Move quietly into Sam Popham’s Arboretum after dusk and watch for the slow, deliberate movements of the slender loris. This guided night walk combines targeted searching with low-impact lighting protocols and local naturalist insight.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A humid night presses close to the canopy as your small group slips along a leaf-strewn path under the low red glow of a torch. The arboretum feels alive: leaves whisper, distant frogs punctuate the dark, and the trees themselves seem to be holding their breath, waiting to reveal a pair of reflective eyes.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk uneven ground and stand quietly for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The arboretum began as a personal tree collection by a British naval officer and expanded into a research-linked sanctuary now supporting local biodiversity.
Conservation
The area prioritizes low-light protocols and guided access to minimize disturbance to nocturnal species; visitors should stick to paths and avoid flash photography to reduce stress on wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Loris Watching from Sigiriya today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use soft-soled shoes
The arboretum paths are soft and uneven—quiet, grippy footwear improves traction and minimizes disturbance to wildlife.
Respect the light protocol
Guides use red-filtered lights to avoid startling lorises—avoid using white flash photography unless instructed.
Bring insect protection
Mosquitoes are active after dark; use repellant and consider long sleeves to reduce bites.
Stay with the group
Lorises are small and nocturnal—straying off-path reduces your chance of seeing animals and risks disrupting habitat.
Headlamp with red filter
Keeps hands free and preserves night vision while minimizing disturbance to nocturnal animals.
Quiet hiking shoes
Soft-soled, grippy shoes reduce noise on leaf litter and improve footing on uneven trails.
Insect repellent
Repels mosquitoes and biting insects common after dusk.
summer
Light rain shell
Compact protection against sudden tropical showers during shoulder seasons.
fall