Big Five Safari Sri Lanka
Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and 200 bird species — Sri Lanka's greatest wildlife show
About This Journey
Seven days tracking Sri Lanka's magnificent wildlife — dawn leopard safaris in Yala, the epic elephant gathering at Minneriya, optional whale watching from Mirissa, and cultural stops at ancient fortresses along the way.
Sri Lanka packs more wildlife into a smaller space than almost anywhere on earth. The island has the world's highest density of wild leopards, hosts annual elephant gatherings of 300+ individuals, and its southern coast is the world's best location for blue whale sightings.
This seven-day safari takes you deep into Yala National Park at dawn, places you at the edge of Minneriya Tank when the elephants arrive at dusk, and builds in iconic cultural landmarks along the way — because the best Sri Lanka safari also tells the story of this ancient island.
Destinations Visited
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day1Arrival — Transfer to Sigiriya Area
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport. Private transfer to your hotel near Sigiriya (3.5 hours). Evening wildlife briefing and itinerary overview from your naturalist guide.
Day2Sigiriya Rock & Minneriya — The Gathering
Early morning climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Afternoon transfer to Minneriya National Park. At dusk, witness the extraordinary spectacle of 200–400 wild elephants converging on the Minneriya Tank — one of the world's greatest wildlife gatherings.
Day3Transfer to Yala — Afternoon Safari
Transfer south to Yala (approximately 5 hours with lunch stop). Check in to your jungle lodge. Late-afternoon jeep drive along the lagoon fringe — the best time for leopard sightings as they emerge to drink.
Day4Yala — Full Dawn Safari Day
The day begins before sunrise. A 4-hour morning jeep safari through Block 1 — leopards on boulders, elephant herds at the lagoon edge, crocodiles on the banks, painted storks, and magnificent raptors. Return for breakfast. Optional afternoon safari.
Day5Yala Morning Safari — Transfer to South Coast
Final dawn safari before transferring to Mirissa on the south coast for two nights of rest and whale watching. Check in to your beachside property.
Day6Mirissa — Whale Watching & Beach
Optional pre-dawn whale-watching boat from Mirissa Harbour. Blue whales and sperm whales are regularly sighted from November to April, with spinner dolphins year-round. Afternoon at the beach. Optional snorkelling over the reef.
Day7Transfer to Airport — Departure
Morning at leisure on the beach. Transfer from Mirissa to Bandaranaike International Airport (approximately 2.5 hours). Farewell to Sri Lanka.
What's Included
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Options
Comfortable jungle lodges and tented camps adjacent to the national parks
Premium safari lodges with pool, naturalist guides, and private jeep for each safari
Exclusive lodges — Wild Coast Tented Lodge (Yala) and Cinnamon Lodge (Habarana)
Ideal For
Gallery
Other Signature Tours
Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park Day Tour
The ultimate 1-day adventure: climb the Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress and see huge herds of wild elephants in Minneriya National Park with private transport.
Best Honeymoon Itinerary in Sri Lanka
From ancient kingdoms and misty mountains to thrilling wildlife encounters and golden beaches, this honeymoon journey offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories in paradise.
Ancient Wonders, Wild Adventures & Tropical Dreams
A perfect 10-day itinerary balanced with ancient heritage, wild safari drives in Yala and Minneriya, scenic tea plantations, and stunning southern beaches.
Ready to Make This Journey Yours?
Every itinerary is a starting point. Our local experts will tailor every detail — hotels, pace, activities — to fit you perfectly.
Start Planning My Trip →