From Colombo: Muthurajawela Sanctuary Bird Watching Tour

Tucked away from the bustling streets of Colombo, Muthurajawela Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape into a world teeming with avian wonders. This 5-hour bird watching tour promises an immersive experience, guiding adventurers through lush landscapes and a serene boat cruise on the sanctuary’s lagoon. With the chance to spot over 100 bird species, including the majestic white-bellied sea eagle, this expedition invites nature enthusiasts to dive deeper into Sri Lanka’s remarkable biodiversity. From the organized logistics to the expert guidance, every element of this tour is designed to ensure an unforgettable day in the heart of Muthurajawela’s vibrant ecosystem.

Good To Know

• Guided 5-hour bird watching tour at Muthurajawela Sanctuary, Sri Lanka’s high-priority wetland, with a 2-hour boat cruise on the lagoon.
• Diverse bird species to spot, including little green herons, black-crowned night herons, and white-bellied sea eagles.
• Tour includes round-trip transportation from Colombo, packed breakfast, and entrance fees, priced from $86 per person.
• Immersive exploration of the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity, including over 200 flora species and 100 bird species.
• Opportunity to witness the sanctuary’s critical role in hosting endangered and endemic species, appealing to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Tour Overview

What does the bird watching tour at Muthurajawela Sanctuary entail? This 5-hour activity allows visitors to explore the Muthurajawela Marsh, one of Sri Lanka’s 12 high-priority wetlands.

Departing from Colombo, the tour includes a guided hike through the wetlands to spot diverse birdlife, followed by a 2-hour boat cruise across the lagoon. Priced from $86 per person, the tour is conducted in English and can be booked as a private group option.

Travelers can expect to see a variety of species, including little green herons, black-crowned night herons, and white-bellied sea eagles.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a packed breakfast, and all entrance fees.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from Colombo, a 1-hour drive that leads to the Muthurajawela Wetlands Sanctuary Visitor Center. Upon arrival, guests embark on a guided hike through the lush wetlands, where an expert naturalist points out the diverse birdlife. The highlight of the tour is a 2-hour boat cruise across the serene lagoon, offering a unique perspective to observe the wildlife.

Activity	Duration
Hike through wetlands	–
Boat cruise across lagoon	2 hours
Return to Colombo	–

After the boat tour, the group returns to Colombo, concluding an immersive exploration of the Muthurajawela Sanctuary’s rich natural wonders.

Wildlife and Ecology

Muthurajawela, one of Sri Lanka’s 12 high-priority wetlands, boasts a remarkable biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to nearly 200 species of flora, over 100 species of birds, 40 species of fish, and almost 50 species of butterflies.

Some of the notable bird species found here include:

1. Little green herons
2. Black-crowned night herons
3. Indian cormorants
4. Eurasian curlew and shikras

This diverse ecosystem is a haven for wildlife, with over 20 species of mammals, such as the elusive fishing cat, also calling Muthurajawela home.

The wetlands provide a critical habitat for many endangered and endemic species, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes a host of convenient features to enhance the birdwatching experience.

Pickup and drop-off in Colombo, an expert chauffeur/guide, and a packed breakfast are all provided. Guests can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lagoon and will have access to the Muthurajawela Bird Sanctuary itself.

Plus, a liter of bottled mineral water is given to each person. However, the tour excludes any other food, drinks, or personal expenses. Gratuities for the guide are optional.

Visitors should come prepared with a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and other essentials for the outdoor adventure.

Pickup and Arrival

Guests are picked up from their Colombo accommodations and whisked away on the 1-hour drive to the Muthurajawela Wetlands Sanctuary Visitor Center.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with the following:

1. A warm welcome from the expert local guide, who’ll lead the group on an exciting exploration of the wetlands.

2. A brief orientation about the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity and the specific birds they might encounter during the tour.

3. An opportunity to refuel with a packed breakfast, ensuring everyone is energized for the adventure ahead.

4. A final check of the necessary gear, such as binoculars and cameras, to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Wetlands Exploration

With eager anticipation, the group sets off on foot, following the expert guide through the lush, verdant wetlands of Muthurajawela.

The diverse landscape unfolds before them, a tapestry of intricate waterways, dense vegetation, and hidden pockets of tranquility. The guide points out the unique flora and fauna, sharing insights into the delicate balance of this ecosystem.

As they trek deeper into the sanctuary, the birdsong crescendos, and the group keeps a watchful eye for the elusive species that call this place home.

The exploration is an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the vibrant life that thrives within Muthurajawela’s wetlands.

Boat Cruise Experience

After exploring the lush wetlands, the group eagerly boards the waiting boat, excited to embark on the next phase of their adventure.

The 2-hour boat cruise across the serene lagoon offers a unique perspective of the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems. Gliding peacefully, the group:

1. Spots a variety of wetland birds, from graceful egrets to the iconic white-bellied sea eagle.
2. Admires the vibrant green mangrove forests lining the banks.
3. Learns about the sanctuary’s role in flood mitigation and biodiversity conservation.
4. Captures breathtaking photos of the ever-changing landscape.

The boat ride provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the ecological significance of Muthurajawela.

Important Considerations

Careful planning and preparation are essential for an enriching Muthurajawela bird watching experience.

Visitors should bring suitable attire, including comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and boat ride.

Guests should also be mindful of their personal belongings, as the sanctuary is a natural setting. Plus, respecting the delicate ecosystem and following the guide’s instructions are crucial to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.

With these considerations in mind, travelers can look forward to an unforgettable adventure in the Muthurajawela wetlands, teeming with diverse avian species.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour offers a private group option, though the group size is not specified. Typically, such nature tours accommodate small to medium-sized groups to ensure an intimate and personalized experience for participants.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children can participate in the Muthurajawela Sanctuary Bird Watching Tour, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users. The tour includes a 2-hour boat ride, so parents should consider their child’s abilities and comfort level.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention dietary accommodations, but the tour provider may be able to cater to special dietary needs with advance notice. Guests should inquire about this when booking the tour.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, though additional fees may apply. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about extending the tour to explore the sanctuary more thoroughly or add optional activities.

Are There Any Covid-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour adheres to COVID-19 safety protocols, requiring masks and social distancing. Hand sanitizers are provided, and group sizes are limited to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the serene beauty of Muthurajawela Sanctuary, where a wealth of avian wonders await. From the majestic white-bellied sea eagle to a diverse array of wetland species, this captivating bird-watching tour promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the sanctuary’s remarkable biodiversity and deepen your appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural treasures.