Two standout national park tours await near Sigiriya Lion Rock. The budget-friendly gem is Wasgamuwa National Park’s 3-hour safari – I love its no-nonsense approach and impressive wildlife viewing. You’ll spot elephant herds, and if lucky, leopards and sloth bears, all without breaking the bank. My top pick is Minneriya National Park‘s comprehensive 5-hour experience. For good value, you get a game drive, village walk, peaceful canoe ride, and authentic Sri Lankan lunch. Let’s explore these terrific tour options in detail.
Key Points
- Wasgamuwa National Park offers a 3-hour private safari with the chance to spot elephants, leopards, and sloth bears, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Minneriya National Park provides an all-inclusive 5-hour tour featuring a game drive, village trek, canoe ride, and traditional lunch.
- Both national park tours offer unique experiences, with Wasgamuwa focusing on wildlife and Minneriya combining wildlife and local culture.
- Flexibility is a key feature, with both tours offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Visitors should be prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and captivating scenery.
Wasgamuwa: Wasgamuwa National Park Private 3-Hour Safari
One of the premier national park tours in Sigiriya is the Wasgamuwa: Wasgamuwa National Park Private 3-Hour Safari. This 3-hour private safari offers an opportunity to explore the rich wildlife of Wasgamuwa National Park.
Priced at £20.41 per person, the safari provides the chance to see large herds of elephants, as well as leopards, sloth bears, and various other endemic species. The best time to visit is from November to May, when the elephant herds are at their largest.
The safari starts at the Wasgamuwa National Park Entrance Gate and allows for wildlife viewing in the park’s dry tropical forest setting, showcasing stunning landscapes. Travelers will be accompanied by an experienced driver and have the chance to capture extraordinary photographs.
The tour includes private safari rides, but meals and entrance tickets aren’t provided. With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 5 reviews, this safari is praised for its close encounters with elephants and vibrant birdlife.
Read our full review: Wasgamuwa: Wasgamuwa National Park Private 3-Hour Safari Review
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All Inclusive Minneriya National Park & Hiriwadunna Village
This all-inclusive tour offers travelers a comprehensive experience that combines the natural wonders of Minneriya National Park with an immersive exploration of a local Sri Lankan village. Priced from $120 per person, the 5-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a game drive in Minneriya National Park to spot elephants, and a trek through the Hiriwadunna Village to experience local life.
Highlights include a canoe ride, a bullock cart ride, and a traditional Sri Lankan lunch served at a village house. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility for travelers.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife and captivating scenery.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Minneriya National Park & Hiriwadunna Village Review
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The Sum Up
Sigiriya Lion Rock is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, but the surrounding national parks offer unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural experiences. Wasgamuwa National Park and Minneriya National Park provide guided safaris, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems and observe a range of fauna. These tours provide an all-inclusive experience, making it easy for travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.