Bundala National Park Safari from Hikkaduwa: Full-Day Birding in a Ramsar Wetland
Spend a full day in Bundala National Park from Hikkaduwa, traversing Ramsar-listed lagoons and salt flats by 4x4 to watch migratory waterbirds up close. This practical guide covers what to expect, how to prepare, and where to look for the best birding windows.
The Experience
Before You Go
Early start for bird activity
Arrive at dawn to see the highest concentration of feeding waterbirds and better light for photography.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Binoculars are essential for identifying distant waders; a 300mm+ lens helps capture shorebird details.
Carry local currency
Park entry or conservation fees are commonly paid on-site—bring small bills to avoid delays.
Wear muted clothing
Neutral, non-reflective colors reduce disturbance to wildlife and improve your chances of close sightings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Salt pans at the park’s eastern margins reveal close-foraging waders at low tide
- •Small freshwater ponds inside the reserve attract kingfishers and smaller passerines away from the main lagoons
Wildlife
- •Greater flamingo
- •Black-headed ibis
Conservation Note
The park’s wetlands are sensitive to disturbance and water-level changes; follow guide instructions, avoid trampling salt marshes, and refrain from feeding wildlife.
Bundala became Sri Lanka’s national park in 1993 and was later recognized as a Ramsar Wetland and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its migratory bird importance.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Essential for identifying distant waterbirds and scanning lagoons.
Telephoto camera lens
Helps capture detailed shots of shorebirds and waders from the vehicle.
Light rain jacket
Useful during sudden showers in the monsoon season.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated during the full-day safari in tropical heat.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
Park admission is typically paid locally and is not always included with the tour price—confirm with your operator before departure.
How long is the tour and where is pickup?
This is a full-day, roughly eight-hour safari with pickup commonly arranged from Hikkaduwa and nearby coastal towns.
Will I see flamingos and migratory birds?
Yes—Bundala regularly hosts large flocks of flamingos, herons, and a variety of wintering waders, especially in the cooler months.
Is the safari suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
The vehicle-based safari is family-friendly and accommodates a range of mobility levels, though short walks over uneven ground may be required.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Hambantota, Southern Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks from the vehicle and periods of standing
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