Kalametiya Lagoon Boat Safari
A half-day boat safari on Kalametiya Lagoon near Tangalle, a quiet bird sanctuary on Sri Lanka's south coast. Glide through mangroves with a local boatman to see herons, storks, kingfishers, migratory birds and crocodiles.
- Location: Tangalle
- Duration: Half Day
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best time: Open all year. September to March brings migratory birds. Go at sunrise or late afternoon, when birds are most active and the light is soft. Midday is hot and quieter.
About this experience
The Kalametiya Lagoon Boat Safari is a half-day trip (about 2 to 3 hours including transfers) on Kalametiya Lagoon, a protected bird sanctuary between Tangalle and Hambantota on Sri Lanka's south coast. It is one of the quietest wildlife experiences on the coast, with no jeeps and few other visitors. It suits birdwatchers, photographers, families and couples. What can you see at Kalametiya? - Water birds such as purple herons, painted storks, spoonbills, cormorants and egrets. - Several kingfisher species, bee-eaters and birds of prey. - Migratory waders and ducks from about September to March. - Mugger crocodiles, water monitors and sometimes otters. - Mangrove forest, reed beds and open water. How does the boat safari work? A local boatman paddles or punts a traditional boat slowly through the lagoon and mangrove channels, stopping for birds and wildlife. The slow pace makes it ideal for photography. Kalametiya or Bundala? Bundala is a national park explored by jeep, with more species and flamingos in some seasons. Kalametiya is a small, intimate lagoon explored by boat. Birders often enjoy both. Who runs the trips? Local fishermen from the lagoon villages, so your visit supports the community. How far is Kalametiya from Tangalle? About 30 minutes east of Tangalle, and around 1 hour from Hiriketiya. Why book with Figo Holidays? Figo Holidays is a Colombo-based destination management company running private tours across Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We arrange private transport, licensed guides and timings that avoid the heat and crowds, and build this experience into a tailor-made itinerary.Highlights
- Quiet lagoon bird sanctuary
- Traditional boat with local boatman
- Herons
- storks and kingfishers
- Migratory birds from September to March
- Crocodiles and water monitors
- Mangrove channels
- Great for bird photography
Travel tips
Bring binoculars, a zoom lens, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and water. Wear neutral colours. Sit still and keep voices low when birds are close. Keep hands inside the boat near crocodiles.