Ceylon Wildlife, Highlands & Southern Coast

Minneriya National Park: Morning/late-morning safari to view the spectacular elephant gatherings (seasonal), waterfowl and other wildlife along the lake. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb the UNESCO-listed “Lion Rock” and explore frescoes, water gardens and ancient royal remains. Panoramic summit views. Matale Spice Gardens: Short stop to tour spice orchards — cinnamon, cardamom, pepper — with an option to sample or purchase fresh spices. Continue to Kandy in the evening. Overnight: Kandy

Kandy: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa) — one of Buddhism’s most important shrines. Walk around Kandy Lake and explore local markets. Depart to the hill country with scenic tea-country vistas. Ramboda Falls: Stop en route to admire the 109 m waterfall (11th highest in Sri Lanka). Nuwara Eliya (Little England): Leisurely evening stroll at Gregory Lake and colonial town center. Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

Horton Plains National Park: Early drive to Horton Plains (approx. 2,300 m). Short hikes to World’s End and Baker’s Falls — spectacular plateau scenery and endemic wildlife (sambar deer, langurs). Descend and continue toward the southeast for the Yala region. Overnight: Near Yala

Yala National Park: Morning safari (or afternoon depending on schedule) in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Professional naturalist guide included. Transfer to the southern coastline: Unawatuna — enjoy coral-fringed beaches and Rumassala headland legend. Overnight: Mirissa area

Mirissa: Optional early morning whale/dolphin watching (seasonal — Nov–Apr best for blue whales). Relax on Mirissa beach afterward. Kanneliya Rainforest: Visit UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve — guided walk through one of Sri Lanka’s most biodiverse wet-zone forests, spot endemic amphibians, birds and butterflies. Proceed to Hikkaduwa for evening beach time. Overnight: Hikkaduwa

Madu River Boat Safari: Cruise the mangrove-fringed lagoon on a guided boat trip; visit small islands, cinnamon/coconut gardens, and observe mangrove birdlife and reptiles. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: Visit the conservation hatchery; learn about sea turtle protection and (season permitting) release hatchlings. Bentota: Late afternoon arrival; stroll palm-fringed beaches or visit local craftsmen (wood carving demonstrations). Overnight: Bentota

• Leisurely morning in Bentota — beach, optional water sports, or Ayurveda spa (optional extra).

• Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in time for your onward flight.