THE TOUR

Embark on a wildlife photography tour and workshop in Sri Lanka, one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet. Among the 91 mammal species that call Sri Lanka home, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning images of Leopards, Asian Elephants, Sloth Bears, Ruddy Mongooses, Sambar Deer, and Water Buffalo. Birdlife is a jewel in Sri Lanka’s crown, boasting over 400 species, including 30 found nowhere else in the world. Highlights include the Sri Lankan Blue Magpie, Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, three species of Kingfishers, the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Green Bee-eater, Emerald Dove, and many more.

THE SETUP

This 12-day tour will take you to Sri Lanka’s most spectacular national parks. In Kumana National Park and Wilpattu National Park, we will have two private jeeps to seek out the best wildlife encounters and photography angles.

I will rotate between the two jeeps to ensure each participant receives personalised one-on-one tutoring and guidance. You’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions, get tailored advice, and improve your photography throughout the journey.

We will explore the Sinharaja Forest Reserve together on foot, accompanied by a local nature guide and bird expert. This portion of the tour requires a moderate fitness level, and I will be happy to discuss any concerns with you during the booking process.

We carefully select accommodations based on proximity to key wildlife areas to ensure you spend more time photographing and less time travelling. This means we will stay at a range of venues, from luxurious retreats to simpler forest lodges. Regardless of the style, all accommodations will be clean, comfortable, and chosen to enhance your experience on the tour.

Are you a wildlife photographer, but your better half isn’t?

No worries—nobody’s perfect! Nico has welcomed plenty of adventurous duos over the years, and guess what? Wildlife watchers have just as much fun as the photographers. Whether you’re snapping away or just soaking it all in, we’re always looking for the best views of these magical moments.

LOCAL GUIDES

In Sri Lanka, I partner with some of the country’s top wildlife guides, known for their unmatched expertise and ability to provide guests with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Their deep knowledge of the terrain and animal behaviour ensures that you will have the best possible opportunities for breathtaking photographs. With their guidance and some patience, you are guaranteed to capture stunning images and return home with incredible memories of Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife.

EXPRESS INTEREST / BOOK THIS TOUR

TOUR DATES: March 31 - April 11, 2025 (12 Days, 11 nights).
NUMBERS OF PARTICIPANTS: 6 guests max.
LOCATION: Kumana National Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Wilpattu National Park.
PRICE: AUD 5950 (All pricing on a twin/double share basis)
Single Supplement: AUD 915.
PAYMENT: Payment is via EFT transfer via online banking.
RESERVE A PLACE: Deposits of AUD 1500 per person are accepted to reserve a place (non-refundable within 90 days of the tour commencing or the 1st of January 2025 for this tour, this is also the due date for the remainder of the fees - Total is non-refundable within 60 days of the tour).

INCLUSIONS:
The tour price includes expert local guiding and daily photography instruction by Nico, travel within Sri Lanka for the duration of the tour, all accommodation and supplied meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner), all transport within Sri Lanka for the duration of the tour, and all entry fees to parks included in the tour itinerary.

EXCLUSIONS:
The tour price does not include international flights to and from Sri Lanka, accommodation in Sri Lanka before or after the tour program begins (Nico can assist with organising these), extra meals other than those included in the tour, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks, or personal expenses (e.g., snacks, internet, laundry, travel insurance, tips, etc.).

THE PHOTO LEAD AND TUTOR

Nicolas Rakotopare

Originally from Madagascar, Nico brings a background in Ecology and Conservation Biology. He currently works in science communication and engagement as well as photo and video nature documentary assignments in Australia. With decades of experience as a professional wildlife photographer and filmmaker based in Southeast Queensland, Nico has filmed wildlife across Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka. His recent work has been featured in series produced by National Geographic, Love Nature, and more.
Nico is known for his ability to connect with others and loves sharing his extensive knowledge of nature photography and filmmaking. He has been leading photo tours in Sri Lanka and Borneo for several years, helping guests capture incredible moments in nature.
As an associate fellow of the **International League of Conservation Photographers**, Nico is deeply committed to promoting conservation efforts for endangered species and using his work to make a positive impact on the natural world.
You can visit his Sri Lanka photo gallery here: **SRI LANKA** and follow him on social media: **LERAKO**.

ITINERARY OUTLINE

31st March (Day 1). Transfer Colombo to Kumana National Park.
1st April (Day 2). Full-day Safari in Kumana NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Bay Vista Hotel, Arugam bay.
2nd April (Day 3). Full-day Safari in Kumana NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Bay Vista Hotel, Arugam bay.
3rd April (Day 4). Full-day Safari in Kumana NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Bay Vista Hotel, Arugam bay.
4th April (Day 5). Transfer from Kumana NP to Sinharaja Forest Reserve, evening birding session at the lodge upon arrival.
5th April (Day 6). Morning and afternoon bird and reptiles photography session in Sinharajah NP. Accom: Martin’s Lodge, Weddagala.
6th April (Day 7). Morning and afternoon bird and reptiles photography session in Sinharajah NP. Accom: Martin’s Lodge, Weddagala.
7th April (Day 8). Transfer from Sinharajah Forest Reserve to Wilpattu National Park
8th April (Day 9). Full-day Safari in Wilpattu NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Thimbiri Wewa Resort, Wilpattu.
9th April (Day 10). Full-day Safari in Wilpattu NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Thimbiri Wewa Resort, Wilpattu.
10th April (Day 11). Full-day Safari in Wilpattu NP targeting leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other mammals, birds and reptile species. Accom: Thimbiri Wewa Resort, Wilpattu.
11th April (Day 12). Morning safari in Wilpattu NP followed by transfer back to Colombo for departures.