How to experience Sri Lanka's wildlife beyond the safari: A guide to nocturnal nature adventures

The draw of a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka cannot be disputed. However, for a completely contrasting take on the wilds of the Emerald Isle, toy with the thought of heading out no sooner dusk falls and bring along an unquenchable thirst for adventure and discovery under a moonlit sky. Here is what you need to keep in mind when planning a nocturnal nature adventure. 

Why step out at night?

Much to the amazement of many, a majority of the country’s native species is nocturnal. Therefore, the best way to witness these animals in their natural habitats would be to plan a guided jungle trek or night walk. As opposed to travelling in a jeep across vast lands by day, as night takes over, starlit skies and moon washed pathways would set the stage for an engaging experience. As you walk, listen intently to the melodies of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the voice of your guide en route to embracing the joys of a nocturnal escape deep in the jungle.

Hidden habitats burst into life 

To the curious wildlife fan, the thought of meeting a wide range of nocturnal specimens would suffice to quicken one’s pace, stick to tried and tested trails, and keep one’s eyes peeled for subtle movements and noises that lurk in the shadows. From flying squirrels, vibrant tree frogs, well-camouflaged geckos, spiders of varying size, creepy crawlies moving to and fro without a care in the world, and owls that send out haunting calls before taking flight into the blackness and beyond; such would be the essence of one’s exploits.   

Image via Cinnamon Wild Yala

Where should you focus your travels on?

When it comes to finding ideal locations, travellers will be handed a mix of popular trails, as well as off the beaten path getaways to check out. Begin within the lush green rainforests of Sinharaja while under the watchful eyes of a local guide and have access to reptiles, insects, and amphibians. Thereafter, turn your attention to the Knuckles Mountain Range. These forestlands brim with many nocturnal mammals to spot including the civet, porcupine, and slender loris and can be done so across regions that are blanketed in peace and quiet. Should you be based within a hop, step, and a jump of local villages, then consider prepping for the outdoors that will have you well positioned to encounter frogs, bats, fireflies, and owls. 

Have a local guide lead the way

Having the expertise of a guide carries significant advantages and the need for one ought never to be overlooked. Through the help of a guide, you will be led down the correct path, given every opportunity to discover Sri Lanka’s nocturnal species, and educated on being a responsible traveller. Such outings are both immersive and educational, as a guide will be better placed to hear sounds, identify exact locations, and fill you in on the dos and don’ts. 

What to wear?

Preparation is key to a successful wildlife outing and one important element is what you choose to wear. A long-sleeved top followed by a pair of trousers is best. Also, be sure to have on a sturdy pair of walking shoes to navigate terrain that maybe littered with rocks and boulders. What’s more? A headlamp with the flexibility to adjust its brightness is a must. In order to improve visibility, do carry binoculars. Also, prior to leaving your room, include a lightweight rain jacket that will come to your rescue inside rainforests, some insect repellent to keep away annoying mosquitoes, and plenty of drinking water.  

Book accommodation 

Part and parcel of any travel experience is having a decent form of accommodation from where you could plan your next step from and for the benefit of this article, also retire to after a busy night out combing through the jungle. Your best course of action would be to reserve a hotel, resort or villa in close proximity to your intended areas of travel. This way, you will not be forced to spend time on unnecessary travel and instead, focus your attention on getting the most out of your wildlife trip. In terms of the best hotels, in Yala Sri Lanka, travellers will be able to book with Cinnamon Wild Yala who also provide the ease of scheduling a jeep safari to the famed Yala National Park. Thus, guests would have a remarkable opportunity to delight in the best of both worlds and collect memories of the Emerald Isle and its wilder, untamed side.