For an island that is just 65,000 square kilometers, Sri Lanka has an astonishing array of wildlife and is one of the best places in the world for photographing large mammals in their natural habitats.Wild animals in Sri Lanka are one of its major attractions and wildlife in Sri Lanka is something not to be missed whilst in Sri Lanka. While you’re holidaying here you must go in to the wilds of Sri Lanka in search of Sri Lanka’s Big Five – The Blue Whale, Sperm Whale, Asian Elephant, Leopard and Sloth Bear.
1. The elusive Leopard
📷 Sudath Gamage.
The Sri Lankan leopard has been classified as endangered and is a leopard subspecies that is native to Sri Lanka. Hop on a dedicated safari jeep and enjoy the wind in your hair while you wait for this majestic creature to make an appearance and give you an experience of a life time. Yala National Park has the highest density of Leopards in the world, so if your heart desires to witness these magnificent mammals, a Yala safari,curated by the experts at Cinnamon Wild Yala is a must!
2. The majestic Elephant
📷 Pernelle Voyage
The Sri Lankan Elephant is a tourist attraction as well as a local favourite. Elephants are a highly conserved species in Sri Lanka and also carries an immense cultural and sacred importance. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness the gathering of hundreds of Elephants who gather to graze and feed at the Minneriya National Park, this experience can be enjoyed in five-star comfort with Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts. Venture into the wilderness and have yourself a truly Sri Lankan experience with the local Elephants.
3. The adorably disheveled Sloth Bears
📷 Adam Green
The distinctly shaped Sloth Bear with its disheveled and shaggy black coat is a treat to your eyes. Rise with the sun and head out into the thick jungle where there is undisturbed forest growth and observe the habits of this endemic and omnivorous bear. Experience the wildlife curiosities that Sri Lanka has to offer and journey through the wilderness to witness the wildlife wonders of this paradise isle. These special creatures can be spotted mainly at Wilpattu and Yala.
4. The giant Sperm Whales
📷 Nilantha
Sperm whales are the largest active predators on the planet with males reaching nearly 20m in length and we’re indeed lucky to have these magnificent creatures finding their home in the deep seas of Sri Lanka. These ocean dwellers are a treat to your senses and whale watching in Sri Lanka is known to be rewarding and one of the most satisfying experiences in this paradise island. The fortunate position of Sri Lanka close to the continental shelf where the meeting of the warmer and colder waters brings together a rich feast of nutrients on which the Sperm Whale feeds making Sri Lanka one of the top destinations for Sperm whale spotting. Sperm whales coupled with the hospitality and comfort offered in Sri Lanka is an experience not to be missed in this tropical island.
5. The mammoth Blue Whales
📷 Daya
Sri Lanka claims to have the best encounter rate for Blue Whales and lives up to the expectation by providing some of the best and top-notch whale watching expeditions in the world. Some of these creatures are occasional visitors whilst others are permanent residents around Sri Lankan waters. Traverse deep into the blue waters of Sri Lanka, enjoy the sun and warmth of tropical Sri Lanka on your journey to catch a glimpse of the largest whales that swim the oceans of the world.
