From Bentota: Udawalawa National Park Wildlife Safari

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure from the coastal town of Bentota to the renowned Udawalawa National Park. This 12-hour excursion offers a chance to take in the vibrant ecosystem, teeming with elephants and other indigenous species. Priced at $110 per person, the experience includes a shared Jeep safari, hotel pick-up/drop-off, and bottled water, providing both excitement and convenience. Witness the remarkable Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home and indulge in local shopping and sightseeing – a well-rounded adventure that promises to captivate the senses. With a flexible cancellation policy, this safari offers an opportunity to discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a truly remarkable way.

This experience made our list of the 24 Best Safari Tours In Bentota.

Key Points

• A 12-hour wildlife safari tour from Bentota to Udawalawa National Park, priced at $110.00 per person, offering the opportunity to explore the park’s elephant population and other indigenous wildlife.
• The tour includes a 3-hour safari drive, hotel pick-up/drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, shared Jeep safari, and bottled water, with a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
• Udawalawa National Park is known for its thriving elephant population, as well as other wildlife like buffaloes, wild boar, and sambhur, with a diverse array of birdlife.
• Additional optional activities like visiting the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home are available for an extra fee, providing an educational experience about elephant conservation.
• The tour offers free time for shopping and sightseeing around Udawalawa National Park, with opportunities to explore local markets, traditional villages, and the picturesque Udawalawa Reservoir.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The wildlife safari tour from Bentota to Udawalawa National Park is priced from $110.00 per person, with a duration of 12 hours and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Travelers can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour departs from Bentota Cab & Tours and includes a 3-hour safari drive in Udawalawa National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife sanctuaries.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the park’s thriving elephant population and spot indigenous wildlife such as buffaloes, wild boars, and sambhurs.

The tour also offers free time for shopping and sightseeing before the return to Bentota.

Itinerary and Activities

This tour begins with pickup from Bentota Cab & Tours, followed by a 3-hour safari drive through the diverse landscapes of Udawalawa National Park.

Guests will then have the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, an additional attraction that requires a separate fee.

After the park exploration, the tour provides free time for shopping and sightseeing before the return to the initial pickup location.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned shared vehicle, a shared Jeep safari drive, and bottled water.

Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park are also included.

Lunch at a local hotel is available at an additional cost, and gratuities are optional.

Wildlife Experience

Udawalawa National Park is home to a thriving elephant population, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Plus, the park boasts an abundance of indigenous wildlife, including buffalo, wild boar, and sambhur, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. As the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka, Udawalawa is known to be a sanctuary for over 50 butterfly species and a diverse array of birdlife.

Wildlife Species	Description	Sightability
Elephants	Largest land animals in the park	Frequently seen
Buffalo	Massive, powerful bovines	Often encountered
Wild Boar	Rugged, tusked omnivores	Occasionally seen
Sambhur	Largest species of deer	Sometimes spotted
Butterflies	Over 50 different species	Abundant throughout

Transportation and Inclusions

For this Udawalawa National Park wildlife safari, the tour package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned shared vehicle, and a shared Jeep safari drive.

Bottled water is also provided, and the entrance fee to the national park is covered. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience for visitors.

The shared nature of the transportation and safari allows for cost-effective pricing, making the tour accessible to a wider range of travelers.

With these inclusions, guests can focus on seeing the park’s diverse wildlife without having to worry about logistics.

The comprehensive transportation and entrance fee package provides excellent value for the price of the tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The Udawalawa National Park wildlife safari tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides travelers with peace of mind and the freedom to adjust their plans if necessary.

The tour also offers a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, making it easier for visitors to secure their spot without the immediate financial commitment.

Whether travelers need to change their plans or simply want the flexibility to book in advance, the Udawalawa safari tour’s cancellation and refund policy ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for all.

Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home

As part of the Udawalawa National Park wildlife safari tour, travelers are provided the opportunity to visit the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home, a facility dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned or injured elephants back into the wild.

The Elephant Transit Home serves four key functions:

1. Rescuing and caring for baby elephants in need.

2. Providing specialized veterinary treatment and nutrition.

3. Gradually reintroducing the elephants to the wild through a structured release program.

4. Educating visitors about elephant conservation and the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.

With an extra fee, visitors can witness the feeding and care of the elephant calves, gaining a deeper appreciation for the dedicated efforts to preserve Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant population.

Shopping and Sightseeing Options

After the wildlife safari and visit to the Elephant Transit Home, there’s free time for travelers to explore the local shopping and sightseeing options in the area surrounding Udawalawa National Park.

Visitors can browse colorful local markets for handcrafted souvenirs, such as wooden carvings, batik fabrics, and spices. Those interested in Sri Lankan culture can visit traditional villages and observe artisans at work.

Nearby, the Udawalawa Reservoir offers picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching. For a more active experience, travelers can hike through the lush countryside surrounding the national park.

With its diverse offerings, the free time provides a well-rounded experience beyond the wildlife safari.

Important Considerations

Travelers should keep in mind a few key considerations when booking and embarking on the Udawalawa National Park wildlife safari. First and foremost, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users given the rugged terrain and active nature of the safari drive.

Plus, while the entrance fee to the national park is included, any optional activities such as the visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home incur an extra charge. Lastly, guests should plan to cover the cost of their own lunch at a local hotel during the free time portion of the itinerary.

Other important points to note include:

1. Gratuities for the tour guide and driver are optional.

2. The tour isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility.

3. The climate can be hot and humid, so proper preparation is advised.

4. Travelers should bring sun protection and insect repellent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Park?

The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season from June to September. This is when wildlife is most active and easily spotted near watering holes, offering visitors the optimal safari experience.

Is There Any Age Restriction for the Safari?

There is no age restriction for the safari, though it may not be suitable for very young children or older adults with limited mobility. Visitors of all ages can typically participate, though parental discretion is advised.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the safari, though the tour provider may recommend purchasing meals at local restaurants or hotels to support the local economy. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Is There Any Dress Code for the Safari?

There is no strict dress code for the safari, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, light clothing and closed-toe shoes. Avoid bright colors that may scare the animals. Dressing in neutral tones is generally advised for wildlife viewing.

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Shared Vehicle?

The shared vehicle can accommodate a variable number of people, typically between 4 to 8 passengers. The exact capacity may depend on the specific vehicle used for the safari tour.

Recap

This wildlife safari to Udawalawa National Park from Bentota offers an immersive experience to encounter the vibrant ecosystem’s elephants and other indigenous species.

At $110 per person, the 12-hour adventure includes a shared Jeep safari, hotel transfers, and bottled water.

Travelers can also visit the Elephant Transit Home and enjoy local shopping and sightseeing.

With a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides both excitement and peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here: