From Bentota: Udawalawa National Park Wildlife Safari

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s southern region, Udawalawe National Park stands as a wildlife sanctuary teeming with an abundance of captivating creatures. From the majestic elephants that roam the vast plains to the diverse array of birds that grace the skies, this enchanting destination promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Set out on a thrilling full-day safari from the coastal town of Bentota, and witness firsthand the park’s remarkable ecosystem – a true testament to the island’s remarkable biodiversity. As you navigate the rugged terrain in search of these impressive animals, you’ll uncover a world of wonder that just might leave you…

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Safari Tours In Bentota.

Good To Know

• Full-day safari tour to Udawalawe National Park from Bentota, offering a 3-hour game drive to spot elephants, buffalo, and wild boar.
• Optional visit to Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and lunch at a local hotel available for an additional fee.
• Air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and entrance fees included in the tour price of £83.76 per person.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Safari Jeep navigates rugged terrain for immersive encounters with the park’s diverse wildlife and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Booking a full-day safari tour to Udawalawe National Park from Bentota offers a thrilling opportunity to witness the park’s diverse wildlife.

The 12-hour excursion, priced from £83.76 per person, includes a 3-hour game drive to spot elephants, buffalo, wild boar, and more.

Travelers can also visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, an additional stop with a small fee.

The tour’s flexible booking allows for easy reservation and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees included, this safari promises an immersive wildlife experience in one of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pick-up from Bentota Cab & Tours, where participants embark on an air-conditioned journey to the renowned Udawalawe National Park.

Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a thrilling 3-hour game drive, showcasing the park’s thriving elephant population and other wildlife like buffalo, wild boar, and sambhur.

Afterward, visitors can opt to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for an additional fee, where they can observe the facility’s efforts to rehabilitate and release orphaned elephants back into the wild.

Lunch at a local hotel in Udawalawe is at the participants’ own expense, before the tour concludes with a drop-off back at the starting point in Bentota.

Wildlife and Park Significance

Established in the 1970s as a wildlife sanctuary following the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir, Udawalawe National Park has since become a renowned destination for its thriving elephant population and diverse array of flora and fauna.

Home to over 50 butterfly species and an abundance of bird life, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

As the third most visited national park in the country, Udawalawe attracts travelers from around the world eager to spot the majestic elephants that roam freely within its boundaries.

The park’s significance as a premier wildlife destination continues to grow, drawing in nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and convenient experience for visitors. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a shared Jeep safari, bottled water, lunch, and entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park. Optional gratuities are also covered. However, the package excludes any additional food and drinks not specified, as well as extra fees for visits beyond the main safari.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Hotel pick-up and drop-off	Food and drinks not specified
Air-conditioned transportation	Extra fees for additional visits
Shared Jeep safari
Bottled water, lunch, park entrance fee

More Great Tours Nearby

Booking and Cancellation

Visitors can book this wildlife safari tour with ease, thanks to the flexible reservation system that allows them to reserve now and pay later.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan their trip with confidence and receive a full refund if their plans change.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Select your preferred travel date and number of participants.
2. Provide your contact information and make the reservation.
3. Pay the full amount later, at your convenience.
4. Cancel anytime before 24 hours prior to the tour for a complete refund.

This hassle-free booking experience ensures that visitors can focus on anticipating the exciting safari adventure ahead.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour commences with a convenient pickup from Bentota Cab & Tours, where participants are welcomed aboard the air-conditioned transportation.

The driver navigates the scenic roads, ensuring a smooth journey to Udawalawe National Park.

Upon arrival, guests are directed to the park entrance, where they’ll embark on an exhilarating shared Jeep safari.

After the 3-hour game drive, the group returns to the park’s exit, where the driver awaits to provide the return journey.

Passengers are dropped off at the same Bentota Cab & Tours location, completing the day’s wildlife adventure.

Throughout the trip, the driver provides bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and well-hydrated experience.

Safari Experience

The heart-pounding safari commences as guests board the sturdy Jeep, ready to enjoy Udawalawe’s untamed wilderness.

The expertly-driven Jeep navigates the rugged terrain, bringing the adventurers face-to-face with a stack of captivating wildlife.

The safari experience offers:

1. Thrilling encounters with majestic elephants, as they roam freely across the lush landscapes.
2. Sightings of other fascinating creatures, including buffaloes, wild boars, and the graceful sambhur deer.
3. Glimpses of diverse bird species, from vibrant peacocks to the elusive Ceylon Junglefowl.
4. Opportunities to witness the park’s rich biodiversity and learn about the region’s unique ecosystem.

The immersive safari immerses guests in Udawalawe’s natural wonders, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Important Considerations

Although the safari in Udawalawe National Park promises an exhilarating encounter with wildlife, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so it’s essential to check if the activity fits your needs. Visitors are also advised to pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat to stay protected from the elements.

On top of that, restrictions prohibit bringing pets, large luggage, or bags.

Lastly, health protocols require vaccinated passengers to stay in level 1 hotels and provide a negative PCR report, while unvaccinated passengers must complete a 14-day quarantine.

These details ensure a safe and memorable safari experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There is no minimum group size requirement for this tour. Travelers can book the safari individually or as a small group, and will be joined with other participants for the shared Jeep safari experience in Udawalawe National Park.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Late Notice?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants. Late cancellations may incur fees, so it’s best to notify the operator as soon as possible if plans change.

Can We Stop for Photos Outside the Park?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops outside the park. Guests can capture scenic views and wildlife sightings on the way to and from Udawalawe National Park during the safari experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the safari duration. Travelers can add an extra hour or more to their game drive, allowing more time to explore the park and spot additional wildlife.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

There are no specific age restrictions for children on this safari tour. However, the park’s terrain and wildlife may not be suitable for very young children. It’s recommended to consult with the tour operator for age suitability guidelines.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll witness the majestic elephants roaming freely and encounter Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. This full-day safari promises an immersive experience, with convenient transportation, a shared Jeep game drive, and the option to visit the Elephant Transit Home. Capture the memories of this thrilling expedition and learn about the wonders of Sri Lanka’s natural landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: