Hugging the shores of the Indian Ocean, at the border of leopard-rich Yala National Park, Wild Coast Tented Lodge claims a coveted spot. In this glamorous wilderness retreat, the traditional camping experience gets a lavish makeover (it's one of few glamping lodges with the Relais & Chateaux seal of approval). 28 sumptuous tents, some with private plunge pools, are scattered among dramatic rocky outcrops, lush vegetation and strategically placed watering holes where wild animals come to drink. On our first morning, we had breakfast encounters with wild boars, and heard tales of a leisurely leopard sunbathing near reception, which set the tone perfectly for our remarkable adventure.
Daily game drives are included, on which you'll head into the National Park with an expert ranger, looking for leopards, sloth bears, crocs and all manner of birdlife. When you're not out tracking wildlife, you might go for a swim in the enormous free-form infinity pool, which handily extends to the bar so you can nip out for quick refreshers. But we chose to unwind in the Sanctuary Spa, where cinnamon and Ceylon tea are incorporated into treatments. Daily-changing, all-inclusive food menus showcase stunning Sri Lankan flavours, and complimentary sundowner cocktails and canapes - our favourite part of the day - are a blissful way to wind down. After a delicious three-course dinner, retire to your Cocoon Suite, a space-age structure with a copper bath, a dreamy four-poster bed, and a secluded viewing platform facing the wild. We slumbered beneath a vault of starry skies, and it felt impossibly romantic.
Highs
- Everything is included: game drives, all meals, beverages, and refreshments from the in-room minibars
- Situated in a stunning rural location where the jungle meets a rugged, empty beach – you might spot native wildlife wandering past your suite
- The tents are architectural marvels, built with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem
- The cream teas are delicious, perhaps because Wild Coast, along with sister hotels Cape Weligama and Ceylon Tea Trails, is owned by the Dilmah tea company (needless to say, tea flows abundantly!)
- Warm, friendly staff, and very knowledgeable safari rangers
Lows
- Yala National Park does get busy, but the hotel’s knowledgeable guides will strive to take you to the more unexplored areas of the park
- It's pricey, but rates include meals, games drives and most drinks
- If you like the jungle and nature separated from your accommodation, this property is not for you
- The sea in front of the lodge isn't safe for swimming
Best time to go
For optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, it’s best to visit Yala during the dry season, which runs from February to June. During this period, reduced water levels make it simpler to observe animals as they gather around lagoons to quench their thirst. If you're keen on spotting leopards, the prime months are February and March. Sloth bears are most easily spotted in May/June, while the winter months of November-February are best for seeing migratory birds. Keep in mind that the park undergoes its annual maintenance closure throughout September into early October. Note that the park is at its busiest for visitors Dec-March and July and August.
Our top tips
Bring some comfortable khaki trousers, light linen shirts, and a safari jacket. And if you've got binoculars, bring those too – leopards are pretty elusive, so you'll do well to come prepared.