On the lookout for the best national park experiences near Colombo? The top choices are clear and well-organized.
Udawalawe leads the pack with intimate private safaris – you’ll appreciate the included door-to-door transport and meals.
I’m especially fond of Yala’s full-day jeep tours, where expert guides get you amazingly close to leopards and elephants.
Wilpattu remains my hidden gem, offering peaceful day tours away from the crowds.
And don’t miss combining Minneriya Park with the stunning Sigiriya Rock when touring from Kandy – it’s a perfect two-for-one cultural and wildlife adventure.
Let’s explore the specific tours that make these parks truly special.
Key Points
- Udawalawe National Park offers highly-rated private tours with comprehensive inclusions such as transportation, meals, and alcoholic beverages.
- Yala National Park experiences include full-day jeep safaris with lunch, accessible for wheelchair users and strollers.
- Wilpattu National Park safari tours provide an intimate wildlife-viewing experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.
- Kandy day trips combine visits to Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Minneriya National Park, offering a diverse cultural and natural exploration.
- Private Yala National Park tours offer early morning safaris with experienced guides, Sri Lankan lunch, and flexible booking options.
All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari Day Tour From Colombo and Negombo
The All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari Day Tour from Colombo and Negombo is a highly-rated excursion operated by Traumland Tours in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
With 10 reviews and 100% recommendation from travelers, this all-inclusive safari tour offers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, parking fees, lunch, and even alcoholic beverages.
Pickup is available from hotels, Colombo/Negombo, or the Colombo International Airport. The tour ends back at the meeting point, and confirmation is received upon booking.
While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates infants. Travelers can reserve now and pay later to secure their spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari Day Tour From Colombo and Negombo Review
Book now: Check availability
Yala National Park Full-Day Jeep Safari With Lunch
Yala National Park Full-Day Jeep Safari with Lunch offers travelers a chance to explore one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserves.
This tour is provided by Kingsbury Tours in Colombo and costs $200.00. Guests can expect air-conditioned transportation, a private safari jeep, and a delicious lunch.
The tour has a perfect 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews, and it’s accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and infants.
Travelers can select their pickup point and receive confirmation at the time of booking.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour provides flexibility and convenience for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Full-Day Jeep Safari With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Day Tour to Wilpattu National Park From Colombo
Travelers seeking a captivating safari experience can embark on a Day Tour to Wilpattu National Park from Colombo. This tour, operated by Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd, offers a chance to explore one of Sri Lanka’s largest national parks.
The tour includes a 4×4 jeep safari, complimentary water and king coconut, and entrance fees. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides an intimate wildlife-viewing experience. Guests can expect to spot an array of animals, including leopards, sloth bears, and elephants.
While the long drive is noted, reviewers praise the excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation. Travelers should be aware of the health and safety guidelines, including moderate physical fitness requirements and the need to carry vaccination cards.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Wilpattu National Park From Colombo Review
Book now: Check availability
Kandy – Minneriya National Park & Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Tours & Entrance Fees)
From Kandy, visitors can embark on a private day trip to explore three captivating attractions: Dambulla’s ancient cave temples, the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and the renowned Minneriya National Park.
This personalized tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned transportation. Guests can admire the impressive frescoes at Dambulla, climb Sigiriya’s dramatic rock formation, and go on a game drive to spot wild elephants and other wildlife.
The tour offers free Wi-Fi and the option to purchase alcoholic drinks, though meals aren’t included. With an overall 5-star rating based on 8 reviews, this tour promises a memorable and private experience, operated by the reputable Lanka Safe Tours.
Read our full review: Kandy – Minneriya National Park & Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Tours & Entrance Fees) Review
Book now: Check availability
Hello One Day Udawalawe National Park Elephant Safari
Departing from Colombo, guests embark on a private, one-day excursion to explore the renowned Udawalawe National Park.
The tour includes transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver, and all necessary fees, including entrance to the park and a gem museum.
Travelers will enjoy a jeep safari through the park, where they’ll have the opportunity to observe elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
A delicious lunch is also provided as part of the package.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a 5.0 rating, this tour offers a memorable and hassle-free way to discover the beauty of Udawalawe National Park.
Read our full review: Hello One Day Udawalawe National Park Elephant Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Day Tour in Yala National Park With Lunch
Although departing early in the morning, guests on this private day tour in Yala National Park can look forward to an unforgettable safari experience.
Operated by Sammy Tours, the tour includes a private jeep safari through the park, with an English or German speaking guide.
Lunch of Sri Lankan rice and curry is provided, and travelers will be picked up and dropped off at their hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle.
With a total duration including travel time, the tour costs from $260 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Based on 6 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, the tour has an impressive 5.0 overall rating.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour in Yala National Park With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Udawalawe National Park Safari With Transfers From Colombo
Travelers seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife can embark on a private tour to Udawalawe National Park from Colombo.
This scenic journey in an open-top 4WD offers the chance to spot wild elephants, sambar deer, jackals, and more.
The tour includes private transport, a pre-arranged game drive, and an English-speaking driver.
Amenities like free WiFi, water bottles, and gratuity for the driver and guide are also provided.
Pickup is available in Colombo, though additional charges may apply for different drop-off locations.
Health and safety guidelines must be followed, and the tour has received high customer satisfaction ratings.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Transfers From Colombo Review
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All Inclusive Private Jeep Safari at Yala National Park
Exploring Yala National Park on a private jeep safari, travelers can enjoy Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness. Priced from €91.69 per person, this all-inclusive experience offers a comprehensive tour with private transportation, meals, and expert guidance.
The safari provides the opportunity to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including the elusive leopard. While one traveler reported a poor experience, the majority of reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the overall enjoyment of the tour.
Operated by Ceylenese, the safari can be booked with free cancellation, making it a flexible and hassle-free option for exploring Yala National Park from Colombo.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Private Jeep Safari at Yala National Park Review
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2 Days Tour to Galle & Udawalawe National Park
This two-day tour offers travelers a chance to explore the historic city of Galle and the wildlife-rich Udawalawe National Park.
Priced from £154.08 per group (up to 5 people), the private tour includes hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, and a driver/guide.
Visitors can expect to see Galle’s Dutch-colonial architecture and the diverse fauna of Udawalawe, such as elephants, leopards, and birdlife.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers, including infants.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour provides an all-inclusive experience to discover two of Sri Lanka’s top destinations.
Read our full review: 2 Days Tour to Galle & Udawalawe National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Colombo offers a range of tours to explore the country’s best national parks. From Udawalawe’s elephants to Yala’s leopards, these tours provide all-inclusive experiences with transfers, safaris, and meals. Visitors can also combine park visits with other attractions, like Sigiriya Rock Fortress. With a variety of tour options, travelers can choose the best fit for their preferences and budget when discovering Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.