From Galle/Hikkaduwa/Mirissa Trip to Udawalawe Safari Tour

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, the picturesque towns of Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa serve as the ideal launching pads for an unforgettable journey into the wild. Set out on a daylong expedition to the renowned Udawalawe National Park, where a thrilling safari in a custom 4×4 jeep awaits. Witness the majestic grace of elephants, the elusive prowess of leopards, and a rich tapestry of diverse wildlife, all while enjoying the park’s serene beauty. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be captivated by the Elephant Transit Home, where the conservation of these gentle giants takes center stage.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Safari Tours In Udawalawa.

Good To Know

• This day trip offers a discounted rate of ₹6,299 per person for a 10-hour excursion from coastal towns to Udawalawe National Park for a 3-hour wildlife safari.
• The tour includes luxury air-conditioned transportation, an experienced guide and driver, and entry fees to the national park and Elephant Transit Home.
• Participants can expect to spot elephants, leopards, deer, and birds during the safari, with the option to relax at the scenic Udawalawe reservoir.
• The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended.
• The booking process is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from the coastal towns of Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama, Mirissa, or Tangalle provides an opportunity to explore the renowned Udawalawe National Park.

Priced at a discounted rate of ₹6,299 per person, down from ₹7,874, travelers can enjoy a full-day excursion lasting 10 hours, including hotel transfers.

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, this safari tour offers flexibility and convenience.

Explore the diverse wildlife of Udawalawe, from elephants and leopards to deer and birds, during a 3-hour safari experience in a customized 4×4 jeep.

Itinerary and Experience

Participants are picked up from six convenient locations – Unawatuna, Tangalle, Mirissa, Galle, Weligama, and Matara – before embarking on the 2-hour journey to Udawalawe National Park in a luxury air-conditioned car. Once there, they’ll embark on a 3-hour safari experience in a customized 4×4 jeep, spotting diverse wildlife like elephants, leopards, deer, and birds. After the safari, visitors will spend 2 hours at the Elephant Transit Home, learning about conservation efforts for orphaned elephants. The tour concludes with a scenic drive to the Udawalawe reservoir for relaxation and breathtaking views before returning to their hotels.

Wildlife Sightings	Conservation Efforts	Scenic Locations
Elephants	Elephant Transit Home	Udawalawe Reservoir
Leopards	Orphaned Elephants	Udawalawe National Park
Deer	Conservation Programs	Scenic Drives

Inclusions and Comfort

A luxury air-conditioned vehicle transports participants to Udawalawe National Park, providing a comfortable journey.

An experienced guide and driver ensure exceptional service, looking after guests’ needs throughout the day. The company includes the Udawalawe National Park entry fee, approximately $36 per person.

While food and drinks aren’t provided, the safari experience itself offers ample space and comfort in the customized 4×4 jeeps, allowing for a pleasant and immersive encounter with the diverse wildlife.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to fully enjoy the safari without any discomfort.

Important Considerations

It’s important to keep in mind that the Udawalawe Safari Tour may not be suitable for everyone. Pregnant women and individuals with back problems should avoid this tour, as the terrain can be challenging.

Comfortable clothing and footwear are a must, as the safari experience involves spending several hours in an open-air jeep. It’s also crucial to refrain from bringing alcohol or drugs, as they’re strictly prohibited.

Travelers should check availability and ensure that the tour aligns with their preferences. While the overall experience is highly rated, some guests have expressed concerns about the language skills of the jeep drivers and the lack of detailed explanations about the wildlife.

Considering these factors can help ensure a memorable and comfortable safari adventure.

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Customer Feedback

Customer feedback paints a mixed picture of the Udawalawe Safari Tour.

While many guests praised the timely pickups and knowledgeable guides, some expressed concerns about the language skills of the jeep drivers and the lack of detailed explanations about the wildlife.

Reviewers mentioned memorable sightings of elephants, leopards, deer, and birds, but a few customers felt the safari experience could have been better.

Booking and Reservations

Booking the Udawalawe Safari Tour is a straightforward process. Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, allowing them to secure their spot now and pay later.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for last-minute changes. To begin the booking, visitors can simply check the availability for their desired dates and group size.

The tour also caters to various pickup locations, ensuring a convenient start to the adventure.

• No upfront payment required to reserve a spot
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Multiple pickup locations available for added convenience

Wildlife and Conservation

The Udawalawe National Park boasts a diverse array of wildlife, from the majestic elephants roaming freely to the elusive leopards prowling in the shadows.

During the safari experience, visitors have the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are cared for and nurtured until they can be reintegrated into the wild.

This program showcases the park’s dedication to conservation efforts, inspiring visitors to appreciate the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the importance of protecting these gentle giants.

Scenic Stops and Relaxation

After exploring the diverse wildlife and conservation efforts at Udawalawe National Park, the tour takes a scenic turn as it heads towards the peaceful Udawalawe reservoir.

Visitors can:

• Unwind and soak in the breathtaking views of the vast, calm waters surrounded by lush greenery and towering hills.
• Stroll along the reservoir’s banks, taking in the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to spot more wildlife, such as water birds and monitor lizards.
• Capture picturesque moments and memories to cherish long after the trip, as the tranquil setting provides a perfect backdrop for photography.

The scenic stop at the Udawalawe reservoir offers a refreshing contrast to the safari adventure, allowing travelers to de-stress and fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Udawalawe National Park?

The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season from June to September. This is when wildlife sightings are most abundant, and the weather is ideal for an exciting safari experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tour?

The safari tour does not have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems. The tour experience is suitable for most participants as long as they are physically able to comfortably ride in the jeep.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the safari, though these are not included in the tour. This allows for a more personalized and flexible experience during the day trip to Udawalawe National Park.

How Flexible Is the Itinerary in Terms of Tailoring to Individual Preferences?

The tour is quite flexible, allowing guests to customize the itinerary to their preferences. Travelers can adjust timings, activities, and focus areas based on their interests to ensure a personalized and memorable Udawalawe safari experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Booking?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility to change plans. Customers can reserve without upfront payment, making it easy to book the experience that suits their needs.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive day trip from Galle, Hikkaduwa, or Mirissa to Udawalawe National Park is a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts. Travelers can expect a thrilling safari, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and scenic stops for relaxation and photography – all in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, conservation, and stunning natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: