For wildlife photographers, some destinations offer good photographs, while others offer unforgettable experiences. Sri Lanka belongs to the second category.
Even though Sri Lanka is a relatively small island nation, it is still considered to be one of the top world hotspots for biodiversity. Within a period of few days, photographers can photograph rare leopards, huge elephants, brilliant colored birds, crocodiles, sloth bears, monkeys and fantastic scenery. The diverse landscape in Sri Lanka combines dense jungle, wetlands, lagoons, meadows and coastlines, which provides infinite photo opportunities for photographers to build their amazing portfolio.
Whether you’re a professional wildlife photographer loaded with a telephoto lens, or a traveler eager to snap some of nature’s stunning images, Sri Lanka offers you a photographic journey like no other.
Why Sri Lanka Is a Dream Destination for Wildlife Photography?
Most photographers do the wildlife safari trip in Africa, however, Sri Lanka is also very beneficial as its diversity is within a very small geographical area.
In a vacations, photographers can capture:
- Sri Lankan Leopards
- Asian Elephants
- Sloth Bears
- Mugger Crocodiles
- Wild Buffalo
- Deer Species
- Jackals
- Monkeys
- More than 400 bird species
It is widely recognised for the country’s exceptional leopard photography opportunities, drawing photographers of wildlife from all over the world into Wilpattu and Yala National Parks.
Wilpattu National Park: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Treasure for Photographers
Yala National Park seems to be the place where most people head when it comes to discussing wildlife photography in Sri Lanka. But skilled photographers are gradually moving toward Wilpattu National Park.
The Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka and is best known for its natural pools which are called ‘Villus.’ The Villus are a common sight in Wilpattu as many animals visit them to quench their thirst all day round making it a great spot to take pictures.
In contrast with many over-popularised safari venues Wilpattu offers:
- Significantly fewer tourist vehicles
- More sparse safari roads
- Spontaneous animals and more natural behavior patterns
- Cleaner photograph backdrops
- Much greater possibility for patient wildlife spotting
Most wildlife travellers see Wilpattu as being more ‘natural’ and thus a more real safari experience as the park feels very wild.
Photographing the Elusive Sri Lankan Leopard
The biggest draw for photographers, of course, is the ability to get the Sri Lankan Leopard. The Sri Lankan Leopard is native only to Sri Lanka, and is one of the countries most photographed wildlife residents and most recognizable predators.
Wilpattu, with its mixed scrub and grasslands and watering holes, is ideal for sightings, and experienced guides can spot them based on paw prints, alarm calls of deer, and movements around the Villus. Photographers in recent years have been sharing outstanding shots of the Sri Lankan Leopard within the park. One can truly find few other spots within Sri Lanka for spectacular sightings of these incredible cats.
For a photographer, nothing is more exciting than watching a leopard emerge from the foliage during golden hour.
Outstanding Bird Photography locations
While guests arrive in pursuit of leopards and elephants, many leave enchanted by Sri Lanka’s birdlife. Sri Lanka is home to more than 430 species of birds, establishing it as one of the best bird photography destinations in Asia.
- Painted Storks
- White Ibis
- Purple Herons
- Grey Herons
- Kingfisher
- Eagles
- Paradise Flycatchers
- Fish Owls
- Openbill Storks
The Wilpattu wetlands and Villus offer is a home for migratory and resident birds.
Bird photographers sometimes consider Wilpattu suitable as the peaceful atmosphere gives them the leisure time required for fine-tuning a photograph and to watch the habits of these birds.
More than Leopards: Other Animal Photography
The animals in Sri Lanka are far more than the big cat varieties alone. Elephant, Sloth Bears and Mugger Crocodiles are commonly photographed by regular visitors as well as those visiting for specific purposes.
- Asian Elephants: Sri Lanka is world famous for elephant photography, with herds regularly encountered at water holes and grasslands.
- Sloth Bears: Some of the most sought after wildlife photography subjects in the country due to their elusiveness.
- Mugger Crocodiles: Lakes and water ways at Wilpattu allow excellent photo opportunities.
- Deer & Buffalo: Spotted deer, sambar and wild buffalo often make good additions to wildlife photos in a striking way as foreground elements.
The Importance of Staying Near Wildlife
One mistake many wildlife travellers make is staying too far from the parks they wish to photograph.
Wildlife photography often depends on timing:
- Sunrise
- Early morning movement of animals
- Spending golden hours near Wildlife
- Late evening wildlife activity
When you stay is located close to major habitats, photographers gain a significant advantages. This is where Cloud Nine Lanka Resort Wilpattu stands out.
Experience Wildlife From Cloud Nine Lanka Resort Wilpattu
Located near Wilpattu National Park and looking out to Dutch Bay in Sri Lanka is the comfortable nature-orientated resort that is the Cloud Nine Lanka Resort. Situated near the Wilpattu National Park and the local lagoon environments of the area the resort guests can explore the beauty of Sri Lanka.
For wildlife photographers, this location is especially appealing because it offers much more than accommodation.
Guests can enjoy:
Day trips and safaris in Wilpattu, Bird watching opportunities, nature walks, Boat ride on the lagoon, lorises night walks, Dolphin watching experiences, Wildlife guided tours. They have an on-site naturalist who will assist guests learn about their immediate surroundings.
The Rare Loris Photography Experience
One of the most unique wildlife experiences available near the resort is the Loris Tour.
The slender loris is a small, nocturnal primate that most wildlife photographers don’t ever have a chance to capture in the wild.
Cloud Nine’s guided tours to the Loris will permit you to watch this endearing primate responsibly and in a way that ensures their future conservation.
For photographers interested in nocturnal wildlife, this can become one of the highlights of a Sri Lankan safari journey.
Wildlife Photography
Wildlife tourism is increasingly popular globally. In light of this, responsible photography of wildlife has become critically important. Photographers have an ethical responsibility to:
- Give animals adequate space
- Never interfere with animals’ behavior
- Never use bait to attract animals to take pictures of
- Adhere to park rules and regulations
- Do not damage or impact upon habitats
Many veteran wildlife travelers love safaris because it’s relatively quiet and not nearly as commercial and crowded as many commercial parks. Images taken while photographing wildlife is best when it’s captured with patient and persistence not after it has been chased.
Photographic Equipment Suggestions for Sri Lanka
To enhance your wildlife photography here are a few suggestions on equipment:
Essential Gear:
- 100-400mm lens
- 150-600mm lens
- A fast telephoto prime lens
- Spare memory cards
- Extra batteries
- A bean bag for supports for safari vehicles
Camera settings:
- In terms of camera settings, in order to catch the animals you should always:
- Set your AF to continuous.
- Set the burst shot mode on.
- Shoot on RAW format.
- Use high shutter speeds for moving targets.
Light conditions in Sri Lanka are constantly changing so be ready to work in both strong day light and the gloom of a forest in Sri Lanka.
The best period to take wildlife pictures:
Sri Lanka is great for wildlife throughout the year, but the quality depends on each region and animal you decide to photograph.
General:
- You can spot animals more easily during the dry seasons.
- Wildlife concentrates near water sources.
- Early mornings is a time of best light conditions.
- Late afternoon can capture magical golden-hour effect.
Wilpattu’s iconic Villus will yield better wildlife viewing opportunities due to it being an animal waterhole.
Why Wildlife Photographers Keep Returning to Sri Lanka
But what makes the photographers keep returning isn’t the animals as much as variety. Within one trip, photographers have been known to get; predators, big game mammals, unusual birds, wetland life, forest landscapes, coastal animals, and social experiences with local cultures. There is nowhere else in the world offering this level of variation and diversity in such relatively short travel time.
Conclusion
For the wildlife photographer Sri Lanka is not simply another vacation destination – it is a living canvas of the most incredible photographic experiences possible. With the rare Sri Lankan leopard, padding quietly through Wilpattu’s jungle, and exotic birds in flight over the wetlands and elephants grazing in the grasslands.
For those seeking a comfort and a connection with nature at the same time, the Cloud Nine Lanka Resort Wilpattu would be an excellent location.Being the closest lodging option to the Wilpattu National Park and being itself within an abundant natural environment, the resort is designed to provide a close and unforgettable connection with the fauna through activities such as wildlife viewing safaris, birdwatching, nature trails, lagoon boat trips and exotic Loris spotting. Whether you are a professional wildlife photographer, a nature enthusiast carrying an advanced camera in your hands, Cloud Nine Lanka Resort would be the ideal option for exploring the stunning wilderness of Sri Lanka.
In a world where untouched wildlife experiences are becoming increasingly rare, Sri Lanka remains a destination where patience, passion, and photography come together to create unforgettable memories.
FAQs
Why is Sri Lanka suitable for beginner wildlife photographers?
Sri Lanka offers diverse wildlife experience and accessible safari experiences which makes it excellent destination for both beginners and professional wildlife photographers.
What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka for wildlife photography?
The dry season is best for wildlife photography because animals gather around water sources which makes sightings more frequent.
Is Sri Lanka good for bird photography?
Yes, it is home to more than 430 bird species and provide excellent opportunities for bird photography throughout the year.
Which national park is best for wildlife photography in Sri Lanka?
Many experienced wildlife photographers prefer Wilpattu because of its less crowded safari routes, natural habitats and excellent leopard sightings.
Call Us 
Whatsapp