From Dambulla: Full Day Safari at Minneriya National Park

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure from Dambulla to Minneriya National Park. Priced at $170 per person, this full-day tour promises a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife. Explore the vibrant ecosystems of Minneriya and Eco National Parks, where you’ll have the chance to see majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitat. With hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and delicious meals included, this 12-hour journey offers an immersive wildlife experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. What surprises await in the heart of Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness?

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Anuradhapura.

Key Points

• Full-day safari at Minneriya National Park, priced at $170.00 per person, with a duration of 12 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Safari covers Minneriya and Eco National Parks, providing opportunities to observe diverse wildlife including Sri Lankan elephants, sambar deer, axis deer, leopards, and sloth bears.
• Package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees, meals, and refreshments, with no ticket required for children aged 5 and younger.
• Recommended items for the safari include binoculars, charged smartphones, and valid identification, with comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes advised.
• Overall customer rating is 4 out of 5, with positive feedback about wildlife sightings but concerns about jeep comfort, suggesting a potential trade-off between experience and comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day safari at Minneriya National Park offers visitors a comprehensive wildlife experience, with prices starting from $170.00 per person. The tour lasts for 12 hours, and participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, making it convenient for travelers to plan their trip.

The safari covers Minneriya and Eco National Parks, providing opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including Sri Lankan elephants, endemic monkeys, deer, and a variety of bird species.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, meals, and refreshments included, this safari promises a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure.

Itinerary and Wildlife Experience

At the crack of dawn, visitors embark on their safari journey with a pickup from their hotel in Dambulla, Sigiriya, Habarana, or Kandalama, setting off for the wonders of Minneriya and Eco National Parks. The safari begins at 6:00 am, where guests can observe the majestic Sri Lankan elephants during the dry season, as well as other wildlife like endemic monkeys, sambar deer, axis deer, leopards, and sloth bears. The parks are home to a diverse array of species, including 24 mammals, 9 amphibians, 25 reptiles, 26 fish, and 75 butterflies, along with over 160 bird species like adjutants and storks.

Time	Activity
5:30 am	Hotel pickup
6:00 am	Safari begins
12:00 pm	Lunch at local restaurant
2:00 pm	Second part of safari
5:00 pm	Return to hotel

Inclusions and Amenities

This full-day safari package at Minneriya National Park includes hotel pickup and drop-off via safari jeep or comfortable vehicle, as well as the entrance fees to both Minneriya and Eco National Parks.

A packed breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are provided, along with refreshments and water throughout the tour.

The tour also covers the fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience. All government taxes are included in the price.

Guests are advised to bring binoculars, a charged smartphone, and a passport or ID card.

The package caters to adults, children, and infants, with no ticket required for children aged 5 and younger.

Important Information

Guests are advised to bring along binoculars, a charged smartphone, and either a passport or ID card for this full-day safari at Minneriya National Park.

The tour is suitable for adults aged 12 to 99, while children aged 6 to 11 can participate. Infants 5 and younger don’t require a ticket.

Visitors should be prepared for a long day, as the safari lasts approximately 12 hours.

It’s important to note that the jeeps used during the tour may have low seats, lack air conditioning, and show signs of wear and tear. Some guests have suggested considering a half-day tour option for greater comfort.

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What to Bring

Visitors should pack essential items like binoculars, a fully charged smartphone, and either a passport or ID card for the full-day safari at Minneriya National Park.

Binoculars will allow you to get a closer look at the diverse wildlife, including elephants, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.

Having a charged smartphone is important for taking photos and videos to capture your safari experience.

Bringing a valid form of identification, such as a passport or ID card, is required for entry into the national park.

Remember to dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes, as you’ll be spending the majority of the day exploring the park’s rugged terrain.

Customer Feedback

According to reviews, the overall rating for the full-day safari at Minneriya National Park is 4 out of 5 based on 1 review.

Positive feedback highlights the impressive wildlife sightings and the guide’s flexibility.

However, some concerns were raised about the jeep’s comfort, including the low seats, lack of air conditioning, and the vehicle’s condition. As a result, one reviewer suggested considering a half-day tour instead of the full-day option to enhance comfort.

Despite these minor issues, the safari appears to provide a worthwhile experience for visitors seeking to explore Minneriya National Park and observe its diverse wildlife, including the iconic Sri Lankan elephants.

Considerations

When contemplating this full-day safari, guests may want to weigh the trade-offs between the comprehensive wildlife experience and potential discomfort from the jeep’s low seats, lack of air conditioning, and overall condition.

While the safari provides an opportunity to see a diverse array of endemic species, the long hours in the vehicle may prove challenging for some.

Visitors should consider their tolerance for extended periods in basic transportation and decide if a half-day tour might be more suitable.

Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and priorities – whether one’s focus is on maximizing wildlife sightings or ensuring a more comfortable touring experience.

Safari Highlights

The safari at Minneriya National Park affords travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves within Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, from majestic herds of elephants to an abundance of endemic bird species.

During the dry season, visitors can observe large elephant gatherings, often numbering in the hundreds, as they converge on the park’s expansive grasslands and reservoirs.

Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 160 bird species, including the striking adjutant stork and graceful cormorants.

Beyond the charismatic megafauna, the park is home to a rich tapestry of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, providing a comprehensive wildlife experience.

With expert guides leading the way, this full-day safari promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book a Private Safari Tour?

Yes, customers can book a private safari tour at Minneriya National Park. Private tours allow for a more personalized experience and flexible itinerary. Booking a private tour is subject to availability and may incur additional costs.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Enter the Park?

Visitors generally do not need a special permit to enter Minneriya National Park. The tour package includes the entrance fees, providing visitors access to the park. However, it’s recommended to double-check with the tour operator for any specific permit requirements.

Are There Any Additional Charges for Photography?

There are no additional charges for photography on the Minneriya National Park safari. Visitors can take photos freely during the tour, though they’re encouraged to be mindful of wildlife and follow park guidelines.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, a packed breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are already included in the tour price, so bringing additional snacks may not be necessary.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the safari duration. Guests may request a longer tour to explore more of the park and wildlife. This would incur an additional charge, depending on the extended time.

Recap

This full-day safari from Dambulla to Minneriya National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife.

Priced at $170.00 per person, the 12-hour adventure includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees, and delicious meals.

Visitors can expect to see majestic elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: