These well-organized Udawalawe safaris deliver a remarkable wildlife experience at Sri Lanka’s premier elephant sanctuary. Tours run 4-9 hours from coastal towns and Hambantota Port, using comfortable 4×4 jeeps with knowledgeable guides ($27-$130 per person).
I especially recommend the morning safari packages that include the Elephant Transit Home visit – you’ll witness feeding times and learn about vital conservation work while avoiding midday heat. The half-day tours offer the best value, combining elephant encounters with other wildlife spotting opportunities.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile Udawalawe safari options for your travel style and budget.
Key Points
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The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home offers guided tours that provide visitors with opportunities to observe and learn about the rehabilitation and conservation efforts for orphaned elephant calves.
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The All-Inclusive Private Safari Tour and the Jeep Safari and Elephant Transit Home Tour are popular options, offering immersive experiences and competitive pricing.
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Tours typically include hotel pickup, transportation in luxury 4×4 safari jeeps, knowledgeable guides, and complimentary amenities like packed lunches, binoculars, and refreshments.
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Tour durations range from 4 to 9 hours, catering to various schedules, and advance booking is recommended to secure availability.
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The tours receive high ratings from travelers, with positive feedback emphasizing the knowledgeable guides, well-organized experiences, and excellent value for memorable wildlife encounters.
Udawalawa National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
The Udawalawa National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and conservation efforts in the region.
This 4-hour tour includes a 3-hour safari in Udawalwe National Park, where guests can expect to see over 600 elephants, as well as leopards, sloth bears, and 200+ bird species.
The tour also includes a 1-hour visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary for orphaned elephant calves, where visitors can learn about the conservation efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s elephant population.
The tour is priced at $27.28 per person, a 20% savings from the regular price of $34.10.
Guests will travel in luxury 4×4 safari jeeps, accommodating up to 6 passengers, and enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off.
Expert guides provide insights into the park’s ecosystem and animal behavior, making this an informative and memorable experience.
Advance booking is recommended, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour Review
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From Mirissa / Galle / Hikkaduwa – Udawalawe Safari Tour
Departing from the coastal towns of Mirissa, Galle, or Hikkaduwa, this comprehensive 9-hour Udawalawe Safari Tour offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Sri Lanka’s wildlife haven.
The €68.40 per person tour includes entry to Udawalawe National Park, where travelers can spot elephants, leopards, buffaloes, deer, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Experienced guides provide insightful commentary as guests travel in luxury 4×4 safari jeeps designed for optimal wildlife viewing.
The itinerary also includes a visit to the renowned Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center for young elephants. Visitors can witness the scheduled feeding times at 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM, fostering an emotional connection to the center’s conservation efforts.
With a 4.7/5 rating based on 22 reviews, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s extraordinary wildlife.
Read our full review: From Mirissa / Galle / Hikkaduwa – Udawalawe Safari Tour Review
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A Udawalawa Safari Tour (All Inclusive – Colombo/Galle)
One of the most popular Udawalawe safari tours is the all-inclusive option departing from Colombo or Galle. Priced at $130.00, this 6-10 hour private safari offers a comprehensive experience with a 4.8 rating.
The tour includes pickup, park entrance fees, and a packed lunch. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, in the Udawalawe National Park.
The tour also provides a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned and injured elephants are cared for and prepared for release back into the wild.
With its high ratings and convenience, this all-inclusive safari is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their time and experience in Udawalawe.
Compared to the 9-hour safari from the southern coast, this tour provides a more tailored and inclusive experience departing directly from the major cities.
Read our full review: A Udawalawa Safari Tour (All Inclusive – Colombo/Galle) Review
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Udawalawe Safari and Elephants Orphange Tour From Hambantota
Offered by a highly-rated tour operator, the Udawalawe Safari and Elephants Orphanage Tour from Hambantota provides travelers with a comprehensive wildlife experience.
Priced at £52.60 per person, this 6-hour tour allows groups of up to 6 participants to explore the renowned Udawalawe National Park, known for its abundant wild Asian elephant population.
The tour includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, an orphanage dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of young elephants back into the wild. Equipped with luxurious safari jeeps, the knowledgeable guides share their expertise, enhancing the sightings of elephants and their calves.
Complimentary water and soft drinks ensure traveler comfort throughout the journey.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible booking policy, this tour offers a convenient and hassle-free way to take in the natural wonders of Udawalawe.
Praised by travelers from Guernsey and Spain, the tour provides an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Udawalawe Safari and Elephants Orphange Tour From Hambantota Review
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Colombo/Bentota/Kandy to Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife adventure can embark on the Colombo/Bentota/Kandy to Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour.
This unforgettable safari experience lasts 4-8 hours, with a private jeep and an experienced English-speaking driver/guide. Explore the 230,821-hectare park, home to approximately 500 elephants, and witness diverse wildlife, including water buffalo, deer, wild boar, crocodiles, 30 snake species, 50 butterfly species, and various birds.
The tour includes pickup from 14 locations, a guided tour, wildlife viewing, photo stops, a break, and a picnic lunch in the park.
Visitors can also visit the Elephant Transit Home to see elephants in their natural habitat. Priced from $27.98 to $25.18 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Guests should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and cash, as food and drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle.
Read our full review: Colombo/Bentota/Kandy to Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour Review
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Udawalawe Safari Tour From Tissamaharama / Hambantota Areas
Visitors can embark on the Udawalawe Safari Tour from Tissamaharama or Hambantota areas, providing an immersive wildlife experience in the renowned Udawalawe National Park.
This 6-hour tour is priced from $70 per person and offers complimentary pickup from the selected locations. Travelers can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, renowned for its high population of wild Asian elephants and other wildlife.
The tour includes a guided 5-hour safari through the national park in luxurious safari jeeps, ensuring comfort throughout the adventure. Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, subject to an additional fee.
The tour package includes free binoculars, water, and cool drinks, though the park entrance ticket fee isn’t included. Itineraries are subject to change, and participants are advised to check availability for starting times.
With experienced drivers and guides, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of Udawalawe’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Udawalawe Safari Tour From Tissamaharama / Hambantota Areas Review
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Udawalawe National Park Day Tour
Nestled within Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, the Udawalawe National Park offers a captivating day tour that immerses visitors in the heart of its diverse wildlife.
The park is home to over 100 wild elephants, making it a prime destination for elephant enthusiasts. One popular option is the Udawalawe National Park Safari, a 4-hour excursion that boasts a 4.8 rating from 155 reviews and is priced from $28 per person.
For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the 9-hour Udawalawa National Park Safari from Mirissa/Galle/Hikkaduwa provides an in-depth exploration of the park, with a 4.7 rating from 22 reviews and a price range of $89.17 to $71.34 per person.
Alternatively, the Udawalawa National Park Half Day or Full Day Safari offers flexibility, with durations ranging from 3 to 6 hours and a rating of 4.6, priced from $68.06 per person.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Day Tour Review
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Udawalawe Safari Tour From Hambantota Port(Shore Excursion)
For those arriving at Hambantota Port, the Udawalawe Safari Tour from Hambantota Port (Shore Excursion) offers an immersive wildlife experience. Priced from €65.20 per person, the 5-hour tour allows visitors to explore the renowned Udawalawe National Park.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this tour provides flexibility.
The itinerary includes a guided safari, a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, and convenient pickup and drop-off options. Participants can expect to see a diverse array of wildlife, including over 40 elephants, monkeys, crocodiles, buffaloes, deer, and peacocks.
The tour includes binoculars, water, and cool drinks, as well as luxurious safari jeeps and experienced drivers and guides.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 14 reviews, the Udawalawe Safari Tour is praised for its excellent value, knowledgeable guide, and well-organized transportation.
This shore excursion offers a premium wildlife experience for travelers docking at Hambantota Port.
Read our full review: Udawalawe Safari Tour From Hambantota Port(Shore Excursion) Review
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Udawalawa National Park – All-Inclusive Private Safari Tour
Though nestled within the lush landscapes of Udawalawe National Park, the All-Inclusive Private Safari Tour offers a tailored wildlife experience that caters to travelers’ specific interests.
Spanning 3 to 6 hours, this tour boasts a 4.6-star rating, inviting guests to embark on an immersive journey through the park’s diverse ecosystems. Priced at $68.06 per person, the tour provides a private vehicle and experienced guide, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility to explore the park’s highlights.
Visitors can expect to encounter majestic elephants, along with a wide array of other native fauna, from crocodiles to vibrant birdlife.
The tour’s all-inclusive nature includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a complimentary packed lunch, making it a convenient and comprehensive option for those seeking an unforgettable Udawalawe experience.
Whether travelers are nature enthusiasts or first-time visitors, this private safari tour promises an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of Udawalawe National Park.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park – All-Inclusive Private Safari Tour Review
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From Udawalawe: Jeep Safari and Elephant Transits Home Tour
Departing from Udawalawe, the Jeep Safari and Elephant Transits Home Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
This highly-rated 4-hour excursion (4.8 stars) provides a glimpse into the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a facility dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned and injured elephants before their release back into the wild.
During the tour, guests embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the Udawalawe National Park, home to a vast array of diverse wildlife, including the majestic Asian elephant.
Travelers have the opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, observe their behaviors, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them.
Priced at £22.66, the tour is a popular choice among visitors, with over 100 bookings in the last week alone.
With a focus on responsible tourism and wildlife preservation, this experience offers a unique chance to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural heritage while supporting the important work of the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
Read our full review: From Udawalawe: Jeep Safari and Elephant Transits Home Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Into the Park?
Visitors can bring their own food and drinks into the park. However, it’s important to follow the park’s guidelines and dispose of any waste properly to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the environment.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tours?
There is generally no minimum group size required for tours at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Visitors can typically book individual or small group tours, though larger groups may be accommodated upon request. Tour operators aim to provide a personalized experience for all guests.
What Types of Animals Can I Expect to See?
Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, including elephants, deer, monkeys, and birds. The home serves as a rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants before their release back into the wild.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Photography restrictions vary across Udawalawe’s tours. While some allow unrestricted photography, others may prohibit flash use or close-up shots to avoid disturbing the animals. Visitors should check with tour operators to understand the specific rules before their visit.
Do the Tours Accommodate Visitors With Disabilities?
The tours generally accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing assistance and accessible facilities. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements when booking to ensure the tour meets the needs of any visitors with special requirements.
The Sum Up
Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home offer visitors a chance to witness Sri Lanka’s magnificent wildlife up close. With a range of tour options available, travelers can choose the one that best suits their interests and budget. Whether it’s a full-day safari or a specialized tour, the experiences provide an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants and other native species.