Wildscape Sri Lanka
Katrien, Daniël, and their guide Hetti sharing a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast together, smiling at the table

A Special Guest Story — Katrien & Daniël from Belgium

35 Years Later — A Friendship That Came Full Circle

Some journeys are more than holidays. Some bring people back together after decades, create lasting friendships, and become memories that stay close to the heart.

Thirty-five years ago, Katrien and Daniël first travelled around Sri Lanka with a young, novice guide named Hetti (Supurna Hettiarachchi). More than three decades later, through an old address and Facebook, they managed to find him again — this time at Wildscape Sri Lanka.

Daniël, Hetti, and Katrien pausing together on a forest trail during a birdwatching outing in Sri Lanka

Thirty-Five Years in the Making

A Different Side of the Island

They contacted us with a special wish. Having already experienced the classic highlights of Sri Lanka on their earlier visit, they wanted to discover a different side of the island.

They had come to the right place.

Over the years, Hetti had developed into a highly experienced wildlife guide, with an exceptional knowledge of Sri Lanka's wildlife, birds, and natural habitats. After a smooth exchange of ideas and a little fine-tuning, a tailor-made itinerary was created, combining culture and nature, with a special focus on the country's remarkable national parks and wildlife.

When Katrien and Daniël arrived at Colombo International Airport, they were warmly welcomed, and an unforgettable journey began.

Their trip brought them closer to Sri Lanka's cultural and natural treasures. They visited special temples and witnessed religious rituals, sharing meaningful moments with local families. They encountered elephants, leopards, and many other mammals, discovered fascinating reptiles, and enjoyed an extraordinary variety of birds in different colours, shapes, and sizes.

And when it came to birdlife, Hetti's knowledge made every sighting even more special.

Their Journey, in Photos

Together Again in Sri Lanka

Real photographs from Katrien and Daniël's trip — including the reunion that started it all.

Katrien, Daniël, and their guide Hetti sharing a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast together
Katrien and Daniël standing at the entrance of a traditional Sri Lankan guesthouse
Daniël, Hetti, and Katrien on a forest trail during a birdwatching outing

From carefully planned journeys to perfectly timed experiences, everything came together with warmth, care, and a smile. Even the weather seemed to be on their side!

Katrien and Daniël's words mean a great deal to our team. Their return was not simply another tour; it was a wonderful reminder that genuine connections can last a lifetime.

In Their Own Words

A Message to Future Travelers

“I can only thank Wildscape Sri Lanka for a perfect trip that leaves me wanting more. Contact Wildscape Sri Lanka for your next tour of Sri Lanka and you will not be disappointed.”

Katrien & Daniël — Belgium

Thank you, Katrien and Daniël, for finding your way back to Hetti and for becoming such a special part of the Wildscape family. We hope this is not your last adventure with us!

With warmest wishes,
The Wildscape Sri Lanka Family

Read more about the people behind Wildscape, including Hetti himself, or explore the kind of trip Katrien and Daniël rediscovered Sri Lanka through: Wildlife Tours, Bird Watching Tours, or Cultural & Heritage Tours. More real guest stories are on the Testimonials page.

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