Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Galle/Mirissa/Ella

Exploring the diverse wildlife of Udawalawe National Park is an exceptional opportunity for nature enthusiasts visiting the southern coast of Sri Lanka. From Galle, Mirissa, or Ella, travelers can embark on a captivating safari adventure led by experienced driver-guides. This private jeep tour promises a remarkable 4-hour journey, where participants can expect to spot magnificent elephants, crocodiles, and a range of exotic birds. While the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and refreshments, visitors may also choose to extend their experience by visiting the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage, offering a unique chance to witness the care and rehabilitation of rescued pachyderms. With a focus on flexibility and expertise, this safari experience…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Safari Tours In Galle.

Key Points

• Full-day safari adventure to Udawalawe National Park from Galle, Mirissa, or Ella, with the opportunity to spot elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
• Private jeep with a knowledgeable driver-guide for a 4-hour game drive, with hotel pickup, drop-off, and park entrance fees included.
• Optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage to observe the rehabilitation and release programs for young elephants.
• Flexible itinerary with a midday break, allowing for personalized experiences and maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Suitable for families and groups with a minimum age requirement of 6 years, but not recommended for individuals with back problems or wheelchair accessibility needs.

Overview of the Safari Experience

The safari experience in Udawalawe National Park offers visitors a full-day adventure to scout for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birds.

This family-friendly tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with a 5.0 overall rating from 32 reviews.

The safari includes a private jeep with a knowledgeable driver-guide, who’ll lead the 4-hour game drive deeper into the park.

Visitors may also have the option to visit the nearby Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage.

With bottled water and refreshments provided, this comprehensive safari experience promises an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.

Inclusions and Logistics

This safari trip includes a comprehensive package that covers hotel pickup and drop-off from Galle, Mirissa, or Ella, as well as a private safari jeep with a driver-guide.

Bottled water and refreshments are provided throughout the game drive, and the national park entrance tickets are included in the price.

Visitors will enjoy a 4-hour safari deeper into Udawalawe National Park, accompanied by an experienced wildlife tracker to maximize the chances of sighting elephants, crocodiles, and other exotic fauna.

Should they choose, guests can also visit the nearby Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage, with the entrance fees covered.

However, any food and additional beverages aren’t included in the package.

Itinerary Details

Beginning the day with an early morning pickup, visitors embark on the 3-hour drive to the entrance of Udawalawe National Park.

Entering the park during the optimal wildlife viewing hours of early morning, the safari jeep ventures deeper into the expansive protected area for a 4-hour game drive.

Midday offers a break for lunch, which participants can enjoy at their own expense.

In the afternoon, those interested have the option to visit the nearby Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage before returning to Galle by 6 PM.

This carefully curated itinerary ensures that travelers make the most of their safari experience, with ample opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Important Requirements

Bookings require a minimum of 2 people, with a maximum group size of 15 participants.

Travelers must be at least 6 years of age, as the safari experience isn’t recommended for infants or those with back problems. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is necessary.

Some key requirements to consider:

• Minimum age of 6 years old

• Not suitable for travelers with back problems

• Not wheelchair accessible

• Moderate physical fitness level required

• Infants must sit on laps during the safari

It’s important to review these requirements carefully to ensure the safari experience is a good fit for your travel party.

Positive Customer Testimonials

Travelers who’ve experienced the safari to Udawalawe National Park have expressed high levels of satisfaction, highlighting the knowledgeable guides, excellent wildlife sightings, and overall positive experience.

Reviewers praise the expertise of the driver-guides, who are skilled at spotting and tracking various animals, including numerous elephants.

Visitors also appreciate the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing them to customize their experience, such as visiting the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage.

Many travelers mention the thrill of seeing wild elephants in their natural habitat, as well as other exotic wildlife and flora.

Elephant Orphanage Visit

The safari package also offers visitors an optional excursion to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage, an acclaimed refuge for injured or abandoned pachyderms. This detour provides a unique opportunity to witness the dedicated efforts of caretakers who nurse the gentle giants back to health.

Some key highlights of the orphanage visit include:

• Observing the elephants’ daily routines and feedings

• Learning about the orphanage’s rehabilitation and release programs

• Interacting with the friendly and inquisitive young elephants

• Gaining a deeper appreciation for elephant conservation

• Supporting the orphanage’s mission through admission fees

For those seeking a more well-rounded safari experience, the chance to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage isn’t to be missed.

Optimal Wildlife Viewing

One of the keys to the safari’s optimal wildlife viewing is the early morning entry into Udawalawe National Park, which allows guests to catch the animals at their most active and visible periods.

The safari begins with a 3-hour drive from Galle, Mirissa, or Ella to the park entrance, ensuring visitors arrive before the sun is high in the sky.

Once inside, the experienced driver-guide navigates the jeep deeper into the park, using their expertise to locate the best spots for spotting elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of exotic birds.

The midday break provides a chance to rest and refuel before the optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage, offering a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close.

Tour Flexibility and Expertise

According to reviews, the safari guides demonstrate a high level of expertise and flexibility in accommodating the needs and preferences of their guests.

They use their deep knowledge of the park’s terrain and animal behaviors to curate the itinerary, ensuring visitors have the best possible wildlife viewing experience. Travelers have praised the guides’ ability to:

• Adjust the schedule to maximize sightings of elephants and other wildlife

• Provide insightful commentary on the local ecosystem and conservation efforts

• Expertly navigate the rugged terrain to reach prime viewing locations

• Respond quickly to changing conditions and animal movements

• Offer a personalized experience tailored to each group’s interests and abilities

This level of expertise and adaptability contributes greatly to the overall satisfaction of the safari experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the safari duration. Most providers offer flexible options, allowing travelers to customize their experience and spend more time in the park if desired, subject to availability and additional fees.

Can I Choose My Preferred Safari Vehicle?

Customers generally can’t choose their preferred safari vehicle. The tour operator typically provides a private safari jeep with a driver-guide as part of the package. However, customers can inquire about any vehicle preferences when booking the safari experience.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Optional Activities?

The optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage has an additional entrance fee that’s not included in the base safari cost. However, the tour operator covers the transportation to and from the orphanage as part of the safari package.

Is It Safe to Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Yes, it’s generally safe to bring your own camera equipment on a safari experience. Safari vehicles typically have ample space to accommodate personal photography gear. Just be mindful of potential dust and wildlife encounters when using your equipment.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Many safari operators allow you to adjust the schedule and activities based on your preferences, subject to availability and park regulations.

Recap

An Udawalawe National Park safari from Galle, Mirissa, or Ella promises an unforgettable adventure.

With a knowledgeable guide, guests can spot diverse wildlife like elephants and crocodiles during a 4-hour game drive. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and refreshments.

Visitors can also choose to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage for an educational and memorable experience.

This flexible, expert-led safari offers the opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s stunning natural landscapes.