From Colombo: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush southern region, Udawalawa National Park stands out as a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This day trip from Colombo promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing visitors in the park’s thriving ecosystem teeming with majestic elephants and diverse wildlife. From a scenic drive through the countryside to an exhilarating jeep safari, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that showcases the country’s natural wonders. But the true highlight may lie in the opportunity to witness the remarkable work of the Elephant Transit Home, a unique conservation initiative that provides a glimpse into the intricate relationship between humans and these gentle giants.

Key Points

• One-day tour from Colombo to Udawalawa National Park, focusing on observing the thriving elephant population and diverse wildlife.
• Includes transportation, jeep safari, and park entrance fees, providing a hassle-free experience for travelers.
• Opportunity to spot elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and a wide range of bird and butterfly species.
• Tour highlights the natural heritage of Sri Lanka, with the safari being the main attraction.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, allowing for convenient date selection and changes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour is a one-day experience that allows visitors to observe the thriving elephant population within the Udawalawa National Park.

Along With elephants, participants can spot various other wildlife species such as crocodiles, buffalo, and a diverse array of bird life.

Priced from €86.97 per person, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned private vehicle, highway toll fees, a jeep safari drive, and entrance fees to the national park.

Lasting one day, the tour departs from Colombo in the morning and returns in the evening, providing an opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage.

The tour is offered in English, making it accessible to international visitors.

Booking Information

Visitors can reserve their spot for the Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour without upfront payment, allowing them to book their preferred date and time conveniently.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. However, it’s recommended to confirm the starting times before booking to ensure availability.

Booking the tour is simple and straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later. This gives travelers the peace of mind to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.

The cancellation policy also allows for last-minute changes, making the booking process hassle-free and accommodating for customers.

Experience Highlights

Embarking on the Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour, visitors can observe the thriving elephant population within the national park.

They’ll also have the opportunity to spot crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of bird species during the comfortable journey to and from Udawalawa.

The highlight of the tour is the jeep safari, where guests can witness the impressive wildlife of the third most visited park in Sri Lanka.

Home to 50 butterfly species and numerous bird species, Udawalawa National Park offers a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the region.

Adventurers can expect an unforgettable day of wildlife observation and exploration.

Itinerary Details

Morning pickup from the Colombo area kicks off the Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour, followed by a 4-hour drive to the national park.

Once there, guests will embark on a thrilling jeep safari to spot the abundant elephant population, as well as other wildlife like buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, and hare.

Udawalawa National Park is the third most visited in Sri Lanka, boasting over 50 butterfly species and countless bird species.

After the safari, visitors can enjoy an authentic local lunch at a hotel in Udawalawa, at their own expense.

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel in Colombo.

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Pickup and Travel

The tour begins with a morning pickup from the Colombo area, after which guests embark on the 4-hour drive to Udawalawa National Park. During the scenic journey, travelers can sit back and relax in the air-conditioned private vehicle while admiring the changing landscapes.

Along the way, the tour covers the necessary highway toll fees. The drive provides an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming safari, as guests anticipate the chance to observe the thriving elephant population and other wildlife within the park.

Once at the destination, the group will be ready to embark on the Jeep safari, the highlight of the Udawalawa experience.

Safari Drive

Upon arrival at Udawalawa National Park, guests board a sturdy Jeep for the exhilarating safari drive.

Winding through the lush forests and open grasslands, the safari provides unparalleled opportunities to observe the park’s thriving elephant population in their natural habitat.

Skilled drivers navigate the terrain, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience as guests keep a watchful eye for other wildlife like crocodiles, buffalo, and a diverse array of bird species.

The park is home to over 50 butterfly species, adding to the rich biodiversity that visitors can witness.

With a focus on conservation, the safari experience offers a chance to appreciate the wonders of Udawalawa’s vibrant ecosystem firsthand.

Park Significance

Udawalawa National Park ranks as the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka, drawing visitors keen to enjoy the region’s vibrant biodiversity.

Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park is renowned for housing a thriving population of elephants, with an estimated 500 individuals roaming its lush forests and open grasslands.

Beyond its star attraction, the park boasts:

1. 50 species of vibrant butterflies, including the endemic Sri Lankan tree nymph.

2. A diverse array of bird species, from the majestic Sri Lanka grey hornbill to the colorful Sri Lanka junglefowl.

3. Populations of other iconic wildlife like crocodiles, wild boar, and the graceful sambhur deer.

4. A unique ecosystem supporting a variety of plant life, from sprawling grasslands to dense deciduous forests.

Inclusions

The Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Colombo area, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned private vehicle.

Plus, the package covers highway toll fees, the jeep safari drive, and entrance fees to the national park, though food and drinks aren’t included.

This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience for travelers, allowing them to focus on observing the thriving elephant population and other wildlife in the Udawalawa National Park.

The comprehensive inclusions make this tour an attractive option for those seeking an immersive safari experience without the added stress of arranging logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Udawalawa National Park is best visited during the dry season from June to September when viewing wildlife is optimal. This is the peak season when elephants and other animals congregate around water sources, making sightings more abundant.

Can I Combine This Tour With a Visit to Yala National Park?

The tour can be combined with a visit to Yala National Park, but it would require additional time and cost. Travelers should check with the tour operator about the feasibility and pricing of combining the two destinations in a single itinerary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Jeep Ride?

There are typically no age restrictions for the safari jeep ride, though the tour operator may have guidelines for young children’s participation to ensure their safety and comfort. Visitors of all ages can generally enjoy the Udawalawa safari experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Safari?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own camera equipment on the safari jeep ride. Guests are encouraged to capture the diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes of the Udawalawa National Park during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Clothing or Gear for the Tour?

For the safari, visitors should wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent is also recommended. The tour operator will provide any necessary equipment like binoculars.

Recap

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Colombo to Udawalawa National Park, renowned for its thriving elephant population and diverse wildlife.

This immersive experience highlights Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage, offering a unique opportunity to observe its vibrant ecosystem through a scenic drive, exhilarating jeep safari, and the chance to spot a variety of wildlife.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and all park entrance fees covered, this tour provides an exceptional nature-based adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: