Tour Details & Information
The Sri Lanka Safari Grand Loop
Tour Details
Tour Description
This 18-day tour is designed to show Sri Lanka's extraordinary wildlife in full. Five full-day jeep safaris take you through Wilpattu, Yala, Kumana, Udawalawe, and the elephant-rich plains of Habarana, while a boat safari in Gal Oya offers one of the rarest wildlife experiences on the island. A guided trek through Sinharaja Rainforest, a scenic hill country train ride, and stops at four UNESCO World Heritage Sites add culture, heritage, and highland beauty to the journey. From the surf beaches of Arugam Bay and the calm shores of Pasikuda to the coral reefs of Bentota, this tour covers Sri Lanka from coast to coast and park to park.
Tour Route
Key Destinations
Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka (Chilaw Beach)
On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, a Chauffeur Guide will be there to meet you and assist with the transfer to Chilaw, a quiet coastal town a short drive from the airport. Check into the hotel and spend a relaxed first evening by the sea.
Day 2 – Wilpattu Safari (Full Day)
After breakfast, the journey continues to Wilpattu National Park for a full day jeep safari. Sri Lanka's largest national park is home to leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife. Overnight stay at a nearby hotel.
Day 3 – Habarana
After breakfast, the journey continues from Wilpattu to Habarana. In the late afternoon, a visit to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient rock fortress dating back to the 5th century, offers a memorable sunset view from the summit. Overnight stay in Habarana.
Day 4 – Habarana Safari (Full Day)
The day is dedicated to a full day jeep safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park. The guide will select the most suitable park based on the season and elephant gathering patterns. Overnight stay in Habarana.
Day 5 – Pasikuda Beach
The journey to Pasikuda begins with a stop at the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's best preserved medieval kingdoms. The remainder of the day is spent at Pasikuda Beach, known for its calm, shallow waters and scenic coastal setting. Overnight stay in Pasikuda.
Day 6 – Gal Oya Boat Safari
After breakfast, the journey continues to Gal Oya National Park for a boat safari through the heart of the jungle. Gal Oya is one of the few places in Sri Lanka where elephants can be observed swimming and wading through open water a rare and memorable wildlife experience. Overnight stay at Gal Oya.
Day 7 – Arugam Bay Beach
After breakfast, the journey continues to Arugam Bay, a well known surf destination on Sri Lanka's east coast. Spend the evening at leisure by the beach. Overnight stay in Arugam Bay.
Day 8 – Kumana Safari
After an early breakfast, the day is dedicated to a full day jeep safari in Kumana National Park, one of Sri Lanka's most important bird sanctuaries and home to leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. Return to Arugam Bay for a second overnight stay.
Day 9 – Ella
After breakfast, the journey continues to Ella, one of Sri Lanka's most scenic hill country towns. The route passes Ravana Falls, with an optional zipline experience over the valley for those interested. On arrival in Ella, a hike up Little Adam's Peak and a visit to the Nine Arch Bridge, one of the most photographed landmarks in Sri Lanka, are the highlights of the day. Overnight stay in Ella.
Day 10 – Ella
After breakfast, the morning begins with a scenic train journey through Sri Lanka's hill country, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world. The remainder of the day is free to explore Ella at a comfortable pace. Overnight stay in Ella.
Day 11 – Yala Safari (Full Day)
The day is dedicated to a full day jeep safari in Yala National Park, one of the world's highest leopard-density reserves and Sri Lanka's most celebrated wildlife destination. The park is home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles across a varied landscape of forest, scrubland, and lagoons. Overnight stay in Kataragama.
Day 12 – Udawalawe
After breakfast, the journey continues to Udawalawe. Along the way, a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home offers the chance to observe the feeding of rescued elephant calves, a centre dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned elephants before returning them to the wild. Overnight stay in Udawalawe.
Day 13 – Udawalawe Safari (Full Day)
An early morning departure for Udawalawe National Park marks the start of a full day jeep safari, one of the best times to observe elephants and other wildlife as the park comes to life with the first light of the day. Another overnight stay in Udawalawe.
Day 14 – Sinharaja Rain Forest
After breakfast, the journey continues to Sinharaja, Sri Lanka's last surviving primary rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remainder of the day is spent at leisure in the calm surroundings of the forest. Overnight stay near Sinharaja.
Day 15 – Sinharaja Rain Forest Trekking (Full Day)
The day begins with a guided trek through Sinharaja Rainforest. Home to rare endemic birds, unique plant species, and wildlife found nowhere else on earth, the forest offers a wildlife experience entirely different from the open parks. The remainder of the day is free to rest and enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings. Overnight stay near Sinharaja.
Day 16 – Bentota Beach
After breakfast, the journey continues to Bentota, one of Sri Lanka's most celebrated beach destinations. The afternoon offers a boat trip over vibrant coral reefs and a chance to encounter sea turtles both at a local hatchery and in their natural ocean habitat. For those seeking more activity, Bentota's beaches offer a wide range of water sports to enjoy at leisure. Overnight stay at a nearby hotel.
Day 17 – Colombo
After breakfast, the journey concludes with a drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka's vibrant commercial capital. A guided city tour reveals the fascinating mix of modern life, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage that defines this dynamic city. A delicious seafood lunch can be arranged on request. Overnight stay in Colombo.
Day 18 – Departure
The journey comes to an end with a final transfer to the airport. The chauffeur guide will be there to say a warm farewell and to wish you safe travels home.
Tour Highlights
Experience the best of Sri Lanka with these exclusive tour highlights
Private, air-conditioned transport with a friendly licensed Tourist Chauffeur Guide.
Handpicked stays to match your budget (hotel, boutique, villa, guesthouse, or homestay) on Bed & Breakfast.
Five full-day jeep safaris at Wilpattu, Minneriya/Kaudulla/Hurulu, Yala, Kumana, and Udawalawe.
Gal Oya boat safari, observing elephants swimming in open water.
One full day guided trek through Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, rescued elephant calf feeding session.
Scenic hill country train journey through Sri Lanka's tea country.
Colombo city tour with optional seafood lunch.
Beach BBQ evening (planned around weather, local rules, and the best safe spot).
Package Add-Ons
Enhance your experience with these optional extras
A full range of beach sports: jet skiing, water skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, water polo, kitesurfing, snorkelling, coral viewing, scuba diving, fishing, and more.
Ayurvedic spa and wellness treatments.
Nightlife, beach bars, and clubbing.
Shopping at local markets and modern malls.
Village tours and cultural encounters.
Upgrade your holiday with professional photography and videography. High quality cameras and drones are used to create mini documentary style videos and social media ready reels at competitive prices.
Package Exclusions
The following items are not included in this tour package
Alcoholic beverages.
Lunch, dinner, and any extra meals or drinks ordered inside or outside the hotel.
Charges for early check-in or late check-out.
Tips and all personal expenses.
Travel insurance, visa fees, and airfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about this itinerary.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
This tour runs year round. Sri Lanka's wildlife parks and highland destinations remain accessible in all seasons, though your guide will adjust the safari park selection based on current conditions and elephant gathering patterns.
How many safari experiences are included in this tour?
The tour includes six safari experiences — five full-day jeep safaris in Wilpattu, Minneriya/Kaudulla/Hurulu, Yala, Kumana, and Udawalawe, plus a boat safari in Gal Oya National Park.
What makes the Gal Oya boat safari different from a jeep safari?
Gal Oya is one of the very few places in Sri Lanka where elephants can be observed swimming and wading through open water. The experience of watching wildlife from a boat in the heart of the jungle is entirely different from a standard jeep safari.
What is the chance of spotting a leopard?
Wilpattu and Yala are two of the best places in the world to spot the Sri Lankan leopard. Sightings are never guaranteed in the wild, but both parks offer excellent conditions and experienced guides to maximise every opportunity.
What wildlife can be seen at Kumana National Park?
Kumana is primarily known as one of Sri Lanka's most important bird sanctuaries, with large colonies of water birds nesting in the lagoons. The park is also home to leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
This tour operates year round. However, the dry season from December to April is generally the best time for wildlife sightings and beach conditions across most regions covered in this itinerary.
Is this itinerary customisable?
Yes. Glimpse of Lanka specialises in tailoring tours to individual preferences. The duration, accommodation, and activities can all be adjusted to suit your group size, travel style, and budget.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes. The jeep safaris, train ride, beach stops, and wildlife encounters make this an exciting and memorable journey for children of all ages. The pace is comfortable and well-balanced.
Can I add more activities to this theme?
Of course. You may include any activities you prefer, and we will arrange them for you.
How can I find out the total cost of this tour?
Once you complete and submit your enquiry, we will send a detailed quotation to your email.
Can we contact you directly?
Yes, you can call or WhatsApp us on +94 76 529 6119 for quick assistance.
What type of accommodation is included?
We offer a wide range of options, from guest houses and homestays to premium boutique hotels and 5-star resorts. Your stay will be selected according to your budget and preference.
Can you design a fully tailor-made itinerary instead of this themed tour?
Certainly. We can create a personalised itinerary just for you. Simply click the Plan Your Trip button on our homepage and fill in the form. You may also reach us directly via call or WhatsApp on +94 76 529 6119 for an immediate response.
Are entrance fees and activities included?
Most optional activities are not included unless your quotation says otherwise. Examples: kitesurfing, diving, snorkelling operators, whale watching, water sports. These are usually paid directly to the operator on site if you choose to do them.
Do you provide a guide throughout the tour?
Yes. A professional, Government Licensed Chauffeur Tourist Guide Lecturer will accompany you for the entire journey and assist you on all travel days.
Do you offer discounts for groups?
Yes. Group bookings and long stays may qualify for special rates. Please inquire for details.
Will I definitely see leopards, whales, or dolphins?
Sightings depend on weather, sea conditions, and animal movement. Your guide will help choose the best timing, but it is always a matter of luck.
Is this itinerary relaxed or fast paced?
It is mostly relaxed, with several two-night stays (Kalpitiya, Jaffna, Nilaveli, Pasikuda, Arugam Bay, Ella, Mirissa, Galle). This helps reduce packing and long drives.
Are meals included in the package?
Breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner can be added upon request, or you can enjoy local restaurants during your trip.
Do you support dietary requirements?
Yes. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten free, and other dietary needs with prior notice.
Can you arrange photography and drone videography?
Yes. We offer professional photo and video coverage with high grade cameras and drones at a competitive rate.
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