Udawalawe National Park Wildlife Safari From Hambantota

Udawalawe National Park, nestled in the southern region of Sri Lanka, is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic safari experience. Departing from Hambantota, this 7-hour adventure offers visitors the chance to encounter majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a diverse array of avian species in their natural habitat. The tour, priced from LKR 2,314 per person, promises an immersive journey through the park’s lush landscapes, complemented by the option to explore the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for insights into conservation efforts. With its comprehensive inclusions and transportation, this safari beckons nature lovers to uncover the captivating wonders that await within Udawalawe’s expansive wilderness.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best National Park Tours In Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.

Key Points

• 7-hour wildlife adventure from Hambantota to Udawalawe National Park, with a 3-hour game drive to spot elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.
• Prices start from LKR 2,314 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
• Established in the 1970s, Udawalawe National Park is known for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife, making it a significant destination for nature enthusiasts.
• The package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a shared jeep safari with bottled water and park entrance fee.
• Certain medical conditions and mobility issues may pose challenges, and participants are advised to bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera for the safari.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Udawalawe National Park Safari from Hambantota offers visitors a chance to embark on a 7-hour wildlife adventure, with prices starting from LKR 2,314 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The safari includes a 3-hour game drive through the park, where travelers can spot elephants, leopards, and other diverse wildlife. While the entry fee and bottled water are included, there’s an optional extra fee to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to enjoy a local lunch, though this comes at an additional cost.

With a 75-minute journey each way, this safari provides a comprehensive and convenient way to explore Udawalawe’s natural wonders.

Itinerary and Experience

After being picked up from Hambantota, travelers embark on a 75-minute journey to reach the Udawalawe National Park, where a 3-hour game drive and wildlife viewing experience awaits.

The park, known for its large elephant population, offers the opportunity to spot a variety of species, including leopards, birds, and more.

Following the game drive, visitors can opt to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where they can learn about the park’s conservation efforts.

Lunch at a local restaurant is also available for an additional fee.

After the activities, the journey back to Hambantota takes another 75 minutes, completing the day’s adventure.

Wildlife and Park Significance

Established in the 1970s, Udawalawe National Park was created to protect wildlife displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

Today, it’s known for its large elephant population, making it the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, birds, and other species.

Visitors can expect to witness the park’s lush grasslands, forests, and the serene reservoir that provides a picturesque backdrop for the abundant wildlife.

Udawalawe National Park has become a significant destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, offering a chance to observe the coexistence of humans and nature in a harmonious manner.

Inclusions and Transportation

The Udawalawe National Park safari includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned shared vehicle, and a shared jeep safari drive, all of which are covered in the price.

Plus, the package includes:

• Bottled water
• Entrance fee to Udawalawe National Park
• Optional gratuities and other personal expenses not specified

Travelers should note that the safari experience isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations, such as pregnant women, individuals with back problems or mobility impairments, and wheelchair users.

These restrictions ensure the safety and comfort of all participants during the wildlife viewing excursion.

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Participant Restrictions

Certain individuals may not be well-suited for the Udawalawe National Park safari due to specific restrictions. The safari experience may pose challenges for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility impairments, heart conditions, or those using wheelchairs. Individuals with animal allergies, colds, food allergies, or pre-existing medical conditions should also reconsider this activity. Plus, people with high blood pressure, recent surgeries, low fitness levels, motion sickness, or insect allergies may face difficulties during the safari. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the tour operator carefully screens participants based on the following criteria:

Condition	Suitability
Pregnancy	Not recommended
Back/mobility issues	Not recommended
Heart conditions	Not recommended
Wheelchair use	Not recommended
Allergies/medical conditions	Consult with operator

Highlights of the Safari

Visitors to Udawalawe National Park can expect to witness an array of captivating wildlife during the guided safari, including the park’s renowned elephant population.

The safari provides an immersive experience where guests may spot:

• Herds of majestic elephants roaming the vast grasslands and forests

• Elusive leopards prowling the undergrowth in search of prey

• Diverse bird species, from vibrant peacocks to graceful storks, taking flight overhead

• Other native fauna such as deer, crocodiles, and perhaps even the rare sloth bear

The safari’s highlights offer a glimpse into the park’s thriving ecosystem and the conservation efforts that have made Udawalawe a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.

What to Bring and Prepare

Proper preparation and packing are essential for an enjoyable Udawalawe National Park safari.

Visitors should bring sun protection, such as hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, to shield themselves from the tropical sun. Comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended for navigating the park’s rugged terrain.

Insect repellent is also a must-have, as mosquitoes and other bugs can be prevalent. Guests should pack a camera to capture the incredible wildlife and landscapes.

It’s also wise to bring snacks and plenty of water, as the safari can last several hours. Plus, binoculars can enhance the wildlife viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Safari?

Yes, children can typically participate in the safari, though the operator may have age or size restrictions for safety reasons. Parents should check with the operator about any child-specific policies or requirements.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s typically an option for a private tour. Travelers can request a private safari vehicle and guide, which offers a more personalized experience compared to a shared group tour. Prices may be higher for a private tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The dress code for the safari is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like hats and sunglasses. Dressing in layers is recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Are Cameras and Binoculars Allowed on the Safari?

Cameras and binoculars are generally allowed on safaris. Guests are encouraged to bring their own to capture the wildlife and scenery. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator regarding any specific restrictions or requirements.

Can I Request Special Dietary Requirements?

Guests can request special dietary requirements for the included lunch. The tour operator will accommodate vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, or other dietary needs if informed in advance. Additional fees may apply for specialized meals.

Recap

Udawalawe National Park offers an unforgettable wildlife adventure, providing the opportunity to spot magnificent elephants, elusive leopards, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

With its 7-hour safari experience, the tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, including hotel pick-up, air-conditioned transportation, and the option to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for conservation insights.

You can check if your dates are available here: