Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

Sellakkaoya Sanctuary is a protected area in Sri Lanka.

Sellakkaoya Sanctuary at a Glance

Location
North Central & Eastern Plains, Sri Lanka, South Asia
Coordinates
7.126057, 81.544450
IUCN Category
IV
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
January to March for Yala and southern parks. June to September for northern parks (Wilpattu).

Getting to Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

Nearest airport: Ampara Airport (ADP), 25 km away.

Nearest international airport: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), 104 km away.

Big Five in Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard.

Weather & Climate in Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

The warmest temperatures in Sellakkaoya Sanctuary occur in June, averaging 28.7°C (up to 34.5°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 24.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 82.5mm. Average humidity: 71.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.6°C (rainfall: 211.2mm)
  • February: 25.2°C (rainfall: 90.6mm)
  • March: 26.3°C (rainfall: 92.0mm)
  • April: 27.3°C (rainfall: 122.9mm)
  • May: 28.0°C (rainfall: 159.0mm)
  • June: 28.7°C (rainfall: 82.5mm)
  • July: 28.6°C (rainfall: 83.1mm)
  • August: 28.6°C (rainfall: 94.8mm)
  • September: 28.0°C (rainfall: 134.2mm)
  • October: 26.8°C (rainfall: 285.9mm)
  • November: 25.3°C (rainfall: 417.7mm)
  • December: 24.9°C (rainfall: 339.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

The best months to visit Sellakkaoya Sanctuary are February, March, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 24.59°C, rainfall 211.2mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 85.5%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.24°C, rainfall 90.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.31°C, rainfall 92mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 27.3°C, rainfall 122.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.97°C, rainfall 159mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 80%
  • June: Great, temperature 28.67°C, rainfall 82.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 71.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 28.55°C, rainfall 83.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 28.57°C, rainfall 94.8mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 70%
  • September: Good, temperature 28.04°C, rainfall 134.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 73.1%
  • October: Good, temperature 26.81°C, rainfall 285.9mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 80.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 25.27°C, rainfall 417.7mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 88.6%
  • December: Good, temperature 24.91°C, rainfall 339.5mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 87.5%

Wildlife in Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

Home to 45 recorded species including 20 waterbirds, 9 iconic birds, 6 tropical birds, 5 birds of prey, 2 big herbivores, 1 marine & freshwater.

Recommended Packing List for Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

Based on average temperature of 26.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Sellakkaoya Sanctuary

5 safari lodges available.

mid-range

ultra-luxury

budget

Similar Parks in North Central & Eastern Plains

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Sri Lanka

Travel advisory for Sri Lanka

Sellakkaoya Sanctuary FAQs

When is the best time to visit Sellakkaoya Sanctuary for optimal wildlife viewing and a peaceful experience?

Sellakkaoya Sanctuary is particularly rewarding during the dry season, typically from May to September, when animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. Given its exceptionally low crowding level, you can expect a serene safari experience almost any time, but the dry months often offer peak wildlife activity.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter during a safari at Sellakkaoya Sanctuary?

As a Sri Lankan protected area designated for habitat and species management, Sellakkaoya Sanctuary is known for its diverse birdlife, including endemic species, and often offers sightings of elephants, deer, and various primates. Its focus on specific flora and fauna makes it an excellent spot for focused wildlife observation away from the crowds.

What health and safety precautions should I take when planning a visit to Sellakkaoya Sanctuary?

Given the moderate malaria risk in the region, it's advisable to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk. Always stay hydrated, follow your guide's instructions, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari.

What are the typical costs associated with a safari at Sellakkaoya Sanctuary, and how should I arrange a visit?

Entry fees for Sellakkaoya Sanctuary are generally modest, and safari jeep costs vary depending on duration and operator. It's highly recommended to pre-book your safari through a local tour operator or your accommodation, as the sanctuary's less-trafficked nature means fewer walk-in options and guides might need to be arranged in advance.

How does Sellakkaoya Sanctuary offer a different safari experience compared to more popular parks in Sri Lanka?

Sellakkaoya Sanctuary stands out for its exceptionally low crowding level, providing a more intimate and tranquil wildlife viewing experience away from the bustling jeep convoys found elsewhere. This allows for a deeper connection with nature and often results in more relaxed animal encounters, making it ideal for those seeking peace and solitude.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.