Mahoora Safari camping

Last weekend, a dozen of our colleagues at Walkers Tours were fortunate enough to experience ‘luxury camping’ slap-bang in the heart of Yala National Park. Now when we first heard about luxury camping, we were rather baffled as nothing seemed more contradictory. However Eco-team really does live up to their promise of offering ‘five star luxury under a million stars’. The meticulous efforts of the friendly staff members is what made luxury camping a truly sumptuous experience.

The journey to our campsite included an hour long drive, as well as an exhilarating off road jeep ride! We marveled over the amenities available in our make shift tents, which included a large bed, a fruit basket, a flushable toilet, wash basin and shower – how ingenious! These tents are handmade in Sri Lanka exclusively for the camp, making it an entirely local, authentic experience. What’s more incredulous is the fact that the entire campsite is set up a mere two days prior to arrival.

The thought of being surrounded by dense jungle is supremely thrilling. Being far away from any signs of civilization, we all seemed to escape from our daily hum-drum routines and plunge into the wilderness that surrounded us. We were delighted to discover that the campsite was situated right next to a fast flowing, shallow river, giving us the added advantage of cooling off when the heat would get the better of us all.

Although travel within the park is included in this package, one does not have to wander far- more often than not the wilderness is bound to find you! However, choosing to opt for a safari, we were lucky enough to spot 4 leopards, a number of elephants, deer, buffalo, crocodiles and a myriad of colourful indigenous birds.

Meals at Mahoora were most astounding, as we were presented with what seemed like an endless stream of delectable courses. Dinner comprised of a 7 course extravaganza – all in the midst of the thick forest! Speechless, we marveled over the array of soups, salads, barbeque platters, local cuisine and delicious dessert presented to us. The highlight of our stay was most definitely breakfast, with the dining table laboriously laid out in the middle of the flowing river! The whole spectacle left us all feeling like blue blooded royalty.

No other adventure tour operator does camping quite like Eco team, as they have proved themselves to be pioneers in the field. The attention to every detail and the immaculate service is a testament to the fact that Eco team provides an unparalleled indulgence.
The fine balance between luxury and a genuine camping experience is mastered so skillfully, that we all found ourselves immersed in the wilderness of the jungle and reluctant to leave!

Breakfast for champions!








Photo credit: Sandeep Jayawardhana