Why a Sri Lankan Safari Should Be on Every Wildlife Lover’s Bucket List- A Wonderfully Wild Ride 

With over 27 stunning national parks, eco-friendly resorts, bespoke adventure packages, and meaningful interactions with local wildlife and communities, Sri Lanka is a bucket-list-worthy safari destination.

A Variety of Wildernesses 

From lush cloud forests, rugged cliffs, and savannah-like plains to crumbling dunes, swampy wetlands, and mangrove jungles, Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes are the perfect places for playing hide-and-seek with exotic creatures.

Fascinating Endemic Species 

With its unparalleled concentration of wildlife and resourceful ecosystems, you can expect to be blown away by beautiful and bizarre native species like the purple-faced langur, golden palm civet, and Ceylon junglefowl.

Sri Lankan Big Game 

This postcard-perfect island is home to some mighty animals, with the world’s greatest concentration of leopards, a high percentage of sloth bears, as well as a sizeable population of the largest land and marine mammals, the Asian elephant and blue whale. Embark on a thrilling Sri Lanka wildlife safari and get acquainted with the island’s varied allurements with the likes of Walkers Tours

Unique Wildlife Immersions 

Each of Sri Lanka’s nature-kissed sanctuaries presents spellbinding opportunities to view different animals in their element. From locking eyes with a majestic leopard in Yala and watching crocs bathe in its jewel-toned lagoons to witnessing the Elephant Gathering in Minneriya and the animal assemblies around Wilpattu’s lakes and grasslands, there’s much to see!

Image by Wikimedia Commons

Accessibility and Convenience 

From wild cats, buffalo, and gentle giants to peacocks, flamingos, and red slender loris, Sri Lanka’s diminutive size makes it easy to travel between the parks dotted across the country in less than four hours.

Island Hopping in Koh Samui – The Best Islands to Go To

Island hopping around Koh Samui offers an exhilarating way to explore the Gulf of Thailand’s tropical wonders. Surrounded by a constellation of smaller islands, Koh Samui serves as a perfect launch point for discovering pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and vibrant marine life.

Koh Taen

Just a short distance southwest of Koh Samui lies Koh Taen, a tranquil and untouched gem often referred to as “The Coral Island.” Celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity, it’s a top spot for snorkelling, where visitors can encounter colourful fish, graceful stingrays, and even barracuda.

Koh Mudsum

Koh Mudsum, affectionately known as Pig Island, is a favourite stop on island-hopping excursions from Koh Samui. Situated just south of Koh Taen, this laid-back island is perfect for relaxing beach days, and what sets Koh Mudsum apart are its sociable resident pigs, often spotted cooling off in the turquoise shallows. Step away from your resort in Chaweng, like the famous Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club, and bond with some piggies, undoubtedly one of the more intriguing things to do in Chaweng, Samui

Koh Phangan

Famous for its lively Full Moon Parties at Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan is much more than just a party destination. The island boasts stunning white-sand beaches, lush jungles, and excellent dive sites, offering something for every kind of traveller.

Koh Tao

Image by Kanenori from Pixabay

Koh Tao, often called “Turtle Island,” is a scenic retreat that has captured the hearts of travellers with its panoramic views and world-class dive sites. Renowned for serene beaches like Ao Tanote and Sairee, as well as the crystal-clear waters of Mango Bay, the island is a haven for beach lovers and underwater explorers alike.

Hiking Sigiriya: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Iconic Climb-Finding a Footing in History

From charming gardens and tranquil ponds to striking frescoes and imperial relics, walk straight into an untouched tapestry. Here’s all you need to know about this breathtaking heritage hike.

Claim a Sky-High View 

Wrapped in intricate layers of intrigue, the Sigiriya Lion Rock, a behemoth rock fortress towering above lush rainforest canopies, is more than just an arresting landmark. It clings on to the remnants of a civilisation that was far ahead of its time, so make sure you enjoy the best vantage points of this majestic monument. Take in each artistic detail with an epic bird-eye view from your Cinnamon Air flight.

The Starting Point

With more than 1200 steps ahead of you, climbing this storied rock castle can feel slightly unnerving. However, there’s so much natural beauty and heritage artistry to take in that you won’t feel fatigued by your trek, which starts at the main gate and transports you back to the 5th century AD.

The Spiral Staircase 

There are many stairways between the main gate and the Lion’s Paws, which lead directly to the citadel’s top. You will pass by water gardens, boulder arches, pavilions, audience halls, and mirror walls. Wind your way up the famous Sigiriya spiral staircase, with its 20-30 steps, to take in the striking cave murals.

The Summit 

While the trek gets a bit steeper once you pass the Lion’s Paws, there’s ample space to stop for a rest and handrails to hold onto for support. After about 15 minutes, you will reach the summit where you can drink in sublime views and pat yourself on the back!

Image by 🌸♡💙♡🌸 Julita 🌸♡💙♡🌸 from Pixabay

Tips for the Climb 

Start your hike early in the morning to avoid being hindered by the crowds. Use the bathroom ahead of time, stay hydrated, and go all in on the high-SPF sunscreen!

Tips for Dolphin Watching in Maldives – Admire These Playful Creatures in a Natural Setting

Undoubtedly, observing dolphins in their natural habitat in the course of your Maldives holiday will be a magical experience. While you will have the opportunity to see these marine mammals cavorting freely in the Indian Ocean, you should keep the following insights in mind.

Obtain local expertise

For your dolphin watching excursion, you should take the opportunity to avail yourself of the services of an experienced boat captain or guide. Skilled individuals will have the expertise to take you to the places where these marine mammals are to be found, interpret their behaviour and even share interesting insights and stories.

Depart at dawn or late afternoon

The optimal time at which to embark on your dolphin watching expedition is dawn, when the rising sun begins its ascent over the horizon. This is due to the fact that dolphins are liveliest at this time of day, frolicking and leaping as they cavort in their carefree manner. On the other hand, you also get excursions that take place in the late afternoon, which gives you a chance to see these adorable creatures as well. One of the Baa atoll resorts to consider from which you could undertake a dolphin watching trip is Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

Maintain a safe distance

When you see dolphins frolicking in their carefree way, you may be tempted to approach them closely and perhaps even swim with them. However, this is likely to cause distress and anxiety to these endearing marine mammals, and therefore, you must always take care to maintain a respectful distance without disturbing them.

Image by Romuald Bézard from Pixabay

Remain quiet 

When you encounter a pod of dolphins during your excursion in Maldives, it is important to stay as quiet as possible. Accordingly, you should only use hushed voices and whispers when conversing at a time like this. In this way, you will have the opportunity to avoid alarming the dolphins and observe their natural, spontaneous behaviour.

Exciting Outdoor Activities in Lesotho – Engage in Thrilling and Memorable Adventures

Lesotho will be a delightful place for those who love nature and the outdoors, as there is an array of diverse and exciting activities to choose from in this captivating country in southern Africa.

Abseiling 

As Lesotho is a mountainous nation, it isn’t surprising that it offers great opportunities for abseiling. In the months of summer, you may engage in an abseiling session on the sheer cliff sides to be found here. During your activities, you will also have the opportunity to admire the picturesque scenery and spot creatures like the threatened bearded vulture.

Pony trekking 

Many locals use ponies to get about, and a pony trekking adventure is sure to be one of the enthralling things to do in Lesotho. In fact, ponies have the ability to reach places that even four-wheel-drive vehicles would be unable to access. An accommodation choice to consider in the capital, Maseru, from which you could easily undertake a pony trekking excursion is the appealingly located Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino

Mountain biking 

Another marvellous activity for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits is exploring the country on a mountain bike. Here, you would have the chance to make your way through lofty mountain passes with inspiring scenery on every side. Mountain biking is sure to be a marvellous experience in this tranquil, unsullied region of the African continent.

Guided hiking 

Image by Mario from Pixabay

As you might expect, guided hiking will also be an absorbing and enjoyable activity in this enchanting nation. On your hiking excursion, you may explore the stunning landscapes whilst admiring the scenic surroundings. Naturally, your experienced guide would provide you with useful advice and point out the best hiking routes.

Lesser-Known Caribbean Islands Every Adventurer Should Visit – Discovering Hidden Treasures

Yes, the Caribbean is what comes to mind when we think of a dream getaway, but it’s always the well-known spots like the Bahamas, Jamaica and Aruba that get all of the attention. If you’re looking for new adventures in the Caribbean, here are a few lesser-known islands that will rival even the most popular destinations in the region.

Sint Maarten

Offering a fascinating mix of Dutch and French cultures, this vibrant island gives you plenty to marvel at with its two distinct capital cities for each nation, which showcase a brilliant scene of festivals, food and history.

Tortola

Located within the British Virgin Islands and accessible via InterCaribbean Airways, this sanctuary boasts an impressive blend of history and natural beauty that you can explore at your own pace, away from the crowds.

Dominica

This mountainous island is an adventurer’s destination on the route of top Caribbean island flights. Whether you’re exploring the Boiling Lake, the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the sights you see will make you never want to leave.

Image by Willipixel from Pixabay

Saba

Locally known as the ‘Unspoiled Queen’, Saba is where stunning volcanic peaks, magnificent ocean views and vibrant natural trails give you a glimpse of nature’s beauty when it isn’t hindered by mass tourism.

Pointers to keep in mind before your elephant sanctuary excursions – take mammoth strides in Chiang Rai!

Are you searching for a way to sustain the wildlife enthusiast in you? No issue. Take a trip to Chiang Rai’s elephant sanctuaries. These provide you with unique opportunities to have close encounters with these majestic creatures and learn about them.

Choose ethically
Before deciding to head there, do some research to familiarise yourself with and pick a suitable elephant camp in Thailand to explore. Check to see if the destination prioritises ethical treatment rather than using the animals for mere entertainment, like riding and using them as performers. A property like Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort engages in several conservation projects on elephant welfare. So you might like to check them out before heading there.

Respect their space 
Sanctuaries are aimed at letting animals behave freely in their natural habitat. Therefore, you need to keep a distance from them so that you do not startle these gentle giants. The best experience you can have is to witness them in their natural environment without any interference.

Image by Felix from Pixabay

Follow safety rules 
Safety is key in any place which inhabits wildlife. So be knowledgeable about any safety rules that the sanctuary maybe following. Do not make direct contact with the beasts as encounters with strangers might stress or excite them.

Promote ethical practices 
A good way to express your views and promote any ethical practices or animal welfare excursions is to share your experience on social media. It is a tool which reaches out to a wide audience and encourages many others to visit and support such places. You can popularise destinations which save and rehabilitate these beasts from traumatized circumstances.

Thrilling Water Adventures in the Maldives – Indulge in Exhilarating and Entertaining Pursuits

There is an array of exhilarating water activities to choose from during your holiday in the Maldives; irrespective of whether you crave excitement or more laid-back options, you won’t be disappointed.

Snorkelling 

Many visitors to this island nation take the opportunity to go snorkelling as virtually anyone with swimming skills could engage in this activity. Snorkelling will provide endless hours of fun as you explore the entrancing underwater environment. You could gain a glimpse of the islands’ lovely coral reefs and the exotic sea creatures to be found near them.

Mj Blanchet, Snorkelling (105664607), CC BY-SA 3.0

Scuba diving 

However, if you truly wish to do justice to the undersea treasures found here, you need to go scuba diving in the local waters. During your diving sessions, you may admire the stunning underwater scenery and marine life like tropical fish, sharks, mantas and sea turtles. If you seek the best water villas in Maldives, consider an accommodation option such as Adaaran Prestige Water Villas, from which you could go diving as well.

Fun tubing 

A rather different kind of water sport is fun tubing, which doesn’t require any specialised skills. All that you would have to do is to don your lifejacket and hold on tightly to your fun tube; the driver of the motorboat towing you will do the rest, taking unexpected manoeuvres and turns for your entertainment and pleasure.

Jet skiing 

There’s nothing quite like jet skiing to put a smile on your face and get the adrenaline pumping. In the Maldives, you would have the chance to ride your responsive watercraft amidst the inspiring surroundings; as your skill in piloting one of these crafts develops, you could try out more ambitious and eye-catching manoeuvres.

Marine Life Adventures and Excursions in Unawatuna – The Best in the Area

Unawatuna isn’t just about sunbathing and swimming – it’s the perfect spot to kick off some seriously fun day trips. Whether you’re up for spotting whales off the coast, wandering through old temples hidden in the hills, or just discovering nearby beaches and hidden gems, there’s plenty to explore.

Dolphin Watching

This part of the south coast is one of the best spots in the world to catch a glimpse of blue whales living in their natural home. Head out on a whale-watching trip from Mirissa or Dondra Head and there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins too!

The Galle Dutch Fort

This UNESCO World Heritage site is like stepping back in time – a walled city full of charm, where old Dutch churches still hold services and colonial buildings and street signs tell stories of a fascinating past – definitely should be added to your plans for day trips.

Surfing

Surfing is one of the best things to do in Unawatuna, especially during the season when waves can reach anywhere from 2 to 6 feet, depending on the swell – or so the pros say. Whether you’re cruising through a smooth tunnel or riding it out till the wave breaks, it’s all about catching that thrill while it lasts. The deep water and flat reefs make it a solid spot for experienced surfers, but not the best for beginners. Just a heads-up: the reef is made of coral, so bringing a first aid kit isn’t a bad idea.

Turtle Watching

Image by Joshua Choate from Pixabay

Sri Lanka is home to five out of the six known types of sea turtles, but sadly, due to fishing and habitat loss, they’re now listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. Efforts to protect these ancient ocean travellers have been underway for nearly 20 years – try and make some time while you plan out your adventure during your stay in Heenatigala Walawwa.

Reasons to add Colombo to your Travel Bucket List – The Gem of the Tropics Awaits

Colombo might just be one of the most underrated gems in South Asia—and it definitely deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. This lively city has a little bit of everything: rich history, mouthwatering food, vibrant street life, and some seriously gorgeous sunsets by the ocean. Colombo is the kind of place that surprises you – in the best way possible.

The Tea Culture

Immerse yourself in the heart of Sri Lanka’s rich tea culture with an experience that goes beyond just sipping a cuppa. Discover the fascinating heritage and traditions behind Ceylon tea, sample an array of distinctive blends, and learn to identify delicate aromas with just your sense of smell.

Delve into the histories of Colonisation

Not far from Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is Fort, the city’s busy commercial centre where colonial buildings meet modern vibes. It’s the perfect way to experience Colombo’s vibrant energy up close while appreciating the history within. You can also get a real feel for Colombo by diving into its buzzing streets, friendly locals, and mix of cultures that make the city so unique.

Experience the religious variety

In Colombo, things to do include temple hopping. The city is packed with temples and kovils that add colour and character to the city, and a few are definitely worth a stop. The old and new Kathiresan Kovils are especially popular during the vibrant annual chariot festival, while the Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple stands out with its stunning murals and eye-catching details.

Taste the Unique street food

Image by Swastik Arora from Pixabay

The city of Colombo offers a world of local flavour to dig into during your visit! From fried isso wadey to vegetable rottis and even devilled chick peas. But you simply can’t miss out on kottu, which is chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables, egg and a choice of meat on a heated griddle.