Jungle Tourism - The Adventure Travel Site

A Weekend in Habarana to Make You Feel Relaxed

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Habrana is quite the place that is going to definitely pique your interest. There are hotels in the midst of greenery, animals at every corner and lovely fresh air to breathe in. Here are a few things to do on a weekend there.

Minneriya wildlife safari

This place is a short distance away from hotels like Habarana Village by Cinnamon. The main animal you will be looking out for on your safari would be elephants. Try to start your safari around 4:45/5 pm to avoid the heat.

Pidurangala Rock, Sigirya

You will need to pay a small entrance fee to climb this rock, but its totally worth it! Once you reach the top, you will be greeted with a splendid view of Sigirya Rock in the distance and the mass of greenery surrounding the area.

The Golden Temple

There is so much more than the prominent golden Buddha you will see no sooner you reach the foot of the temple. You will have to indulge in a 20-minute hike to the hill on which the temple is situated. Moreover, there are stunning rooms with several images of Buddha to discover.

Spend some time at the pool

Take the chance to explore the Sri Lanka resort you are lodged at as well with a dip in the pool and perhaps a good meal at the buffet. You could also hit the bar for one of your favourite coolers.

Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage

Found in present-day Tunisia, Ancient Carthage has a rich history and though many of its once grandiose structures are in ruins, this UNESCO World Heritage Sites still offers much to discover.

Archaeological Park

Amongst the key sites in Ancient Carthage, the Archaeological Park offers insights into the city’s history including when it was under Roman rule. Within easy reach of properties like The Residence Tunis by Cenizaro, this site is home to graves from the 5th century BC, an underground burial chapel, Roman cisterns and more.

Baths of Antonine

Dating to the 2nd century AD, these ruins of an expansive Roman bath complex overlooking the Mediterranean is also worth visiting from a Tunis hotel. While only several columns and the foundations are to be found, you can imagine what it would have been like in the days when Romans used these baths.

Theatre & Roman Villas

Overlooking the ocean and constructed on a hillside, this ancient Roman theatre offers a captivating sight on Avenue Reine Didon. Nearby, is a park in which one can see ancient Punic shaft graves as well as the restored 3rd century Villa des Volières, which features fragments of sculpture and lovely views from the terrace.

Carthage National Museum

A great place to learn more about Ancient Carthage, the Carthage National Museum showcases key artefacts that were found at the historical sites and ruins. You can get a clearer idea of what the city would have been like as well as view a wide range of exhibits from sarcophagi and jewellery to sarcophagi.

Wildlife Safaris in Mozambique

In the African nation of Mozambique, wildlife safaris are not only land-based but can be experienced in the water too! Here are some of the best spots for such experiences.

Bazaruto National Park

Home to a protected marine reserve, the Bazaruto National Park covers an archipelago with several islands. Those staying here including at the property of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas can explore the waters of the park and encounter dolphins, whales, sharks, manta rays, sailfish, turtles and endangered dugongs too.

Quirimbas National Park

Enjoying water-based safaris at the Quirimbas National Park is amongst the best things to do; Mozambique gives travellers a chance to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which has thriving wildlife including turtles, migrating humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, leopard sharks, crocodile fish and more.

Gorongosa National Park

For wildlife safaris in Mozambique on dry land, a popular choice would be Gorongosa National Park. Apart from guided safari drives, there are canoe and boat safaris here too; on your adventures, you may spot elephants, lions, impalas, warthogs, baboons, crocodiles, hippos and not forgetting more than 500 bird species.

Niassa Reserve

The country’s largest conservation area, the Niassa Reserve is another wildlife hotspot with thousands of elephants, buffalos and sables along with many zebras and Lichtenstein’s hartebeests. Smaller populations of wildebeest, kudu, hippo, leopard, lion and African wild dog can also be seen for an unforgettable safari.

Waterfall Hunting in Bandarawela

Among the hundreds of waterfalls beautifying Sri Lanka, the most beautiful ones are located in Bandarawela and around. Here are just a few of them.

Kaleelnisfa , Ravana Water Falls Bandarawela , CC BY-SA 4.0

Bambarakanda Waterfall
The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka (789 feet), Bambarakanda Waterfall is found when you are on your way to Haputale.

Ravana Falls
Interested in the Rama-Sita legend? Then, visit Ravana Falls during your stay at Bandarawela Hotel. Ravana Falls located 1.5 km from the hotel is one of the places in which Ravana hid Sita before she was rescued by Rama. The waterfall is not that tall, but it’s picturesque.

Devon Waterfall
Devon is a waterfall that’s to be adored from a distance. Stop by on your way to one of the Bandarawela hotels and enjoy what a graceful beauty she has, especially in the monsoon season.

Diyaluma Waterfall
Although Diyaluma looks taller than Bambarakanda, it’s really not! It’s the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka with a height of 720 feet. On your way to the waterfall, you may find many small shops selling everything ranging from boiled corn to fancy items. Do not forget to lend a helping hand to those small vendors too.

Why Botswana is considered a unique travel destination

Botswana is the wildlife enthusiast’s every dream. With diverse landscapes across the country that host diverse ecosystems it is a great place to visit to learn more about animals. Here are the 6 top reasons why you should visit Botswana.

1. Unique and Very Diverse National Parks and Game Reserves

There are so many diverse and unique national parks and gaming reserves around Botswana. There are great places that you can explore close to hotels in Gaborone.

2. A Large Diversity of Wildlife

There is a diverse array of wildlife distributed among these national parks including lions, elephants and giraffes on the dry plains and crocodiles, buffalos and hippos close to the Chobe River.

3. Various Types of Safaris

You can ask at your hotel the likes of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino about the various types of safaris available. There are boat cruises down the Chobe River, motorboating across the Okavango Delta, air safaris and a good hardy ride of a 4×4.

4. Has Stunning Sunsets

Because Botswana is so flat, you can be guaranteed a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world.

5. Is a Unique Travel Experience

It is a truly unique travel experience that will help you better understand nature. It is an adventure that will bring you close to the true beauty of the earth.

Amazing Attractions to Discover in Yala for an Unforgettable Vacation

From wildlife safaris to exploring exquisite cultural sites, Yala is an ideal place to spend your summer vacation. You will find many properties in and around this spellbinding city such as Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Adbar, Tourism Yala National Park, CC BY-SA 3.0

Yala National Park
No trip to Yala is complete without visiting its amazing national park – one of the most visited of its kind in Sri Lanka. It is home to a beautiful forest that provides lifeblood to many exotic animals. Animal lovers can even expect to spot the elusive leopard here during a safari arranged by their Yala hotel.

Magul Maha Viharaya
Hiding historical value in its ancient constructions, Magul Maha Viharaya is yet another attraction that can be visited during your trip to Yala. According to chronicles, Vijayabahu the Great has used this temple complex during the battle to unite the country.

Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya
A temple complex that’s believed to be built by King Kawanthissa during the 2nd century B. C., Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya can easily be accessed from many Yala hotels. The main stupa can be found overlooking a large pond from a large mountainous area.

Yala Leopard Centre
Couldn’t spot a leopard during your safari? Fret not – you can visit this incredibly informative centre that offers marvellous insights into the lives of leopards.

A Guide to Wildlife in Sri Lanka

If you are looking for a “wild” holiday which is more about wildlife encounters than nightlife fun, then Sri Lanka is an ideal destination! Here’s a glimpse into the many species you may come across.

Mammals
Sri Lanka has over 100 mammal species including the endemic leopard and elephant. Leopards can be spotted at the Yala National Park, while elephants can be seen at Minneriya National Park near Habarana; hotel options in the area such as Cinnamon Lodge Habarana offer excursions to see “The Gathering” of hundreds of elephants around July. The sloth bear, sambar deer, toque macaque and European otter are some of the other local mammals.

Birds
Over 500 species of birds have been recorded in Sri Lanka which encompasses endemic (like the Sri Lankanjunglefowl and Sri Lanka spurfowl) and migratory (like the Pacific golden plover and greater flamingo) species.The Sinharaja Forest Reserve andBundala National Park are two bird watching hotspots.

Reptiles
There are plenty of reptile species in the island which include a great many snakes such as the sand boa, green vine snake andIndian cobra. Also grouped amongst reptiles are the mugger and saltwater crocodiles as well as five sea turtle species like olive ridley, hawksbill and green turtles.

Marine Species
Out at sea, Sri Lanka is blessed with more diversity and one will find over 900 marine fish species; these include reef fish as well as larger varieties like marlin and sailfish. The country also offers one a chance to spot marine mammals from blue and sperm whales to spinner and bottlenose dolphins.\

Thrilling Safaris at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Ever had the thrill of seeing regal leopards and majestic elephants roam free in their natural habitats? Such wildlife encounters and a whole lot more awaits at the Yala National Park!

Plan Your Safari
Located in the southeast part of the country, this park can be accessed via the gates at locations such as Palatupana and Katagamuwa. For a safari tour, Sri Lanka is best explored via 4WD vehicles and Yala is no exception. A little after 6:00am and again after 4:00pm are generally the best times for spotting wildlife.

Kings of Yala
The apex predator at the park is the Sri Lankan leopard; safaris here are very popular since it has the world’s highest density of leopards in the wild. Such wildlife drives can be organised by local travel specialists the likes of Walkers Tours as part of unforgettable excursions to spot these stealthy felines.

Other Wildlife
On your adventures in Yala, you mayobserve many other creatures too including elephants who may be gentle giants, but shouldn’t be disturbed! Keep watch to also spot sloth bears, water buffalos, spotted deer, toque macaques and mugger crocodiles. Part of the park encompasses the coast where sea turtles are known to visit too.

Diverse Birdlife
Equally impressive are the diverse bird species at Yala; one of the best places for birdwatching in Sri Lanka, the park has recorded around 215 bird species. These includeendemic varieties such as the Sri Lanka wood pigeon, Sri Lanka grey hornbill and Sri Lankan junglefowl which is also the nation’s national bird.

Minneriya National Park

If you are a nature lover and are hoping to catch some elephants on your trip to Sri Lanka, then one of the best places to visit would be the Minneriya National Park.

How to get to Minneriya National Park

Located in the North Central part of Sri Lanka the Minneriya National Park has been pronounced an untamed animal haven since 1938. It is about 180km from Colombo and takes about 5 hours if you are driving.

shankar s. from Dubai, united arab emirates, Minneriya National Park (7568194474), CC BY 2.0

Best time to visit

The best time to visit would be from May to October as this is the time that you will be able to see herds of Asian Elephants gathering and making their way towards the water. The dry season beckons these gentle giants out into the open and the best times to start your jeep and go on the safari would the early morning hours from 5am – 8am.

What you can see

The safari ride in the park will have you seeing many animal species and birds. But the park is most famous for the herds of Asian elephants that gather at the watering hole during the hot seasons in Sri Lanka. Other animals you may come across on your safari are the spotted deer, sambar, and the purple-faced langur monkeys.

Where you can stay

If you are wondering where to stay during your trip, there are many hotels and resorts in the area that will put you up. You can even consider staying at a luxury hotel in Sigiriya Dambulla such as the Heritance Kandalama which is a mere 1 hour away from the National Park.

The Wildlife of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is surely a paradise for those who love biodiversity. Due to this same reason, the country has become so popular for wildlife safaris among tourists from all around the world.

Witnessing the Sri Lankan elephant

There are 26 National Parks in Sri Lanka and you can definitely spot Sri Lankan elephants at several of these parks. The Minneriya National Park and the Udawalawe National Park are just to name a few.

Leopards – a rare scene

Tourists love to arrange most of their adventure tours in Sri Lanka around the Yala National Park. In Yala, there is an unmatched leopard density worth exploring, and this is in addition to the other wildcats such as jungle cats, civet cats, and rust-spotted cats.

Watching the blue whales

If you travel to Mirissa or Trincomalee in Sri Lanka with Walkers Tours, you will get this rare privilege of exploring the largest animal species on earth- the blue whale.

Bird watching in Sri Lanka

Peacefully engage in birding at national parks such as Kumana and Bundala. The Sinharaja Bird Wave is also another popular attraction among bird watchers who come from all over the world.