Sri Lanka’s national parks are easily accessible from Negombo, with excellent guided tours running daily. For optimal wildlife viewing, the standout destinations are Wilpattu National Park, Udawalawe, and Kaudulla. Full-day tours cost $105-238 per person, covering transport, entry fees, and meals.
We’re particularly fond of the small-group safaris to Wilpattu, where you’ll likely spot leopards in their natural habitat. The private tours to Kaudulla offer intimate encounters with elephant herds, while Udawalawe’s guided experiences provide exceptional bird-watching opportunities.
Let’s explore the best national park tours from Negombo that deliver authentic wildlife experiences.
Key Points
- Wilpattu National Park safari offers a 10.5-hour tour with opportunities to see elephants, leopards, and diverse birdlife, with a high rating and accessibility.
- Udawalawe National Park safari provides a full-day 14-hour tour focused on the park’s renowned elephant population, with flexible booking and cancellation policies.
- A cultural and wildlife excursion combines a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temples and a 3-hour safari in Kaudulla National Park, ideal for a comprehensive experience.
- Private safari experiences in Negombo offer flexible and all-inclusive options, with the potential to spot iconic species like leopards and sloth bears.
- A comprehensive wildlife tour in Wilpattu National Park from Negombo provides an extended 16-hour experience with a focus on leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.
Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari From Negombo / Waikkal (All Inclusive)
The Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari from Negombo/Waikkal offers an all-inclusive adventure into one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife havens.
Guests can expect a comprehensive experience, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transfers, and entry fees included. The 10.5-hour tour provides opportunities to spot a variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, and birds, though sightings can be mixed.
Travelers praise the organization, quality of meals, and driver expertise in locating wildlife. While not recommended for those with medical conditions, the safari is accessible to most visitors.
With a 4.9/5 rating and 97% recommendation, this tour is an excellent way to explore the natural wonders of Wilpattu National Park.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari From Negombo / Waikkal (All Inclusive) Review
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From Negombo: Udawalawa National Park Wildlife Safari
Visitors seeking to explore another of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks can embark on a full-day wildlife safari to Udawalawe National Park from Negombo. Priced from $105 per person, the 14-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a 3-hour safari to observe the park’s thriving elephant population and other wildlife.
The itinerary features a 4-hour drive to the park, ample time for wildlife viewing, and a return journey. Travelers can expect to see buffalo, wild boar, sambar deer, and over 50 butterfly species.
While lunch is available at an additional cost, the tour package covers park entrance fees and bottled water. Advance reservations and payment are recommended, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: From Negombo: Udawalawa National Park Wildlife Safari Review
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Safari at Wilpattu National Park From Negombo (All Inclusive Day Tour)
From Negombo, travelers can embark on a full-day private safari at Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest national parks.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, lunch, and admission fees, with the option to spot iconic Sri Lankan wildlife like elephants, leopards, and sloth bears.
Travelers will explore the park in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a Jeep safari, with the tour starting as early as 5:00 AM to maximize the chances of wildlife sightings.
While the tour is highly recommended by previous travelers, the exact animals seen may vary depending on timing.
Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Safari at Wilpattu National Park From Negombo (All Inclusive Day Tour) Review
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From Negombo: Dambulla Caves & Kaudulla National Park Safari
Departing from Negombo, travelers can embark on a captivating 12-hour excursion that combines cultural exploration and wildlife observation.
Priced at €110.30 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 5 participants) offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes visiting the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temples, home to impressive frescoes and Buddha statues, followed by a 3-hour game drive at Kaudulla National Park to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife.
With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, this tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse in Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage.
Advance booking and a valid passport are required, and the tour may be subject to weather conditions.
Read our full review: From Negombo: Dambulla Caves & Kaudulla National Park Safari Review
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All Inclusive Private Safari at Wilpattu National Park From Negombo
While exploring the natural wonders of Sri Lanka, travelers can embark on an all-inclusive private safari adventure at the Wilpattu National Park, easily accessible from Negombo.
This 5-star rated experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private safari jeep, park entrance fees, and delicious meals.
With a flexible meeting and pickup policy, the safari caters to various needs, including wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Priced from $167 per person, this private tour offers a low price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re seeking an immersive wildlife encounter or a convenient way to explore Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, this Wilpattu National Park safari is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Private Safari at Wilpattu National Park From Negombo Review
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From Negombo: Full Day Wilpattu National Park Safari + Meals
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience can embark on a full-day safari at Wilpattu National Park from the convenient location of Negombo.
The largest national park in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu is renowned for its high leopard density, as well as sightings of elephants and sloth bears.
The 16-hour tour includes 3 hours of travel each way and 10 hours of wildlife viewing, providing ample opportunity to spot these elusive creatures.
Priced from $238.91 per person, the tour includes pickup, transportation, park fees, meals, and a live guide.
Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and sun protection.
This is an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an uncrowded safari experience.
Read our full review: From Negombo: Full Day Wilpattu National Park Safari + Meals Review
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Day Tour to Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya National Park
This comprehensive day tour from Negombo immerses visitors in the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park.
Guests will enjoy private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, led by an English-speaking driver. The tour includes all entry fees, site guides, and safari jeeps, as well as breakfast and lunch or dinner.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
With a 5-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this day trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Sigiriya, Dambulla & Minneriya National Park Review
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From Negombo: Minneriya National Park Safari Tour
Set out on a captivating Minneriya National Park safari tour from Negombo, where you’ll have the chance to witness the park’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.
This 10-hour tour costs $105 per person and includes pickup, transportation, a 3-hour Jeep safari, and expert-guided wildlife viewing.
Explore the park’s renowned elephant population and spot a variety of animals like wild buffaloes, boars, and leopards.
The tour includes bottled water, lunch, and park entrance fees.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and you’ll need to follow health guidelines based on your vaccination status.
Book now and pay later to secure your spot on this immersive wildlife adventure.
Read our full review: From Negombo: Minneriya National Park Safari Tour Review
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From Negombo: Wilpattu National Park Safari Guided Day Tour
Typically, visitors embark on this 10-hour Wilpattu National Park safari tour from Negombo to witness the park’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.
The tour includes a 3-hour drive to the park, a 4-hour safari experience, and a 3-hour return journey. Highlights include spotting leopards, elephants, deer, and various bird species, as well as enjoying scenic views during the journey and a local lunch.
The tour package covers pickup, Jeep hire, a local guide, bottled water, lunch, and park entry fees.
Comfort and accessibility are important, so visitors should bring suitable attire and be aware of restrictions on large bags and certain groups.
Read our full review: From Negombo: Wilpattu National Park Safari Guided Day Tour Review
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Sum Up
Negombo offers a variety of national park tours for visitors. These tours provide opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of parks like Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Kaudulla, and Minneriya. Travelers can choose from full-day safaris or combined tours that include other cultural sites. With all-inclusive options and private tours available, visitors can find the perfect way to experience Sri Lanka’s stunning national parks from Negombo.