Safari at Wasgamuwa National Park Wasgamuwa National Park, Popular Home for Sri Lankan Sloth Bears and Elephants

SLDT/1702/Sa05

Why should you book this trip? • Wasgamuwa National Park has a history of being one of the best places to observe the Sri Lankan (a recognised subspecies of the sloth bear). • Though it’s big and diverse, Wasgamuwa National Park is one of the least visited, least touristic parks. • Encountering, not very habituated elephants is also a highlight in this park. • You have 3 options to book safaris in the Wasgamuwa National Park – [1] morning safari [2] evening safari [3] full day safari. • The skill of an experienced guide is included and it makes your Wasgamuwa safari experience unique. • Specially modified, comfortable jeeps are provided for safaris. • We also extend customised services for our guests (family safaris/honeymoon safaris/photography safaris etc.)

SLDT/1702/Sa05 Page | 1

Quick Facts

• Starting time:Morning: 6 a.m.Afternoon: 2.30 p.m. • Duration of tour: Half day or full day. • Possible period: All around the year. • Arrival and departure transport for any location could be arranged on request for an additional cost.

You will meet

Keith is a young and hands-on naturalist who is bursting with enthusiasm for the work he does. Starting his volunteer work in his teenage years and having studied subjects pertaining to , conservation and environmental degradation throughout his university career, he has stepped into the professional arena with a glowing portfolio of qualifications and field work. He is a dedicated animal handler, having worked closely Keith with animals from a very young age, while he has also participated in and contributed to several research projects pertaining to matters of biodiversity.

Included in the price Exclusions

• Experienced local guide • Arrival and departure transportation • Jeep cost • Any extra beverages or food consumed • Entrance fees • Any tips to the staff • Bottled water • Any personal effects not mentioned above

Tour in brief

You will first meet up with the Day Tours crew and your safari guide at the gate entrance to the . For the morning half-day tour, the starting time will be at 6 a.m. while the afternoon tour begins at 2.30 p.m. After entering the national park with your guide in a jeep, you will be able to spot several species of birds and other animals that have made their homes in this sanctuary.

SLDT/1702/Sa05 Page | 2

You will be taken through most of the Udawalawe National Park, covering the wetlands, grasslands, forest patches, etc. We will make longer stops at certain watering holes for unique photography opportunities. We will stop at a designated spot overlooking a lake or river where you can get down, stretch your legs and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee prepared by our crew. Finishing the safari, either round 11 a.m. or around 6 p.m. you will be dropped at the park entrance.

Important

• Suitable casual clothing for windy, rainy, warm weather conditions should be considered • Insect repellents, sun-protection creams etc. are recommended • Cameras/video recorders to capture those amazing moments

Safari at Wasgamuwa National Park

The Wasgamuwa National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved wildlife parks, boasting a jaw-dropping collection of wild beasts and birds. Come explore this bounteous land and come face-to-face with some of the exotic creatures that live in this great sanctuary.

We take you through this glorious Wasgamuwa Park and bring you closer to some of the most dazzling and magnificent animals found in Sri Lanka, including rare species of birds and large herds of elephants.

The Wasgamuwa National Park is situated in the Matale and Polonnaruwa Districts in the heart of the island, while a herd of 150 elephants reside within its boundaries as well as over 140 species of birds. In fact, the park is renowned for attracting visitors who come to witness the iconic elephants as well as birding enthusiasts who take a keen interest in the endemic and migratory bird species that frequent these lands.

The Wasgamuwa Park is also home to two species of endemic monkeys, namely the Purple-faced Langur and the Toque Macaque, as well as other mammals including water buffalo, axis deer and a rare leopard or sloth bear.

Bird species such as the endemic Red-faced Malkoha and the Sri Lanka Junglefowl can be found here along with Painted Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill and the rare Sri Lanka Frogmouth. This is truly a birder’s paradise.

This protected wildlife refuge of Wasgamuwa is an important natural conservatory sanctuary and protects several species of endangered animals as well.

We take you on a 3-4 hour journey across this stunning Wasgamuwa National Park on an exclusive jeep safari that will exhilarate and thrill. Take a tour of this wonderful and magical

SLDT/1702/Sa05 Page | 3

wildlife park and experience an all-encompassing look at Sri Lanka’s wildlife as well as its natural splendour.

Can be extended to a full day safari with packed lunch at the park.

SLDT/1702/Sa05 Page | 4