Panthera
Tour at a glance
Panthera plan specially designed to do leopard safari in Srilanka but not only leopard but also other mammals such like elephants, sloth, jackals, birds, reptiles and much more. this is a fully fledge wild life tour & this is the longest plan we have, it consisted 13 nights & 14 days in Srilanka. There are 10 game drives & 5 trekking included in this itinerary. Meal plan is BB ( bed & breakfast ) means your room in the hotel as well as breakfast is included. apart from that 2 lunches and 5 dinners are included. No beverages are included. You are going to stay on beautiful eco friendly properties such as 2 star or equivalent hotels, standard campsites & guest houses.
Apart from the included activities, there are free slots where you can utilize to do some optional activities. you can always talk to our guide & get his recommendations to plan your optional activities & we will mention some activities you can do in the optional activities section. Even though this is a wildlife tour we have given some space to experience the different aspects of srilanka just like, adventure, cuisines, history & culture.
There is a service of a professionally qualified National tourist guide or a Chauffer tourist guide throughout the tour & he or she will be with you 24X7. They are professionally qualified to do wild life tours & they are specialized in wild life, flora & fauna, birding, mammals, reptiles etc. apart from that part time service of safari trekkers and bird watching trekkers will be taken on site.
Tour in detail
Day 1: Arrival and Safari Experience in Wilpattu National Park
Welcome to Sri Lanka – the Paradise Island! Your journey begins with a warm welcome from our local representative, either at Bandaranaike International Airport or your hotel in Negombo. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic 4-hour drive (160 km) to the iconic Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, known for its unique “willus” (natural lakes) and diverse wildlife.
Upon arrival, gear up for an unforgettable afternoon game drive from 3 PM to 6 PM, where you may spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. After your exciting safari experience, you’ll be transferred to your nearby hotel for check-in and a relaxing overnight stay amidst nature.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Included activities
- Afternoon game drive (Leopard safari) – 3 hours
Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Experience at Wilpattu National Park
Start your day with an early morning pickup by your guide for a morning safari in Wilpattu National Park from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Renowned as one of the best places to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), Wilpattu offers a truly immersive wildlife experience. After the safari, return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and some leisure time to enjoy the hotel facilities and natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, you’ll head back into the park for a second game drive from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering more chances to witness Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. Conclude your adventurous day with a return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Included activities
- Morning game drive (Leopard safari) 3 hours
- Afternoon game drive (Leopard safari) 3 hours
Day 3: Travel to Habarana and Afternoon Elephant Safari
After a relaxing breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and set off on a scenic 2-hour journey covering 100 km to Habarana, a charming town known as the gateway to some of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves. Along the way, your expert tour guide will be available to recommend a variety of optional activities tailored to your interests, ensuring you make the most of your day.
In the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating game drive in search of the majestic Sri Lankan elephants (Elephas maximus maximus) roaming freely in their natural environment. After this unforgettable wildlife encounter, you will check in at your hotel in Habarana, where you can unwind and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast,
Accommodation
Hotel
Included activities
- Afternoon game drive (Elephant safari) 3 hours
Optional activities
- Experience an authentic Spa treatment at Habarana 30 USD onwards
- Visit Anuradhapura ancient kingdom 25 USD
Day 4: Scenic Journey to Wasgamuwa with Local Flavors
After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and embark on a scenic 2-hour drive covering 120 km to Wasgamuwa National Park, a hidden gem known for its rich biodiversity and serene landscapes. During the day, your expert tour guide will be available to recommend optional activities tailored to your interests, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.
As part of this journey, Wild Ceylon has arranged a traditional farmer’s lunch, offering you an authentic taste of Sri Lankan rural cuisine and culture. Following a day filled with natural beauty and local flavors, you will check in to your hotel in Wasgamuwa for a restful overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast, Farmer’s lunch
Accommodation
Hotel or Guest house
Optional activities
- Visit Lion’s rock ( sigiriya ) 35 USD + tax
- Visit Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom 25 USD
- Extra game drive in Minneriya NP – 70 USD per person
Day 5: Full-Day Safari Adventure in Wasgamuwa National Park
Another exciting day begins with an early morning departure to Wasgamuwa National Park for a thrilling game drive from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Known for its large herds of wild elephants and unspoiled natural beauty, Wasgamuwa offers a peaceful yet adventurous wildlife experience. After the safari, return to the hotel to enjoy a hearty breakfast and some well-deserved relaxation time.
In the afternoon, your guide will accompany you back to the park for a second game drive from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering more chances to spot elephants and other native wildlife. After a rewarding day of exploration, you’ll return to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel or Guest house
Included activities
- Morning game drive (Elephant safari) 3 hours
- Afternoon game drive (Elephant safari) 3 hours
Day 6: Scenic Transfer to Nuwara Eliya via Kandy with a Community Lunch Experience
Welcome to Day 06 of your Sri Lankan journey. After breakfast, you will check out from the hotel and begin your scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya, the country’s most beloved hill station, passing through the historic city of Kandy. Often referred to as the “Little England” of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is known for its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and colonial charm — so don’t forget to bring warm clothing for the crisp mountain air.
As a special highlight, Wild Ceylon has arranged a complimentary traditional Sri Lankan lunch prepared by local women as part of a government-supported women empowerment initiative. This experience not only offers you an authentic taste of Sri Lankan cuisine but also supports community development — a core value of Wild Ceylon’s responsible tourism philosophy.
Optional activities are available along the way and can be arranged through your guide. You’ll arrive in Nuwara Eliya later in the evening and check in at your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Hotel
Optional Activities
- Visit the sacred temple of tooth relic of Buddha in Kandy 7 USD
- Visit Royal botanical garden in Kandy 10 USD
- Visit a Tea factory & tea plucking experience 3 USD
Day 7: From Horton Plains to the Southern Wilds
Today promises another exciting day as you explore the stunning highlands of Sri Lanka, situated approximately 1,900 meters above sea level. Early in the morning, you’ll depart for Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its misty landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and the breathtaking World’s End viewpoint. Your hotel will provide a packed breakfast, which you can enjoy upon arrival after the scenic 32 km drive (around 1 hour).
Embark on a rewarding 9 km trek (approx. 3 hours) through grasslands and cloud forests, taking in the fresh mountain air and panoramic views. After completing the hike, you’ll return to the hotel, freshen up, and check out.
As you descend from the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya, you’ll bid farewell to the “Little England” and step back into the warmth of Sri Lanka’s southern region. Optional activities are available en route to enhance your travel experience. By late evening, you’ll check in at your hotel in Yala, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Included activities
- Morning trekking at Horton plains NP – 3 hours
Optional Activities
- Visit nine arches bridge & Mini adam’s peak – No entrance fee
Day 8: From Birds to Beasts: Bundala & Yala Safaris
Your day begins with an early morning departure for a safari in Bundala National Park from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, Bundala is home to a diverse range of migratory and resident bird species, and offers a tranquil wildlife experience near the southern coast of Sri Lanka. After your morning safari, return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast and time to relax and enjoy the surrounding environment.
In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the iconic Yala National Park for a thrilling game drive from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot elephants, sloth bears, and possibly the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. After a day full of remarkable wildlife encounters, return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Included activities
- Morning game drive (Bird watching) at Bundala NP – 3 hours
- Afternoon game drive (Leopard safari) at Yala NP -3 hours
Day 9: From Yala to Udawalawe: A Day of Wild Encounters
Today begins with an early morning safari in Yala National Park, offering another chance to spot the park’s iconic wildlife before you check out from the hotel. After returning from the game drive, enjoy a hearty breakfast and prepare for your journey to Udawalawe, a scenic 2-hour drive covering 100 km through the southern countryside.
Upon arrival in Udawalawe, you’ll head straight into the park for an afternoon game drive from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, renowned for its large herds of elephants and diverse birdlife. As the day winds down, you’ll check in at a safari campsite, where you can unwind in a peaceful natural setting. Your stay includes a delicious dinner, live music, and a bonfire, making for a memorable night under the stars.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Campsite
Included activities
- Morning game drive (Leopard safari) in Yala NP – 3 hours
- Afternoon game drive (Elephant safari) in Udawalave NP – 3 hours
Day 10: Day of Transition: Udawalawe to Sinharaja
Welcome to Day 10 of your Sri Lankan adventure. After enjoying breakfast at the campsite, you will check out and begin your journey to the world-renowned Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s last viable area of primary tropical rainforest. If you’re interested in another optional morning safari before departing, feel free to consult your tour guide for arrangements.
The drive to Sinharaja covers approximately 70 km and takes around 2 hours, offering scenic views of rural landscapes and forested hills. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel near the forest edge and take the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the tranquil natural surroundings. Your stay includes dinner at the hotel, followed by a peaceful overnight stay close to the rainforest.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Guest house
Optional activities
- Extra game drive in Udawalave NP – 70 USD per person
- Milk feeding at Elephant transit home – 5 USD
Day 11: Sinharaja Nature Walks & Birding Experience
Begin your day early with a guided morning birdwatching trek in Sinharaja Rainforest from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in Sri Lanka, Sinharaja offers the chance to spot rare endemic bird species, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie, red-faced malkoha, and green-billed coucal. After your immersive nature walk, return to the hotel for a relaxing breakfast and some leisure time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
In the afternoon, you’ll head back into the forest for a second birdwatching trek from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering more opportunities to observe the rich wildlife and lush vegetation of this tropical rainforest. Return to your hotel for a delicious dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Guest house
Included activities
- Morning Bird watching trekking at Singharaja – 3 hours
- Afternoon Bird watching trekking at Singharaja – 3 hours
Day 12: Journey to Kitulgala & Riverside Camping
Welcome to Day 12 of your Sri Lanka tour. After breakfast, you will check out around 8:00 AM and begin your scenic journey to Kitulgala, a lush rainforest village known for its riverside charm and adventure activities. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, allowing you to arrive at the Kitulgala campsite around 2:00 PM.
After check-in, the rest of the afternoon is yours to relax amidst nature or take part in one of the optional adventure activities available in the area — from river swims to short nature walks. In the evening, enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars at the campsite, followed by a comfortable overnight stay in the heart of Kitulgala’s natural beauty.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Camp site
Optional activities
- White water rafting and adventure water sports
Day 13: Birding Adventures in Kitulgala Rainforest
Start your day with a guided morning birdwatching trek in the lush Kitulgala Forest Reserve from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Known for its rich biodiversity and rainforest ecosystem, Kitulgala is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot rare and endemic bird species, including the Sri Lanka chestnut-backed owlet and the green-billed coucal. After the morning trek, return to the campsite for a well-deserved breakfast and enjoy some leisure time amidst the peaceful natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to the forest for another birdwatching experience from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with more chances to observe the region’s incredible avifauna. End your day with a delicious BBQ dinner at the campsite, followed by a restful overnight stay under the forest canopy.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Guest house
Included activities
- Morning Bird watching trekking at Kitulgala forest – 3 hours
- Afternoon Bird watching trekking at Kitulgala forest – 3 hours
Day 14: Concluding Your Sri Lanka Adventure
Your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka comes to an end today. After breakfast, your guide will assist you with your transfer to the airport or your next destination. Should you wish to extend your stay or explore more of this beautiful country, please feel free to discuss your plans with us before the conclusion of your trip. We are here to ensure your travel experience is seamless and memorable until the very last moment.
Meals
Breakfast
Important notes
- Some travelers have reported being approached by locals / Hotels offering optional excursions. This has been particularly prevalent in and around the hotels used by us. These guides are in no way connected to wild ceylon and we cannot guarantee the safety or quality standards of their tours. We advise customers against joining any tour offered by the unauthorized guides/suppliers
- As an optional activity if you wish to visit a temple there are few things to keep in your mind. Traditionally we remove our shoes & hats before entering to a temple. your dress must cover your shoulders & up to your knees. Do not take selfies with buddha statues & don’t turn your back to buddha statue when you take a picture
Inclusions & activities
Meals
13 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Transport
Private vehicle
Accommodation
2 star or similar Hotel, Campsite, Guest house
Support staff 24 X 7
National tourist guide or chauffer tourist guide ( wild life expert )
Included activities
- 3 Game drives (Leopard safari) at Wilpattu NP
- 1 Game drive (Elephant safari) at Minneriya NP
- 2 Game drives (Elephant safari) at Wasgamuwa NP
- 1 Trekking at Horton plains NP
- 3 Game drives (Leopard safari) at Yala NP
- 1 Game drive (Elephant safari) at Udawalava NP
- 2 Trekking (Bird watching) at Singharaja rain forest
- 2 Trekking (Bird watching) at Kitulgala forest
Optional activities
- Experience authentic Spa treatment at Habarana 30 USD onwards
- Extra game drive in Minneriya NP – 70 USD per person
- Visit the Lion’s rock 35 USD + tax
- Visit Anuradhapura ancient kingdom 25 USD
- Visit Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom 25 USD
- Visit the sacred temple of tooth relic of Buddha in Kandy 7 USD
- Visit Royal botanical garden in Kandy 10 USD
- Visit a Tea factory & tea plucking experience 3 USD
- Visit nine arches bridge & Mini adam’s peak – No entrance fee
- Extra game drive in Udawalava NP – 70 USD per person
- Milk feeding at Elephant transit home – 5 USD
- White water rafting – 30 USD
Why you would love this trip
Sri Lanka is a small island in the Indian Ocean, covering just 65,000 sq km. Despite its size, it offers incredible diversity — you can travel from north to south in about 8 hours, and from east to west in around 6 hours. What makes Sri Lanka truly unique is that every 100 km you travel, the landscape and vegetation change dramatically. To make the most of your experience, this tour limits daily travel time to a comfortable maximum of 2.5 hours.
If you’re a true wildlife enthusiast, the Panthera Plan is your dream safari adventure come to life. Crafted especially for travelers eager to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), this 14-day wildlife odyssey takes you deep into the heart of Sri Lanka’s most iconic national parks, untamed wildernesses, and rich biodiversity zones.
But this isn’t just about leopards.
You’ll also have the chance to witness majestic elephants, sloth bears, jackals, monitor lizards, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds, all in their natural habitats. With 10 thrilling game drives and 5 scenic treks, this tour offers you unmatched access to Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems, including dry zone scrub forests, wet montane forests, and tropical rainforests.
What makes this plan truly special is the balance of adventure, conservation, and culture. Between safaris, you’ll explore local villages, taste authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, visit historical sites, and even relax at eco-friendly retreats nestled in nature. From sunrise jungle walks to starlit dinners at safari campsites, every day brings new, unforgettable experiences.
You’ll be accompanied throughout by a professional wildlife guide or chauffeur-guide, certified by Sri Lanka Tourism and trained in zoology, ornithology, and conservation. Their expert insight into Sri Lankan flora and fauna adds immense value to your wildlife encounters. Plus, local safari trekkers and birdwatching specialists will join you in the field to enhance your sightings and share regional knowledge.
Whether you’re an avid birder, a big cat chaser, a nature photographer, or just someone who craves raw, immersive travel, the Panthera Plan offers an authentic, all-encompassing wildlife experience that goes far beyond the average tour.
Is this the correct trip for you?
- The summer months in Sri Lanka are very hot with short, sharp monsoons in the southwest of the country. Please consider your suitability to the time of year you wish to travel and be sure to use adequate sun protection and drink plenty of water.
- There are lot of wildlife safaries are included and you must have the compatibility get in and ride on a Toyota Hilux modified double cab. Safari is always off road and you will experience a bumpy ride. but don’t worry it is safe and comfortable
- Most of the accommodation will be located really close to the national parks to give you the real wildlife experience therefor continuous broadband and electricity supply is not fully guaranteed.
- Hotels, campsites & guest houses are not full luxury but with standard amenities with good comfort level. since it is closer to the wild you will experience the animal sounds, wild animal movements, insects like mosquitos etc. usage of a repellent is highly recommended
Walking difficulty level
Safari difficulty level
Hotel comfort level
Pace of the itinerary
Itinerary disclaimer
ITINERARY CHANGES
Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this page may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It’s important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your tour guide or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn’t an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised.
Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.