Photography Tour Sri Lanka: Safari on the “Resplendent Island”
16 days I 26 January 2026 – 10 February 2026 (4 places left)
Did you know that the literal translation of Sri Lanka is “Resplendent Island”? And it more than lives up to its name! Sri Lanka is a small country, being approximately the size of Wales, meaning everything can be found relatively close by, be that: stunning and diverse wildlife, ancient ruins, or beautiful beaches. Many people are also unaware that Sri Lanka is a fantastic safari destination. It boasts an abundance of wild animals and a wide variety of landscapes, including expansive savannahs, rolling hills, rugged mountains, enchanting rainforests, and beautiful wetland areas that are home to Asian elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boars, crocodiles, water buffalo, mongooses and many endemic bird species.
On top of all of that, it also has the highest density of leopards in the world, giving us a great chance of spotting a leopard during our photography trip.
If you’re looking for an Asian safari destination that hasn’t been overrun by tourism but still offers everything you need for a successful photography experience, let Nature Talks take you to the enchanting island of Sri Lanka!
The Unique Island of Sri Lanka: The Hidden Safari Destination
For nature photographers who love wildlife, Sri Lanka may not be the first destination that comes to mind. However, the country is home to numerous national parks teeming with diverse wildlife. Thanks to its relative obscurity, most parks remain free from mass tourism. Additionally, the country boasts very comfortable accommodations, where we will be staying during our visit. We will focus exclusively on the five national parks with the best photographic opportunities, allowing us to minimise travel time and maximise our time spent in the field. Our itinerary includes both safaris and hikes, ensuring we take ample time to capture stunning images. In short, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for photographers seeking an intimate and authentic wildlife experience.
The Five Best National Parks in Sri Lanka
We have carefully selected our destinations for this photography trip to Sri Lanka. There are only a few places in Asia that offer the unique combination of open grasslands, mature forests, picturesque wetlands, and a high density of animals. Due to the protected status of these natural areas, you will find an abundance of flora and fauna.
In these national parks, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph all the iconic animals that make a safari complete. Yala National Park is particularly renowned for its high density of leopards, but you will have a great chance to capture beautiful images of elephants, as well as sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, and wild boars. In total, Sri Lanka is home to over 44 species of mammals and more than 200 bird species, including 33 endemic species that are found only in Sri Lanka. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as we explore the breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife of this stunning island!
1. Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is one of the most beautiful and diverse parks in Sri Lanka. In addition to leopards, it is home to around 30 other mammal species, including elephants, sloth bears, sambar deer, water buffalo, and mongooses. The park also boasts a large variety of bird species, reptiles, and amphibians. Wilpattu is considered one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot leopards in the wild. However, most tourists tend to visit Yala National Park instead, leaving Wilpattu much quieter. This makes it an excellent choice for our visit. The park was closed for a long time, and with an area of over 1,300 km², the exact leopard population is still unclear. Nonetheless, one or more leopards are regularly spotted, indicating a healthy population.
2. Wasgamuwa National Park
Wasgamuwa National Park is located slightly southeast of Dambulla. This national park is not heavily visited by tourists, which makes it a wonderfully tranquil location. It supports 23 species of mammals, including the wild Ceylon elephant, with approximately 150 individuals residing in the park. Besides these giants, wild buffalo, deer, leopards, and bears can also be found here. Near water sources, we will likely have the chance to photograph monitor lizards and crocodiles.
3. Yala National Park
Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and designated a national park in 1938, Yala National Park is the most visited park in all of Sri Lanka, and for good reason. It contains the largest population of leopards in the world; however, with only 35 individuals spread across a vast area, they remain elusive. You are more likely to spot elephants or one of the 43 other mammal species present. Don’t forget to look up, as there are always birds in the skies, with around 215 species recorded.
4. Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park is renowned for its diverse range of bird species that have established themselves in the many lagoons within the park. It is, in fact, the most important wetland area in Sri Lanka. Covering approximately 6,000 hectares, the park features a mosaic of marshland, salt pans, and rainforest.
5. Sinharaja National Park
Deep in the southwest of Sri Lanka lies Sinharaja National Park, home to one of the country’s most spectacular rainforests. This paradise for nature lovers is marked by astonishing biodiversity and a rich flora and fauna that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. From colourful snakes and lizards to tropical birds, Sinharaja is a stunning place for wildlife photography. The park also features numerous waterfalls, perfect for swimming or simply admiring. These waterfalls are fantastic spots to cool off after a hike through the jungle.
These national parks offer a unique and incredible opportunity for wildlife photography and witnessing the breathtaking natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems!
Rest and Focus with a Limited Number of Accommodations
For this photography trip to Sri Lanka, we have chosen to visit only five locations that offer the best photographic opportunities. This decision brings an ease to our itinerary, allowing us more time to connect with the environment and its wildlife.
Our accommodations are situated in beautiful, serene settings with abundant nature, and nearly all feature lovely gardens where various birds and reptiles can be spotted. Additionally, most lodges and hotels provide views over a river or wetland, which also attract wildlife. To ensure extra comfort, many of the accommodations also have swimming pools.
We have intentionally kept our group small, with only 8 participants. Our knowledgeable local guides are experts at finding wildlife, and our English tour leaders, who are also wildlife photographers, will always be by your side to answer your questions and provide support as needed. As the days progress, you’ll notice your knowledge and skills in photography growing significantly.
Capturing Stunning Images
We will be transported in open-top jeeps that are elevated at the back, with two passengers seated per row to ensure no one obstructs each other while photographing. Many organisations typically place three people per row, but we consciously avoid that arrangement. To allow everyone to photograph from different angles within the jeep, we will rotate seats frequently.
Based on sightings, we will travel to specific locations during this photography trip to Sri Lanka where we can find certain species. The diverse landscape comprises beautifully vegetated plains and forests, enhanced by the enchanting light filtering through the leaves, creating a truly magical atmosphere for photography.
Join us for this remarkable photography adventure, where breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife await!
Photography, Photography, and More Photography
During our photography trip to Sri Lanka, we will focus solely on the best locations and parks, allowing multiple visits to these areas. This approach minimises travel time and maximises our opportunities to photograph. By spending more time at each location, we allow ourselves to get to know the environment and its associated wildlife better. You’ll start to understand what to expect, enabling you to anticipate and capture even better images.
Our focus will be on creating beautiful photographs rather than merely recording as many species as possible. Are you ready to elevate your photography skills amidst the unique animals and majestic landscapes of the “Beautiful Island” Sri Lanka? Grab your camera and join us on this photography journey that will awaken your senses and reignite your passion for nature photography!
Meet your Guide
Marc Humphrey is a professional wildlife photographer from the UK. His passion for nature and photography led him to leave the corporate world in 2021 to pursue his dream career. As an experienced wildlife photographer, he leads photography trips and workshops, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow photographers while helping them maximize their potential.
Marc has a deep love for Sri Lanka his nature and wildlife, but don’t tell anybody, also the food. He likes to show you the beauty of Sri Lanka and share his photography experience with you.
What We Offer You
- Two Wildlife Photographers as Organisers and Guides: Benefit from their expertise and passion for wildlife photography.
- A Small Group of Like-Minded Individuals: With a maximum of 8 participants, enjoy a personalised experience.
- Focus on Photographing Birds, Reptiles/Amphibians, and Mammals: Capture stunning images of iconic species such as elephants and leopards.
- In-Depth Experience with Extended Stays at Each Location: We only visit places with the best photography opportunities.
- Creative Presentations to Spark Your Imagination: Enhance your shooting skills and creativity.
- Evening Photo Reviews: Discuss your photo results and receive tips and new ideas to improve your photography.
- Excellent Local Guides: Our guides know where to find the wildlife, maximising your chances for remarkable sightings.
- Participants Meeting Before the Photography Trip to Sri Lanka: Meet fellow travellers and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Is This Trip Right for You?
- Your heart races at the thought of photographing mammals, reptiles, and beautiful bird species.
- You enjoy early mornings to capture the best light.
- You want to fully focus on creating stunning nature photographs.
- You’re looking to deepen your photography skills.
- You aspire to take photos that are unique and different from the norm.
- Your camera holds no secrets for you, and you are familiar with the exposure triangle.
- Tropical temperatures don’t intimidate you.
- A good level of fitness is important, as we will need to walk short distances a few times during the trip.
- You prefer to photograph in a small group of like-minded individuals.
- While we cannot guarantee sightings, this is a great place where it’s quite possible to photograph both leopards and elephants.
- Bookings are based on shared twin rooms, but you can also reserve a single room for an additional fee.
Global Itinerary for the Photography Trip to Sri Lanka: “The Resplendent Island”
Note: The following itinerary is a general outline and may be adjusted based on individual preferences and changing circumstances.
Day 1-2:
We will fly for approximately 15 hours from the UK to Negombo, Sri Lanka. Due to the 4.5-hour time difference, we typically arrive in the early morning in the capital. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed by our guide, who will take us to a comfortable hotel near the airport. After checking in, you will have the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey.
Day 3:
We start the day by adjusting to the time difference. After breakfast, we will depart for our lodge located near Wilpattu National Park. If time allows, we’ll visit a wetland area filled with birds along the way. Upon arrival at the lodge, we will check in and explore a nearby nature area in the evening. We will also have a presentation on photography opportunities and tips for the days to come, followed by dinner at the lodge.
Day 4:
After breakfast, we’ll take a trip to a lake that attracts a wide variety of water birds. In the afternoon, we will enjoy our first jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park, which comprises forests and open fields. We will hope to see our first large mammals, such as elephants, deer, and wild boars. We’ll also look for monitor lizards, crocodiles, and various birds such as ibises, spoonbills, and kingfishers.
Day 5:
After breakfast, we’ll head out again for another jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park. By returning to the same park frequently, we increase our chances of capturing beautiful images and encountering unique species such as leopards and sloth bears, so we will also visit the park in the afternoon.
Day 6:
We will set off early to Wasgamuwa National Park, another stunning forested area filled with wildlife, including elephants and many other beautiful mammals, reptiles, and birds. After checking into our hotel, we will explore the gardens and surroundings. In the afternoon, we will make our way to a nearby lake, followed by a photography review session to prepare for the next day.
Days 7 and 8:
In the morning, we will embark on a jeep safari in Wasgamuwa National Park. A picnic will be provided so we can spend the entire day photographing wildlife. We hope to see and photograph both leopards and elephants while also encountering civet cats, sloth bears, and many bird species, including the Indian marabou and Brahminy kite.
Day 9:
After breakfast, we will drive approximately 4.5 hours to Yala National Park. Once we check in to our hotel and have lunch, we will take a jeep safari in Yala National Park, which is famous for having the highest density of leopards in the world. Other wildlife includes monkeys, golden jackals, water buffalo, deer, and wild boars, as well as around 130 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, raptors, and bee-eaters.
Day 10:
Today you can decide what you want to do, relax by the pool or look for subjects to photograph in the garden and the accompanying lake. In the afternoon we visit the Bundala Bird Sanctuary. Whistling duck, Indian cormorant, black-necked stork, as well as herons, nymph and the black-headed ibis are among the inhabitants of this reserve.
Day 11:
We will start with a morning jeep safari in Yala National Park, followed by an afternoon visit to a colony of flying foxes.
Day 12:
Another morning or evening jeep safari at Yala National Park will be scheduled, allowing flexibility based on prior experiences.
Day 13:
We’ll head towards Sinharaja Rainforest after breakfast. Upon checking in and having lunch, you can explore the hotel grounds and surrounding areas, which are home to various endemic bird and reptile species for photography.
Day 14:
With a local guide, we will enter the Sinharaja Rainforest, where we will attempt to photograph diverse endemic bird and reptile species.
Day 15:
After breakfast, we will drive back to a hotel near Negombo Airport. Here, you can relax for the day, sort through your photographs, and perhaps take some final shots in the hotel gardens or on the beach.
Day 16:
All good things must come to an end. We will prepare for our flight back to the UK from Bandaranaike International Airport.
Cost
This trip can be booked starting from £3,475 based on shared accommodation.
Single Room Supplement: £750 (limited availability).
Room Options:
- 1 Person in a Shared 2-Person Room:
If you book this room, you will share it with another person of the same gender, featuring separate beds. If there is no one of the same gender available to share, you will pay the single room supplement for this trip. - 2 People in a 2-Person Room:
Booking a 2-person room is ideal for couples or two friends traveling together for the photography trip. Please indicate in the comments field during booking whether you prefer a double bed or two single beds. - 1 Person in a Single Room:
If you book this room, you will have it to yourself, subject to the single room supplement. Additionally, you may find yourself alone in a 2- or 3-person room, in which case the same fee applies for sole occupancy.
What’s Included
- All Accommodations
- Local Transportation, Including Transfers to and from the Airport
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Drinking Water, Coffee/Tea
- Entrance Fees for All Parks
- All Game Drives, Including Permits
- Local Guides
- Guidance from 2 Professional Wildlife Photographer
- Participants Meeting Before the Photography Trip
- On-Site Photo Reviews
What’s Not Included
- International Flight: The trip price excludes the cost of the international flight, which ranges from £860 to £1,075. As a service, we can assist you with booking flights for a fee of £30 per person. The earlier all participants book the photography trip, the cheaper the flight will be. Once the required minimum number of bookings is achieved, we will email you advice on which flight to book, enabling you to secure your tickets at the right time.
- Alcoholic and Soft Drinks
- Personal Purchases
- Travel and Cancellation Insurance
- Tips
- Single Room Supplement
Practical Information for Your Photography Trip
Participants Meeting
Before the trip, we will organise a participants meeting so you can get to know your fellow travellers and ask any questions you may have about the journey.
Accommodation
We will stay in various comfortable lodges and hotels. All rooms come equipped with a private shower and toilet, as well as air conditioning. Bookings are based on shared twin rooms with separate beds, but a single room can be reserved for a small additional fee.
Trip Intensity
This journey is not physically demanding, and we have included ample time for photography in the itinerary.
Tipping
Plan for approximately £9 per day for tips.
Travel Arrangements
The trip price excludes the cost of the international flight. As a service, we can assist you with booking flight tickets for a fee starting from £35 per person. The earlier all participants book the photography trip, the cheaper the flight will be. Once the required minimum number of bookings is reached, we will send you an email with advice on which flight to book, so you can secure your tickets at that time.
Local Transportation
Transportation on site will be in private cars. The safaris will be conducted in private jeeps.
Required Equipment and Materials
For this trip, we recommend bringing the following photography equipment:
- Cameras
- Lenses from Wide-Angle to Telephoto (minimum 300mm) + a converter
- Laptop + Cables
- External Hard Drive / SSD
- Tripod / Monopod
- Wired (or Wireless) Shutter Release
- Bean Bag
- Sufficient Batteries + Chargers
- Sufficient Memory Cards + Reader
- Batteries (for flash, remote control, etc.)
- Good Camera Bag (check carry-on size regulations!)
- Lens Cloth
- Blower for Dust Removal
- Filters (e.g., polariser graduated neutral density, etc.)
- Universal Plug Adapter
Climate and Clothing
During the day, temperatures range from 23 degrees Celsius in the mountains to 32 degrees Celsius along the coast. Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed in case the temperature rises or falls. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for the safaris, while sandals or flip-flops can be worn comfortably in the lodges and hotels. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun.
Sustainability
Trees for All. We are committed to sustainability during our trips.
Vaccinations
For current information about mandatory or recommended vaccinations, please consult the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) or the NHS in the UK. Some vaccinations may be necessary, and anti-malaria medication is often advised for certain areas.
Passport and Visa
To travel to Asia, you will need a valid passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months upon your departure from Asia. Ensure your passport is valid for a longer period in case you need to stay longer than planned. Some countries require a visa for entry. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for the countries you will be visiting.
BOOK YOUR PHOTO TOUR
Book your option here. More info?
Free Option
You’re not yet sure if you can join a specific photography trip on a specific date because you may need to discuss it first at home, with your work, or with your travel companion. In that case, you can request a non-binding option for the trip via our website, by email, or by phone.
Validity of the free and non-binding option:
- The option is valid for 48 hours if the photography trip departs within 8 weeks.
- The option is valid for 7 days if the photography trip departs in 8 weeks or later.
Nature Talks will reserve a spot for you during this period, as long as there is still availability for the trip. If, during this time, the trip becomes fully booked due to other participants, we will contact you to discuss whether you would like to convert your option into a confirmed booking. Once the option expires, and if you have not informed Nature Talks that you wish to use it, no rights can be derived from the option.
Afraid to book? No need!
If we need to cancel the trip due to a new Covid variant for example, you will always receive your money back within two working days. As a consumer, you are legally entitled to a refund in such a case (minus 30 pound administration costs)
| Photography Tour Sri Lanka | |
| Departure | 26-01-2026 |
| Return | 10-02-2026 |
| Travel duration | 16 |
| Guaranteed departure | No |
| Available places | 4 |
| Price | From £3675 |
| Min participants | 5 |
| Max participants | 8 |
| Included |
|---|
|
| Not Included |
|---|
|
High Chance of Leopard Sightings
Spectacular Jungle Landscapes
Maximized Photography Time
Five National Parks
Ceylon Elephant Encounters
Asia’s Hidden Safari Destination
Expert Local Guides
Guidance from Professional Wildlife Photographers
Comfortable and Scenic Accommodations
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
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Wij begrijpen dat je heel graag al weer wilt dromen van een mooie fotoreis, maar dat het nog steeds onzekere tijden zijn. Rekening houdend met die onzekerheid en de maatregelen tegen de verspreiding van het coronavirus hebben we iets nieuws bedacht. De "Veilig boeken-optie". Hiermee zetten we je kosteloos op onze deelnemerslijst. Dit zorgt ervoor dat je met een gerust hart kunt boeken en je toch kunt blijven dromen en je reisverlangens niet hoeft te onderdrukken.
Zodra het Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken en het land van bestemming een positief reisadvies voor die bestemming af geven, nemen we direct contact met je op en leggen we het aan je voor. Vanaf dat moment heb je 10 dagen de tijd om te beslissen of je deelneemt aan The trip of niet. Pas zodra je besluit om mee te gaan, betaal je de standaard 30% aanbetaling.