Tour Summary
Recommend for :
Experience Highlights:
Leopards are among the most captivating big cats in the wild and they have own way of stealing hearts. They are stunningly beautiful, elusive and one of a kind. With their golden coats dappled in rosette-shaped spots, they move through the wild like living art and also making every sighting feel like a rare privilege anyone.
Wildlife lovers and specially the wildlife photographers are drawn to their graceful movements as well as powerful hunting skills in their natural habitats.
Sri Lanka is lucky to call a rare subspecies its own: the Sri Lankan leopard, Panthera pardus kotiya. You won’t find them anywhere else on Earth. They roam freely here, unchallenged by lions or tigers, making this island one of the finest places in the world to see leopards in the wild.
Here’s the exciting part – Sri Lanka isn’t just good for leopard sightings, the island has earned global recognition as one of the top places on earth to see these majestic cats in the wild.
What makes Sri Lanka truly special is that its leopards reign supreme. With no lions or tigers to compete with, they roam with ease and confidence, often appearing more relaxed and visible than in other parts of the world.
Yala National Park is leading being home to the highest leopard density in the world. That means your chances of spotting one – especially during daylight hours are better here than anywhere else, but again depending on the twist of your luck.
The numbers speak for themselves, as around 800 mature leopards are estimated to live across the island while major national parks boast numbers as Yala’s Block 1 alone boasts up to 21.7 leopards per 100 km². Wilpattu follows with 16.2 and Horton Plains with 11.7. Kumana, Sri Lanka’s rising star – now ranks second globally in leopard density.
For this itinerary, we have handpicked four of the best national parks where you will have the highest chances of spotting leopards;
- Wilpattu National Park
- Yala National Park
- Kumana National Park
- Horton Plains
Best time to see leopards in each park:
| National Park | Best Time to Visit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yala | February to August | Closed in September–October due to monsoon |
| Wilpattu | February to September | Dry season draws wildlife to waterholes |
| Kumana | May to September | Active around swamps and estuaries |
| Horton Plains | Year-round (esp. dry spells) | Sightings near World’s End Road |
Do not hesitate to speak to one of our Travel Designers to start planning your customized Leopard journey in Sri Lanka, that brings you face-to-face with the elusive beauty of Sri Lanka’s leopards, and the magic of the island’s untamed wilderness.
DAY 1 -Wilpattu
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and receive a warm welcome with assistance. Proceed with a comfortable transfer to Wilpattu. Check in to your hotel, unwind, and relax after your journey. Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Wilpattu surrounded by nature.
Activities
- Pickup and Assistance at the Airport.
- Transfer to Wilpattu.
- Check-Into The Hotel and Relax.
- Overnight stay in Wilpattu.
Wilpattu Highlights
Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais & Chateaux★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Negombo → Wilpattu • 5 Hours 27min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 2 - Wilpattu
Experience an exciting full-day safari at Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest wildlife reserves, known for its peaceful and less crowded atmosphere. Explore its unique landscapes of forest and natural lakes while spotting wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry picnic lunch in the heart of nature before settling in for an overnight stay surrounded by the calm and beauty of the wilderness.
Day 2 Activities
- Today head out for a full-day safari in Wilpattu – Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park!
- It’s a quiet, less touristy spot where you might just catch a glimpse of a leopard in the wild.
- Enjoy a Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Picnic Lunch.
- Overnight stay in Wilpattu.
Wilpattu Highlights
Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais & Chateaux★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Negombo → Wilpattu • 5 Hours 27min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 3 -Wilpattu
Begin your day with an early morning jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park, exploring its vast wilderness and spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to the campsite and unwind in the calm, untouched surroundings of the park. In the evening, enjoy a guided bush walk through the forest, offering a closer connection to nature, followed by a memorable private bush dinner under the stars. Overnight stay in Wilpattu, immersed in the tranquility of the wild.
Day 3 Activities
- Morning Jeep Safari in Wilpattu National Park.
- Relax at The Campsite.
- Evening Enjoy a Guided Bush Walks.
- Experience Private Bush Dinner.
- Overnight stay in Wilpattu.
Wilpattu Highlights
Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais & Chateaux★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Negombo → Wilpattu • 5 Hours 27min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 4 - Habarana
Travel to Habarana, a peaceful village in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle known for its rural lifestyle, traditions, and natural surroundings. Experience an authentic village tour to discover local culture and daily life. In the evening, enjoy a jeep safari at nearby Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, or Hurulu Eco Park, famous for elephant gatherings. Overnight stay in Habarana.
Day 4 Activities
- Transfer to Habarana.
- Experience a Sri Lankan Village Tour.
- Evening Go on a Jeep Safari in Minneriya/Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco Park, which is popular for spotting elephant gathering depending on the period of your travels.
- Overnight stay in Habarana.
Habarana Highlights
Habarana Village by Cinnamon★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Wilpattu → Habarana • 3 Hours 47min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 5 - Kandy
Start your journey in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, known for its sacred heritage and hill country charm. After exploring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, travel to Kandy via Nalanda Gedige en route. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show highlighting Sri Lanka’s rich performing arts. Overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 5 Activities
- Morning Climb and Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Transfer to Kandy.
- En Route Visit to Nalanda Gedige.
- Evening Witness Cultural Dance Show.
- Overnight stay in Kandy.
Kandy Highlights
Earl's Regent Hotel★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Habarana → Kandy • 3 Hours
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 6 - Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill country town in Sri Lanka, famous for its cool climate, misty landscapes, and colonial-style architecture. Often called “Little England,” it is surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and lush green hills, making it one of the most scenic destinations in the country.
Day 6 Activities
- Morning Pay a Visit to Tooth Relic Temple of Kandy.
- Transfer to Nuwara Eliya.
- En Route Stop at Ramboda Waterfall for Photographic Opportunities.
- Visit a Tea Plantation and a Tea Factory and Experience Tea Tasting and Tea Plucking with Local Tamil Tea Workers.
- Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwareliya Highlights
The Golden Ridge Hotelx★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Kandy → Nuwara Eliya • 2 Hours 32min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 7 - Nuwara Eliya
Day 7 Activities
- Morning Trek to Horton Plains and World’s End.
- Discover the Diverse Collection of Flora and Fauna Endemic to the Region.
- Relax at The Hotel Enjoying the Facilities.
- Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwara Eliya Highlights
The Golden Ridge Hotelx★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Kandy → Nuwara Eliya • 2 Hours 32min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 8 - Panama
Panama is a quiet coastal village near the edge of Sri Lanka’s southeast wilderness, known for its peaceful surroundings, untouched beaches, and close proximity to national parks. It offers a calm, nature-filled escape with beautiful landscapes and a relaxed rural atmosphere.
Day 8 Activities
- Morning Transfer to Panama.
- En Route Stop for Refreshments and Photography.
- Check-Into the Lodge and Relax.
- Overnight stay in Panama.
Panama Highlights
Nayara Bocas del Torox★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Nuwara Eliya → Panama • 3 Hours 23min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 9 - Panama
Travel from Panama to Kumana National Park, a beautiful coastal wilderness area in Sri Lanka’s southeast, known for its lagoons, wetlands, and rich birdlife.
Enjoy a full-day safari in Kumana National Park, a peaceful and less crowded wildlife destination where you may spot elephants, leopards, and a wide variety of migratory birds. Experience the park’s natural beauty while enjoying a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry picnic lunch in the wilderness. Return for an overnight stay in Panama.
Day 9 Activities
- Transfer to Kumana.
- Go on a Full Day Safari in Kumana National Park, where a peaceful, experience is guaranteed
when comparing with other national parks. This national park is popular for birds, wild
elephants, and leopards. - Enjoy a Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Picnic Lunch.
- Overnight stay in Panama.
Panama Highlights
Nayara Bocas del Torox★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Nuwara Eliya → Panama • 3 Hours 23min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 10 - Panama
Panama is a quiet coastal village in Sri Lanka’s southeast, known for its untouched beaches, rural charm, and close connection to nature. It serves as a peaceful gateway to nearby wildlife destinations and offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Day 10 Activities
- Transfer to Kumana.
- Hop on a Jeep to Thrill Yourself with Another Full Day Safari Experience in Kumana
National Park. - Enjoy a Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Picnic Lunch.
- Overnight stay in Panama.
Panama Highlights
Nayara Bocas del Toro★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Nuwara Eliya → Panama • 3 Hours 23min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 11 - Yala
Yala is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife destinations, known for its vast national parks, rich biodiversity, and rugged natural beauty. Surrounded by forests, lagoons, and coastal landscapes, Yala offers an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of the wild.
Day 11Activities
- Morning Transfer to Yala.
- Afternoon, enjoy a Jeep Safari in Bundala National – one of the best national parks to spot migratory waterbirds, hosting over 200 bird species.
- Overnight stay in Yala.
Yala Highlights
Aqua Hotel Yalax★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Panama → Yala • 3.5 Hours
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 12 - Yala
Yala is Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife destination, famous for its vast wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife. Surrounded by forests, lagoons, and coastal landscapes, Yala is especially known for its leopard population, wild elephants, sloth bears, and incredible birdlife, offering an unforgettable safari experience in nature.
Day 12 Activities
- Head out today, for a Full Day Safari experience in Yala National Park, which is the country’s most visited and second-largest national park.
- This national park is famed for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Enjoy an Authentic Rice and Curry Lunch at a Shady Place Inside the Park.
- After The Safari, Refresh and Relax at The Campsite.
- Overnight stay in Yala.
Yala Highlights
Aqua Hotel Yala★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Panama → Yala • 3.5 Hours
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 13 - Yala
Set out on another thrilling full-day jeep safari in Yala National Park, exploring its diverse wildlife and landscapes. Enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan rice and curry picnic lunch in the heart of the park. In the evening, unwind with a mouth-watering BBQ dinner by a roaring campfire. Overnight stay in Yala.
Day 13 Activities
- Hop on a Jeep to Thrill Yourself with Another Full Day Safari Experience in Yala National Park.
- Enjoy a Sri Lankan Rice and Curry Picnic Lunch.
- Indulge in a Mouth-Watering BBQ Dinner by a Roaring Campfire.
- Overnight stay in Yala.
Yala Highlights
Aqua Hotel Yalax★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Panama → Yala • 3.5 Hours
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 14 - Galle
Colombo is the bustling capital and commercial heart of Sri Lanka, where modern city life blends beautifully with colonial heritage, coastal charm, and vibrant street culture. Located along the western coastline, Colombo is known for its dynamic atmosphere, diverse cuisine, shopping experiences, and rich cultural landmarks—making it a perfect final stop on your journey.
Day 14 Activities
- Transfer to Galle.
- Evening Explore the Ramparts of Galle Fort and City.
- Enjoy Hotel Facilities.
- Overnight stay in Galle.
Galle Highlights
Galle Fort Hotel★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Yala → Galle • 1 Hours 20min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
DAY 15 - Galle
Travel from Galle to Bandaranaike International Airport with a comfortable transfer, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival for your departure flight.
Day 15 Activities
- Airport Transfer
Galle Highlights
Galle Fort Hotel★★★★
Breakfast & Dinner
Galle → Negombo • 2 Hours 15min
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
Journey Highlights
- Trip Length: 15 Days
- Best Time to Travel: November to April
- Transfers: Airport – Hotel – Tour Attractions – Airport
- Get ready to explore Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park – Wilpattu.
- Step off the beaten path into Wilpattu’s wild heart and discover hidden natural wonders with a knowledgeable naturalist.
- Explore vibrant cities and local culture, including Negombo fish markets and traditional cultural dance shows in Kandy.
- Enjoy scenic travel experiences such as the iconic train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella.
- Assistance at the Airport
- Airport pick up
- Airport drop off
- Private air-conditioned car
- Accommodation on Half Board basis (Breakfast only in Colombo) on mention hotels below
- Private English Speaking Chauffeur guide for the entire journey
- Fuel & local insurance for the vehicle
- Trincomalee city tour
- Kandy city tour
- Colombo city & shopping tour
- Sri Lanka Handicraft factory visit
- Tea plantation visit & factory visit – Free tea tasting
- All government taxes related to the traveling destination are included
- *Note: All rooms and tickets are subjected to availability.
- *Note: Travel durations listed in this itinerary are subjected to change, due to road, traffic & weather conditions. These suggested durations are estimated point to point without any stops. This is only a guideline for your understanding.
- Air tickets NOT included
- Sightseeing entrance charges (Unless Specified)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Camera & video permits
- Travel Insurance
- Guide/Driver tips
- Personal expenses
- Late check-outs & early check-in charges
- Early check in or late check out at all hotels based on availability
- Sri Lankan train rides are subject to availability and schedule changes; seats are not always guaranteed, and delays may occur due to local conditions
- Visa - https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
Booking information
Once booking details are submitted by you, we will go ahead with the booking process. At this stage, we require a 30% payment from you. A booking confirmation will reach you after 48 hours of making the payment. A balance of 70% of the payment is required, 30 days prior to the tour start date. Then you may go ahead with applying for Visa.
Cancellation Policy
All travel offers listed on our website are discounted. As such, all orders are non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Thus, no refund for Cancellations made with less than 30 days from the start of a tour and for No-show.
