In 3rd century BCE, King Devanampiya Tissa, one of the earliest rulers of Sri Lanka, founded what is widely considered to be the world’s first wildlife refuge. Since then, this small nation has focused on continuing what King Tissa started. On our Wild Sri Lanka Adventure we travel by sea plane, foot, bicycle, boat, and 4x4s to explore four national parks and many of Sri Lanka's premier UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From mountain highlands to some of the richest marine habitats in the world, the diversity and density of flora and fauna within this tiny island nation is stunning. Sri Lanka has the highest density of leopard in the world and share their habitat with sloth bears, herds of elephants, and diverse and colorful endemic birds. Driving the back roads and cycling through small towns and farmlands, friendly residents invite us into their home to share their daily life. Local guides take us to contemplate little-known Buddhist temples and sacred natural areas of enlightenment rarely visited by outsiders. Designed to minimize our footprint and bring benefits to local communities, we travel in fuel efficient vehicles, stay at certified eco-lodges, and collaborate with local people who graciously receive us as their welcome guests to share their daily lives and who become local proponents of conservation and more sustainable, community-based travel.
