Pick up Hambantota Cruise Ship: Udawalawe National Park Safari

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure at Udawalawe National Park with convenient pickup from the Hambantota Cruise Ship Port. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll be transported to this premier wildlife destination, home to over 250 Asian elephants and a diverse range of bird species. Enjoy a seamless experience with hotel pickup included, allowing you to learn about the breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the park. Don’t miss the chance to witness this unique ecosystem up close and uncover the hidden treasures that await within.

Key Points

• Tours from Hambantota Cruise Ship Port to Udawalawe National Park, located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away, are available.
• Park pickup service within a 15-kilometer radius, including from Shangri La Hambantota resort, is offered for convenience.
• Udawalawe National Park is a premier wildlife destination in Sri Lanka, famous for its large population of Asian elephants.
• Safari tours provide opportunities to witness the diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife, including over 250 elephants.
• Tour packages include hotel pickup, national park fees, and refreshments, ensuring a seamless safari experience.

Overview of Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is a premier wildlife destination in Sri Lanka, known for its large population of Asian elephants.

Home to a permanent herd of around 250 elephants, the park’s abundant water sources support this impressive population. Elephants migrate annually from nearby protected areas, making Udawalawe a crucial habitat for the species.

The park was established to provide shelter for elephants displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir.

Beyond elephants, Udawalawe is an important bird area, boasting diverse species including aquatic birds, birds of prey, and a variety of land birds.

Safari Experience and Features

Visitors often experience remarkable wildlife sightings during morning safaris at Udawalawe National Park. The park’s diverse ecosystem provides ample opportunities to spot a variety of birds, including aquatic species, birds of prey, and land birds. Guests can opt for a private tour with a dedicated driver and guide, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. The tour package includes hotel pickup, national park fees, and refreshments during the safari.

Safari Features	Details
Timing	Morning safaris often yield rare bird sightings
Tour Options	Private tour available with driver/guide
Inclusions	Hotel pickup and drop-off, National Park fees, Food and drinks
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible, not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions

Meeting and Pickup Information

Free hotel pickup is available from accommodations within a 15-kilometer radius of Udawalawe National Park, as well as from locations up to 5 kilometers from the Shangri La Hambantota resort.

Pickup details and confirmation are provided at the time of booking. However, this tour isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

• The pickup service ensures a seamless start to your safari experience.
• You’ll receive confirmation of your booking details, including the pickup location and time.
• Most travelers can participate in this tour, though those with certain medical conditions may need to consider alternative options.

Pricing and Booking Details

The cost for the Udawalawe National Park Safari is $174.00 per group, which can accommodate up to 6 travelers. The tour company offers a lowest price guarantee, allowing customers to select their preferred date and number of travelers. Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. They also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Feature	Description
Price	$174.00 per group
Group Size	Up to 6 travelers
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours before
Booking	Reserve now, pay later
Price Guarantee	Lowest available

Customer Reviews and Ratings

How do the customer reviews and ratings for the Udawalawe National Park Safari fare?

The safari has an impressive 5.0 out of 5 rating based on 3 reviews from reputable sources like Viator and Tripadvisor.

Travelers rave about the high biodiversity and wildlife experiences, with recommendations for tours with Ajith Safaris to have genuine encounters in Udawalawe and Yala.

The reviews highlight:

• Abundant sightings of the park’s permanent herd of over 250 Asian elephants.
• Diverse bird species, including rare aquatic birds, birds of prey, and land birds.
• An overall exceptional safari experience that meets or exceeds expectations.

The overwhelmingly positive customer feedback suggests the Udawalawe National Park Safari is a must-try wildlife adventure.

Highlights of the Safari

During the Udawalawe National Park Safari, visitors can expect to witness an abundance of the park’s renowned Asian elephant population. These gentle giants roam the expansive grasslands and forests, offering ample opportunities for sightings.

The safari also showcases the park’s diverse birdlife, including majestic birds of prey and a variety of aquatic species along the park’s many lakes and rivers.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, guests can enjoy the natural wonders of this protected area, gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

The safari’s morning excursions often yield the rarest and most captivating wildlife encounters.

Unique Aspects of the Tour

Beyond the typical safari experience, Udawalawe National Park offers several unique aspects that set it apart.

The park was established specifically to accommodate elephants displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir, creating a haven for these magnificent creatures. Visitors can witness the natural migration of the park’s permanent herd of 250 Asian elephants, which is supported by the abundant water sources.

Plus, Udawalawe is recognized as an important bird area, boasting a diverse array of species, including aquatic birds, birds of prey, and a variety of land birds, providing birdwatchers with a truly remarkable experience.

Getting to Udawalawe National Park

To reach Udawalawe National Park, visitors can choose from several convenient transportation options. Many tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, making the journey seamless.

Travelers can also opt for private transportation, which offers more flexibility and personalized experiences. Alternatively, visitors can self-drive or use public transportation, such as buses, to reach the park.

Regardless of the chosen method, the drive from Hambantota Cruise Ship Port to Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering a distance of around 60 kilometers.

The park’s centralized location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the country, ensuring a hassle-free start to the wildlife adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Safari Require Any Special Physical Requirements?

The safari does not have any strict physical requirements, though it’s not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions. Most travelers can participate in the safari experience comfortably.

Can I Customize the Safari Itinerary Based on My Interests?

Visitors can customize their Udawalawe National Park safari itinerary based on their interests. Private tours with a driver/guide offer flexibility to focus on specific wildlife or activities tailored to the traveler’s preferences.

How Often Do the Elephants Migrate in Udawalawe National Park?

The Asian elephants in Udawalawe National Park migrate annually from nearby protected areas, taking advantage of the park’s abundant water sources. This permanent herd of around 250 elephants is a major attraction for visitors.

What Are the Safety Protocols in Place During the Safari?

The safari provider implements safety protocols such as providing life jackets, ensuring vehicles are well-maintained, and instructing guests on proper behavior around wildlife. Travelers with medical conditions are advised to consult a doctor before participating.

Can I Extend My Safari Experience Beyond the Half-Day or Full-Day Option?

Yes, visitors can extend their Udawalawe National Park safari experience beyond the standard half-day or full-day options. Additional tours and multi-day experiences are available to accommodate travelers who wish to spend more time exploring the park’s abundant wildlife.

Recap

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure at Udawalawe National Park with convenient pickup from the Hambantota Cruise Ship Port. Witness the park’s rich biodiversity, including over 250 Asian elephants, and learn about the breathtaking natural beauty. This seamless experience ensures you don’t miss the chance to explore this unique ecosystem up close. Discover the wonders of Udawalawe National Park on this captivating safari.