Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Hom

Discovering the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home is an opportunity not to be missed. This half-day safari adventure from the coastal towns of Tangalle or Hiriketiya offers visitors a chance to witness the vibrant ecosystem teeming with diverse wildlife. From the iconic elephants to elusive crocodiles and a myriad of bird species, the experience promises to captivate nature enthusiasts. With a comfortable private vehicle and knowledgeable guide, the tour provides a hassle-free way to explore the region’s rich biodiversity. But what sets this excursion apart may surprise even the most seasoned travelers.

Key Points

• Set out on a half-day safari in Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its thriving elephant population and diverse wildlife.
• Visit the Elephant Transit Home to observe the rehabilitation process of young elephants.
• Enjoy a hassle-free experience with private transportation and a professional driver/guide.
• Witness a variety of animals, including crocodiles, buffalo, sambhur, and over 50 butterfly species.
• Flexible booking options with no upfront payment required and free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

Travelers can experience an exciting safari through the Udawalawe National Park, witnessing a thriving elephant population and diverse wildlife, as well as visiting the Elephant Transit Home.

This half-day tour, priced from 2,150 LKR per person, offers a chance to explore the park created in the 1970s to provide habitat for displaced wildlife.

The safari is conducted in a private air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional driver/guide included.

Participants can expect to see a variety of animals, including crocodiles, buffalo, sambhur, and more, as well as over 50 butterfly species and numerous bird species.

The Elephant Transit Home visit allows travelers to observe the rehabilitation and care of young elephants before their release back into the wild.

Pricing and Reservation Details

The pricing for the Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home experience starts from 2,150 LKR per person, with no upfront payment required to reserve the tour.

Travelers can book and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible booking policy makes it easy for visitors to plan their Udawalawa adventure.

The half-day safari tour takes guests into the Udawalawe National Park, which is home to a thriving elephant population as well as other wildlife like crocodiles, buffalo, and various bird species.

With private air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver/guide included, the experience offers a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the natural wonders of this area.

Exploring Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park, created in the 1970s to provide a home for wildlife displaced by development, offers visitors a chance to witness a thriving elephant population and a diverse array of other species.

Home to over 50 butterfly species and numerous bird species, the park is a true haven for biodiversity.

Visitors can expect to see crocodiles, buffalo, sambhur, wild boar, and hares during the half-day jeep safari.

The park is the third-most-visited in Sri Lanka, a testament to its popularity among both local and international travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience.

With a professional driver/guide included, the safari ensures an informative and enjoyable exploration of this remarkable protected area.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Beyond the thrilling safari experience, Udawalawe National Park boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife and natural habitats that captivate visitors.

From the park’s large elephant population to its rich array of butterfly and bird species, the biodiversity on display is truly awe-inspiring.

The park is home to over 50 butterfly species, showcasing a vibrant array of colors and patterns.

Numerous bird species, including some endemic to Sri Lanka, can be spotted throughout the park, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

The diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands to wetlands, support a wide range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, including crocodiles, buffalo, and wild boar.

Udawalawe’s rich biodiversity is a testament to the park’s ecological importance and the conservation efforts that have protected it over the years.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Transportation and Logistics

Your safari adventure to Udawalawe National Park begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in the Tangalle area, where a private air-conditioned vehicle will whisk you away on the approximately 2-hour drive to the park.

This comfortable mode of transportation ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to embark on your wildlife viewing experience.

The park is situated about 80 kilometers inland from the coast, so the journey provides a scenic glimpse of the changing landscapes as you travel from the coastal region to the interior of Sri Lanka.

You can sit back, relax, and let your experienced driver handle the transportation logistics, allowing you to focus on the anticipation of seeing the park’s abundant wildlife.

Tour Inclusions and Details

Once arriving at Udawalawe National Park, visitors embark on a thrilling jeep safari to explore the park’s diverse wildlife. A professional driver/guide is included to lead the way and provide expert commentary on the animals and their habitats. The safari experience also includes all necessary entrance fees and gratuities, ensuring a seamless and worry-free outing.

The safari offers opportunities to spot:

1. Majestic elephants roaming the grasslands

2. Crocodiles basking on the riverbanks

3. Herds of buffalo, sambhur, and wild boar in their natural environments

With the park’s rich biodiversity and reputation as the third-most-visited in Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe Safari provides an immersive and unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Participant Considerations

While the Udawalawa Safari offers an exhilarating wildlife experience, it may not be suitable for all participants. Pregnant women and individuals with back problems should avoid this tour, as the jeep safari can be physically demanding. Plus, visitors should be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Participant Considerations	Suitable	Not Suitable
Pregnant Women	❌	✔
Individuals with Back Problems	❌	✔
General Participants	✔	❌

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Jeep Safari Tour?

The jeep safari tour lasts for a half-day, typically around 2-3 hours. Visitors have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including a thriving elephant population, during their time in Udawalawe National Park.

Can I Visit the Elephant Sanctuary on My Own?

Yes, visitors can independently visit the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe National Park. However, the safari tour includes a visit to the sanctuary, so it may be unnecessary to visit it separately if you’ve already booked the safari experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?

The price quoted includes all mandatory fees and taxes. There are no additional charges or hidden costs. Travelers should expect to pay only the listed price per person for this safari experience.

Is There an Option for a Full-Day Safari Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a full-day safari tour at Udawalawe National Park. The full-day experience allows visitors to spend more time exploring the park’s diverse wildlife and landscapes beyond the standard half-day tour.

Can I Take My Own Vehicle to Udawalawe National Park?

Yes, visitors can take their own vehicle to Udawalawe National Park. However, they’ll need to purchase a park entrance ticket and hire a local guide to accompany them for the safari experience. Some travelers prefer this option for more flexibility.

Recap

The Udawalawe Safari and Elephant Transit Home experience from Tangalle or Hiriketiya offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s captivating wildlife.

With a diverse range of animals, including majestic elephants, and the chance to observe the rehabilitation of young elephants, this half-day tour provides an unforgettable adventure.

Flexible booking and free cancellations make it a hassle-free way to explore nature’s wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: