Kumana Under Canvas by Leopard Trails, Kumana
Introduction
Leopard Trails is an experienced mobile camping company that provides an adventurous, safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly wildlife experience in many of the National Parks across Sri Lanka. Kumana Under Canvas is a mobile safari expedition that was started by Leopard Trails in 2024, to take guests deeper into the interiors of Kumana where varying habitats….lagoons, rivers, thick jungles, rocky outcrops, and sand dunes provide a unique ecosystem for the many species of wildlife that are found here. Numerous species of resident and migrant birds, herds of Elephants, wild buffalo, Sambar, mugger crocodiles, the endangered Leopard, and much more can be seen here. For those interested in ancient heritage, Kumana National Park also has fascinating ancient ruins deep in the jungles that can be visited with the Leopard Trails safari guides.
A maximum of 6 adults are accommodated in the Kumana Under Canvas campsite which is set up in a picturesque riverside location that is immersed in nature. The adventure begins on day 1 as you meet the Leopard Trails guide at the entrance to Kumana by 1.00 p.m. Thereafter, a game drive and picnic lunch await! At the end of a rewarding day, head to the campsite for a refreshing shower and a sundowner by the serene Kumbukkan River. As the days go by, more adventure unfolds as the guests are taken deeper into the jungles. The wildlife experiences and itineraries are curated based on individual interests including birds, butterflies, reptiles, or mammals. Families with children are welcome and will enjoy this memorable experience that promotes a deep appreciation of nature and wildlife conservation.
Location
The Kumana Under Canvas campsite is located inside the Kumana National Park which is the eastern section of Yala National Park. The entrance gates to Kumana are accessed via Panama in the South East Coast, and is one hour away from the popular coastal town of Arugam Bay.
Accommodation
The semi-luxurious mobile tents are set up by the scenic Kumbukkan River with the greatest respect to the environment and much effort is made to minimize the footprint in the wilds. Each sturdy tent has clear windows on the roof for ventilation and consists of three sections…a bedroom with double bed, side tables and bean bags; a dressing rooms with luggage racks and hanging wardrobe; and toilet with a WC and sink. An enclosed shower cubicle is located at the rear of the tent and is equipped with hot/cold bucket shower. There are no permanent structures at the campsite and the tented units can easily be dismantled when required. Solar power and batteries are used for lighting, all waste materials including sewerage is disposed of out of the park. Once guests check out, the campsite is completely cleared out without a trace.
Room Details & Amenities
- Tents are 3.5 m x 8.3 m in size and are well ventilated, has high roofs, good ventilation, and are fitted with fly screens to keep away insects.
- Tent floor is covered with reed matting.
- Furnished with double or triple/bed in the sleeping area; luggage rack and hanging wardrobe in the dressing area; and a toilet with sink and eco-friendly RV toilet with flush. An enclosed hot/cold bucket shower is located at the rear exit of the tent.
- Tents have solar and battery powered lighting, 2 fans and charging point.
Facilities
Meals are prepared with fresh local produce in the mobile kitchen. Sri Lankan and western dishes, snacks and BBQs are on offer. Meals are served at the separate dining tent or by the river surrounded by nature. A picnic breakfast, lunch and drinks are provided on game drives. After a rewarding day, return to the camp and take a refreshing dip in the river. By night fall, indulge in a glass of wine or beer by the bonfire, followed by dinner under a starlit sky. Game drives are done in customised Toyota 4 WD jeeps, at dawn and late afternoon when it is easier to spot the animals. Highly trained safari guides from the Leopard Trails team will be your hosts and is always at hand to share their knowledge and experience about Kumana’s fascinating wildlife and ancient heritage.