Two excellent national park safaris await nature lovers in Koggala, both essential stops on Sri Lanka’s wildlife circuit. The Udawalawe option packs serious value into its 10-hour journey, with a meaty 4-hour safari that gets you up close to magnificent elephant herds in their natural habitat. For serious wildlife watchers, Yala National Park delivers the goods – expect a full day of spotting not just elephants, but elusive leopards and shaggy sloth bears against wild coastal scenery.
I especially love Udawalawe for its no-nonsense focus on elephants and its efficient timing. Yala wins points for its impressive diversity of wildlife and photo opportunities. Both tours include convenient hotel pickups and guides who really know their stuff.
Let’s look at these outstanding safari options in detail.
Key Points
- Udawalawe National Park safari tours offer a 4-hour wildlife experience starting at $110 per person, including a live English-speaking guide and hotel pickup/drop-off.
- Yala National Park safari tours range from $85.88 to $81.58 per person, providing a one-day experience with a chance to see elephants, leopards, and other rare species.
- Both safari tours receive high customer ratings, with Udawalawe at 5/5 and Yala at 4.5/5, highlighting knowledgeable guides and captivating wildlife sightings.
- The tours include comfortable transportation, hotel pickup, and additional amenities like lunch and water, making them well-suited for travelers exploring the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
- Advanced booking is recommended for both Udawalawe and Yala National Park safari tours due to their popularity and the potential for rough driving conditions during the excursions.
Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour
The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers visitors a chance to witness the impressive herds of Sri Lankan elephants that roam the park’s diverse landscapes. Priced from $110.00 per person, this 10-hour experience includes a live English-speaking guide and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
During the safari, which typically lasts 4 hours with possibilities for extension, guests can observe a variety of bird species and other mammals while gaining insights into the park’s wildlife behavior and ecology.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from 10 locations, a safari jeep with a guide, all transfers, lunch, and a water bottle. Entrance tickets to Udawalawe National Park aren’t included and must be purchased separately at the entrance.
Highlights of the itinerary include being picked up from the hotel, transferred to the national park, and embarking on a guided 3-hour safari experience to explore the unique landscapes and wildlife.
Customers have rated this tour 5/5, praising the friendly staff, knowledgeable guide, and incredible elephant encounters.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Yala National Park Safari
For travelers exploring the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park Safari offers a captivating wildlife experience. Priced competitively from $85.88 to $81.58 per person, this one-day safari provides the opportunity to spot a variety of animals, including the elusive leopard and majestic elephant, in their natural habitat.
The safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as comfortable transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Guests can expect to see an array of wildlife, such as sloth bears, jackals, deer, and a diverse range of bird species.
While the driving conditions can be rough at times, the overall experience is enhanced by the scenic landscapes.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on customer reviews, the Yala National Park Safari is a must-do activity for those visiting the southern region of Sri Lanka. Highlights include the chance to witness rare species and the knowledgeable guidance provided by the tour’s experienced drivers.
Read our full review: Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Yala National Park Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Combine Multiple National Park Tours in One Day?
It’s generally possible to combine multiple national park tours in a single day, but it depends on the parks’ locations and your time and energy levels. Careful planning is required to ensure you can cover all the desired sights comfortably.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Koggala’s National Parks?
The best time to visit Koggala’s national parks is during the dry season, typically from December to April. This period offers ideal weather conditions and increased wildlife sightings, making it the optimal time for visitors to explore the parks.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in National Park Safaris?
There are typically no age restrictions for national park safaris, though young children may require specialized accommodations or supervision. Visitors should check with tour operators regarding any age policies or requirements prior to booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari Tours?
Yes, visitors can typically bring their own food and drinks on safari tours. Most national parks allow this, as long as visitors properly dispose of any waste and don’t leave any behind. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.
Do the National Park Tours Offer Any Educational or Informative Components?
Yes, the national park tours typically provide educational and informative components. Guides often share insights about the local wildlife, flora, and ecosystems, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the natural wonders they’re exploring.
Recap
Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park offer excellent safari experiences for visitors to Koggala. They provide the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. These tours allow travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems. Whether one chooses Udawalawe or Yala, a national park safari is a must-do activity when visiting Koggala.