Exploring the untamed wilderness of Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park is a thrilling prospect for nature enthusiasts. The park’s renowned safari tour promises an up-close encounter with the island’s iconic elephants, along with a chance to spot an array of other captivating wildlife. Priced accessibly at $110 per person, this full-day excursion provides a seamless experience, from convenient hotel transfers to flexible booking options. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a private group, the safari tour caters to diverse needs, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable journey into the heart of this remarkable natural sanctuary.
Key Points
- Udawalawe National Park offers a 10-hour guided safari tour focused on observing large herds of Sri Lankan elephants and diverse wildlife.
- The safari tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but the safari jeep, lunch, water, and entrance tickets are purchased separately.
- The typical safari duration is 4 hours, with extensions available for an additional fee, and offers opportunities to see rare leopards and sloth bears.
- The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and can accommodate private groups, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.
- Customers have provided positive reviews, highlighting the reliable transportation, knowledgeable staff, personalized attention, and exceptional quality of the safari experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour is priced at $110.00 per person and lasts 10 hours.
Guests have the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there is a reserve now & pay later option available.
The safari experience focuses on large herds of Sri Lankan elephants, allowing visitors to observe diverse wildlife, including various bird species and other mammals.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from multiple locations; however, the safari jeep with guide, lunch, water bottle, and entrance tickets are not included, as they can be purchased on-site at the park entrance.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and private group options are available for both adults and children.
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Safari Experience
A guided tour of Udawalawe National Park forms the core of the safari experience, allowing visitors to focus on the large herds of Sri Lankan elephants that inhabit the park. During the typical 4-hour safari, guests can observe diverse wildlife, including various bird species and other mammals. Extensions to the safari duration are available for an additional fee, providing more opportunities to take in the park’s natural wonders.
Wildlife Sightings | Frequency |
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Sri Lankan Elephants | Very Common |
Leopards | Rare |
Sloth Bears | Occasional |
Sambar Deer | Common |
Painted Storks | Abundant |
The safari experience at Udawalawe National Park offers an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Inclusions and Logistics
Upon booking the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour, visitors can expect comprehensive logistical support. Specifically, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from a range of locations, including Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, and other nearby towns.
However, the safari Jeep with a guide, lunch, water bottle, and entrance tickets aren’t included in the tour price and must be purchased separately at the park entrance.
The tour’s inclusions and logistics provide the following benefits:
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Convenient transportation to and from the national park, eliminating the need for self-driving.
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Flexibility in choosing a pickup location that suits the traveler’s accommodation.
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Ability to focus on the safari experience without the hassle of arranging additional logistics.
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Opportunity to customize the tour by selecting add-ons at the park entrance.
Accessibility and Group Options
Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers wheelchair accessibility, catering to travelers with mobility needs.
Plus, private group options are available for those seeking a more personalized safari experience.
Participants for the tour include adults aged 15 to 99 and children 14 and younger. The safari is designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy the remarkable wildlife and natural beauty of Udawalawe National Park.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group of friends, or as a family, the tour provides flexibility to suit your preferences and needs.
The park’s diverse ecosystem and abundance of elephants make it an unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on a single review.
The feedback highlights several key aspects of the experience:
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The prompt and reliable taxi pickup service that transported participants to and from their accommodations.
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The friendly and knowledgeable staff who guided the safari, leading to memorable encounters with the park’s renowned elephant herds.
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The personalized attention and flexibility offered, catering to the specific needs and interests of each group.
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The overall value and exceptional quality of the safari, leaving customers with a sense of satisfaction and a desire to return.
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Booking and Payment Options
Travelers can conveniently book the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour and pay for their adventure at a later date, thanks to the ‘Reserve now & pay later‘ option offered by the tour provider. This flexible payment plan allows guests to secure their safari spot without an immediate financial commitment.
In addition, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing travelers with peace of mind should their plans change.
Whether booking for an individual or a private group, the tour’s online platform makes the process seamless.
With these hassle-free booking and payment options, exploring the magnificent Udawalawe National Park has never been easier to plan and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prospective safari-goers often have a range of questions about the Udawalawe National Park experience, from logistics to wildlife sightings. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
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What time does the safari start, and how long does it last? The safari typically starts around 6 AM and lasts approximately 4 hours, with options to extend the tour for an additional fee.
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see? While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the park is renowned for its large elephant herds, as well as a variety of bird species and other mammals such as deer and crocodiles.
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Do I need to bring any special equipment or gear? While binoculars and cameras are recommended, the tour provides essential items like bottled water.
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How accessible is the park for those with mobility challenges? The safari jeeps are wheelchair-accessible, making the experience available to a wide range of participants.
Tips for the Safari
To make the most of the Udawalawe National Park safari, one should arrive well-rested and prepared. Packing essential items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat can enhance the overall experience. Plus, wearing comfortable, light-colored clothing and sturdy shoes is recommended for navigating the rugged terrain.
Tips for the Safari | |
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Arrive Early | Maximize your chances of witnessing the elephants and other wildlife by starting your safari early in the morning. |
Bring Binoculars | Spotting distant animals is easier with a pair of binoculars, allowing you to observe them more closely. |
Respect Wildlife | Maintain a safe distance from the animals and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that may disturb them. |
Stay Hydrated | Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the safari, especially in the hot and humid conditions. |
Follow Guide’s Instructions | Listen to the instructions and guidance provided by your experienced safari guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
While some tour providers may allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks, it’s generally recommended to purchase the provided lunch and water bottle on the safari. This ensures a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Typically, photography is allowed during the safari tour, but visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules set by the park. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable photography experience.
How Many People Typically Join the Group Safari Tours?
The size of group safari tours can vary, but typically ranges from 2 to 12 participants. The tour operator give you an intimate, personalized experience while ensuring the group remains manageable for the guide to facilitate optimal wildlife viewing.
Are There Any Age or Health Requirements to Participate?
There are no strict age or health requirements to participate. The tour is accessible for adults and children, though participants under 14 are considered children. Wheelchair users can also join the safari. Visitors should have a reasonable level of mobility.
Can I Request Specific Wildlife Sightings During the Safari?
While guests can’t guarantee specific wildlife sightings, guides work hard to locate and observe as much diverse wildlife as possible during the safari. Requests for certain animals are considered, though sightings can’t be promised.
Recap
The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers an exhilarating 10-hour adventure, providing an exceptional opportunity to observe large herds of Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat.
Priced at $110 per person, the tour includes convenient transportation, accessibility options, and flexible booking.
With a 5-star rating, the safari promises a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts, complemented by exceptional wildlife sightings and comprehensive customer support.
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