From Beaches to Leopards: 5-Day Southern Coast & Yala Adventure
This is a five day travel plan taking you through the Sri Lanka's breathtaking southern coast which has sun kissed beaches to the kindom of wild animals, Yala national park. This is a perfect suit for travelers who prefers both relaxation and adventures.
5-Day Itinerary Overview
Day 1 – Arrival & Relax at Hikkaduwa
Start your journey from Colombo and head to Hikkaduwa (around 1-1.5 hours drive via Southern Expressway). Spend the day relaxing on the beach, snorkeling in coral reefs, or visiting the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery. You can see a wide variety of turtles, from small ones to large ones. You can either go snorkeling in the coral reef park or take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the corals. Boat rides can be arranged at Hikkaduwa Beach through local guides or nearby hotels. When arranging a boat tour, consider safety by asking about their safety measures and cheking reveiws or other available boat services.
Day 2 – Scenic Drive to Tangalle
On the second day, you can start your journey from Hikkaduwa to Tangalle along the beautiful coastal road. During the journey, you must visit Galle Fort, where you can see its magical views and remarkable architecture. Another nearby attraction is Rumassala, located near Galle city. Rumassala is rich in biodiversity and has a small hill from which you can enjoy a beautiful view of Unawatuna Bay. The Unawatuna Jungle Beach will also fill your heart with gratitude and peace.
After visiting Galle, you can continue to Matara, passing through the stunning beaches of Weligama and Mirissa, known for their incomparable beauty. Matara is also a scenic city in the Southern Province. From Matara, you can visit the Blow Hole at Dikwella, one of the largest blow holes in the world. It’s a natural sea feature where water is forced through a narrow rock cavity, creating a powerful jet that can shoot up to 25 meters high.
By evening, you will reach Tangalle after exploring all these places from Hikkaduwa while enjoying the coastal road. It’s a great idea to relax in a beach resort in Tangalle, watching the sunset over the sea.
Day 3 – Travel to Yala National Park
After breakfast, head toward Yala (approx. 2 hours). Check into a safari lodge and prepare for your first evening safari. You might spot elephants, deer, and a variety of exotic birds.
Day 4 – Full-Day Safari Adventure in Yala
Begin early in the morning for a full-day safari in Yala National Park. This is one of the best chances to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. You can also enjoy the beautiful landscapes and lagoons inside the park.
Day 5 – Return Journey
After breakfast, you can relax for a while or visit the nearby Kataragama Temple before returning to Colombo. It’s the perfect way to end your coastal and wildlife adventure.
🏨 Accommodation
Choose beachfront stays in Hikkaduwa and Tangalle for relaxation, and a cozy safari lodge near Yala for a true wildlife experience.
💡 Travel Tips
- Best travel months: November to April for beaches, February to July for Yala safaris.
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothes for the tropical weather.
- Book your Yala safari in advance to avoid last-minute unavailability.
- Respect wildlife rules — don’t get out of the jeep inside the park.
- Try local seafood in Tangalle and Hikkaduwa — especially fresh crab curry and grilled fish.
✨ Final Thoughts
From golden beaches to wild jungles, this 5-day southern adventure perfectly captures Sri Lanka’s diversity. Whether you love the calm of the ocean or the thrill of spotting a leopard, this journey offers both — making it an unforgettable experience.