In a country as bursting with wildlife as Sri Lanka, it would take something special to stand out from the crowd – but the River Madu estuary does just that. Take an afternoon glide through the mangrove caves and across the sparkling river as the sun starts to set. This protected area is recognized by the Ramsar Convention of Wetlands and is home to over 17 species of birds and a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians.
As you drift through mangrove tunnels and under rickety, wooden bridges, keep an eye out for wildlife – it's prime nature-spotting territory. Monkeys tuck into fruit while perched on overhanging branches, and lizards skim through the water. Enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea on one of the islands – you'll visit ones exclusive to TUI – and mingle with locals.
Finally, you'll head to a turtle hatchery where you'll get to meet some rescued hatchlings, saved from the sea. These turtle hatcheries are crucial for the conservation of these endangered creatures, providing a safe haven for eggs to hatch and young turtles to grow strong before being released back into the ocean.
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