Tipped to be one of the must-have experiences when exploring Sri Lanka wild life safaris are fast gaining popularity in an island that is perhaps better known as a beach lover’s paradise. Rich in bio- diversity and verdant landscapes untouched by human development the isle that was once known as Ceylon is a conservationist’s dream come true due to the sheer variety of wild life experiences on offer. From natural reserves and protected rainforests to safari parks and wild life sanctuaries the more than 10 national parks in the island guarantee visitors a wildlife excursion geared to their requirements and preferences. Open-air jeep tours are perhaps the most popular method of safari travel in the island which requires only a pair of binoculars and a healthy curiosity about the ways of the wild.
Starting off at 6am morning safaris pack in 4-5 hours of viewing wild animals in their natural surroundings while night safaris which begin in the evening hours are equally thrilling. Elephant enthusiasts will find no finer alternative to the Uda Walawe National Park which boasts a large number of elephants as well as other mammals the likes of foxes, deer, cloth bears, jackals, samba, crocodiles and wild buffaloes. Water monitor lizards are also found within this verdant parkland that is best explored during the dry months of the year. Yala is of course the country’s most renowned national park having been featured in many a Discovery Channel documentary. Leopards are a special treat reserved for visitors to Yala as Sri Lanka is home to the largest leopard populace on the planet and a large number of the magnificent creatures call Yala home. Boasting over 130 species of birds Yala is also a haven for bird watchers while aquatic birds are found in the Yala East mangrove forests.
The Minneriya National Park is another must-see highlight for birders in addition to the Bundala Nature Reserve which is home to more than 150 species of birds. Massive squirrels, elephants and crocodiles are also part of the landscape which plays host to visiting flamingos in winter. The Wilpattu National Park also offers visitors a glimpse of rare mammals while the Singharaja Rainforest is a breathtaking enclave that is home to 147 species of birds and nearly 45 reptile varieties. Wild life boat safaris are available at Gal Oya while jeep treks and catamaran excursions are on offer in Kandulla-Habarana.
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