Leopards & Legends: Sri Lanka's 6-Day Safari & Culture Tour

Give yourself the thrill of Sri Lanka in six exhilarating days, where tracking down leopards is as exhilarating as the stories and artistry of ancient culture!

This tour is particularly for those who enjoy the adventure of wildlife encounters along with the deeply inspiring culture and heritage of Sri Lanka, including the herd of elephants at Pinnawala and the sacred Temple of the Tooth, Sigriya Rock, the serene ancient cities, and the leopards of Wilpattu or Yala National Park.

Day 1: Gentle Giants & Spiritual Awakening (Kandy)

Kandy receives you with the serene Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where the delicate care offered to these magnificent creatures alongside heartwarming interactions is a sight to behold.

Head to the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Feel the spirituality within you while admiring the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple Of The Tooth). A centerpiece of perennial pleasure is the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, which is filled with tropical plants. Cap the day with the captivating Kandy dance performance.

Day 2: Ancient Heights & Cave Chronicles (Sigiriya & Dambulla)

As we visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress today (or the panoramic Pidurangala Rock), we will visit one of the country’s engineering marvels, Pidurangala Rock. It boasts rich artistry which serves as the unrivaled epitome of astounding characteristics of a UNESCO world heritage site.

Explore yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dambulla Cave Temples, which exhibits a beautifully decorated complex of cave temples blended with Buddhist murals and statues complemented by centuries of restive history.

Day 3: Sacred Cities & Wilderness Beckons (Anuradhapura & Wilpattu)

Visit Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, one of the oldest trees in Anuradhapura, a branch of the sacred Bodhi Tree, ancient Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jetawanarama Tempel, and Isurumuniya rock carvings. In addition to its status as a world heritage site, Anuradhapura was one of Sri Lanka’s capitals that dominated the rich Buddhist culture.

After the first half of the day, shift towards Isurumuniya later traveling towards Wilpattu National Park and prepare for your very first safari.

Day 4: Leopard Trails & Wilpattu National Park's Wildlife Encounters

Go on an adventurous Safari in Wilpattu National Park (or Yala, based on your preference and chosen wildlife hotspots). “Wilpattu” means “one with villus” and it is known for its natural lakes called villus where leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and tons of birds call it home. Feel the beautiful nature of beating wildlife in the region.

Day 5: Highland Beautiful & Colonial Echoes (Nuwara Eliya Region)

Proceed into the beautiful island highlands which also features the stunning Ramboda Falls. Trek in Horton Plains National Park (optional) known for biologically distinctive regions, including World’s End.

Head into Nuwara Eliya, a beautifully preserved colonial town bordered by tea estates. Stop at one of the Tea Factories to see how tea is produced and served with a cool glass of Ceylon tea.

Day 6: Ella & Yala’s Scenic Routes & Wildlife Finale

View stunning scenery in the Ella region such as the Nine Arch Bridge and Rawana Ella Waterfall. Go see the Embekka Temple, known to have the most intricate wooden sculptures.

In the afternoon, we head towards Yala National Park for another exhilarating Safari. Yala is famous for its leopard population, providing an additional opportunity to see these majestic predators, alongside elephants, water buffalo, and a myriad of birds. Your tour ends after the safari offering you wonderful memories of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and the cultural treasures it offers.

This tour is ideal for:

Wildlife lovers, especially those with a leopards sighting on their wishlist.

Travelers with an interest in Sri Lanka’s ancient civilizations and their culture.

Thrill-seekers wanting a mix of safari adventure and cultural immersion.

Persons with an appreciation for the variety of landscapes composed of ancient ruins, highlands, and national parks.

Come with us on the “Leopards & Legends” tour and explore the striking blend of Sri Lanka's wild nature and its vibrant culture!