Leisurely Lanka: Safari & Beach
This Sri Lanka safari itinerary combines time in Yala National Park with the island’s southern coast, balancing wildlife experiences with time by the sea. It’s ideal for travellers looking to experience Sri Lanka’s natural contrasts at a relaxed pace.
Moving between national parks and coastline, the journey brings together close-up wildlife encounters and slower days by the ocean, creating a route defined by variety without feeling rushed.
The itinerary below is shown as an example route. Every journey we create is planned from scratch, and can be adapted — unless you like it exactly as it is.
- Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Your trip begins with an overnight flight to Colombo.
- Day 2 - Yala National Park
Welcome to Sri Lanka! A Blank Canvas representative will be waiting to welcome you to the 'Tear Drop Isle,' before transferring you via private vehicle to the beautiful Yala National Park in the Southeast of the island.
Settle in tonight with sundowner drinks on the terrace.
- Day 3 - Yala National Park
Today you'll head out on safari to try and catch a glimpse of leopard, elephant and an array of other wildlife.
Sri Lanka is one of the only countries outside Africa where it's possible to see these creatures in their natural habitat.
- Day 4 - Unawatuna
After immersing yourself in Sri Lanka's wild side, it's time to hit the beach for some serious relaxation.
You'll be transferred to your beach resort back along the south coast by private car.
- Day 5 - Unawatuna
Your first day at leisure to relax, unwind and take in your surroundings.
Beaches in Sri Lanka are striking in their rugged beauty. Unawatuna is one of the few places where swimming is relatively safe, depending on the time of year.
- Day 6 - Unawatuna
Your resort provides you the perfect base from which to head out and explore Sri Lanka's exciting southern coast.
Sri Lanka is a majority Buddhist nation. Nearby you can visit the stunning Japanese Peace Pagoda, overlooking the ocean.
- Day 7 - Unawatuna
At leisure on the beach
- Day 8 - Unawatuna
Sri Lanka has an abundance of marine life, including turtles.
A short hop along the coast you can visit a Turtle hatchery, assisting volunteers and workers in releasing baby turtles back into the wild.
- Day 9 - Unawatuna
The beauty of a Sri Lankan beach holiday is your proximity to the country's rich culture. In some parts of the world the resorts are far from day to day activities of local people - not here.
It's easy to head into towns and villages, visit markets, dine at casual local restaurants. Sri Lanka is a kaleidoscope of colours, smells and experiences.
- Day 10 - Unawatuna
Your last day at leisure to relax on the beach.
Why not ask us to arrange a special meal for you under the stars, with your feet in the sand, to celebrate your final night on the island?
- Day 11 - Returning Home
Today you'll be met at your hotel and taken back to Colombo airport in good time for your flight home
From £2250pp
Itinerary highlights
- Track leopards, elephants and other wildlife on ethical jeep safaris in Yala National Park
- Unwind on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, with time to swim, explore coastal towns and enjoy laid-back beach days
- Experience everyday Sri Lankan life through local markets, temples and coastal villages
- Designed as a flexible example, that can be shaped around your interests