A safari along the Madhu River can be a truly memorable experience that will stick with you for years to come. During the trip along the river, you can expect to be treated to fantastic sights and encounter exotic wildlife – it truly is an adventure unlike any other.
The Madu Ganga River Basin is a lively ecosystem that is bursting with biodiversity. Found in the southern reaches of Sri Lanka – around an hours’ drive away from Galle – a boat ride along the river is by far the best way to experience all the sights and sounds of the area. As you continue your journey along the river, you’ll start to realise just how picturesque and serene the surrounding landscape is. These mangrove swamps and sprawling wetlands make for fantastic photo opportunities, especially during the right time of day. If you make your trip during the early hours of the morning, for example, you’ll even be treated to the sight of morning mists forming up over the waters. Now that’s a truly amazing way to get the safari started.
Of course, the basis of any safari is the wildlife you’ll be seeing. The Madhu River doesn’t disappoint in this regard as the area is a contender for the most biodiverse region in Sri Lanka. These wetlands are home to over 300 different species of animal – 19 of which are endemic. Mugger crocodiles are common here and they can make for quite the exciting sighting. Keep your eyes trained on the water and look for the tell-tale nostrils and eyes sticking out of the water.
During your boat trip, you can even immerse yourself a bit in the local culture by visiting the many small islands found amidst the river’s streaming waters. One of the largest islands holds a Buddhist temple. This can be an excellent location to visit and take a quick breather from all the adventure and excitement on the water.
