Best Birdwatching Safari from Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka

This safari takes you on a joyride through Bundala Bird Park—a haven for migratory waterbirds. You will be traveling through a Ramsar Wetland to see the colorful birdlife that wings its way to Sri Lanka for winter. Eager butterfly enthusiasts will find the safari a journey of discovery. Change your view of life and nature as you marvel at the freedom of thousands of birds!

What to Expect

Each and every species of waterbird found in Sri Lanka is believed to visit Bundala National Park. Nearly 200 species of birds have been recorded within the park, out of which 58 species are migratory birds. During September and March, hordes of migrants arrive in Bundala; among them are Marsh and Curlew Sandpipers, Curlew and Greenshanks, Golden and Kentish Plovers, and Large and Lesser Sandplovers. While the broad-billed sandpiper and red-necked phalarope are the rare visitors, the most famous migratory bird is the greater flamingo. Hoards of flamingoes are one of the most common sights. In this period over 10,000 shorebirds might be feeding on any one day. The lagoons at the park attract a great variety of aquatic birds: among them are ibis, pelicans, painted storks, black-necked storks, terns, gulls, sandpipers, snipes, teals, egrets, and spoonbills. Endemic birds include the brown-capped babbler, Ceylon woodshrike, and Ceylon junglefowl.

Comfortable clothing. Hardy hiking shoes appropriate for trudging in the mud. A wide-brimmed hat or billed cap to keep off the sun.

• Safari duration: 4 Hours