Wilpattu Villu Jeep Safari

A full-day jeep safari in Wilpattu, Sri Lanka's largest national park, known for its natural lakes (villus), leopards and sloth bears. A quieter, wilder alternative to Yala, about 45 minutes from Anuradhapura.

About this experience

The Wilpattu Villu Jeep Safari is a full-day private jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park, on Sri Lanka's north-west coast. Wilpattu is the country's largest national park, at over 1,300 square kilometres. Its name means "land of lakes", after the dozens of natural sand-rimmed lakes, called villus, that hold rainwater and attract wildlife. It suits wildlife lovers and photographers who want a quieter safari. What animals can you see in Wilpattu? Leopards, sloth bears, Asian elephants, spotted and sambar deer, wild buffalo, mugger crocodiles, jackals and many birds, from painted storks to crested serpent eagles. Leopards are seen fairly often, but the park is large and dense, so sightings take patience. Why choose Wilpattu over Yala? Wilpattu has far fewer jeeps, so sightings are calmer and more personal. The dense forest and villu lakes give a wilder feeling. Yala has more leopards per square kilometre, while Wilpattu offers a more exclusive experience. Why a full-day safari? Wilpattu is large, and a full day lets you reach the deeper villus where wildlife is less disturbed. You'll enter at opening time, have a packed lunch inside the park and leave in the evening. How far is Wilpattu from Anuradhapura and Colombo? The Hunuwilagama entrance is about 30 km from Anuradhapura (45 minutes) and 180 km from Colombo (about 4 hours). 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

  • Sri Lanka's largest national park
  • Natural villu lakes
  • Leopards and sloth bears
  • Elephants and crocodiles
  • Far fewer jeeps than Yala
  • Full-day private jeep safari
  • Packed lunch inside the park

Travel tips

Wear neutral colours, a hat and sunscreen. Bring binoculars, water and a camera with a zoom lens. Keep quiet near animals and stay inside the jeep. A packed lunch is needed for a full-day safari.

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