Minneriya/Kaudulla/Hurulu National Park Safari

Explore the remarkable elephant gathering at the renowned Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu National Parks on a thrilling safari adventure. Witness the world’s largest assemblage of Asian elephants, with herds up to 300 strong, as they converge on the lush grasslands and waterholes during the annual dry season. This immersive 4-hour expedition, complete with a scenic transfer and off-road exploration, promises an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. With flexible booking options and a team of skilled drivers, the stage is set for an extraordinary experience that will leave you captivated and eager to delve deeper into the wonders of these protected habitats.

Key Points

• Explore the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants in Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu National Parks on a 4-hour safari adventure.
• Witness the complex social behaviors of elephants and other diverse wildlife in their natural habitats.
• Enjoy a flexible and convenient safari experience with pickup and drop-off options from various locations.
• Explore the parks during the prime elephant migration season from July to January.
• Book the safari package with a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Safari Overview

Travelers can experience an exhilarating safari adventure through the stunning landscapes of Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu National Parks in Sri Lanka, with prices starting at just £48.80 per group (up to 6 people).

Visitors can take advantage of the convenient ‘reserve now & pay later’ option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The 4-hour safari expedition offers the opportunity to witness the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants during their annual migration, as well as a diverse array of other wildlife.

Guests will embark on an off-road adventure in a Jeep or SUV, led by experienced drivers, providing an immersive and thrilling experience in the heart of Sri Lanka’s national parks.

Wildlife and Activities

During the safari, visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing of a diverse array of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles native to the region.

The undisputed highlight, however, is the opportunity to witness the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants, which can number up to 300 individuals, as they migrate through the parks. These magnificent creatures are the main attraction, and safari-goers will have the chance to observe their complex social behaviors and impressive physiques up close.

Adventurous travelers will also delight in the off-road excitement of traversing the parks’ rugged terrain in sturdy Jeeps and SUVs, guided by experienced drivers who know the parks intimately.

The safari promises an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Where can travelers be picked up and dropped off for the National Park Safari? The safari offers pickup options from Sigiriya, Girithale, Dambulla, and Habarana, with drop-off locations at Habarana, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Girithale. The 30-minute transfer to Minneriya National Park marks the start of the 3-hour wildlife viewing experience.

Pickup Options	Transfer Time	Drop-off Locations
Sigiriya	30 minutes	Habarana
Girithale		Sigiriya
Dambulla		Dambulla
Habarana		Girithale

The safari’s flexible pickup and drop-off locations ensure a seamless transportation experience, allowing visitors to easily access the National Park and enjoy their wildlife adventure.

Elephant Migration Patterns

Minneriya National Park’s reputation as a premier elephant-watching destination stems from the park’s strategic location within the annual elephant migration patterns across Sri Lanka’s central dry zone.

Elephants migrate to Minneriya from July to September, drawn by the park’s lush vegetation and the seasonal Minneriya Tank, a 16th-century reservoir that provides a reliable source of water.

As the dry season progresses, the herds then move on to Kaudulla National Park from October to November, taking advantage of the rains.

Finally, in December and January, the elephants migrate to Hurulu Eco Park, completing their cyclic journey through the region’s protected areas.

This annual migration is a spectacular natural phenomenon, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

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Safari Inclusions and Restrictions

The safari package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, water bottles, a safari Jeep, park entry fees, and food, providing a comprehensive experience for participants.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women and children under 2 years of age due to safety concerns.

The safari vehicles are designed for optimal wildlife viewing, with well-trained drivers who navigate the off-road terrain with skill.

While the tours cater to a range of ages and abilities, certain restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.

Visitors are advised to consult with the tour operator for any specific requirements or concerns before booking their Minneriya/Kaudulla/Hurulu National Park Safari experience.

Pricing and Booking Options

Visitors can experience a Minneriya/Kaudulla/Hurulu National Park Safari for just £48.80 per group (up to 6 people), providing an affordable way to embark on a wildlife-filled adventure.

The best part? Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it easy to plan their dream safari. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, there’s no risk involved.

The entire experience lasts 4 hours, including a 30-minute transfer to the national park and 3 hours of exciting off-road exploration in a Jeep or SUV. Whether you’re looking to witness the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants or spot a variety of other mammals, birds, and reptiles, this safari has it all.

• £48.80 per group (up to 6 people)

• Reserve now, pay later

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

• 4-hour duration

• Pickup and drop-off options available

Itinerary Details

For the safari, travelers can choose from several convenient pickup locations, including Sigiriya, Girithale, Dambulla, and Habarana. This is followed by a 30-minute transfer to Minneriya National Park, where the main wildlife viewing activities take place over the course of 3 hours. Afterward, participants are dropped off at their original pickup points, such as Habarana, Sigiriya, Dambulla, or Girithale.

Pickup Location	Transfer Duration	Main Activities	Drop-off Location
Sigiriya	30 minutes	3 hours wildlife viewing	Sigiriya
Girithale	30 minutes	3 hours wildlife viewing	Girithale
Dambulla	30 minutes	3 hours wildlife viewing	Dambulla
Habarana	30 minutes	3 hours wildlife viewing	Habarana

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Pay the Safari Fee in Local Currency?

Yes, you can pay the safari fee in local currency. The safari providers typically accept the local currency, making it convenient for visitors to make their payments without needing to exchange foreign currency.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for this safari. Customers can book the tour for themselves or with a group of up to 6 people. The safari price is per group, making it a cost-effective option for solo travelers or small parties.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?

The safari package doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. The price covers hotel pickup/drop-off, water bottles, safari Jeep, park entry fee, and food. Customers won’t encounter any hidden charges beyond the stated cost.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour operator provides complimentary water bottles as part of the package, so bringing additional snacks or beverages is optional. Proper disposal of any waste is expected.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

You don’t need any special equipment or gear for the safari. The tour provider typically provides all necessary equipment like binoculars, rain ponchos, and provides bottled water. Just dress comfortably and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the wildlife sightings.

Recap

This safari adventure through Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu National Parks offers an unforgettable chance to witness the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.

With skilled drivers, diverse wildlife, and flexible booking options, it’s the perfect way to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich natural beauty.

Don’t miss this opportunity to create lifelong memories and gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s incredible ecosystem.

You can check if your dates are available here: