A magnificent destination, Sri Lanka is as rich in historic sites as it is in fauna and flora. A trip to Sri Lanka is the ideal opportunity to go on safari and admire majestic animals, including some of the largest in the world. Plus, 16% of the animals are endemic to the country, so it's an opportunity not to be missed ! If you love nature, don't hesitate before booking your trip to encounter animals in Sri Lanka, and don't forget to bring binoculars and a camera!

In the Jungles

Leopards

The top predator of Sri Lanka, the leopard is a majestic animal that knows how to hide well. Listed as endangered, the Sri Lankan leopard is a species endemic to the island, found nowhere else in the world. Fewer than 1,000 remain in the wild. The Sri Lankan leopard measures approximately 1.30m, with a long tail of about 90cm. Also called the Ceylon Panther, it inhabits jungles and highlands. They can be found notably in Yala National Park.

Elephants

The most widespread mammal in Sri Lanka, the elephant inhabits this Asian island in great numbers. The Sri Lankan elephant is one of three Asian elephant species. There are just under 6,000 elephants in Sri Lanka, making it the densest elephant population in Asia ! You'll have an excellent chance of seeing elephants during your trip. Sri Lanka is also home to a number of domesticated elephants, used notably for transport and work in the fields. But even these elephants remain wild and, at times, dangerous : this is why locals build tree houses to shelter in case of attack ! It's possible to see elephants in most of Sri Lanka's nature parks, but the largest gathering of elephants in the country takes place in the Minneriya region. Indeed, the elephant is a sacred animal in Sri Lanka, and one of the country's symbols.

Water Buffalo

You'll also find numerous water buffalo in Sri Lanka, which, like elephants, are partly wild and partly domesticated. In the wild, the buffalo is an endangered species. There are approximately 4,000 buffalo (wild and domesticated) in Sri Lanka.

Sloth Bears

Among the most interesting mammal species to observe in Sri Lanka, one can name the sloth bear. Also called « the lip bear », this bear species lives notably in the Himalayas and in Sri Lanka. It feeds mainly on fruits, honey, and insects. Very vocal, it can be heard from a distance, even though it moves discreetly. In fact, this bear has no front teeth, and it sucks in insects – that's why it eats noisily ! The sloth bear measures between 1.20 and 1.80m and is the only bear species inhabiting Sri Lanka. This bear species does not hibernate, but it is calmer during the rainy season. Do not approach this bear, as it can be very aggressive when it feels threatened.

Monkeys

With its numerous jungles, Sri Lanka is home to a large number of monkeys. In fact, they sometimes live near cities and historic sites. Two monkey species in Sri Lanka are endemic to the country : the toque macaque and the purple-faced langur.

Giant Squirrels

Less well-known than the other species mentioned above, giant squirrels are nonetheless pleasant animals to observe ! They can measure up to 135 cm (including tail) ! The Ceylon giant squirrel has a black or grey tail and a white band near its head.

In the Waters

Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are equally emblematic of Sri Lanka. The island is home to numerous turtle species, which can be observed on beaches, particularly at night, or in the waters while diving. You can notably see alligator snappers, green sea turtles, or hawksbill turtles, among others.

Dolphins

Sri Lanka's coastline is also very rich in marine life. A boat trip, or time near the beaches, can offer sightings of dolphins, particularly spinner dolphins, which are the most common in Sri Lanka. The best place to see them is at Kalpitiya.

Whales

Sri Lanka is also an ideal destination for whale watching. Present particularly during the dry season, between January and April, migratory whales can be observed from Mirissa. And you can even spot blue whales, the planet's giant that measures nearly 30m !

In the Air

Pelicans

Among the many birds flying above Sri Lanka, one finds the spot-billed pelican. This pelican species exists only in Asia.

Hornbills

Malabar hornbills are surely the most striking birds you'll see in Sri Lanka. Inhabiting the forests of Asia, this large toucan measures approximately 65cm and impresses with its prominent casque, which makes it easy to distinguish.