Madu River Sunset Boat Safari

Around half past four, the day on the Madu River begins to change. The heat eases, the boats fall quiet and the water settles into a soft calm. The Madu River sunset boat safari gives you two hours on a private boat in Balapitiya, Sri Lanka, as day turns to evening.

You set off at 4:30 PM and wind through the mangrove channels as the light grows warm and golden. There is no rush. In the stillest spots, your rider switches off the engine and lets you listen to the river.

Then the birds start coming home. As the sun goes down and the sky over the lagoon fills with colour, the water reflects it back. On most evenings, hundreds of birds cross the river from every direction to roost in the mangroves and nearby trees. Put the camera down for a minute and just watch.

There is time for stops, too. Visit Kothduwa Temple Island and its friendly giant squirrels, watch a live cinnamon-making presentation at Ceylon Cinnamon Island, or cool your feet in the fish foot spa. Keep an eye on the banks, as a large crocodile may appear, depending on conditions.

A cool evening breeze, fresh juice and a boat all to yourselves make it a fine way to close the day on the south-west coast.