From Udawalawe: Safari at Udawalawe National Park

Nestled in the southern region of Sri Lanka, Udawalawe National Park offers a captivating safari experience for nature enthusiasts. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park boasts diverse landscapes teeming with an array of wildlife, from majestic Sri Lankan elephants to elusive leopards. Visitors can embark on a thrilling 3.5-hour adventure, guided by knowledgeable experts who navigate the lush grasslands and serene environments in comfortable safari jeeps. While witnessing the iconic Udawalawe Elephant Gathering is a highlight, the park’s rich biodiversity promises sightings of numerous other fascinating species. For those seeking an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders, the Udawalawe safari is an opportunity not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best National Park Tours In Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.

Key Points

• Udawalawe National Park offers a 3.5-hour safari through diverse landscapes, providing opportunities to see Sri Lankan elephants and other wildlife.
• The park is renowned for its large populations of Sri Lankan elephants, attracting various species such as water buffalo and birds.
• Prices for the safari start from SEK 1,053 per person, with options to reserve without upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The safari experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, refreshments, and an experienced English-speaking tour guide.
• The highlight of the safari is the Udawalawe Elephant Gathering, where large herds of elephants congregate at the reservoir to drink, bathe, and socialize.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Unforgettable Udawalawe Safari Experience

The Udawalawe safari offers visitors an unforgettable wildlife experience, as they venture into the park’s diverse landscapes to witness the majestic Sri Lankan elephants and a myriad of other species.

The 3.5-hour safari takes visitors through captivating scenery, from lush grasslands to serene reservoirs, where they can spot herds of elephants, grazing buffaloes, and a variety of birds.

The highlight is the Udawalawe Elephant Gathering, a natural spectacle where large numbers of these gentle giants congregate around the reservoir.

Explorers can also catch glimpses of other elusive creatures like leopards, deer, and monitor lizards, making each safari a unique and thrilling adventure.

Wildlife and Natural Habitats

Udawalawe National Park was established to protect the region surrounding the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River, serving as a sanctuary for wildlife displaced from their natural habitats.

The park is renowned for its population of Sri Lankan elephants, which can be challenging to spot in their natural surroundings. However, the reservoir attracts a significant number of these majestic creatures, creating a remarkable sight.

Udawalawe is also a haven for birdwatchers and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including water buffalo, water monitor lizards, Sambar deer, monkeys, and occasionally, leopards.

The park’s varied landscapes and thriving ecosystem make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Safari Booking and Payment Options

How can visitors book and pay for the safari experience at Udawalawe National Park? Prices start from SEK 1,053 per person, and travelers have the option to reserve their spot without paying upfront, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This convenient booking process allows visitors to secure their safari adventure with ease, giving them the flexibility to plan their trip.

Visitors can check availability and choose from various starting times to suit their schedule.

With the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can secure their spot without the immediate financial commitment.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind, should plans change unexpectedly.

Safari Inclusions and Amenities

Visitors can enjoy an array of amenities and inclusions during their Udawalawe safari experience. Pickup and drop-off services are arranged using customized safari jeeps, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start and end to the tour. Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park are covered in the package, providing seamless access to the park’s wildlife-rich landscapes.

Inclusions	Amenities
Hotel pick-up and drop-off	Customized safari jeeps
Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park	Refreshments and water
Fuel surcharge and driver charges	All government taxes
Experienced English-speaking tour guide	–

The package also includes refreshments and water, as well as all government taxes, for a transparent and worry-free experience. With an experienced English-speaking tour guide, visitors can fully enjoy the wonders of Udawalawe National Park.

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Safari Tour Logistics

Pickup service is available from all hotels in Udawalawe, offering a convenient start to the private group experience led by an English-speaking tour guide. Visitors then return to their hotel in Udawalawe after the safari, cherishing the memories of their wildlife encounter.

This seamless tour logistics ensures:

• A hassle-free journey, allowing guests to fully enjoy the safari experience without the need for additional transportation arrangements.

• A personalized touch with a private group setting and a knowledgeable guide to enhance the overall experience.

• A return to the comfort of their accommodation, allowing guests to reflect on the day’s remarkable sightings and adventures.

Udawalawe’s Elephant Gathering

Situated within the boundaries of Udawalawe National Park, the Udawalawe Reservoir stands as a magnet for the park’s most iconic residents – the Sri Lankan elephants.

Drawn by the ample water supply and lush vegetation surrounding the reservoir, these majestic creatures gather in large numbers, creating a remarkable natural spectacle unparalleled in the region.

Visitors to the park are often awestruck by the sheer size of these elephant herds, which can number in the hundreds, as they congregate along the reservoir’s shores to drink, bathe, and socialize.

This unique phenomenon, known as the ‘Udawalawe Elephant Gathering,’ is a highlight of any safari experience in the park, offering a rare and unforgettable glimpse into the lives of these magnificent animals.

Udawalawe’s Wildlife Diversity

Along With the majestic Sri Lankan elephants, Udawalawe National Park boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife, catering to the interests of nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.

From the timeless presence of water buffaloes wallowing in the reservoir to the stealthy movements of leopards in the dense foliage, the park offers an exhilarating safari experience.

Visitors can also spot:

• Graceful Sambar deer gliding through the grasslands

• Mischievous monkeys swinging from tree to tree

• Vibrant birdlife, including the endemic Sri Lanka junglefowl

This rich tapestry of flora and fauna, set against the park’s captivating landscapes, promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Times of Day to Spot Wildlife During the Safari?

The best times to spot wildlife during the safari are typically early morning and late afternoon. These times offer the most active hours for animals, as they come out to feed and drink in the cooler hours of the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the safari tour. However, the tour operator provides refreshments and water during the safari, so it’s not necessary to bring your own. The tour includes everything needed for a comfortable wildlife viewing experience.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Private Safari Experience?

The private safari experience typically has a small group size, often 2-6 people. This allows for a more personalized and intimate wildlife viewing experience within the Udawalawe National Park. The specific group size may vary depending on demand and availability.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Safari?

There are no restrictions on photography during the safari. Guests are encouraged to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes they encounter. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disturbing the animals or their natural habitats.

How Accessible Is the Safari Tour for Guests With Limited Mobility?

The safari tour is generally accessible for guests with limited mobility. They can ride in the customized safari jeeps, which offer enhanced wildlife viewing. Hotel pickup and drop-off services are also provided to accommodate guests with special needs.

Recap

Udawalawe National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience, where visitors can witness the captivating wildlife, particularly the majestic Sri Lankan elephants.

With knowledgeable guides and comfortable safari vehicles, explorers can enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes, spotting a range of unique species and enjoying refreshments along the way.

It’s a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: