h09
3
Day

Tangalle

rugged coastline deserted beaches fishing boats

🔍

Discover

1
Hummanaya Blow Hole, natural marine geyser propelling water 25m high.
2
Secret beaches of Tangalle, deserted coves bordered by palm trees.
🎯

Activities

Snorkeling in little-frequented coral reefs.
Swimming and relaxation on Silent Beach or Goyambokka Beach.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 41 km
Travel time: 35min
4
Day

Weligama

surf lessons bay stilt fishermen iconic

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Discover

1
Weligama Beach, peaceful bay renowned for its surf schools.
2
Stilt fishermen, traditional fishing technique emblematic of Sri Lanka.
🎯

Activities

Beginner surf lessons on the gentle waves of Weligama Bay.
Visit to a sea turtle farm to see baby turtles.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 14 km
Travel time: 12min
5
Day

Mirissa

blue whale watching palm-fringed crescent beach

🔍

Discover

1
Coconut Tree Hill, iconic hill with alignment of coconut trees facing the ocean.
2
Parrot Rock, rock accessible at low tide with panoramic view of Mirissa Beach.
🎯

Activities

Boat excursion to observe blue whales and sperm whales in season.
Sunset with cocktail on the lively beach of Mirissa.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 27 km
Travel time: 23min
6
Day

Galle

rampart walks lighthouse colonial charm preserved

🔍

Discover

1
Galle Fort, colonial fortified city with ramparts, churches and Dutch buildings.
2
Dutch Reformed Church, 18th century church with tombstone floor.
3
National maritime museum retracing the colonial epic and spice trade.
🎯

Activities

Walk on the ramparts at sunset with ocean view.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 14 km
Travel time: 12min
7
Day

Unawatuna

sheltered bay snorkeling coral calm waters

🔍

Discover

1
Unawatuna Beach, horseshoe bay with golden sand and calm water.
2
Jungle Beach, small secret cove accessible by jungle trail.
🎯

Activities

Snorkeling on the coral reef of Unawatuna.
Stand-up paddle in the tranquil bay at sunrise.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 81 km
Travel time: 1h09
8
Day

Bentota

lagoon mangroves water sports resort beaches

🔍

Discover

1
Brief Garden, tropical garden created by architect Bevis Bawa with sculptures and lush vegetation.
2
Bentota Beach, long stretch of sand bordered by palm trees.
🎯

Activities

Water sports: jet-ski, banana boat or wakeboard on the river.
Sunset cruise on the Bentota River with bird watching.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 27 km
Travel time: 23min
9
Day

Hikkaduwa

sea turtle sanctuary reef diving backpacker

🔍

Discover

1
Hikkaduwa coral reef, marine sanctuary accessible from the beach.
2
Tsunami Honganji Vihara, Buddhist temple built after the 2004 tsunami.
🎯

Activities

Scuba diving initiation in crystal-clear waters.
Surfing on waves suitable for all levels.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 95 km
Travel time: 1h21
10
Day

Colombo

urban pulse pettah markets galle face

🔍

Discover

1
Galle Face Green, seaside promenade where Colombo residents gather.
2
Pettah district, chaotic and colorful market with its themed alleyways.
🎯

Activities

Local street food tasting: kottu, hoppers and wade.
Traditional Ayurvedic massage to beautifully conclude the trip.

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Dry Season - West and South (December-March): This period offers the best weather for exploring Colombo, the southern beaches, and hill country regions with minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures (26-30°C), and calm seas perfect for beach activities. Tourist crowds reach their peak during December and January holidays, resulting in higher accommodation prices and advance booking requirements. The monsoon winds from the northeast create ideal surfing conditions on the south coast, while the hill country enjoys cool, clear weather perfect for tea plantation visits and hiking.

Dry Season - East and North (May-September): The eastern and northern coasts experience their dry season during these months, offering excellent beach weather, calm seas, and minimal rainfall while the west coast faces monsoon conditions. This period provides opportunities to explore less crowded eastern beaches like Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, along with northern cultural sites like Jaffna and Anuradhapura. Temperatures remain warm (28-32°C) with lower humidity levels, making this ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities in the eastern regions.

Shoulder Seasons (April and October-November): These transitional periods offer the best value for money with moderate weather conditions across most regions, though brief afternoon showers are common as monsoon patterns shift. Tourist crowds diminish significantly, resulting in lower accommodation prices and more authentic local experiences. April can be quite hot (30-35°C) before the rains begin, while October-November provides pleasant post-monsoon conditions with lush green landscapes and refreshed waterfalls throughout the island.

Monsoon Seasons (Southwest: May-September, Northeast: October-January): While challenging for beach activities, monsoon periods offer unique experiences including spectacular waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and dramatically reduced tourist crowds. The southwest monsoon affects the western and southern coasts but often brings only afternoon showers, allowing morning sightseeing and cultural activities. Budget travelers can find excellent accommodation deals during monsoon periods, while the rain enhances the island's natural beauty and fills reservoirs and waterways.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 9 and 13 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Sri Lanka?

Pearl of the Indian Ocean with ancient temples, tea plantations, and incredible wildlife. Experience cultural diversity, beautiful beaches, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. The country offers spiritual experiences with natural beauty and cultural depth. Sri Lanka provides transformative cultural experiences with natural wonders and historical significance.