Explore the untouched wilderness of the Kokkilai Lagoon Safari with CCT Sri Lanka, pioneers in creating immersive eco-experiences in this remote northern lagoon. Known for its raw beauty and rich biodiversity, Kokkilai is one of Sri Lanka’s most fascinating yet least disturbed wetland ecosystems.
Spanning nearly 2,995 hectares, the lagoon is a complex network of mangroves, mudflats, seagrass beds, and oyster-rich waters. It supports a thriving aquatic ecosystem with over 55 fish species, including mud crab, flower crab, and tiger prawn.
Wildlife encounters are a highlight of this safari. Crocodiles are frequently seen basking along the banks, while birdlife becomes especially dramatic during migratory seasons when flocks fill the skies and wetlands. In peak periods, the lagoon transforms into a living bird sanctuary.
Because of its remote location, this safari is operated only on request, ensuring a private, undisturbed experience with expert guidance. It is ideal for travelers seeking something truly off-the-beaten-path.
Kokkilai Lagoon Safari
Best Season: All year around
Availability: Pre-arranged only
Advance Booking Required: 1 day
Starting Point: South of Kokkilai Lagoon
Pick-up Point: Trincomalee city & surrounding areas
Starting Time: 5:30 AM or 1:30 PM
Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours
Price Includes
- Dinghy boat (basic seating setup)
- Skipper / boat operator
- Naturalist guide
- Local snack
- All government taxes
Child Policy
- Ages 0–6 are free of charge
- Ages 6–12 are considered children
Restrictions
- Do not leave plastic or litter behind
- Please do not feed wild animals
- No additional drivers or external guides allowed
- Guests are advised to carry back plastic waste for proper disposal
Experience Highlights
- Remote lagoon safari in northern Sri Lanka
- Crocodile sightings in natural habitat
- Rich mangrove ecosystem exploration
- Seasonal migratory bird spectacle
- Authentic off-the-grid eco adventure
- Guided experience in a pristine wetland
Recommended to Bring
- Water bottle
- Hat & sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Binoculars
- Camera
Optional Add-On
- A knowledgeable local wildlife expert can be arranged with an additional fee
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Christian R. –
Unforgettable day, very good excursion on the “Kokkilai’s Bird Sanctuary’s lagoon”
It was on 2018 March the 18. Our organizer Anuradha, and the team where professional and very friendly. It was “physical”, “very good” and “magical”.
Physical because it was a first faith for us and for the organizer. So the boat (fishing one) had been equipped with plastic garden chairs, so boarding and landing where a little “rock and roll” (I’m 67 years old ..). Physical because no roof to the boat (open hull), knowing that we had taken very broad hats.
Very good: Kokkilai / our hotel (Trincomalee) 1h15 in air-conditioned van, schedule respected to the minute; Very good because the organizer did the circuit with us. Very good because the organizer had a cooler with cold drinks, fruit and cookies, more than we could absorb.Very good because the pilot and his help are very competent, both in piloting and detection of birds. Very good because the organizer did not count his time.
Magical because there was thousands of birds, including many unknown in France, just like a bird reportage. Magic because the site is exceptional, a huge shallow lagoon, full of fish, narrow channel so the waves of the ocean do not fit. Magic was the navigation in the mangrove just our boat and the wild life (birds, monkeys, crocodile ..) again the real impression to hold the camera for an animal reportage.
If you are interested in this kind of exploration, don’t hesitate to contact them, in addition to the ornitho we spent this long afternoon (from 13 to 20:00) with these Sri Lankans whose kindness is not a legend.” Cordially Christian R.”
Jeppe Vinther –
We are a family of 4 and we had a wonderful day at the Kokkilai lagoon on 6th of January 2019. We were picked up at our hotel in Nilavela and driven to the Lagoon, where we sailed out in a real fisherman’s boat. We entered some narrow mangrove like canals and were completely alone in the amazing nature. We saw lots of birds and monkeys from the boat. On the way back, we got to see an extraordinarily beautiful sunset and the local fishermen in action. The provided food was of very high quality. Anu, who arranged the trip, speaks English, was very pleasant and took extremely good care of us. I highly recommend this trip.
Best regards,
Jeppe