This beautifully diverse landscape between Tangalle and Ambalantota comprises the ecologically rich rural destinations of Rekawa, Ussangoda and Kalametiya and is affectionately known as RUK. The south coast is visited by five of the world’s seven species of marine turtle that drag themselves onshore to lay their eggs deep in the sand; however it is only at Rekawa to the west that these gentle creatures are protected. As one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites on the island, where former egg poachers are now paid to patrol and protect the eggs in situ, it’s possible to go at night to watch and wait for them to emerge. Kalametiya is one of the most ecologically diverse wetlands in Sri Lanka, and its scrubby dry land, salty lagoons and lewayas (salt pans)are home to a myriad of bird species that visit during the migratory winter season much to the delight of keen ornithologists. Ussangoda, a short walk down the beach from Kalametiya is a protected archaeological site that stands on high ground overlooking the sea. Characterised by a red, barren, mineral-rich, meteor-scarred earth where only a few grasses are able to grow, it is a pleasant place to walk and admire the surrounding scenery. A nature lover’s paradise, the dry zone RUK area is where you can truly escape and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s beautiful rural canvas and admire the amazing wildlife that’s found within. Paddy fields characterise the interior scene whilst breathtaking beaches stretching for miles are some of the south coast’s most stunning. Although the sea might be a little rough for swimming here, the opportunities for walking along the beach are endless. The RUK area is very rural so banks, money changing facilities and supermarkets are few and far between; stock up before you go there. Restaurants come in the form of small local shacks that serve clay-pot buffets of some of the cheapest and most delicious home-cooked Sri Lankan cuisine.