Udawalawe: Safari & Elephant Transit Home Visit With Lunch!

Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park is a natural wonder teeming with diverse wildlife. Visitors can embark on a thrilling safari adventure, spotting majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a myriad of bird species in their lush, untamed habitat. But the experience doesn’t end there – a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, Asia’s pioneering rehabilitation center, offers a rare glimpse into the dedicated efforts to protect and nurture these gentle giants. As you witness the wonders of Udawalawe, you’ll uncover a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s captivating natural heritage.

Key Points

• This tour offers a 10-hour wildlife experience, including a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
• Travelers can expect to see diverse wildlife, such as elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species, in their natural habitat.
• The Elephant Transit Home visit provides an opportunity to learn about elephant conservation efforts and the rehabilitation of orphaned or injured elephants.
• The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation, refreshments, entrance fees, and a lunch at an outside restaurant.
• The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and does not require upfront payment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled ‘Udawalawe: Safari & Elephant Transit Home Visit with Lunch,’ is priced at LKR 16,803 per person and lasts for 10 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and the option to reserve the spot without upfront payment.

This private group experience departs from Hambantota Harbor and includes a live English-speaking guide.

Participants will enjoy a jeep game drive in Udawalawe National Park and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, Asia’s first elephant rehabilitation center.

The tour also provides light refreshments, bottled water, entrance tickets, and lunch at an outside restaurant, with all government taxes included.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and personal expenses and gratuities are excluded.

Safari Experience

From the tour’s overview, participants can expect a jeep game drive in Udawalawe National Park, a premier destination in Sri Lanka for witnessing diverse wildlife, especially wild elephants.

The safari experience includes:

• Departing from Hambantota Harbor, guests embark on an exciting journey into the heart of the national park.

• A knowledgeable, English-speaking guide accompanies the private group, providing insightful commentary about the animals and their habitats.

• As the jeep navigates the park’s rugged terrain, participants have the chance to spot a variety of species, including elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and vibrant birdlife.

• The safari offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

• Throughout the experience, guests can enjoy light refreshments and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable safari adventure.

Wildlife and Habitat Observation

Udawalawe National Park is a premier destination in Sri Lanka for witnessing diverse wildlife, especially the iconic wild elephants that roam its expansive grasslands and forests.

The park boasts a rich array of fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, and an impressive avian population.

Visitors on the safari experience can expect to spot herds of elephants grazing, bathing, and interacting with their young in their natural habitat.

The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, providing insights into the park’s ecology and the conservation efforts underway.

Beyond the elephants, the safari also offers a chance to observe other captivating species like water buffaloes, monitor lizards, and a variety of birds in their lush, natural environment.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

After witnessing the wild elephants in their natural habitat during the safari, visitors get the chance to learn about elephant conservation efforts at the Elephant Transit Home, Asia’s first elephant rehabilitation center located near Udawalawe National Park.

This unique facility aims to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned or injured elephants, with the goal of eventually releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can observe the elephants’ daily routines, learn about their diet and care, and understand the importance of preserving this endangered species.

The Elephant Transit Home highlights:

• Rehabilitation of orphaned and injured elephants

• Preparation for release back into the wild

• Education on elephant conservation

• Collaboration with local and international organizations

• Ensuring the long-term survival of Sri Lanka’s elephant population

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, the cost of the safari jeep, light refreshments and bottled water, entrance tickets to the national park and Elephant Transit Home, as well as a lunch at an outside restaurant.

Plus, all government taxes are covered in the price. However, expenses of a personal nature and gratuities, which are recommended, aren’t included.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women. With a duration of 10 hours, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to observe diverse wildlife and learn about elephant conservation efforts at the Elephant Transit Home, a renowned rehabilitation center.

The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation and pay-later options make it an attractive choice for travelers.

Departure and Pickup

Travelers depart for the safari from Hambantota Harbor, where they’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle. The vehicle transports them to the Udawalawe National Park, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start to their adventure.

The journey is led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, who provides insights and information throughout the experience. Visitors can look forward to:

• A private group experience for a more personalized safari

• Scenic views and observations of the diverse wildlife and habitats

• An opportunity to visit Asia’s first elephant rehabilitation center

• Delicious lunch at an outside restaurant

• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off services throughout the day.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Cancelling the tour up to 24 hours in advance allows for a full refund, providing visitors with the flexibility to adjust their plans as needed.

The tour operator offers a free cancellation policy, ensuring that customers can book with confidence and receive a complete reimbursement if their schedules change.

This policy is designed to accommodate the unpredictability of travel plans and give travelers peace of mind when reserving their spot.

Whether due to unexpected circumstances or a change of heart, the generous cancellation terms make it easy for guests to secure their tour without the worry of losing their money if their plans don’t pan out.

Suitability and Recommendations

According to the information provided, this tour may not be suitable for pregnant women due to the potentially strenuous nature of the safari activities.

However, the tour seems well-suited for a range of other travelers. Here are a few recommendations to consider:

• It’s an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts looking to spot elephants and other diverse fauna in their natural habitat.

• The visit to the Elephant Transit Home provides a unique opportunity to learn about elephant conservation efforts.

• The private group experience allows for a more personalized and intimate safari adventure.

• The included lunch in an outside restaurant is a nice touch, providing a chance to savor local cuisine.

• Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any necessary medications to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start?

The tour generally starts in the early morning, as this is the best time for wildlife viewing. The exact start time can vary depending on the specific tour operator and itinerary, but it’s typically between 6-8 AM.

Is Photography Allowed During the Safari?

Yes, photography is generally allowed during the safari. However, visitors are advised to check with the tour operator beforehand and follow any restrictions or guidelines to ensure the comfort and safety of the wildlife.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes light refreshments, bottled water, and a provided lunch, so bringing additional items is typically not necessary or permitted.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

There is no age limit for the tour, but it may not be suitable for very young children. The tour experience is open to all ages, though the tour operator advises against bringing pregnant women.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Guests can discuss their requirements with the tour provider, who can accommodate longer tour durations at an additional cost, subject to availability and operational feasibility.

Recap

This Udawalawe adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

Combining a thrilling safari through the national park and an enlightening visit to the Elephant Transit Home, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

With expert guidance, delightful refreshments, and a delicious lunch, travelers can enjoy the country’s natural beauty and conservation efforts, making it an ideal choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: