Sinharaja is the last large stretch of primary lowland rainforest left in Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the island's wet south-west. This walk takes you into it on foot with a naturalist guide, along narrow trails under a closed canopy of tall trees, where the forest is quiet enough that you hear a bird call long before you see the bird.
The morning begins at 6:00 am, when the forest is at its most active. You meet your naturalist at the entrance to the reserve and follow them into the undergrowth. Much of the walk is spent looking and listening: your guide picks out the rainforest's endemic birds by call and by flight, and points out butterflies, lizards, rare plants and the smaller life that most visitors walk straight past.
Sinharaja is known for its mixed-species bird flocks, loose parties of different birds moving through the trees together, and a good naturalist can tell you which species are travelling in them as they pass. The reserve also holds leopard and other shy mammals. Sightings are never promised, but your guide knows where to look, so keep binoculars and a camera within reach.
The walk includes your naturalist guide and support staff, with refreshments and energy slabs along the way. Transport to the trailhead at Sinharaja Forest Reserve is not included, nor are meals or other drinks, personal expenses or gratuities, which are optional.
The trails are often wet and muddy, so wear comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes you do not mind getting dirty, and bring a wide-brimmed hat or a cap for the open stretches. Expect leeches after rain; long socks tucked over your trousers help.
