Udawalawe’s safari tours deliver the goods, offering some of Sri Lanka’s most reliable elephant spotting. Morning and afternoon drives let you choose the timing that works best, while both private and group options fit different budgets. The standout tours provide expert naturalist guides and well-maintained jeeps – essential for comfortable wildlife viewing. For the best experience, try tours that combine a park drive with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where you’ll see rescued baby elephants being rehabilitated. Beyond elephants, lucky visitors might spot leopards, water buffalo, and dozens of bird species. The top-rated tours balance good value with experienced guides and prime wildlife viewing locations. Let’s explore the best safari options at Udawalawe National Park.
Key Points
- The Udawalawe National Park Half Day Safari Tour offers a 7-hour experience with a focus on the elephant population and potential sightings of other wildlife, led by experienced guides.
- The Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour provides a 3-hour private tour with a live, English-speaking guide for a tailored experience and sightings of elephants, buffalo, and deer.
- The Private Jeep Safari in Udawalawe National Park is a 3-hour tour that allows for unobstructed views of Sri Lankan elephants, deer, and various bird species.
- The Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour is an 8-hour guided tour that includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home and a safari jeep tour for wildlife sightings.
- The Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours offer a 4-hour tour with a focus on ethical wildlife viewing practices and potential sightings of elephants and leopards, led by experienced guides.
Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour
For those seeking an immersive wildlife experience, the Udawalawe National Park Half Day Safari Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Udawalawe.
Priced from $60.88 per person, this 7-hour tour allows participants to witness Udawalawe’s renowned elephant population and potentially spot other wildlife, including leopards, water buffaloes, and crocodiles.
Led by experienced guides with over 10 years of expertise, the tours are conducted in 4×4 vehicles designed for the park’s rugged terrain.
Included in the tour are private transportation, water, and park entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this safari tour is a must-consider for visitors to Udawalawe.
Read our full review: Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour
The Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour offers a more personalized experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Lasting 3 hours, this private tour takes visitors through the 230,821-hectare park, home to a thriving elephant population of around 500 individuals. Guests can spot a variety of other wildlife, including wild buffalo, spotted deer, and numerous bird species.
With a live, English-speaking guide, the tour provides a tailored experience. Pickup and drop-off from the Udawalawa area are included, with transportation in a safari jeep accommodating up to 6 passengers.
Priced from $22 per person, the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari – Private Jeep
A private jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park offers an immersive wildlife experience for visitors. Priced from $28.65 per person, the 3-hour tour provides the opportunity to spot Sri Lankan elephants, deer, buffalo, and diverse bird species.
Guests travel in open-top jeeps for unobstructed views, accompanied by an experienced guide. The tour includes park entrance fees, water, and all taxes.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and prohibited items like drones, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the private jeep safari is a convenient and exciting way to explore Udawalawe’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari – Private Jeep Review
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Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Hom
Travelers venturing from Tangalle or Hiriketiya can embark on an 8-hour safari tour that promises an immersive encounter with Udawalawe’s diverse wildlife. Priced from $78 per person, this guided experience includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where visitors can feed orphaned baby elephants.
The safari jeep tour in Udawalawe National Park offers sightings of elephants, crocodiles, wild boars, and over 30 snake species, along with a variety of birds and butterflies.
Travelers can expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and knowledgeable guides, according to positive customer reviews. This tour provides a memorable opportunity to witness the region’s rich biodiversity.
Read our full review: Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Hom Review
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Udawalawe: Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours
Nestled within the heart of Udawalawe National Park, Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours offer visitors a captivating four-hour journey to witness the park’s diverse wildlife.
Priced from $24.98 per person, these tours provide excellent value, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can expect to see elephants, leopards, and a variety of endemic species, led by experienced guides with over a decade of expertise.
The tours feature private 4×4 safari vehicles, bottled water, and snacks, emphasizing ethical wildlife viewing practices.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 32 reviews, Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours deliver an unforgettable safari experience in Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destination.
Read our full review: Udawalawe: Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours Review
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Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
Udawalawe National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destination.
This half-day excursion combines a jeep safari through the park with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where guests can witness the rehabilitation and care of young elephants.
Priced competitively at €25.17 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with free cancellation and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Travelers can expect to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including 15 types of elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and over 50 butterfly species.
With a 4.8/5 rating from 94 reviews, this tour delivers a stress-free experience and abundant wildlife sightings.
Read our full review: Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Udawalawa?
The best time to visit Udawalawa is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when the weather’s mild, and wildlife sightings are most plentiful as animals congregate around the limited water sources.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. Most tour companies allow this, as long as guests don’t leave any litter behind. It’s a good idea to pack a cooler with snacks and beverages for the safari tour.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Safari?
Most safari tours allow photography, but there may be some restrictions. Guests should check with the tour operator about any rules or guidelines regarding photography, including prohibitions on using flash or approaching animals too closely.
How Accessible Is the Udawalawa National Park for Disabled Visitors?
The Udawalawa National Park is generally accessible for disabled visitors, with paved paths and designated viewing areas. However, the terrain can be challenging in certain parts, so it’s best to inquire about accessibility options when booking a safari tour.
Do the Safari Tours Offer Any Educational or Conservation Programs?
The safari tours at Udawalawa National Park do offer educational and conservation programs. Visitors can learn about the park’s wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides during the safari tours.
Recap
Udawalawe National Park offers a variety of safari tours to suit different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from half-day, private, and combined tours that provide opportunities to see diverse wildlife, including elephants, in their natural habitat. With several reputable tour providers, travelers can easily find the best safari experience to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.