Sri Lanka’s North Central Province offers two standout national parks with excellent safari options. Wilpattu, the largest park, delivers reliable wildlife viewing through both full-day and half-day tours. We love the morning safaris from Anuradhapura – they’re well-priced and increase your chances of spotting leopards when they’re most active. The upscale tours, while pricier, provide expert naturalist guides and superior vehicles. Kaudulla National Park, just a short drive away, is our top pick for elephant watching, especially from August to November. The best tours include hotel pickup, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and comfortable jeeps with good viewing angles.
Let’s explore our recommended safari tours in these remarkable parks…
Key Points
- Wilpattu National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Sri Lanka, offering diverse wildlife and flexible safari options from the Hunuwilagama entrance.
- Budget-friendly safari tours to Wilpattu National Park range from $113.77 to $170.65 per person, including transportation, guided wildlife viewing, and refreshments.
- Exclusive and luxury safari experiences at Wilpattu National Park provide personalized, 10-hour intimate tours with hotel transfers, guided jeep safaris, and picnic lunches.
- Kaudulla National Park offers a half-day jeep safari experience to witness the famous “Elephant Gathering” during the dry season, starting at $42.66 per person.
- Safari tours in the North Central Province often include wildlife sightings of leopards, sloth bears, elephants, deer, and birds, with high-quality transportation, meals, and amenities.
Wilpattu National Park Excursion From Hunuwilagama Entrance
From the Hunuwilagama entrance, travelers can embark on an exhilarating excursion to explore the expansive Wilpattu National Park.
This 4-10 hour adventure offers the chance to spot an array of wildlife, including elusive leopards, playful elephants, and graceful deer.
Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, known for its natural lakes and diverse habitats.
For $32 per person, visitors can enjoy a shared 4×4 safari with a skilled driver, navigating the park’s genuine wilderness with fewer crowds.
While park entrance fees are additional, the experience promises an immersive journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s untamed natural beauty.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park Excursion From Hunuwilagama Entrance Review
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Wilpattu National Park – Full Day Safari (06:00am – 18:00pm)
Wilpattu National Park offers visitors a comprehensive full-day safari experience, lasting from 06:00 am to 18:00 pm.
Priced at $95.99 per person, the safari showcases the park’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and elephants.
Travelers venture into the heart of the park in luxury 4×4 jeeps, with an experienced driver/guide providing an informative experience.
The safari includes guided tours, sightseeing, and photo stops at key attractions like Kudiramale Point, Pomparippu, and Villu areas.
Complimentary pickup, meals, and park entry tickets are provided.
While reviews are mixed, the safari is generally praised for its knowledgeable guides and comfortable vehicles.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park : Full Day Safari (06:00am – 18:00pm) Review
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Wilpattu National Park – Morning or Afternoon Safari
Flexibility and convenience define the Wilpattu National Park safari experience, offering visitors the choice between morning or afternoon excursions.
Priced between $31.85 and $39.82 per person, these 4-10 hour safaris showcase the park’s renowned leopard population, as well as elephants, sloth bears, and diverse bird species.
Complimentary hotel pickups, luxury 4×4 vehicles, and expert guides provide a comfortable and insightful journey.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, planning a Wilpattu safari is hassle-free.
Guests consistently rate these tours 5/5, praising successful wildlife sightings and the guide’s knowledge of the park’s flora and fauna.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park- Morning or Afternoon Safari Review
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Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Kandy
Although Wilpattu National Park is renowned for its luxurious safari tours, this budget-friendly option from Kandy provides an equally rewarding experience.
Priced at just $124.43 per person, the 1-day private jungle safari tour allows visitors to explore Sri Lanka’s largest national park at their own pace.
Guests can expect to see a variety of exotic wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species, as well as picturesque natural features like the park’s unique Willus lakes.
With a live English or French-speaking guide, complimentary refreshments, and convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour offers an affordable and flexible way to take in Wilpattu’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Kandy Review
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Wilpattu National Park Private Safari Jeep Tour
This private safari jeep tour through Wilpattu National Park offers an immersive and flexible wildlife experience.
Priced from $35.55 per person, the tour lasts 4.5 to 11 hours, with a 4-hour option available.
Travelers can expect close-up views of Sri Lankan leopards, wild elephants, and rare sloth bears, as well as spotted deer, water buffalo, and endemic birdlife.
The tour includes transportation, park entry fees, a water bottle, and experienced guides.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.
Pickup and drop-off locations vary, and the itinerary is subject to change.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park Private Safari Jeep Tour Review
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Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Anuradhapura
Starting from Anuradhapura, this budget-friendly safari tour offers a captivating exploration of Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest wildlife sanctuary.
The 1-day private tour includes a 1-hour drive to the park, 4 hours of wildlife viewing, and a return to Anuradhapura. Priced at $113.77 per person, the tour provides complimentary bottled water, King Coconut Juice, lunch, and refreshments.
Participants can expect to spot elephants, leopards, bears, and various bird species amidst the park’s exotic flora and natural lakes.
With a flexible itinerary, an English and French-speaking guide, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour ensures a personalized and enjoyable wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Anuradhapura Review
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Safari Serenity: Exclusive Wilpattu National Park Adventure
For those seeking an exclusive and immersive wildlife adventure, the “Safari Serenity: Exclusive Wilpattu National Park Adventure” offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover Sri Lanka’s largest national park.
Priced from €335.69 per person, this 10-hour tour promises an intimate safari experience, with the chance to spot leopards, sloth bears, and diverse bird species in Wilpattu’s unique dry country woodland.
Featuring hotel transfers, guided jeep safaris, a picnic lunch, and inclusive park entrance fees, this tour provides a well-rounded package for nature enthusiasts.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a private group option, the “Safari Serenity” tour ensures a seamless and customizable wildlife excursion.
Read our full review: Safari Serenity: Exclusive Wilpattu National Park Adventure Review
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Hurulu National Park Safari Minneriya
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Hurulu National Park and the nearby Minneriya National Park offer visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic Asian elephants in their natural habitat.
From half-day safaris to full-day excursions, travelers can choose from a range of options to explore these protected ecosystems. A private Minneriya National Park safari tour provides an intimate experience, allowing visitors to spot not only elephants but also a diverse array of other wildlife.
For those seeking a more immersive adventure, the Wilpattu National Park private safari tour is a popular choice, showcasing the park’s diverse landscapes and abundant fauna.
Read our full review: Hurulu National Park Safari Minneriya Review
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Wilpattu National Park- Morning or Afternoon Safari
Offering visitors a chance to enjoy the untamed wilderness of Sri Lanka’s premier national park, the Wilpattu National Park safari provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe the park’s diverse wildlife.
Guests can choose from morning or afternoon excursions, with the option to save up to 33% on the cost. The 5-hour safari, conducted in luxury 4×4 vehicles, aims to showcase elusive leopards, majestic elephants, playful sloth bears, and a variety of deer and bird species.
Experienced guides offer insights into the park’s flora and fauna, while scenic journeys and photo stops enhance the immersive experience.
With complimentary pickup, park entry, and food and drinks included, the Wilpattu National Park safari is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park- Morning or Afternoon Safari Review
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From Wilpattu: Full Day Safari at Wilpattu National Park
Expanding from the previous half-day safari experience at Wilpattu National Park, the full-day adventure delves deeper into the heart of this renowned wildlife sanctuary.
Guests can expect to witness one of the highest leopard densities worldwide, as well as diverse sightings of sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, and wild pigs.
The comprehensive 10-12 hour itinerary includes hotel pick-up, park entrance fees, customized safari jeeps, meals, and refreshments.
Priced from £131.16 per person, this tour offers free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Visitors are advised to bring essential items like passports and cameras, while adhering to park rules regarding prohibited items.
Read our full review: From Wilpattu: Full Day Safari at Wilpattu National Park Review
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Wilpattu National Park : Full Day Safari (06:00am – 18:00pm)
The Wilpattu National Park full-day safari provides an immersive exploration of this renowned wildlife sanctuary from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Travelers can spot leopards, sloth bears, elephants, deer, and a rich variety of birds roaming the park’s unique landscapes.
The safari is conducted in luxury 4×4 vehicles led by experienced guides, offering insights into the local flora and fauna.
Guests enjoy complimentary pickups, meals, and park entry, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This safari is an excellent opportunity to experience Wilpattu’s biodiversity while traveling in comfort and safety.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park : Full Day Safari (06:00am – 18:00pm) Review
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Wilpattuwa National Park Full/Half Day Private Safari
Wilpattuwa National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, provides visitors with a remarkable opportunity to enjoy the country’s diverse natural beauty.
The 4-hour full/half-day private safari offers the best chance to spot leopards, along with guaranteed sightings of elephants, bears, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Guests can enjoy the safari in new 4×4 vehicles with an experienced guide.
The tour includes entry tickets, lunch, refreshments, and high-quality animal photos. Pickup is available from nearby hotels, and transportation options are provided at a good rate.
While the safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with high blood pressure, it’s an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Wilpattuwa National Park Full/Half Day Private Safari Review
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Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Colombo
For those seeking a budget-friendly way to explore Sri Lanka’s wilderness, the Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park from Colombo offers an exciting opportunity.
Priced from $170.65 per person, this full-day tour includes round-trip transportation, a private 4×4 Jeep safari, and the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.
The tour features a 3-hour drive to the park, 5 hours of guided exploration, and complimentary bottled water and refreshments.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment required, this budget-friendly safari provides a flexible and accessible way to experience the natural wonders of Wilpaththu National Park.
Read our full review: Budget Safari to Wilpaththu National Park From Colombo Review
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Kaudulla National Park-Elephant Gathering Safari
A captivating safari awaits visitors at Kaudulla National Park, renowned for its renowned “Elephant Gathering” phenomenon.
The park offers a half-day jeep safari priced from $42.66 per person, lasting around 4 hours. The highlight is witnessing up to 100 elephants congregate around the Kaudulla Tank during the dry season to drink, bathe, and socialize, including baby elephants as young as 2-3 days old.
The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance tickets, a guide, water, and fruits. Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance to respect the elephants’ natural behavior.
With a flexible booking and cancellation policy, this safari is an unforgettable opportunity to observe one of nature’s most remarkable wildlife events.
Read our full review: Kaudulla National Park-Elephant Gathering Safari Review
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Wilpattu National Park With Safari Jeep & Entrance Ticket
Visitors can embark on an awe-inspiring safari through Wilpattu National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest wildlife sanctuaries.
Spanning over 508 square miles, the park boasts diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and grasslands, providing ample opportunities to spot an array of wildlife.
Guests can expect to see leopards, elephants, spotted deer, crocodiles, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species during the 4-hour safari experience.
Priced from $95 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.
However, the activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, and visitors must adhere to park rules and regulations.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park With Safari Jeep & Entrance Ticket Review
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Private Day Trip to Wilpaththu National Park From Colombo
Set out on a captivating private day trip to the renowned Wilpattu National Park from Colombo. Priced at $245.31 per person, this 1-day excursion offers a comprehensive experience.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a location in Colombo or Negombo, then enjoy a 3-hour drive to the park. During the 5-hour private Jeep safari, you’ll witness Sri Lanka’s largest national park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, and birds.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, light breakfast, picnic lunch, park admission, and bottled water. With a flexible itinerary, you’ll move at your own pace, accompanied by an informative English-speaking guide.
Read our full review: Private Day Trip to Wilpaththu National Park From Colombo Review
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Sum Up
Wilpattu National Park and Kaudulla National Park offer a diverse range of wildlife-viewing experiences in North Central Province. Visitors can choose from various tour options, including full-day safaris, budget-friendly excursions, and private jeep tours. These national parks provide an opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, including the elusive leopard, herds of elephants, and a variety of bird species. With numerous tour providers available, travelers can easily find a suitable option to explore the natural wonders of this region.