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Wilpattu National Park is located in the dry lowlands of north-west Sri Lanka, which may seem strange when we tell you that the park’s defining characteristic is its natural water features. The land is actually an intricate matrix of villus, or lakes, that are strung across the wild terrain and surrounded by wide plains – a stark change from the jungled forests of other areas. Aside from being incredibly striking, it’s these villus that attract the park’s vast and varied cast of animals, from elephants and crocs, sloths and the rare barking deer to elegant white egrets and even spoonbills. The leopard population is also healthy, and whilst it might not be Yala-worthy just yet, there’s a good chance you’ll spot a cat, especially as there are no strict game drive times or even trails to adhere to.
We’re not lying when we say Willpattu receives less than half the visitors of Yala. You could trundle for hours without seeing another camera-touting tourist which, in our eyes, makes it the stuff of safari dreams.
Choose a mobile tented camp for the most back-to-nature experience. Most often, they will be set up on the banks of the villus, meaning early-morning swims and somewhere to dip your toes alongside an evening G&T.
The leopard population is something to write home about, but the other animals can be shy and skittish. Be prepared to work a little harder for sightings than you might expect.