From Colombo: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour

Embarking on an unforgettable day trip from Colombo, travelers can enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawa National Park. This exhilarating safari offers a rare glimpse into the lives of majestic elephants, as well as a diverse array of wildlife thriving in their native habitat. With a scenic 4-hour drive, a thrilling jeep safari, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, this adventure promises to be a perfect blend of nature and culture. Savor the vibrant ecosystem, spot elusive animals, and indulge in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, all while exploring one of the country’s most captivating natural reserves. What awaits beyond the gates of Udawalawa is a truly unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• Excursion from Colombo to Udawalawa National Park for a safari drive to observe elephants and other wildlife, priced at $100 per person.
• Opportunity to witness orphaned or injured elephants at the Elephant Transit Home.
• Diverse wildlife sightings including crocodiles, buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, and hares during the safari.
• Includes round-trip transportation, park entrance fees, and a jeep safari, with an optional local lunch at the guest’s expense.
• Immersive experience to explore the thriving elephant population and vibrant ecosystem of Udawalawa National Park.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour" offers a captivating day-long excursion from Colombo, providing visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Priced from $100 per person, this tour features a safari drive through Udawalawa National Park, where guests can observe the thriving elephant population and search for other wildlife like crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of bird species.

With a 4-hour drive each way, the tour includes round-trip transportation, park entrance fees, and a safari by jeep.

Guests can also visit the Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured elephants, and enjoy a local lunch at their own expense.

Experience Highlights

Observe thriving elephant populations as the safari drive by jeep weaves through the natural habitat of Udawalawa National Park.

You’ll spot crocodiles lounging on the banks and buffaloes grazing in the distance. Keep an eye out for other wildlife like wild boar, sambhur, and hares.

With over 50 butterfly species and countless bird varieties, the diversity of the region is sure to captivate.

This safari presents a unique opportunity to witness elephants in their natural environment, providing an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Prepare to be amazed by the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem teeming with life.

Itinerary Details

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel or location in Colombo.

You’ll then embark on a 4-hour drive to the renowned Udawalawa National Park.

Once there, you’ll enjoy a thrilling safari drive by jeep, giving you the opportunity to:

1. Observe the thriving elephant population in their natural habitat.
2. Spot other fascinating wildlife, including crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of bird species.
3. Take in the serene beauty of the park’s lush landscapes.
4. Recharge with a lunch at a local hotel in Udawalawa, at your own expense.

After your adventure, you’ll return to Colombo with a hotel drop-off, completing your immersive exploration of Udawalawa’s wonders.

Transportation and Inclusions

Air-conditioned private transportation takes you on this journey, with highway toll fees included as part of the package. You’ll also enjoy the entrance fees for Udawalawa National Park and a jeep safari drive to spot elephants and other wildlife.

Inclusions	Details
Vehicle	Air-conditioned private vehicle
Fees	Highway toll and park entrance
Safari	Jeep safari in Udawalawa National Park
Guidance	Live English-speaking tour guide
Pickup	Morning pickup from Colombo hotel/location

This comprehensive transportation and inclusions package ensures a seamless and immersive Udawalawa safari experience.

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Observe Thriving Elephant Population

Observing the thriving elephant population is the highlight of this Udawalawa safari experience.

As the jeep travels through the park, visitors are treated to the sight of herds of elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.

The safari offers opportunities to:

1. Witness calves and juveniles playfully interacting with their families.
2. Spot solitary male elephants grazing or bathing in the watering holes.
3. Observe the herd’s complex social dynamics and communication.
4. Marvel at the sheer size and power of these magnificent creatures.

The sighting of these majestic animals in their element is a truly awe-inspiring experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who partake in this Udawalawa adventure.

Look for Diverse Wildlife

Aside from the remarkable elephant sightings, the Udawalawa safari offers a chance to encounter a diverse array of other wildlife.

Crocodiles bask in the sun along the riverbanks, while herds of buffalo graze in the distance. Agile wild boar dart through the underbrush, and graceful sambhur deer pause to watch the passing jeep.

The park’s varied habitats are home to numerous bird species, from vibrant kingfishers to soaring birds of prey. Guests may even spot the elusive hare scurrying across the grasslands.

This safari provides a window into the thriving ecosystem of Udawalawa, showcasing the park’s remarkable biodiversity beyond its famous elephant population.

Lunch at Local Hotel

After the morning safari drive, guests have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local hotel in Udawalawa. This is a chance to savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and take in the local culture.

The lunch menu typically features:

1. Rice and curry dishes featuring fresh seafood, meat, or vegetarian options
2. Flavorful sambols and chutneys to complement the main courses
3. Fresh tropical fruits and refreshing coconut water
4. Warm, homemade Sri Lankan sweets for dessert

This leisurely lunch break provides a moment of respite before continuing the exploration of the Udawalawa region and the Elephant Transit Home.

Explore Nature Reserve

Teeming with remarkable biodiversity, the Udawalawa Nature Reserve awaits explorers eager to enjoy the captivating world of Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage.

Home to over 50 butterfly species and countless bird species, the reserve offers a chance to discover the vibrant tapestry of life that thrives within its lush environs.

Visitors can wander amidst towering trees, keeping an eye out for elusive wildlife like crocodiles and sambhur, while the symphony of birdsong fills the air.

This nature oasis promises a truly immersive experience, allowing travelers to reconnect with the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the safari and visit the Elephant Transit Home, though parental supervision is recommended for young children.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a tasty local lunch is offered at an additional cost, providing an authentic dining experience during the safari adventure.

Is It Possible to Extend the Safari Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, but it will incur additional costs. Guests interested in a longer safari can speak with the tour operator to arrange for an extended experience exploring Udawalawa National Park’s diverse wildlife and habitats.

What Should We Wear for the Safari?

For the safari, it’s best to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing that covers arms and legs. Closed-toe shoes are recommended, and a hat and sunscreen can help protect against the sun. Bring a camera to capture the wildlife sightings.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Optional Activities?

The tour includes entrance fees and a safari drive, but lunch at a local hotel and any optional activities, like visits to the Elephant Transit Home, are at an additional cost. Visitors can expect to pay for these extras on the day.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Colombo to Udawalawa National Park, where you’ll witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s elephants and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a thrilling jeep safari, visit the Elephant Transit Home, and savor authentic local cuisine, making this adventure a perfect blend of nature and culture. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the vibrant ecosystem of Udawalawa.

You can check availability for your dates here: