Backcountry Journeys Presents
Kings of the Jungle:
Leopards & Sloth Bears of Sri Lanka
Kings of the Jungle:
Leopards & Sloth Bears of Sri Lanka
Leopards & Sloth Bears of Sri Lanka
12 Days | Up to 7 Guests | Fitness Level: 1 | Starting at $9,995
May 10 - 21, 2026
May 9 - 20, 2027
May 9 - 20, 2027
Pre-Booking Available Now | Reservations Open May 8th
Pre-Booking Available Now | Reservations Open May 8th
Capture Sri Lanka's Untamed Wilderness
Join Backcountry Journeys on an exclusive photographic expedition through Sri Lanka's hidden wildlife sanctuaries. This meticulously crafted itinerary, developed in collaboration with elite local naturalists, offers unparalleled opportunities to capture the island's apex predators and rich biodiversity in their natural habitats.
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The Next Big Destination in Wildlife Photography
The Next Big Destination in Wildlife Photography
Sri Lanka is a true hidden gem for wildlife photographers—a place where leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and hundreds of bird species thrive in uncrowded, off-the-radar parks. We’ve worked closely with expert naturalists and scientists to craft a one-of-a-kind itinerary through Wilpattu and Kumana, two of the island’s most wildlife-rich and least-touristed ecosystems. This is your chance to be among the first photographers to explore these remote regions—before the rest of the world catches on. If you want rare species, diverse backdrops, and shots no one else has, this is the trip to take.
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The Ultimate Big Cat Experience
The Ultimate Big Cat Experience
Sri Lanka is home to the largest leopard subspecies on Earth—the Sri Lankan Leopard —and this photo safari gives you front-row access to two of the best parks for observing and photographing them. Wilpattu National Park is known for its tranquil forest lakes and shaded roads where leopards often stroll or rest. Kumana National Park, with its rocky outcrops and coastal lagoons, ranks second globally in leopard density, with an estimated 41 leopards per 100 square kilometers. Fewer crowds, extended drives, and expert local guides make this one of the most productive big cat experiences in the world.
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Optimal Sloth Beath Viewing
Optimal Sloth Beath Viewing
The elusive Sri Lankan Sloth Bear becomes more active and visible during the palu fruiting season from May to July—a period we’ve strategically chosen for this photo safari. These shaggy-coated bears are drawn to the sweet fruit, emerging from dense forest in search of food. Wilpattu is the best park in Sri Lanka to observe them. For photographers, this is a rare window to capture a charismatic but often overlooked species, with a beautiful forest backdrop and the chance for unique behavioral images.
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Bird Photographer's Paradise
Bird Photographer's Paradise
Sri Lanka is a top birding destination, and this itinerary puts you in the heart of its rich avian diversity. With over 400 recorded species, including 33 endemics, you’ll photograph dazzling birds like the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Grey Hornbill, and Black-necked Stork. Expect explosions of color from bee-eaters, kingfishers, hornbills, and more. From the mangroves of Kumana to the lakes of Wilpattu, this trip offers a variety of habitats for capturing birds in flight, in song, or in dramatic early morning light.
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Incredible Value, Unmatched Opportunity
Incredible Value, Unmatched Opportunity
For a 12-day, all-inclusive wildlife photography safari—with expert instruction, premier guiding, and access to remote, high-density wildlife parks—this trip delivers exceptional value under $10,000. You’ll learn from one of the top wildlife photographers in the world, travel with two published naturalists, and explore hidden regions of Sri Lanka that few have photographed. This is the kind of itinerary that rivals—and in many ways exceeds—the classic safaris of Africa, offering a rare combination of predators, megafauna, birdlife, and biodiversity.
Available Departures
Pre-Booking Available Now!
May 10-21, 2026
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Trip Leader(s)
Grant Ordelheide
Grant Ordelheide
Starting From
$9,995.00
$9,995.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,195
+$1,195
Deposit: $4,000
May 9-20, 2027
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Trip Leader(s)
Grant Ordelheide
Grant Ordelheide
Starting From
$10,995.00
$10,995.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,195
+$1,195
Deposit: $4,000
Start/End
Start: Katunayake, Sri Lanka (CMB)
End: Katunayake, Sri Lanka (CMB)
End: Katunayake, Sri Lanka (CMB)
Dates
5/10/26 - 5/21/26
5/9/27 - 5/20/27
5/9/27 - 5/20/27
Fitness Level
Level 1 - What's This
Group Size
Limited to 7 photographers
Highlights
Sri Lankan Leopard Encounters: Photograph the largest leopard subspecies in the world in two prime habitats with some of the highest sighting rates anywhere on Earth.
Sloth Bear Sightings: Explore the best locations in Sri Lanka to observe and photograph the elusive and charismatic sloth bear in its natural environment.
Night Safaris for Rare Wildlife: Venture out after dark to search for nocturnal species like the Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, and Rusty-Spotted Cat—experiences rarely offered on traditional safaris.
Diverse Habitats and Backdrops: Capture wildlife across a range of settings, from Wilpattu’s shaded forest lakes to Kumana’s rocky outcrops, lagoons, and coastal scrub.
This Special Trip Departure is valid for new trip reservations only (no transfers, trip credit, or discounts).
Trip Itinerary
Built for the shot. Driven by the wild.
Built for the shot. Driven by the wild.
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1: Arrival in Sri Lanka (D)
We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka and be met at the airport by our naturalist guide before heading to our peaceful hotel just minutes away. This evening is all about rest and recovery after a long journey, giving us time to prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Journey to Wilpattu National Park (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we’ll make our way northwest to Wilpattu National Park, known for its iconic lakes and thriving leopard population. We’ll settle into our safari lodge and then head out on our first afternoon game drive for a taste of what’s to come.
Days 3-5: Full-Day Safari in Wilpattu (B,L,D)
We’ll set out early for full days in Wilpattu, exploring its dense forest trails and sandy lakebeds in search of leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife. With meals packed, we’ll spend the day immersed in the park, maximizing our time and photographic opportunities.
Day 6: Travel to Habarana and Evening Safari (B,L,D)
We’ll head east to Habarana, a peaceful region known for elephant gatherings. After lunch, we’ll go on a game drive to Minneriya or Kaudulla, followed by an exciting night safari focused on spotting small wild cats in the dark.
Day 7 – Journey to Panama and Kumana National Park (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we’ll begin the scenic journey south to Panama near Kumana National Park. After settling in at our remote lodge, we’ll head out for a game drive and a night safari through the buffer zones, where nocturnal species often make surprise appearances.
Days 8-10: Into the Wild at Kumana (B,L,D)
We’ll begin our days early with a game drive in Kumana, returning for lunch and rest before going back out in the afternoon. Kumana’s rocky outcrops and lagoons offer a totally different setting for photographing leopards and other wildlife. We’ll track big cats, elephants, and unique birdlife. The mix of morning and evening drives allows us to capture a range of light, behavior, and landscapes.
Day 11 – Return to Katunayake (B,L,D)
We’ll enjoy a relaxing breakfast before the long drive back to Katunayake, with a stop for lunch on the way. Our final night is all about winding down and reflecting on the unforgettable journey we’ve shared.
Day 12 – Departure (B)
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport and say farewell to Sri Lanka, heading home with full memory cards and memories to last a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrival in Sri Lanka (D)
We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka and be met at the airport by our naturalist guide before heading to our peaceful hotel just minutes away. This evening is all about rest and recovery after a long journey, giving us time to prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Journey to Wilpattu National Park (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we’ll make our way northwest to Wilpattu National Park, known for its iconic lakes and thriving leopard population. We’ll settle into our safari lodge and then head out on our first afternoon game drive for a taste of what’s to come.
Days 3-5: Full-Day Safari in Wilpattu (B,L,D)
We’ll set out early for full days in Wilpattu, exploring its dense forest trails and sandy lakebeds in search of leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife. With meals packed, we’ll spend the day immersed in the park, maximizing our time and photographic opportunities.
Day 6: Travel to Habarana and Evening Safari (B,L,D)
We’ll head east to Habarana, a peaceful region known for elephant gatherings. After lunch, we’ll go on a game drive to Minneriya or Kaudulla, followed by an exciting night safari focused on spotting small wild cats in the dark.
Day 7 – Journey to Panama and Kumana National Park (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we’ll begin the scenic journey south to Panama near Kumana National Park. After settling in at our remote lodge, we’ll head out for a game drive and a night safari through the buffer zones, where nocturnal species often make surprise appearances.
Days 8-10: Into the Wild at Kumana (B,L,D)
We’ll begin our days early with a game drive in Kumana, returning for lunch and rest before going back out in the afternoon. Kumana’s rocky outcrops and lagoons offer a totally different setting for photographing leopards and other wildlife. We’ll track big cats, elephants, and unique birdlife. The mix of morning and evening drives allows us to capture a range of light, behavior, and landscapes.
Day 11 – Return to Katunayake (B,L,D)
We’ll enjoy a relaxing breakfast before the long drive back to Katunayake, with a stop for lunch on the way. Our final night is all about winding down and reflecting on the unforgettable journey we’ve shared.
Day 12 – Departure (B)
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport and say farewell to Sri Lanka, heading home with full memory cards and memories to last a lifetime.
What's Included
What's Included
All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
All transportation during the workshop
All lodging during the workshop
All permits and park fees
Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff & drivers
What's Not Included
What's Not Included
Flights to and from Katunayake, Sri Lanka (CMB)
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
Backcountry Journeys offers over 100 global photography tours and workshops, spanning iconic U.S. National Parks to the wild savannahs of Africa, catering to all interests and skill levels. As one of the top-rated, all-inclusive providers in the industry, we ensure a highly personalized and memorable experience that's rooted in our deep passion for photography.
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
Discover over 100 global photography tours and workshops, from U.S. National Parks to Africa's savannahs, designed for all skill levels. Enjoy personalized experiences with our small groups and hands-on guidance from certified photo instructors.
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
Our team handles all logistics, ensuring a seamless experience, supported by an on-call support line. World-class Trip Planners meticulously plan every detail, while our exceptional customer service ensures your experience exceeds expectations.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
Our adventures blend breathtaking locations with lasting connections among like-minded photographers. We foster a warm, inclusive atmosphere that encourages friendships beyond the trip.
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
