Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka covering 130,000 hectares rich in ‘Willus’ or wetlands as its name suggests. This was once the most popular park, but was closed to visitors followed by an attack on its wardens by the LTTE in 1985. It reopened in 2010 but is not as busy as Yala. This is one of the best places to spot elephants, sloth bears, and the Sri Lankan leopard apart from a multitude of bird species including Ibis, lesser adjutant, Malabar hornbill and many others.
Less than 10 minutes from the park’s entrance, you find Wilpattu Safari camp which is owned and managed by a team of experienced wildlife photographers and conservationists. They have only five guest tents which make it easier for them to provide personalized services to their guests. Their rates include accommodation in comfortable tents with water, all meals, wi-fi, sundowners, and wine with dinner. Most importantly, they have included two safaris to the national park with entrance fees and the assistance of an experienced naturalist in their all-inclusive rates.
Wilpattu Safari Camp is no ordinary accommodation provider. They have published three coffee table books, of which the proceeds go back into conservation. They use their experience to ensure the guests enjoy the entire journey through the wild rather than run after “sightings”. Guests will be accompanied on safari by an experienced naturalist or wildlife photographer.
As conservationists, they are conscious of both; the impact on the environment and the experience you enjoy, which is why it is worthy to spend a couple of nights in their campsite to have a wonderful, knowledgeable and an unforgettable stay in one of the most innate national parks in Sri Lanka
