From Wilpattu: Full Day Safari at Wilpattu National Park

Nestled within Sri Lanka’s rugged northwest, Wilpattu National Park beckons intrepid travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience. This full-day safari promises an unforgettable journey through diverse ecosystems, from serene natural lakes to dense forests teeming with an array of animals. With a high density of elusive leopards and a chance to spot sloth bears and crocodiles, the adventure offers a captivating glimpse into the untamed beauty of this ancient sanctuary. As the safari unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other wonders lie in store, leaving the curious mind eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Safari Tours In North Central Province.

Good To Know

• Experience a full-day safari adventure at Wilpattu National Park, covering 130,000 hectares and offering high chances of spotting elusive leopards.
• Explore the park’s diverse wildlife, including sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and wild pigs, while enjoying the unique natural Willus lakes.
• Benefit from a hassle-free experience with hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, refreshments, and all taxes included in the $165.00 per person price.
• Take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option for a stress-free booking process.
• Bring essential items like a camera and sturdy shoes to capture the captivating beauty and learn about the park’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This full-day safari at Wilpattu National Park offers an immersive wildlife experience for $165.00 per person.

The duration of the tour is 10-12 hours, providing ample time to explore this expansive park spanning 130,000 hectares.

Visitors can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, as well as the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With customized safari jeeps and a planned itinerary, guests can expect to witness the diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and more, while also discovering the park’s natural lakes known as Willus.

Wildlife and Highlights

Wilpattu National Park boasts one of the highest leopard densities in the world, offering visitors an unparalleled chance to witness these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.

Beyond the elusive leopards, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and wild pigs.

Explorers can discover the park’s unique natural lakes, known as Willus, which dot the landscape and attract a variety of species.

Wilpattu’s rich biodiversity and expansive 130,000-hectare expanse make it one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national parks, providing a truly immersive safari experience for nature enthusiasts.

Itinerary and Duration

Departing from hotels around Wilpattu or near the Horuwila main entrance, guests embark on their safari journey at 6:00 AM.

Over the next 10-12 hours, they’ll explore the expansive 130,000-hectare Wilpattu National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy refreshing water bottles and light cuisine as they witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including the high density of elusive leopards.

The safari concludes around 5:00 PM, with guests returning to their hotel in Anuradhapura, having experienced the wonders of this remarkable natural sanctuary.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in a customized safari jeep to enhance wildlife viewing.

Entrance fees to Wilpattu National Park are covered, ensuring hassle-free access to this expansive 130,000-hectare park.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy:

1. A light breakfast, packed lunch, and refreshing beverages to keep you energized.
2. Fuel surcharge, driver fees, and parking costs, so you can focus on the adventure.
3. All government taxes, providing a seamless and transparent experience.

These comprehensive inclusions cater to your comfort and convenience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Wilpattu and its diverse wildlife.

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Cancellation Policy

Flexibility is built into this safari experience, as travelers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.

This allows for last-minute changes in plans or unexpected circumstances without incurring any penalties. The reserve now and pay later option further adds to the convenience, enabling travelers to secure their spot in advance without an immediate financial commitment.

These hassle-free policies ensure a stress-free booking process and provide peace of mind, allowing visitors to focus on anticipating the incredible wildlife sightings and natural wonders that await them at Wilpattu National Park.

What to Bring and Expect

Adventurous travelers exploring the Wilpattu National Park can expect to bring along a few essential items for their full-day safari experience.

From a reliable camera to capture the park’s stunning landscapes and elusive wildlife, to a charged smartphone for capturing memories and staying connected, these items will enhance the overall experience.

Plus, a sturdy pair of walking shoes is crucial for navigating the uneven terrain and exploring the park’s diverse ecosystem.

With these essentials in tow, visitors can enjoy the captivating beauty of Wilpattu, ready to witness the park’s abundant wildlife and natural wonders.

1. Camera
2. Charged Smartphone
3. Sturdy Walking Shoes

Accessibility and Restrictions

How accessible is the Wilpattu National Park safari experience? The tour is designed to be convenient, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included in the package.

Access to the park is straightforward, as the designated meeting point is near the main entrance. However, the safari itself may not be suitable for all travelers. Pregnant women are advised against joining, as the terrain can be challenging.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour. Guests should come prepared with a passport, camera, and charged smartphone.

Park Information and Location

Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest protected areas, spanning an impressive 130,000 hectares.

This vast and diverse landscape is home to a rich array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and safari enthusiasts alike.

1. The park is renowned for its unique natural "Willus", or lakes, which dot the landscape and attract a diverse range of animals, including crocodiles, spotted deer, and the elusive sloth bear.

2. Wilpattu is also celebrated for its high density of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these majestic felines in their natural habitat.

3. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open grasslands, in search of the park’s abundant wildlife, guided by experienced drivers and naturalists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Safari Duration if I Wish To?

Typically, the safari duration is fixed at 10-12 hours. However, travelers can inquire about the possibility of extending the safari if they wish to spend more time exploring Wilpattu National Park’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Preferences?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized based on the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the safari duration and activities to suit the individual’s interests and expectations for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges During the Safari?

There are no additional fees or charges during the safari. The tour package covers all costs, including entrance fees, refreshments, and transportation. Travelers can fully enjoy the wildlife experience without having to worry about unexpected expenses.

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

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari, but the tour includes breakfast, packed lunch, refreshments, and water. This allows guests to fully enjoy the wildlife experience without the hassle of carrying extra provisions.

Is Wi-Fi Available in the Park or Safari Vehicle?

Wi-Fi connectivity isn’t available within Wilpattu National Park or the safari vehicles. The remote location and natural surroundings mean visitors should expect limited access to internet and cellular networks during the full-day wildlife safari experience.

The Sum Up

Wilpattu National Park’s full-day safari promises an immersive adventure amidst diverse ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife. From elusive leopards to majestic sloth bears, this captivating journey through one of Sri Lanka’s oldest sanctuaries offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With refreshments, hotel pick-up, and a convenient package, visitors can explore nature’s wonders hassle-free, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: