Wilpattu

Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka, named for the willu — natural sand-rimmed lakes — scattered through its forest and scrub. It has a similar cast of wildlife to Yala, including leopards and sloth bears, but far fewer visitors and jeeps, since it sits off the main southern circuit in the north-west. Safaris run at dawn or late afternoon when the animals are most active, tracking around the lake edges where wildlife comes to drink.

Best time: Dawn or late-afternoon safari

Ask about Wilpattu

What we can do here

Dawn or late-afternoon jeep safaris
Leopards and sloth bears, with more space than Yala
The willu lakes scattered through the park
A quieter alternative to the southern parks

Packages that include Wilpattu

11 days · Wildlife & hikes

Wildlife, Culture & Adventure

Four safaris, the cultural triangle, tea country hikes and whales off Mirissa — a full loop from Negombo and back.

14 days · Full loop

Island Circuit

A proper circle of the island from the airport and back — Wilpattu, the cultural triangle, tea country, Horton Plains, a Yala safari, Udawalawe's elephants and Galle Fort.