Set out on a captivating journey through Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. This private day trip offers an immersive experience, blending a thrilling safari with a visit to the renowned Elephant Transit Home. Witness the majestic elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat, then explore the conservation efforts dedicated to nurturing orphaned calves. With expert guides, convenient transportation, and a commitment to responsible tourism, this excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with the island’s diverse ecosystem. Uncover the wonders that lie ahead as you explore the rich tapestry of Udawalawe’s wildlife and learn about the dedicated efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.

Key Points

Private Udawalawa Safari Plus Elephant Transit Home Day Trip - Key Points

  • Immersive, private day trip to Udawalawe National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary, with morning and afternoon safaris to observe elephants and other wildlife.
  • Includes a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage to observe the rehabilitation efforts for orphaned elephant calves.
  • Provides air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and all necessary fees and taxes, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
  • Suitable for moderately fit travelers, not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
  • Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, allowing adjustments to plans without penalties.

Tour Overview

Offering a private day trip to Udawalawa, this tour provides an immersive safari experience in Sri Lanka’s renowned wildlife sanctuary.

Situated in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, Udawalawe National Park is a haven for displaced wild animals. The tour includes a morning and afternoon safari, with opportunities to observe elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

With pickup from the Weligama area or between Galle and Tangalle, the tour features air-conditioned transportation and park entrance tickets.

Priced from $185 per person, the experience can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and flexible option for visitors to Sri Lanka.

Itinerary Details

Private Udawalawa Safari Plus Elephant Transit Home Day Trip - Itinerary Details

The day trip to Udawalawa National Park begins at 8:00 AM for the morning safari.

After a 2-hour drive, visitors arrive at the park and have the opportunity to feed baby elephants at 10:30 AM.

The safari itself runs from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, lasting around 3-4 hours.

In the afternoon, the schedule is repeated, with the second safari starting at 3:00 PM and running until 6:00 PM.

Throughout the day, transportation is provided via an air-conditioned car or mini van, and bottled water, park entrance fees, and taxes are all included in the price.

Transportation and Inclusions

Private Udawalawa Safari Plus Elephant Transit Home Day Trip - Transportation and Inclusions

For this private Udawalawa safari day trip, transportation is provided via an air-conditioned car or mini van. Guests will be picked up from their hotel gate or lobby. The safari component takes place in a jeep with park entrance tickets included. Throughout the day, bottled water and all necessary fees and taxes are provided.

Inclusions Features
Vehicle Air-conditioned car or mini van
Safari Jeep with park entrance tickets
Additional Bottled water, all fees and taxes
Pickup From hotel gate or lobby

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is situated at the boundary of the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces in Sri Lanka. It serves as a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the iconic Asian elephant.

  • The park was established to provide a safe haven for animals affected by the reservoir project, ensuring their continued survival and wellbeing.

  • Visitors to the park can witness the magnificent elephants in their natural habitat, as well as spot other species such as deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird life.

  • The park’s commitment to conservation efforts and its role in protecting Sri Lanka’s wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage

Established in 1995 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage serves the purpose of rehabilitating orphaned elephant calves for eventual release into the wild.

Visitors can spend around 30 minutes at the orphanage, where they’ll have the opportunity to observe the elephants and learn about the facility’s work.

The orphanage plays a crucial role in preserving Sri Lanka’s elephant population, providing a safe haven for young elephants that have lost their families.

Health and Accessibility

Private Udawalawa Safari Plus Elephant Transit Home Day Trip - Health and Accessibility

Although the Udawalawa Safari Day Trip may appeal to a wide range of travelers, there are some important health and accessibility considerations to keep in mind.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Plus, the safari requires a moderate level of physical fitness, and the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, such as heart problems.

These factors should be taken into account when deciding whether this tour is suitable for your individual needs and capabilities.

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Moderate physical fitness level required

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

This ensures that guests have the freedom to adjust their plans without incurring any penalties. Whether unforeseen circumstances arise or participants’ schedules change, the cancellation terms provide a hassle-free solution.

The tour operator understands that flexibility is crucial, and this policy reflects their commitment to providing a seamless and stress-free experience for all travelers.

With this cancellation policy in place, guests can book the private Udawalawa safari with confidence, knowing they can make changes if needed.

Pricing Information

The tour’s pricing starts from $185.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

The price covers the following:

  • Air-conditioned transportation to and from the destinations
  • Entrance fees for the Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home
  • Bottled water for the duration of the tour
  • All applicable taxes and fees

Travelers can enjoy this comprehensive day trip without worrying about additional costs, as the price is inclusive of all necessary elements.

The flexible group size options ensure a personalized experience that fits the needs and budgets of different travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

According to the details provided, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Bottled water is included in the tour, but participants can bring additional snacks or beverages if desired.

Can We Interact With the Baby Elephants?

Visitors can observe but not interact directly with the baby elephants at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. The facility’s main objective is to rehabilitate and release orphaned calves back into the wild.

Is There a Professional Guide During the Safari?

Yes, there is a professional guide who accompanies guests during the safari. The guide provides information about the wildlife and helps guests spot the animals throughout the Udawalawe National Park safari experience.

Can We Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, the safari duration can be extended if requested. Additional fees may apply for the extended time. Travelers should discuss this option with the tour provider when booking the tour.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season from May to September when wildlife sightings are more abundant. Cooler temperatures and lower rainfall make for more comfortable safari experiences during this peak tourist season.

Recap

This Private Udawalawa Safari Plus Elephant Transit Home Day Trip offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s captivating wildlife. Travelers will witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat and visit the Elephant Transit Home, all while enjoying convenient transportation and expert guidance. This adventure promises an enriching and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the country’s renowned wildlife sanctuaries.