Nestled along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Tangalle and Hiriketiya offer a captivating blend of natural wonders and wildlife encounters. Visitors can embark on an unforgettable 8-hour guided tour that promises to immerse them in the diverse ecosystem of the Udawalawe National Park. From witnessing herds of elephants roaming freely to observing the dedicated rehabilitation efforts at the Elephant Transit Home, this comprehensive experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife. With convenient transportation and flexible booking options, this tour caters to the adventurous spirit of wildlife enthusiasts seeking an exceptional day in the heart of Sri Lanka’s captivating wilderness.
Key Points
- This half-day tour offers a wildlife excursion to Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home, starting at $78 per person.
- The safari jeep tour provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, deer species, and various bird species.
- The Elephant Transit Home allows visitors to observe the rehabilitation efforts for orphaned baby elephants and learn about conservation initiatives.
- Convenient round-trip transportation from local hotels in Tangalle/Hiriketiya and air-conditioned vehicles ensure a hassle-free experience.
- The tour has a positive customer rating of 4.3/5 from 11 reviews, highlighting knowledgeable guides, friendly drivers, and memorable wildlife encounters.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Tangalle/Hiriketiya tour offers a half-day excursion to Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home, priced from $78.00 per person for an 8-hour experience with round-trip transportation from local hotels.
Travelers can reserve the tour now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour provides a convenient and comprehensive wildlife encounter, allowing visitors to explore the diverse fauna of Udawalawe National Park and observe orphaned baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home.
With air-conditioned vehicle transport and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises a memorable and hassle-free adventure in Sri Lanka’s picturesque southern region.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Udawalawa
Wildlife Experience in Udawalawe
On a guided safari jeep tour through Udawalawe National Park, visitors can spot an impressive array of exotic wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, wild boars, buffalos, spotted deer, barking deer, sambars, hares, mongoose, and over 30 snake species. The diverse ecosystem of the park provides a home for numerous birds, with over 50 butterfly species also found in the area. Guests have the opportunity to observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.
| Animal | Sightings |
|---|---|
| Elephants | Frequent |
| Crocodiles | Common |
| Wild Boars | Occasional |
| Deer Species | Regularly |
Elephant Observation at Transit Home
Visitors’ experience at the Elephant Transit Home allows them to observe the rehabilitation efforts made to support orphaned baby elephants.
The facility provides a 30-minute feeding session where guests can witness the caretakers’ dedication to nurturing these vulnerable animals back to health and eventual release into the wild.
During the visit, guests have the opportunity to see the baby elephants being fed milk and provided with necessary care.
The Elephant Transit Home plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, ensuring the survival and well-being of these gentle giants.
Travelers can feel a sense of connection to the elephants’ journey and the important work being done at the facility to protect Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.
Transportation and Convenience
Round-trip transfer from local hotels in Tangalle/Hiriketiya and transport by air-conditioned vehicle ensure a convenient and comfortable experience for participants.
The tour package includes:
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Pickup and drop-off service from your accommodation, eliminating the need to worry about transportation arrangements.
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Travel in air-conditioned comfort, ensuring a pleasant journey to and from the national park and Elephant Transit Home.
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Hassle-free logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the wildlife encounters and elephant feeding experience without the stress of navigating the logistics.
The thoughtful transportation and pickup/drop-off service provided as part of this tour make it an easy and enjoyable way to explore the natural wonders of Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
The tour has garnered a commendable 4.3/5 rating from 11 reviews, with customers highlighting the knowledgeable and friendly guides, timely and friendly drivers, and the memorable experiences of diverse wildlife sightings, including elephants, crocodiles, and even a leopard.
Reviewers particularly enjoyed the feeding experience at the Elephant Transit Home, a facility that supports wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
The tour provides a well-organized and convenient way for visitors to explore the stunning Udawalawe National Park and witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s elephant population up close.
The positive feedback suggests this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic and immersive wildlife adventure in Tangalle and Hiriketiya.
Safari Highlights and Memorable Moments
Travelers can look forward to encountering a diverse array of wildlife throughout the captivating Udawalawe National Park safari.
From majestic herds of elephants roaming the grasslands to elusive crocodiles basking along the riverbanks, the guided tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity up close.
The safari’s highlights include:
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Spotting the graceful and endangered spotted deer, barking deer, and sambar deer, as they navigate the park’s lush vegetation.
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Observing the wide variety of bird species, including vibrant peacocks, herons, and hornbills, in their natural habitats.
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The thrill of potentially catching a glimpse of the park’s elusive leopards, one of the rarest sights on the tour.
Elephant Conservation and Rehabilitation
Why does the Elephant Transit Home play a crucial role in supporting wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts in the region? The Elephant Transit Home, located adjacent to the Udawalawe National Park, serves as a specialized facility dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned or injured elephants. Through its dedicated efforts, the home aims to nurse these vulnerable pachyderms back to health and eventually release them into the protected confines of the national park, bolstering the local elephant population. The home’s mission extends beyond just caring for elephants – it also plays a vital role in educating visitors about the importance of elephant conservation and the challenges these majestic creatures face in the wild.
| Key Objectives | Strategies Employed | Outcomes Achieved |
|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation of orphaned/injured elephants | Providing specialized medical care and nutrition | Successful reintegration of rehabilitated elephants into the wild |
| Conservation of local elephant populations | Releasing rehabilitated elephants into Udawalawe National Park | Increased elephant numbers in the protected area |
| Public awareness and education | Hosting visitors to observe elephant feeding and care | Improved understanding of elephant conservation among travelers |
| Collaboration with authorities | Working closely with wildlife authorities and researchers | Enhanced wildlife protection and management efforts |
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Booking and reserving the Tangalle/Hiriketiya tour to Udawalawa National Park and Elephant Transit Home is straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers.
The booking and cancellation policy offers several key benefits:
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Ability to reserve the tour without immediate payment, making it convenient for travelers
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Opportunity to cancel the reservation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, giving you peace of mind
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Hassle-free planning, as there are no penalties for last-minute changes to your itinerary
This flexible approach ensures a stress-free booking experience, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the upcoming wildlife adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the company does not provide any storage facilities, so it’s recommended to bring a small cooler or bag to keep items fresh and secure.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
There is typically no minimum group size requirement for this tour. Travelers can book individually or as a small group. The tour accommodates a range of group sizes to provide a personalized wildlife experience.
What Should I Wear and Bring for the Safari?
For a safari, wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a camera to capture the wildlife, and pack snacks and water to stay refreshed throughout the day.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions. Participants of all ages can join the safari and visit the Elephant Transit Home. However, parents should ensure young children are properly supervised for their safety and enjoyment during the tour.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
Yes, you can extend the tour duration if needed. The tour operator allows for flexible scheduling and can accommodate requests to extend the tour time, subject to availability and any additional fees.
Recap
This unparalleled tour offers an unforgettable adventure in Tangalle and Hiriketiya.
Witness the majesty of wild elephants in Udawalawe, and observe the rehabilitation efforts at the Elephant Transit Home.
With round-trip transportation and flexible booking, it’s a must-do excursion for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive and convenient experience.
Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage on this captivating 8-hour guided tour.
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