Sri Lanka
Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Sunday 6 - Saturday 19 November 2011 (14 days)

What could be better than heading for the tropics and exploring one of the world's most enchanting island paradises? We'll seek out a superb variety of birds including thirty or so endemics, plus Indian Elephant, Leopard - and more!

It would be difficult to think of a more perfect destination for birdwatchers to escape the winter blues than the beautiful tropical island of Sri Lanka. For despite lying so close to the southern tip of India, this Indian Ocean paradise has been isolated from the rest of Asia for so long as to have evolved more than thirty species of endemic birds.

A visit to Sri Lanka is even more welcome during Europe's winter months - not just so we can enjoy some unseasonable sunshine and warmth, but because this bewitching tropical isle is also a winter retreat for large numbers of birds from farther north. We should also encounter some fine mammals during our stay, from Sri Lankan Giant Squirrel and Purple-faced Leaf Monkey to Asian Elephant. This is also a wonderful trip for anyone wishing to see something of Sri Lanka's abundant and colourful butterflies, with their many appealing English names.

Those that wish will also be able to enjoy a little sightseeing at Kandy, and also a visit a tea factory. Building upon the success of our last tours, our freshly-honed itinerary again includes an extra night at the remote Blue Magpie Lodge, plus visits to the excellent wetlands on Sri Lanka's west coast.

With upwards of 220 species likely on this tour, what could be better than spending a winter's fortnight in the tropics, getting to know one of the world's most enchanting island paradises?

Accommodation: At comfortable tourist hotels. More rustic and remote at Blue Magpie Lodge, where rooms are simply furnished. All rooms with private facilities throughout.

Meals: All included in the price. Food is good. Dinners usually at the hotels (a packed dinner is necessary for optional evening excursion to look for Serendib Scops Owl). Some breakfasts and some lunches will be picnics.

Walking: Mostly short and easy, but the going can be moderate at times along some forest trails. Sturdy waterproof walking shoes or boots, with stout soles and good grip required.

Insects: The usual tropical nuisances are present in Sri Lanka. Mosquitoes: Sri Lanka lies within the malarial region of southern Asia. Away from the north of the island (which we do not visit on our tour) however, NaTHNaC assess the current risk of malaria as very low in Sri Lanka. As areas of risk can change, it is essential that you consult your doctor for advice before you travel. Bring insect repellent.


Price: £ 2,645

Single supp.: £ 265

Deposit: £ 400
per person

The price is per person, and is fully inclusive of return scheduled flights London-Colombo, with meals on-board as appropriate; all accommodation, meals, surface transport (inc 4x4 in parks), entrance fees and permits, tips, airport taxes, map, bird and mammal checklist, and services of the leaders.

The price excludes travel insurance, drinks & other items of a personal nature. [Note: Entry visa issued free of charge to British passport holders and certain other nationalities on arrival at Colombo airport.]

These trips will be operated in conjunction with Limosa Holidays.


Sri Lanka map



Leaders: Peter Kennerley & local guides

Numbers: Max. 12 clients

Leeches: expect to encounter leeches in the forests of the Wet Zone where, although harmless, their presence can be distracting! We recommend that you bring with you a pair of 'leech socks', which will prevent leeches reaching the skin on your feet and lower legs.

Outline Itinerary
Days 1-2 Fly London-Colombo
Days 2-3 Morning arrival Colombo. Transfer to Kitulgala. (2 nights)
Days 4-6 Sinharaja Forest. Blue Magpie Lodge (3 nights)
Day 7 Sinharaja Forest and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary. Overnight Embilipitya
Days 8-9 Udawalawe Nat Park, Horton Plains and Victoria Park. Nuwara Eliya (2 nights)
Day 10 Peradeniya Gardens and the Temple of the Tooth. Overnight Kandy
Day 11 Udawatakelle Forest and Sigiriya. Overnight Sigiriya
Day 12 Sigiriya and the west coast. Marawila (2 nights)
Day 13 Chilaw, Puttalam & Navadankulam.
Day 14 Fly Colombo-London

Click here for a full, printable itinerary