Kokkilai Lagoon Safari: Bird Watching & Safari Adventure
Embark on a Kokkilai Lagoon Safari with CCT Sri Lanka, the pioneers who created and delivered the first satisfying safari experience in this remote and beautiful lagoon. In fact, our glowing reviews speak for themselves.
Kokkilai Lagoon, located in the Mullaitivu and Trincomalee districts, spans 2,995 hectares. It is a rich estuarine ecosystem made up of mangrove swamps, mudflats, seagrass beds, and oyster beds. Moreover, it supports over 55 fish species from 34 families. Among them are the mud crab, flower crab, and tiger prawn, which thrive in different parts of the lagoon.
Wildlife sightings are exceptional. Crocodiles are a common sight, and once, we even saw a 15-foot croc. In addition, mud crabs running through mangroves are often spotted by guests. Above the waterline, the lagoon becomes a massive bird sanctuary. During the migratory season, birds are so abundant that fishing boats struggle to navigate.
Because of the lagoon’s remoteness, we operate only on request. This ensures a private and immersive safari. However, please note that this exclusivity comes at a higher cost. Still, what you gain is worth it—expert guidance, local insight, and a unique connection with nature.
Choose CCT Sri Lanka for your Kokkilai Lagoon Safari. Discover one of Sri Lanka’s hidden natural wonders with the team that set the standard for unforgettable eco-adventures.
Why Choose CCT Sri Lanka?
- Registered and Professional Experts: CCT Sri Lanka (Cross Country Travels) is a locally owned, fully registered company with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and Civil Aviation Authority.
- Service-Oriented Professionals: We prioritise exceptional service and professionalism in every aspect of your journey.
- Certified Guides: Our passionate, licensed guides bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication, ensuring your awe.
- Flexible Itinerary: We customise your itinerary to align with your interests and preferences, making your adventure uniquely yours.
- Commitment to Sustainability: We are dedicated to supporting local communities throughout your journey.
Contact us today to learn more about this tour!
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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