Small-Group Sri Lanka Birding Tour
A small-group 14-day Sri Lanka circuit through central highlands, wet-zone forest and southern national parks, estimated at 215-250 species.
About this tour
This small-group 14-day itinerary covers Sri Lanka's principal southern birding regions. From Colombo it continues to Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains before descending to Kitulgala and Kelani Valley Forest Reserve. Three days around Sinharaja then provide the core wet-zone forest section.
The route shifts into drier country at Udawalawe and continues through Tissa to Yala and Bundala National Parks. Open-top jeep safaris combine birding with possible mammal viewing, including Leopard at Yala, while Bundala adds wetland habitat. The estimated total is 215-250 species. The island's endemic birds are an important focus, but individual sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Pace and difficulty are moderate. Much of the fieldwork is on flat tracks or dirt roads, with some longer hikes. Send an inquiry through BirdWatch to discuss suitable dates, weather considerations, availability and final pricing.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Sri Lanka.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Colombo
Land in Colombo and prepare for the birdwatching route to follow. Accommodation for the night is at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 2
Travel to Kandy
The morning is used to continue to Kandy. Reserve the rest of the day for birdwatching there. Stay overnight at Lodge in Kandy.
Day 3
Travel to Nuwara Eliya Hill Station
Travel to Nuwara Eliya Hill Station. Later in the day, spend time birdwatching around town. The overnight base is a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 4
Birding at Horton Plains National Park
Continue fieldwork for the entire day at Horton Plains National Park. Tonight's stay is at Lodge in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 5
Travel to Kitulgala
The first part of the day is used to proceed to Kitulgala. Later in the day, explore Kelani Valley Forest Reserve. The planned overnight is at a hotel in Kitulgala.
Day 6
Birding at Kelani Valley Forest Reserve
Continue fieldwork for the entire day at Kelani Valley Forest Reserve. Overnight at a hotel in Kitulgala.
Day 7
Travel to Sinharaja Forest Reserve
In the morning, travel to Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Spend the balance of the day on birdwatching there. The day finishes with accommodation at Lodge near Sinharaja Reserve.
Day 8
Birding at Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Use a complete day to explore Sinharaja Forest Reserve. The overnight base is Lodge Near Sinharaja Reserve.
Day 9
Birding at Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Allow a full day to work the habitats at Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Stay overnight at Lodge Near Sinharaja Reserve.
Day 10
Travel to Udawalawe
The morning is used to continue to Udawalawe. Reserve the rest of the day for birdwatching at Udawalawe National Park. Stay overnight at a hotel in Udawalawe.
Day 11
Udawalawe National Park
Use the morning session to make a field stop at Udawalawe National Park. At midday, travel to Tissa. Continue after lunch and make a field stop at Yala National Park. The overnight base is a hotel in Tissa.
Day 12
Birding at Bundala National Park or Yala National Park
Devote the day to birdwatching around Bundala National Park or Yala National Park. The itinerary uses a hotel in Tissa for the overnight.
Day 13
Birding at Bundala National Park or Yala National Park
Allow a full day to work the habitats at Bundala National Park or Yala National Park. After midday, continue to Colombo. Accommodation for the night is at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 14
Tour conclusion and departure
The tour concludes at Colombo International Airport.
Locations & map
- Colombo - Sri Lanka
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: November-April
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.