From Colombonegombo: Wilpattu Nat Park Safari Review

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka and considering a safari? A safari in Wilpattu National Park with ‘From Colombonegombo’ might be something you should think about. The park is big, a little quieter, and that too provides, you know, chances to spot wildlife that, frankly, you won’t see anywhere else. This review is my experience, the animals I encountered, and if, actually, this tour is worth every penny.

Why Wilpattu? So You May Ask?

Sri Lanka, just like your next door neighbors, too, has several national parks, but Wilpattu kind of stood out, it almost seemed. Located on the northwest coast, it’s actually the island’s biggest national park and one of its oldest, too. Very different than the popular Yala, Wilpattu boasts this network of “villus” – natural lakes filled with rainwater. This makes for picturesque landscapes and brings a unique kind of vibe, in some respects. These villus, in some respects, are hotspots for wildlife because the animals, by the way, flock to these water sources.

Booking With ‘From Colombonegombo’, In a Way?

I opted for ‘From Colombonegombo’ based on a couple things. I was looking, for instance, for a local company and that they, of course, had a lot of feedback and offered, seemingly, a pretty all-inclusive package, literally. What sold me very quickly was the promise of experienced drivers, the use of open-top 4×4 vehicles and, frankly, a real attention to, you know, sustainable practices. It’s pretty easy, by the way, to book the tour via their website and, arguably, the communication leading up to the safari was prompt and pretty clear.

The Safari Itself

The tour began super early, I want to say, but the early wake-up calls can be awesome because it meant witnessing the sunrise over the Sri Lankan landscape, sort of. It took several hours to drive from Negombo to Wilpattu’s entrance. Our driver, super knowledgeable about the park’s history and wildlife, was his name and then his knowledge made it just a tad more entertaining, too it’s almost. The open-top 4×4 was surprisingly very comfortable and the seating was just perfectly fine to get views. It really got me the great picture shots that, of course, you just couldn’t find on the Internet.

Wildlife Encounters

Wilpattu is actually known for its leopard population and that it was our primary goal to spot one. We went for hours, very slowly driving through various parts of the park, and patiently scanning the bushes. We did spot a leopard, resting under a tree, a little ways away, in a way! This very regal beast lounged while it’s almost looking straight into the lens. Of course, so, it’s pretty impossible to describe, in some respects, that feeling.

Other Wildlife Sighting Included:

Elephants (that, obviously, are majestic herds).
Sloth bears.
Deer.
Crocodiles.
Lots of different kinds of birds (pretty cool for birdwatchers).

Food and Accommodation

This full-day safari generally includes a packed lunch. From Colombonegombo provided an appetizing, pretty authentic Sri Lankan meal and, of course, it was awesome! There’s, apparently, specific picnic spots within the park where we could stop and appreciate the peace and nature, you know. If you are doing that multi-day tour, a range of lodges and hotels near Wilpattu is also accessible.

Responsible Tourism

One thing I actually appreciated about ‘From Colombonegombo’ was their adherence, almost, to sustainable tourism practices, I feel. The drivers had respect for the environment and we also kept our distance and also noise levels down to absolutely protect animals. They, I was told, also support community projects and really use local guides, kind of. It’s really awesome to know that your visit makes some type of impact.

The Verdict? It May Vary?

The ‘From Colombonegombo Wilpattu National Park 4×4 Safari Tour’ just had many wonderful things. The opportunity you can grab from these wildlife sighting and what they presented along with knowledgeable and responsible tour company, make it great. If you want somewhere to see wildlife and enjoy quiet, but untouched environments then think about doing Wilpattu and consider this. So that you know, though, a trip here may not be for everyone because the wildlife sighting successes usually are determined with good luck.

Tips for Your Wilpattu Safari

Wear muted clothing (browns and greens).
Carry insect repellent and sunscreen.
Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
Stay hydrated, so bring water bottles.
Listen to your driver/guide’s instructions always.

The experiences with nature, like the animals you would expect to encounter, the setting of this place and the amazing memories that are sure to imprint on your very soul. Very awesome. I sure cannot suggest anything that will be as much as this was. So just go there and feel that special essence.

Meta Title: From Colombonegombo: Wilpattu Nat Park Safari Review
Meta Description: A personal review of the ‘From Colombonegombo Wilpattu National Park 4×4 Safari Tour’ detailing the wildlife, experience, and value.
Meta Keyword: Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka safari, 4×4 tour, wildlife review, Colombonegombo tours
Meta Tags: Wilpattu, Sri Lanka, Safari, Tour, Wildlife, Review
Meta Category: Adventure Travel