WAY
Where safaris meet soul, not spectacle
In the Wild. Sri Lanka’s Ethical Wildlife Encounters
Sri Lanka’s wild side is raw, breathtaking and deeply moving. From elusive leopards in Yala to elephant herds in Minneriya and rare birds in Sinharaja, the island is a biodiversity haven. But here, it’s not just about the chase, it’s about connection. With ethical safaris, conservation led guides, and off grid experiences, you witness wildlife in their natural rhythms, not staged shows. Whether you are in a tented camp, canoeing beside crocodile filled rivers or spotting sloth bears at dawn, Sri Lanka’s wild is intimate, immersive and unforgettable. It’s not just a sighting, it’s a story you will carry forever.
Elephant Transit Home (ETH)
Closest Town
Udawalawe
A Government run rehabilitation centre for orphaned elephant calves. Visitors can watch feeding times but cannot touch or ride, offering one of Sri Lanka’s most ethical elephant experiences.
Gal Oya National Park
Closest Town
Ampara
Known for elephants that swim between islands in Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir. Best explored by boat safari for a rare and tranquil wildlife encounter.
Kaudulla National Park
Closest Town
Habarana
A seasonal haven for elephant herds, especially from August to October. Offers a quieter alternative to Minneriya with excellent chances for close, respectful sightings.
Lunugamvehera National Park
Closest Town
Tissamaharama
A vital elephant corridor linking Yala and Udawalawe. Less visited, but a promising location for observing elephants on the move in the wild.
Millennium Elephant Foundation (MEF)
Closest Town
Kegalle
An ethical alternative to elephant riding. Visitors can walk alongside rescued elephants, learn about their care and support meaningful welfare initiatives.
Minneriya National Park
Closest Town
Habarana
Famous for “The Gathering”, the world’s largest seasonal congregation of wild elephants. A bucket list wildlife event from July to September.
Udawalawe National Park
Closest Town
Embilipitiya
One of the best places in Asia for guaranteed wild elephant sightings. Open grasslands and close encounters make it perfect for photography and first time safari goers.
Wasgamuwa National Park
Closest Town
Polonnaruwa
Remote and peaceful, this park offers sightings of elephants in their natural habitat with fewer crowds. Great for birding and wilderness lovers.
Wilpattu National Park
Closest Town
Anuradhapura
Sri Lanka’s largest park with small elephant populations in lush, forested terrain. Ideal for off grid safaris and quiet wildlife tracking.
Yala National Park
Closest Town
Tissamaharama
Though famous for leopards, Yala also boasts regular elephant sightings, especially in the early morning. A dynamic safari experience with high biodiversity.
