Yala and Ridiyagama Safari Nature Retreat
Ridiyagama Safari Park
Ridiyagama Safari Park, located in Hambantota, is Sri Lanka’s first-ever open-air zoo, spanning over 500 acres. This unique safari-style experience allows visitors to observe exotic and native animals roaming freely in large enclosures, replicating their natural habitats. The park is divided into several zones, including the African Lion Zone, the Asian Elephant Zone, and the World Herbivore Zone, housing giraffes, zebras, camels, and more. Guests tour the park in secure safari vehicles guided by knowledgeable staff, making it an ideal excursion for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is open year-round, with mornings and late afternoons being the most comfortable times to visit due to cooler temperatures.
Yala National Park
Renowned as Sri Lanka’s most famous national park, Yala offers the ultimate wildlife experience. It boasts the highest leopard density in Asia, alongside elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, and hundreds of bird species. Spanning across dry scrublands, forests, and brackish lagoons, the park combines rich biodiversity with scenic beauty. Yala is divided into five blocks, with Block 1 being the most visited due to high wildlife activity. The dry season from February to July is the best time to visit for optimal sightings, particularly around shrinking waterholes.
Walawe River Safari
The Walawe River, flowing from the central hills to the southern coast, offers a tranquil safari experience. The boat ride allows visitors to explore untouched riverbanks lined with mangroves and lush vegetation, offering close-up encounters with crocodiles, water monitors, and an impressive array of birdlife. This lesser-known safari route is peaceful, ideal for birdwatching and photography. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to enjoy this serene journey.
Birds Research Center & Resort
Situated in Hambantota, the Birds Research Center is one of the largest bird parks in South Asia. Home to over 180 bird species, both native and exotic, it doubles as a conservation and educational facility. Visitors can observe a wide range of birds, including macaws, peacocks, flamingos, hornbills, and parrots in naturalistic aviaries. The centre also provides research-based information about avian behaviour, habitat conservation, and breeding programmes. The facility is open throughout the year and offers guided tours ideal for families, students, and nature lovers.
Dry Zone Botanic Gardens
Located in Mirijjawila, near Hambantota, the Dry Zone Botanic Gardens is one of Sri Lanka’s newest botanical attractions. It focuses on the conservation of flora from arid zones, featuring over 500 plant species across beautifully landscaped areas, including medicinal gardens, butterfly zones, and ornamental sections. The garden also plays a key role in sustainable landscape restoration in the dry zone. The best time to visit is from June to September when most arid flora is in bloom and the weather is dry and clear.
Mahapelessa Hot Springs
Also known as the Madunagala Hot Springs, this natural thermal spring has been a local wellness spot for centuries. The springs comprise multiple shallow pools with varying temperatures, allowing visitors to bathe and relax in mineral-rich waters believed to have therapeutic properties. Surrounded by serene landscapes, the site offers a calm escape for wellness seekers. The area is accessible year-round, with early mornings and weekdays recommended for a quieter, more refreshing experience.
Tour Highlights
- Exciting Safari Adventures
- Stunning Wildlife Encounters
- Relaxing Hot Springs Experience
Inclusions
- Experienced Local Guide
- Transport
- Entrance Fees
- Free Drinks and Bottled Water
- Cost of Jeep Hire
- Coverage of All Applicable Taxes
Exclusions
Anything that is not mentioned above