A trip to the town of Bentota isn’t complete without a river safari down the Bentota River. The Bentota River, or “Bentota Ganga” as it’s known amongst locals, is a beautiful river teeming with wildlife hiding amongst the lush green foliage and unchartered mangroves. River safaris have long been a popular choice for daytrips by guests staying in one of the southern Beach Hotels in Sri Lanka, such as the Citrus Waskaduwa.
There are plenty of boat tour guides who can arrange either a 4 to 5 hour cruise or a day trip, depending on your desires. The safaris start from the end of the river, near the Bentota Bridge; here the river empties into a lagoon where water sports are a popular activity. The tour boats are usually anchored in this area; from here your guide will lead the boat upstream for a leisurely exploration of the river.
The banks along the river are home to a multitude of trees, creepers and plants, all fighting for space. Discover inlets created by the masses of tangled vines and roots that spring out of the water. Here under the cool shade provided by the lush foliage you may observe a water monitor meandering through the mud or sunbathing along the water’s edge. If you’re lucky, you might get to catch a glimpse of a crocodile! The river was said to be full of them during the colonial era and locals living in the area say there are still plenty around.
Keep an eye out for the aquatic birds that are endemic to the area such as herons, kingfishers, and cormorants that live amongst the wild undergrowth, and the magnificent birds of prey that patrol the area for food. A safari along the Bentota River is definitely an ideal way to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife in a unique and relaxed settin
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+
