For safari-loving travelers, Udawalawe National Park delivers Sri Lanka’s most reliable elephant encounters. This compact park packs a serious wildlife punch, especially with its impressive elephant herds.
Three tours stand out: The efficient half-day safari hits all the wildlife highlights – elephants, water buffalo, and if you’re lucky, leopards. Our favorite is the private 3-hour tour, offering personalized attention and prime elephant viewing without the crowds. For the full experience, we love the 4-hour combo tour that pairs a wildlife drive with a stop at the Elephant Transit Home, where you’ll see rescued baby elephants.
Each tour includes essential basics: transportation, knowledgeable guides, and park fees. No complicated planning needed.
Let’s look at our recommended tours and find your perfect match.
Key Points
- Udawalawe National Park offers a range of tour options, with durations from 3 to 7 hours, catering to various preferences and budgets.
- The park is renowned for its large elephant population, along with sightings of leopards, water buffaloes, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
- Tour inclusions typically cover private safari jeep, experienced driver/guide, bottled water, hotel pickup/drop-off, and national park entrance tickets.
- Some tours provide additional experiences, such as visits to the Elephant Transit Home for interactions with baby elephants during feeding hours.
- Tours are generally led by experienced guides with extensive knowledge of the local wildlife and ecosystems, ensuring an informative and memorable experience.
Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour
Exploring the wonders of Udawalawe National Park on a half-day safari tour is an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Priced at $60.83 per person, the 7-hour tour offers the opportunity to ride in a 4×4 through the park, known for its large elephant population.
Led by experienced guides with over 10 years of expertise, the safari promises thrilling wildlife sightings, including elephants, leopards, water buffaloes, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
The tour includes a private safari jeep, an experienced driver/guide, bottled water, free hotel pickup and drop-off, and national park entrance tickets. However, breakfast is the only meal provided, while lunch and dinner aren’t included.
Plus, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. With a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, the Udawalawe National Park Half Day Safari Tour offers an immersive and rewarding experience for those seeking to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
Read our full review: Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour
For those seeking an immersive wildlife experience, the Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore one of Sri Lanka’s premier conservation areas.
Priced at €20.81 per person, this 3-hour guided tour allows visitors to traverse the 230,821-hectare park in search of its thriving elephant population, estimated at around 500 individuals.
Beyond elephants, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wild buffalo, deer, boar, and even 30 snake species.
The tour includes free pickup and drop-off, transportation in a safari jeep, and a guided experience led by an English-speaking guide.
Participants can also enjoy a picnic lunch within the park, making it a well-rounded immersion in Udawalawa’s natural splendor.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexible planning and the chance to witness the best elephant gathering outside of Africa.
Read our full review: Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari – Private Jeep
Visitors seeking a more personalized wildlife adventure in Udawalawa National Park can opt for the Udawalawe National Park Safari – Private Jeep. Priced from €27.08 per person, this 3-hour private safari includes pickup and drop-off at the Elephant Transit Home or nearby hotels.
Guests will embark on a 3-hour game drive in a 4×4 jeep, accompanied by an experienced guide who doubles as the driver.
The safari promises sightings of Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat, as well as the chance to spot deer, buffalo, sambar deer, water monitor lizards, crocodiles, and various bird species like Sri Lankan junglefowl, serpent eagles, white-bellied sea eagles, and migratory birds during winter.
The tour includes water bottles, park entrance fees, and all taxes and service charges, though food and gratuities are excluded. Certain restrictions apply, and guests are advised to bring suitable attire and accessories.
Flexibility is advised, as itineraries may be subject to change.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari – Private Jeep Review
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Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
One of the best ways to experience the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Udawalawe National Park is through the Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour.
Priced from $28.00 to $26.60 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at the park’s rich ecosystem. Guests can explore the reserve in a 4×4 Jeep, spotting wild elephants, buffalos, deer, and a variety of other animals. The park is home to 50 species of butterflies and numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
The tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where guests can interact with baby elephants during their feeding hours. This unique experience allows visitors to observe the park’s conservation efforts firsthand.
Pickup from the Udawalawa area or the park entrance is included, and the tour is led by experienced drivers and guides. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 94 reviews, this tour is a must-try for anyone seeking an immersive wildlife encounter in Udawalawe.
Read our full review: Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I See the “Big Five” Animals in Udawalawe National Park?
Yes, visitors to Udawalawe National Park can often spot the “big five” animals – elephants, leopards, sloth bears, water buffaloes, and crocodiles. The park’s diverse wildlife habitat makes it a prime destination for spotting these iconic species.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Spot Elephants in the Park?
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot elephants in Udawalawe National Park. Visitors are more likely to see herds of elephants grazing or drinking at these times when the animals are most active.
Is It Possible to See Baby Elephants at the Elephant Transit Home?
Visitors can often see baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawa. The home rehabilitates orphaned or injured elephants before releasing them back into the wild. Visitors may be able to observe the young elephants during feeding times.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photographing Wildlife in the Park?
There are some restrictions on photographing wildlife in the park. Visitors can’t use flash photography and must maintain a safe distance from the animals. It’s important to follow the guidelines of the park to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
What Facilities Are Available at the Park Entrance for Visitors?
The park entrance offers basic visitor facilities like parking, restrooms, and a visitor center. There are also vendors selling snacks and drinks. Visitors can inquire about guided tours and obtain park maps and information at the entrance.
Recap
Udawalawe National Park offers a range of safari tours for visitors. These tours provide opportunities to spot elephants, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you choose a half-day, private, or combined tour, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring this picturesque park. The variety of tour options allows visitors to customize their safari adventure to suit their preferences and budget.