Wetlands & Birdwatcher's Haven
(2 Days / 1 Night Package)
Overview
This two day, one night specialist package is meticulously designed for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The tour targets the coastal wetlands, focusing on Bundala National Park (a declared Ramsar Wetland Site) and the rich ecosystems surrounding Kumana/Yala National Park. Guests will enjoy morning and evening game drives, offering peak viewing times for migratory and endemic bird species, alongside other unique wildlife, while staying at a comfortable wilderness lodge.
Day 01: Arrival, Long Transfer & Bundala Wetlands
The journey begins with an early morning pickup at CMB, involving a long transfer to the deep southern coast, strategically utilizing the expressway where possible. The afternoon is dedicated to the core activity: an intense safari drive through the brackish lagoons and sand dunes of Bundala, home to a massive diversity of aquatic birds.
Morning Transfer (07:00 AM): Pickup from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and immediate long-distance transfer to the Tissamaharama/Bundala area (Approx. 5-6 hours drive).
Check-in & Lunch (12:30 PM - 02:00 PM): Arrive at the wilderness lodge/hotel near the parks, check in, and enjoy lunch.
Afternoon Bundala Safari (02:30 PM - 06:00 PM):
Game Drive 1: Embark on a specialized 4x4 jeep safari in Bundala National Park. Focus on the lagoons and tidal flats to observe flocks of Greater Flamingos (seasonal), various species of plovers, terns, and storks.
Wildlife: Look out for Elephants, Crocodiles, and the occasional sighting of the rare Fishing Cat.
Evening (06:30 PM onwards): Return to the lodge, discuss the day's sightings with your guide, and enjoy dinner. Overnight Stay near Bundala/Tissamaharama.
Day 02: Kumana Ecosystem & Departure
Day two focuses on the eastern parklands of Kumana (or an extended visit to a secondary Bundala area, depending on seasonal migration patterns), which is famous for its natural swamp and bird breeding grounds. The tour concludes with the return transfer to the airport.
Early Morning Safari (05:30 AM - 09:30 AM):
Game Drive 2 (Kumana/Yala East): Head into the Kumana/Yala Eastern area, particularly focusing on the Kumana Villu (swamp) bird sanctuary. This is the prime time to view large nesting colonies, endemic Jungle Fowl, and different species of herons and egrets.
Breakfast & Check-out (09:30 AM - 11:00 AM): Return to the lodge, enjoy a full breakfast, and check out.
Optional Stop (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Quick stop at a dry zone reservoir (Wewa) for a final view of local aquatic birdlife.
Lunch & Departure (12:00 PM - 06:00 PM): Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Commence the comfortable, long-distance return transfer, utilizing the expressway route, directly to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
This itinerary is fully customizable. We understand that travel needs change, so every aspect, from the type of jeep (e.g., dedicated photography jeep) and expert bird guide requirements to the lodge standard, can be adjusted to create your perfect experience. Would you like to make any changes to this itinerary or discuss your specific preferences? Contact us directly via WhatsApp to customize your "Wetlands & Birdwatcher's Haven" package now!