This enchanting full-day tour from Colombo or Bentota explores the natural world of the Madu River lagoon and estuary system, a protected wetland of remarkable ecological beauty and biodiversity situated near Balapitiya on the southwest coast. The heart of the experience is a guided boat safari through the winding mangrove channels and open lagoon, where the waterways are flanked by dense mangrove forest and a rich mosaic of wetland habitats supporting over 300 plant species and 64 varieties of mangrove. During the safari, your guide will take you to several small islands within the lagoon, including a cinnamon island where the production of Sri Lanka’s most prized spice can be observed, a bird sanctuary, and a rock temple island accessible only by boat. The abundance of birdlife – herons, kingfishers and numerous migratory species – makes this an outstanding experience for nature lovers and photographers, while the tranquillity of the mangrove channels creates an atmosphere of deep peace and natural beauty. The tour operates on a private basis, with comfortable, air-conditioned transport and an experienced naturalist boat guide and lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours.