Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go | Sri Lanka

Whether you're preparing for your upcoming Sri Lanka safari or just want to learn more about this diverse island nation, we've got you covered. We've rounded up an array of useful resources, from a wildlife guide and packing tips to compelling first-hand accounts written by Nat Hab travelers.

Wildlife Guide

Learn about leopards, sloth bears, peafowl and other unique animals you'll encounter in Sri Lanka.

Places We Visit

From ancient rock fortresses to lush national parks, learn about the places you'll go on a Sri Lanka adventure.

Natural History

Sri Lanka is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, with high levels of endemism (species that exist nowhere else).

WWF Conservation

World Wildlife Fund's elephant work in South Asia focuses on creating a future for elephants in a landscape dominated by humans.

Reading List

Browse our reading recommendations to help you prep for your Sri Lanka safari.

Expedition Dining

Learn about local foods and sustainable dining experiences on Nat Hab's Sri Lanka Wildlife & Cultural Treasures.

Cultural Do's and Don'ts

Taking into consideration the array of cultural practices and beliefs, here is some general etiquette to follow when traveling to Sri Lanka.

Religious History

Religion is very important in Sri Lanka, playing a powerful role in politics and within communities.

Weather & Climate

Find out the typical weather conditions in Sri Lanka in this month by month breakdown of average temperatures and rainfall.

Packing List

We’ve made a comprehensive list of all the clothing and gear you’ll want to pack so you'll be well prepared for your Sri Lanka safari.

Sri Lankan Animals to See on an Island Safari

—Joel Centano
Talk about a small fortune: Although Sri Lanka spans only 25,000 square miles, it shelters Asia’s richest density of mammal, reptile, amphibian and flowering plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

Where Kings Once Ruled: Wildlife of Sri Lanka’s Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

—By Valerie Gleaton
Hailed as one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, Polonnaruwa served as Sri Lanka’s capital for nearly three centuries. Now, the city’s ruins play host to tourists—and a famous troop of monkeys.

Sigiriya: Sri Lanka’s ‘Lion Rock’

—Emily Goodheart
Natural Habitat Adventures’ Sri Lanka Wildlife Safari explores the pristine natural areas and cultural highlights of this island country. Travelers will have a chance to visit many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, among them the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya.