The herpetological paradise of
Sri Lanka
4 - 13 February, 2027
Encountering wildlife that is seen nowhere else
Embark on a 10-day herping expedition through the wild landscapes of Sri Lanka, one of Asia’s most underrated biodiversity hotspots. This journey is designed to explore a wide range of habitats and target species across the island’s diverse ecosystems.
Throughout the expedition, we will travel across four carefully selected locations spanning three distinct eco-regions: the dry zone, lowland rainforest, and cloud forests. From ancient monsoon forests and humid jungles to cool montane environments, each region offers its own unique wildlife and atmosphere.
Led by experienced guides, you will take part in both day and night field excursions in search of Sri Lanka’s incredible endemic herpetofauna. Expect outstanding opportunities for wildlife photography and unforgettable encounters in the field, including Sri Lankan Green Pitvipers (C. trigonocephalus), Three species of Hump-nosed Vipers (Hypnale sp.), Kraits (Bungarus sp.), Horned Lizards (Ceratophora sp.), countless amphibians, and many other endemic island species.
Beyond the herping itself, the expedition offers an immersive travel experience through one of the most scenic and culturally rich countries in the tropics.
Your Tour Leader
Steijn Pulles
Biologist | Wildlife Photographer | Conservationist
Itinerary
Day 1-5: We gather the group in Colombo and make our way to Runakanda Ranforest Reserve, located in the lush lowland jungles of Sri Lanka.
This place is unlike any other place you have explored before. These healthy forests are home to an endless list of endemic reptiles and amphibians. From the countless species of often overlooked endemic Shrub Frogs (Pseudophilautus sp.), to Sri Lankan Green Pitviper (Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus), Sri Lankan Kraits (Bungarus ceylonicus) and stunning agamids.
Day 5-7: Our next stop is Yala National Park. In these savannah landscapes we will search for Mugger Crocodiles (Crocodilus palustris), Saltwater Crocodiles (Crocodilus porosus), the Rough-scaled Sand Boa (Eryx conicus), many endemic colubrids, tortoises and other wildlife.
Day 7-8: We start the day traveling to our first highland location; Nuwara Eliya. A magical cloud forest where we will be searching for three montane agamids that can only be found in this region along some other montane specialists. Main targets here are Black-lipped lizard (Calotes nigrilabris), Sri Lankan Pygmy Lizard (Cophotis ceylanica), Rhino-Horned Lizard (Ceratophora stoddartii).
Day 8-10: We depart to the second highland region; the Knuckles mountain range. Like the previous location, this is a magical cloud-forests full of hyper-endemic species that can not be found anywhere else.
We will be targeting incredible species like the Sri Lankan Humpnosed Viper (Hypnale nepa), Knuckle Pygmy Lizard (Cophotis dumbara) and the Leaf-nosed Lizard (ceratophora tennenti).
What is included.
Domestic transfers
Expert guiding throughout the whole tour
Accomodation
Park entrance fees
Three meals per day (excluding breakfast on day 1, and lunch and dinner on day 10)
Expert photography guidance
What is not included.
Expedition gear (rubber boots, mosquito repellent etc.)
Flights to and from the destination
Travel insurance
Any extra hotels or transport
Potential visa costs
Snacks and alcoholic beverages
Tips
Limited spaces available
To ensure a high-quality, personalized experience, our herping trips are limited to small groups of 5–8 participants. This allows for better wildlife viewing opportunities, more direct interaction with guides, and a lower impact on the environment. Whether you're a photographer, researcher, or passionate nature enthusiast, the small group size ensures you get the most out of every moment in the field.