Udawalawa National Park is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive wildlife experience. Spanning an impressive 230,821 hectares, this Sri Lankan gem boasts a diverse ecosystem teeming with a wide array of species, including the remarkable elephant population of around 500 individuals – the largest gathering outside of Africa. Set out on a private safari tour led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and uncover the park’s hidden gems for a mere €20.14 per person. With convenient pickup and drop-off, a comfortable Jeep, and ample opportunities for stunning photography, this adventure promises to leave a lasting impression. Intrigued to discover more?
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Udawalawa.
Key Points
- Private safari tour in Udawalawa National Park, a 230,821-hectare park home to approximately 500 elephants, the largest gathering outside of Africa.
- Pricing starts at €20.14 per person for a 3-hour experience, with a live English-speaking guide and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Diverse wildlife includes wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, sambar, hare, mongoose, crocodiles, and over 50 butterfly species.
- Jeep accommodates a maximum of 6 passengers, with complimentary pickup and drop-off, and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
- The immersive safari experience offers opportunities to spot elephants and other wildlife, as well as to capture captivating photographs.
Tour Overview
Udawalawa National Park is the setting for this private safari tour, offering an immersive wildlife experience in a protected area spanning 230,821 hectares.
Priced from €20.14 per person and lasting 3 hours, the tour provides a live English-speaking guide and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment, with the option to pay later.
The safari is conducted in a Jeep with a maximum of 6 passengers, ensuring a personalized and thrilling encounter.
Complimentary pickup and drop-off from the Udawalawa area, as well as park entrance fees, are included in the tour package.
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Wildlife Experience
The private Udawalawa National Park safari tour offers visitors the chance to encounter an abundance of wildlife, including approximately 500 elephants – the park’s most renowned residents and the largest elephant gathering outside of Africa.
Beyond these majestic creatures, the tour provides opportunities to spot other fascinating species such as wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, sambar, hare, mongoose, crocodiles, and even 30 different snake species.
Birders will delight in the sighting of over 50 butterfly species and a diverse array of avian life.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, the safari promises a thrilling and immersive experience, allowing travelers to witness the vibrant ecosystem of this remarkable national park.
Safari Details
To embark on the Udawalawa National Park safari tour, visitors can meet their driver/guide at the park entrance or their hotel.
The safari is conducted in a Jeep that accommodates up to 6 passengers, ensuring an intimate and thrilling experience with ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
During the tour, guests will explore the vast 230,821-hectare park in search of its abundant wildlife, including approximately 500 elephants – the best elephant gathering outside of Africa.
The safari also provides chances to spot wild buffalo, deer, boar, and a variety of other species, as well as 50 butterfly species and diverse bird life.
With free pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guided tour included, the Udawalawa safari offers an immersive and seamless wildlife adventure.
Inclusions
The Udawalawa National Park safari tour comes with a range of inclusions that enhance the overall experience for visitors. Free pickup and drop-off from the Udawalawa area, along with transportation in a Safari Jeep, are provided. Plus, the guided tour and the park entrance fee are all covered within the tour package. Sustenance is also available during the safari, with food and drinks readily accessible throughout the journey.
| Inclusion | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Free Pickup & Drop-off | Convenient transportation |
| Safari Jeep | Comfortable and safe ride |
| Guided Tour | Informative and educational |
| Park Entrance Fee | Seamless access to the park |
Booking Information
Booking the Udawalawa National Park safari tour is straightforward, as visitors can check availability to see starting times and select the desired participants and date for the excursion.
The tour allows for easy planning, with the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
With the convenience of free pickup and drop-off from the Udawalawa area, arranging the safari experience is hassle-free.
Visitors can look forward to a thrilling journey through the national park, exploring the diverse wildlife and taking advantage of the opportunities for captivating photography.
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Explore the Park
Visitors exploring Udawalawa National Park can expect to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the park’s renowned elephant population. This 230,821-hectare reserve is home to approximately 500 elephants, boasting the best elephant gathering outside of Africa.
Along With the majestic pachyderms, the park is also teeming with:
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Wild buffalo
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Spotted and barking deer
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Wild boar
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Sambar
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Hare and mongoose
Crocodiles, 30 snake species, 50 butterfly species, and various bird types further contribute to the park’s rich biodiversity.
With opportunities for thrilling wildlife photography, the Udawalawa National Park safari promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Elephant Gathering
Udawalawa National Park is renowned for its exceptional elephant gathering, boasting a population of approximately 500 pachyderms – the best elephant gathering outside of Africa.
These majestic creatures roam freely within the park’s 230,821 hectares, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness their natural behavior up close. The park’s diverse landscape, comprising grasslands, forests, and waterways, provides ample resources to sustain the thriving elephant population.
Visitors can observe the elephants’ social interactions, feeding habits, and even catch a glimpse of baby calves alongside their protective mothers. This unparalleled wildlife experience is a true highlight of the Udawalawa National Park safari, leaving lasting impressions on all who venture into this incredible realm of Sri Lankan biodiversity.
Diverse Wildlife
Aside from the impressive elephant population, Udawalawa National Park boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, sambar, hare, mongoose, crocodiles, and over 30 species of snakes.
Visitors may also catch glimpses of:
- 50 different butterfly species
- A variety of bird types
- Wild boar roaming the grasslands
- Mongoose scurrying through the underbrush
- Crocodiles basking on the banks of the park’s lakes and rivers
This rich ecological diversity makes Udawalawa a true nature lover’s paradise, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the vibrant and thriving ecosystem of this remarkable Sri Lankan sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. The tour includes food and drinks available during the tour, but guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments if they prefer.
Is There an Option for a Private Safari Tour?
Yes, there is an option for a private safari tour. The tour overview mentions that the safari is conducted in a Jeep with a maximum of 6 passengers, allowing for a private and personalized wildlife experience.
What Time Is the Latest Pick-Up From the Hotel?
The latest pickup time from the hotel is not specified in the provided information. However, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from the Udawalawa area, so travelers should coordinate with the tour operator to arrange a convenient pickup time.
Can I Charge My Camera/Phone During the Safari?
Unfortunately, there is no option to charge camera or phone batteries during the safari. Guests should ensure their devices are fully charged before the tour. Electrical outlets are not available in the safari vehicles to power electronic devices.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari?
There are typically no age restrictions for the safari tour. Participants of all ages can join, though parents should use their discretion to ensure the safari experience is enjoyable and safe for young children.
Recap
Udawalawa National Park offers a breathtaking wildlife experience with its vast 230,821-hectare expanse teeming with diverse species.
The highlight is the opportunity to witness the largest gathering of elephants outside Africa, along with a chance to spot a variety of other animals in their natural habitat.
The private safari tour provides a comfortable and immersive adventure, making it an ideal way to explore this captivating natural wonder.
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