2h Bentota River Safari: Crocodiles, Monkeys, Mangrove & More

Exploring the captivating Bentota River is an immersive experience that transports visitors deep into Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness. A 2-hour river safari offers a chance to witness the diversity of this lush mangrove ecosystem, where crocodiles bask on the banks and playful monkeys swing through the verdant canopy. Guided by a seasoned sailor, the private tour provides unparalleled opportunities to spot an array of fascinating wildlife, from vibrant birdlife to elusive river monitors. Equipped with modern boats and life jackets, this nature-focused adventure promises a serene and peaceful encounter – one that leaves you eager to uncover more of this enchanting corner of the island.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Hour Tours and Experiences in Bentota.

Key Points

• Explore the Bentota River’s mangrove forests and spot diverse wildlife, including river monitors, crocodiles, and a variety of birds on a 2-hour private guided boat tour.
• The tour is led by an experienced sailor guide who provides insights into the local environment and wildlife.
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off service from hotels, apartments, and guest houses in Bentota, Induruwa, Aluthgama, and Beruwala.
• Enjoy a refreshing king coconut and benefit from life insurance coverage as part of the tour package.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but strollers are allowed, and service animals are permitted (not recommended for pregnant individuals).

Overview

The Bentota River Safari offers a 2-hour boat tour to explore the river’s surrounding mangrove forests and wildlife, including crocodiles and monkeys.

This private guided tour allows you to choose your start time and learn about the serene natural beauty of the Bentota River.

During the safari, you’ll have the chance to spot river monitors, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife as you navigate through the lush mangrove ecosystems.

The experienced sailor guide will provide insights into the local environment and wildlife, ensuring a truly engaging and informative experience.

Whether you’re interested in photography, nature, or simply seeking a peaceful adventure, the Bentota River Safari is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Inclusions

A seasoned sailor guide with over 5 years of experience leads the Bentota River Safari.

Modern and safe boats equipped with life jackets transport participants on the tour. For each person, a refreshing king coconut is provided. Plus, life insurance is included to ensure peace of mind during the adventure. Gratuities are also covered as part of the tour package.

The carefully curated inclusions ensure a memorable and worry-free river safari experience. Travelers can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Bentota River, from spotting river monitors and crocodiles to observing the vibrant birdlife and lush mangrove forests, without having to worry about additional costs or safety concerns.

Pick-up and Drop-off

Free pick-up from hotels, apartments, villas, and guest houses in Bentota, Induruwa, Aluthgama, and Beruwala is provided, with an extra charge for locations outside these areas.

Pick-up and drop-off service is available to ensure a seamless start and end to the Bentota River Safari adventure.

The meeting point is at the River Safari – Bentota by STT, located behind the Aida Seafood Restaurant.

This convenient pick-up and drop-off service allows you to focus on the incredible sights and wildlife of the Bentota River, without the hassle of transportation logistics.

With a range of pickup locations, the Bentota River Safari experience is accessible and tailored to your needs.

Meeting Point

Behind the Aida Seafood Restaurant lies the River Safari – Bentota by STT, the convenient meeting point for this immersive Bentota River adventure.

The location is easily accessible, allowing you to effortlessly begin your journey into the serene waterways.

You’ll meet your experienced, knowledgeable guide who’ll lead you on an unforgettable exploration of the river’s rich ecosystem.

You’ll board the modern, safe boats equipped with life jackets, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience.

You’ll embark on your adventure, eager to spot the diverse wildlife, from crocodiles and river monitors to the playful monkeys and vibrant birdlife that call this region home.

Additional Information

After embarking on the modern boats, travelers should keep in mind that this Bentota River Safari tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Service animals are permitted, but the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.

Most visitors, however, can comfortably participate in this private tour activity.

The tour takes guests on a journey through the Bentota River’s serene mangrove forests and diverse wildlife. With an experienced sailor as their guide, explorers can expect to spot river monitors, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife during the 2-hour excursion.

Each person will also receive a refreshing king coconut to enjoy along the way. This private Bentota River Safari offers a unique opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Reviews

The Bentota River Safari has earned a stellar reputation, with 36 glowing reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence to its name.

Travelers from Bentota, Sri Lanka and beyond have raved about this 5.0-out-of-5-star experience, praising its serene mangrove forests, diverse wildlife, and knowledgeable sailor guides.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Spotting crocodiles, river monitors, and a variety of birdlife along the riverbanks.
2. Immersing oneself in the lush mangrove ecosystems and observing the fascinating adaptations of these coastal plants.
3. Enjoying a refreshing King Coconut while taking in the tranquil beauty of the Bentota River.

Boat Safari Experience

A scenic boat safari along the Bentota River offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the region’s lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife. As the boat glides through the tranquil waterways, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of fascinating creatures, from crocodiles basking on the banks to playful monkeys swinging through the trees. The skilled guide will share their deep knowledge of the local ecosystem, pointing out the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this vibrant environment. Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, the Bentota River Safari is an unforgettable experience.

Experience	Duration	Sightings
Crocodile Spotting	30-45 mins	5-10 crocodiles
Mangrove Exploration	45-60 mins	Diverse flora and fauna
Monkey Watching	20-30 mins	10-15 monkeys
Birdwatching	30-45 mins	20+ bird species

Wildlife Sightings

During the Bentota River Safari, travelers can expect to encounter a diverse array of wildlife along the riverbanks and within the surrounding mangrove forests. Crocodiles, for instance, can often be spotted basking in the sun, providing an exhilarating sighting for participants.

River monitors, the largest lizards in Sri Lanka, lurking in the shallows.

Playful troops of monkeys swinging from the mangrove branches, delighting onlookers.

A rich array of birdlife, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, adding vibrant splashes of color to the scene.

These wildlife encounters make the Bentota River Safari a truly immersive and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, a complimentary king coconut is provided for each person as part of the tour package. Alcohol is not permitted on the boats.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children Under 5 Years Old?

The Bentota River Safari is not recommended for children under 5 years old. The tour doesn’t allow strollers, and the boat ride may be unsuitable for young children. However, the tour is suitable for families with older kids who can participate safely.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable on the Boat?

Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes and comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Bring a light jacket or sweater in case it gets breezy on the boat. Comfort is key for an enjoyable river safari experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photographing the Wildlife?

There are generally no restrictions on photographing the wildlife during the safari, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disturbing the animals. The guide can provide tips on the best ways to capture the diverse wildlife sightings.

Can I Request a Customized Itinerary for the Safari?

Yes, you can request a customized itinerary for the Bentota River Safari. The tour operator offers private guided tours, allowing you to choose the start time and tailor the experience to your interests and preferences.

Recap

The Bentota River Safari offers an immersive nature experience, showcasing the region’s lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife.

Guided by an experienced sailor, the private tour provides ample opportunities to spot crocodiles, river monitors, and a variety of birdlife.

Equipped with modern boats and life jackets, the safari is a must-do activity for photography enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a serene and peaceful adventure in the Sri Lankan countryside.