The safari experiences at Udawalawe National Park are refreshingly straightforward and well-organized. Several options stand out: I’m particularly fond of the 10-hour day trip from nearby towns, which smartly combines a 3-hour safari with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home – it’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts with limited time. For motorcycle buffs, the 4-day guided tour delivers an authentic Sri Lankan adventure, blending nature with local culture. The private 3-hour safari hits the sweet spot for families, offering flexibility and personal attention. Those seeking guaranteed elephant encounters should consider the 4-hour Wild Safari Tours – they consistently deliver close-up experiences with these magnificent creatures. Let’s explore the top-rated tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Sri Lanka Highlights Guided Motorcycle Tour offers a 4-day immersive experience with a 4.9-star rating, including visits to UNESCO sites and wildlife sanctuaries.
- The Udawalawe Safari Day Trip is a popular 10-hour tour from Galle, Hikkaduwa, or Mirissa, providing a 3-hour safari and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
- The Private Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour is a 3-hour private experience that allows you to spot approximately 500 elephants, buffalo, deer, and crocodiles.
- The Full-Day Safari Tour from Udawalawe is a 7-hour comprehensive exploration of the national park, offering sightings of elephants, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
- The Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours provide a 4-hour safari experience with exceptional elephant sightings, leopards, sambar deer, and endemic birds, with flexible scheduling and cancellation policies.
9 Day Sri Lanka Highlights Guided Motorcycle Tour
For those seeking an exhilarating way to explore Sri Lanka’s highlights, the Day Sri Lanka Highlights Guided Motorcycle Tour offers an unparalleled adventure.
This immersive 4-day experience allows travelers to discover the country’s most iconic sights while traversing winding roads on a motorcycle.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, this private group tour provides pickup services and includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural landmarks.
Adventurers will have the opportunity to embark on a safari in Udawalawe National Park, spot elephants at the Elephant Transit Home, and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
With durations ranging from 3 to 7 hours, the tour’s flexibility caters to various interests and fitness levels.
Priced at $1,264 per person, this all-inclusive package promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
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From Galle/Hikkaduwa/Mirissa Trip to Udawalawe Safari Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience can embark on a captivating day trip from Galle, Hikkaduwa, or Mirissa to the renowned Udawalawe National Park. This all-inclusive tour offers a chance to save up to 20%, with prices ranging from €69.74 to €87.18 per person.
The 10-hour excursion includes pickup from six locations, a 1.5-hour journey to the park, and a 3-hour safari followed by a visit to the Elephant Transit Home. Visitors can expect to witness a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, deer, and an abundance of bird species, all while enjoying a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes.
The tour includes a luxury air-conditioned car, a customized 4×4 safari jeep, and an experienced guide/driver. While the Udawalawe National Park entry fee is covered, food and drinks aren’t included.
Customer reviews highlight the amazing elephant encounters and knowledgeable guides, though some have reported inadequate guidance and unexpected costs.
Read our full review: From Galle/Hikkaduwa/Mirissa Trip to Udawalawe Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour
Those seeking an immersive wildlife adventure can embark on a private safari tour of Udawalawa National Park.
The 3-hour tour covers the park’s 230,821 hectares, offering the chance to spot approximately 500 elephants, as well as buffalo, deer, and crocodiles.
Explorers can also observe wild boar, sambar, hare, mongoose, and 30 species of snakes, along with 50 butterfly species and numerous birds.
This premier elephant gathering outside of Africa provides an unparalleled wildlife experience.
The tour includes free pickup and drop-off, transportation in a safari jeep, a guided experience, park entrance fees, and a picnic lunch.
Priced from $22 per person, the tour offers flexible scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors can reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient and accessible option for those eager to enjoy Udawalawa’s diverse ecosystem.
Read our full review: Udawalawa: Private Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour Review
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From Udawalawa – Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour
Udawalawa National Park offers a premier safari experience, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystem and observe an abundance of wildlife.
One of the popular tours is the “From Udawalawa: National Park Thrilling Full-Day Safari” which lasts for 7 hours. This tour has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews, indicating an excellent experience.
The tour is priced at $52.45 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the duration and the opportunity to witness the park’s rich flora and fauna.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, deer, and a multitude of bird species, during this comprehensive safari experience.
The tour’s high rating suggests that it provides a thrilling and immersive adventure, catering to those seeking an adrenaline-fueled exploration of Udawalawa National Park.
This tour is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their time and experience the park’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Udawalawa – Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawa National Park – 4*4 Private Safari Jeep Tour
For an immersive safari experience in Udawalawa National Park, the 4*4 Private Safari Jeep Tour offers a thrilling opportunity to encounter the region’s diverse wildlife.
This 3-hour private group tour provides a chance to spot leopards, elephants, and over 200 bird species in their natural habitat. Led by an experienced English-speaking guide, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a luxury 4*4 safari jeep, and park entry fees.
Guests can enjoy scenic drives with photo stops and guided tours, concluding with a return to their hotel or town area. Priced from $30.60 to $24.48 per person, the tour allows for up to 20% savings.
Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour can be booked with a reserve now and pay later option. With an overall 5/5 rating based on a single review, the 4*4 Private Safari Jeep Tour promises an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Udawalawa.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park – 4*4 Private Safari Jeep Tour Review
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Udawalawe: Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours
Alongside the 4*4 Private Safari Jeep Tour, Udawalawe also offers the Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours, providing visitors with a comprehensive wildlife experience.
These tours are renowned for their exceptional elephant sightings and diverse array of species, including leopards, sambar deer, jungle cats, and numerous endemic birds. Led by an experienced guide with 10 years of expertise, the safari ensures optimal wildlife spotting.
For just €25.65 per person, the 4-hour tour includes a private 4×4 safari jeep accommodating up to 6 passengers, bottled water, and visits to both the Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers exceptional value and flexibility.
Customer reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the abundance of wildlife sightings, cementing the Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours as a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the area.
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Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour
Immersing visitors in the rich biodiversity of one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife havens, the Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Priced at £48.11 per person, this 7-hour tour grants participants free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows for a hassle-free booking experience with the “reserve now, pay later” option.
Led by experienced guides with over a decade of expertise, the safari journey explores the park’s vast landscapes, known for its large elephant population and other iconic species like leopards, water buffaloes, crocodiles, and an array of bird life. Conducted in rugged 4×4 vehicles, the tour ensures a comfortable and thrilling exploration of the park’s ecology and history.
Included in the package are the private safari jeep, knowledgeable driver/guide, water bottles, and national park entrance fees, with the exclusion of lunch or dinner.
While not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, the tour has received consistently positive reviews, highlighting the attentive service and successful wildlife sightings.
Read our full review: Udawalawe : Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Udawalawa?
The best time to visit Udawalawa is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this period, the weather’s pleasant, and visitors have a higher chance of spotting wildlife in the national park.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Safari Tours?
Visitors can bring their own food and drinks on safari tours in Udawalawa. Most tour operators allow this, but it’s best to check with them beforehand to ensure their policies haven’t changed. Bringing snacks and beverages can enhance the overall safari experience.
Are There Any Health or Safety Precautions I Should Take?
When going on a safari tour, it’s important to take health and safety precautions. Visitors should use sunscreen, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and stay hydrated. It’s also wise to follow the guide’s instructions for staying safe while observing wildlife.
The main difference between a private and shared safari tour is that a private tour provides a more personalized experience with just your group, while a shared tour involves traveling with other groups to reduce costs.
Are There Any Additional Activities Available Beyond the Safari Tours?
Absolutely, there are numerous additional activities beyond the safari tours in the Udawalawa region. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, village tours, elephant encounters, and hiking through the scenic landscapes surrounding the national park.
The Sum Up
Udawalawa National Park offers diverse wildlife tours for visitors. These tours provide opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and other animals in their natural habitat. Travelers can choose from a range of options, including guided motorcycle tours, private safaris, and half-day excursions. With its rich biodiversity, Udawalawa is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan wildlife experience.