Budget Safari to Udawalawa National Park From Colombo

Exploring the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Udawalawa National Park, just a few hours from Colombo, has never been more accessible. This budget-friendly safari tour promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the majestic Asian elephants, elusive leopards, and a myriad of vibrant bird species. The journey itself is a scenic delight, and with private transportation and expert guidance, travelers can expect a seamless and unforgettable adventure. But the real highlight lies in the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where heartwarming encounters with baby elephants await. As the day unfolds, it becomes clear that this safari offers far more than just a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Good To Know

• This budget safari from Colombo to Udawalawa National Park is priced at $170.69 per person and includes a 4-hour wildlife viewing experience.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and provides private transportation, entrance fees, and meals as part of the package.
• Visitors can spot various wildlife species, including Asian elephants, deer, leopards, river buffalos, sloths, and crocodiles, during the safari.
• The itinerary also includes an optional 1-hour visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for baby elephant feeding.
• Before returning, the tour includes a 30-minute stop at the Udawalawa Dam for sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This budget safari to Udawalawa National Park offers a convenient day trip from Colombo. Priced from $170.69 per person, the tour lasts for a full day and provides the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, making it an accessible option. The itinerary includes pickup from hotels or other locations around Colombo or Negombo, a 3.5-hour journey to the national park, and 4 hours of wildlife viewing.

Visitors can also opt to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to feed baby elephants and explore the Udawalawe Dam. The tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, and meals, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The budget safari to Udawalawa National Park offers an engaging itinerary for visitors. After pickup from hotels or places around Colombo or Negombo, the 3.5-hour journey to the park begins.

Visitors can expect:

1. 4 hours of wildlife viewing, where they’ll encounter one of the largest gatherings of Asian elephants, as well as deer, leopards, river buffalos, sloths, and crocodiles.

2. An optional 1-hour visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to witness the feeding of baby elephants.

3. A 30-minute sightseeing stop at the Udawalawa Dam before the return trip to Colombo.

The tour includes private transportation, a 4×4 jeep safari, entrance fees, and complementary refreshments, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to explore Udawalawa National Park.

Wildlife Experience

Udawalawa National Park is renowned as one of the premier destinations in Sri Lanka for spotting the majestic Asian elephant. The park boasts one of the largest gatherings of these gentle giants, with herds roaming freely and unafraid.

But the wildlife experience extends far beyond just elephants. Visitors may also encounter shy deer, powerful river buffalos, playful crocodiles, and even the elusive leopard if they’re lucky.

For birdwatchers, the park is a true paradise, with over 250 species of birds to spot.

And at the Elephant Transit Home, guests can witness the heartwarming sight of baby elephants being fed and cared for, a truly unforgettable experience.

Inclusions

For those booking the Budget Safari to Udawalawa National Park, the tour package includes several convenient and valuable amenities.

The tour provides private transportation in an air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver, as well as a 4×4 Jeep with a tracker/driver for the safari experience.

Plus, the package covers entrance fees to Udawalawa National Park and the Elephant Transit Home, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the wildlife encounters.

Complementary bottled water, king coconut juice, and meals for both the traveler and driver are also included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable excursion.

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Important Information

Travelers booking the Budget Safari to Udawalawa National Park should plan for a 3-hour 30-minute journey from Colombo to the park.

An early start is recommended for the best wildlife viewing experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and private group options are available.

Throughout the tour, an English-speaking live guide will provide information about the park and its inhabitants. Visitors can expect to see an abundance of Asian elephants, as well as deer, leopards, river buffalos, sloths, and crocodiles.

Plus, birdwatchers will have the opportunity to spot over 250 species of birds. The itinerary includes a stop at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where guests can observe the feeding of baby elephants.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour package provides convenient pickup from hotels or other designated locations around Colombo or Negombo.

Travelers are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver. The journey to Udawalawa National Park takes approximately 3.5 hours, allowing ample time to admire the scenic countryside along the way.

The transportation experience includes:

1. Private car with air-conditioning for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
2. Experienced, English-speaking driver to ensure a smooth and informative journey.
3. Efficient pickup and drop-off service from your hotel or designated location.

This seamless transportation setup ensures a hassle-free start and end to your exciting wildlife safari adventure.

Elephant Transit Home

After the safari experience, travelers have the option to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.

This unique facility rescues and rehabilitates orphaned or abandoned baby elephants, preparing them for eventual release back into the wild. Visitors can observe the feeding of these gentle giants, watching as the caretakers bottle-feed the calves and provide them with essential nutrients.

It’s a heartwarming sight, witnessing the elephants’ playful interactions and the dedicated efforts of the transit home staff.

For those interested in conservation, this visit offers a firsthand look at the crucial work being done to protect Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant population.

Sightseeing at Udawalawa Dam

Wrapping up the visit to the Elephant Transit Home, the tour now takes guests to the impressive Udawalawa Dam.

This 30-minute stop offers a chance to admire the scale and engineering of this massive structure.

Visitors can:

1. Gaze upon the vast expanse of the reservoir, which was created to provide irrigation and hydroelectric power to the surrounding region.
2. Observe the bustling activity of the dam’s operations, with workers and vehicles moving about their duties.
3. Take in the picturesque views of the lush, rolling hills that surround the dam, providing a scenic backdrop to the infrastructure.

This sightseeing stop adds a touch of cultural and historical context to the safari experience, complementing the wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The dress code for the safari is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear light, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses. Layers are recommended to adjust to changing weather conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. The safari welcomes visitors of all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Children can enjoy observing the diverse wildlife alongside their guardians.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks. However, bottled water and king coconut juice are already provided as complementary items on the tour. Bringing your own refreshments can enhance the overall safari experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, you can extend your safari duration for an additional fee. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate your preferences and maximize your wildlife viewing experience at Udawalawa National Park.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Safari?

Guests can request specific vehicle types for the safari, such as a Jeep or other off-road vehicle, which provide better visibility and access to the park’s terrain. The tour operator can accommodate these preferences based on availability.

The Sum Up

This budget safari to Udawalawa National Park from Colombo promises an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Witness the majestic Asian elephants, elusive leopards, and a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitat. The tour’s seamless transportation, expert guidance, and heartwarming encounters at the Elephant Transit Home make for an exceptional day in Sri Lanka’s stunning wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: