Mirissa/Weligama: Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transits Home

Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, the Mirissa and Weligama regions captivate visitors with their idyllic beaches, lush greenery, and incredible wildlife. Amidst this natural splendor, the Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transits Home tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Guests embark on a thrilling safari, seeing the untamed world of elephants, deer, and other native species. Yet, the journey doesn’t end there. The tour also unveils the heartwarming story of the Elephant Transits Home, where abandoned baby elephants find sanctuary and a chance to thrive. With expert guidance and seamless logistics, this immersive experience showcases the remarkable harmony between Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.

Good To Know

• This tour offers a comprehensive experience, exploring the coastal regions of Mirissa and Weligama, as well as a safari in Udawalawe National Park and a visit to the Elephant Transits Home.

• The safari in Udawalawe National Park provides the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife, including elephants and deer, in their natural habitat, with customized safari jeeps enhancing the viewing experience.

• The Elephant Transits Home rehabilitation facility supports the conservation of abandoned baby elephants, with three daily feeding sessions allowing visitors to contribute to wildlife protection and preservation.

• The tour package includes comprehensive transportation, entrance fees, and refreshments, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for the participants.

• Detailed photography tips and recommendations for essential items to bring, along with a flexible cancellation policy, make this tour an appealing option for travelers seeking an immersive and memorable wildlife experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Touring the picturesque coastal regions of Mirissa and Weligama, this comprehensive safari experience immerses visitors in the natural wonders of Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transits Home.

Priced from $185 per person, the 6.5-hour tour departs from hotels in Tangalle, Mirissa, and Weligama, with English-speaking guides leading the way.

Guests can expect to spot an array of wildlife, including Sri Lankan elephants, water buffalo, and even the elusive leopard.

The tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transits Home, where visitors can witness the rehabilitation efforts for abandoned baby elephants during scheduled feeding sessions.

Safari Experience

The safari experience at Udawalawe National Park promises an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. Spanning 3-4 hours, the safari takes visitors through the park’s rugged terrain, showcasing the majestic Sri Lankan elephants, water buffalo, monitor lizards, Sambar deer, and monkeys.

With its strategic location between the dry and wet regions, Udawalawe boasts a rich ecosystem that supports a variety of species, including the occasional glimpse of the elusive leopard. The customized safari jeeps provide an optimal vantage point for wildlife viewing, allowing visitors to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

A safari at Udawalawe is a true adventure, offering the opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the park’s conservation efforts.

Elephant Transits Home

At the Elephant Transits Home, visitors can witness firsthand the rehabilitation efforts for abandoned baby elephants.

The facility hosts three feeding sessions daily at 10:30 am, 2:30 pm, and 6 pm, allowing guests to observe the caretakers nurturing these orphaned pachyderms.

Through this experience, travelers can support the important conservation work being carried out at the home.

Visitors will be inspired by the dedicated efforts to care for and reintegrate the young elephants back into the wild, ensuring a brighter future for these magnificent creatures.

The Elephant Transits Home provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection and preservation of Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.

Inclusion and Transportation

The tour includes comprehensive transportation and amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience.

Guests are picked up from their hotels in Tangalle, Mirissa, or Weligama and transported by private vehicle to the safari and wildlife park.

Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transits Home are included, along with customized safari jeeps for wildlife viewing.

Refreshments and water are provided throughout the day.

The package also covers fuel surcharges, driver fees, and all applicable taxes.

Travelers need only bring their passport, camera gear, and a sense of adventure, as the tour handles the rest for a worry-free excursion.

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Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides travelers with the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.

This policy ensures that guests can book their Udawalawe safari experience with confidence, knowing they won’t be penalized for unforeseen circumstances.

Whether it’s a change in travel plans or simply a desire to explore a different activity, the 24-hour cancellation window allows for a hassle-free refund.

This considerate policy reflects the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and emphasizes their understanding of the dynamic nature of travel.

Tourists can plan their Sri Lankan adventure with peace of mind, knowing they’ve the freedom to adapt their itinerary as needed.

What to Bring

Ensuring a seamless and enjoyable Udawalawe safari experience starts with packing the right essentials. While the tour operator provides transportation and basic amenities, there are a few must-have items to ensure you make the most of your adventure.

Essential Items	Recommended Items
Passport	Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Water bottle	Telephoto lens for wildlife photography
Sunscreen	Binoculars for better wildlife viewing

These items will help you capture stunning photographs, stay hydrated, and fully learn about the natural wonders of the Udawalawe National Park. Remember to pack light and prioritize comfort for a truly memorable safari experience.

Photography Tips

Photographers seeking to capture the essence of the Udawalawe safari experience will find a few essential tips invaluable. A suitable camera with extra batteries and memory cards is a must, as the dynamic wildlife can present unexpected photo opportunities.

A telephoto lens is highly recommended to zoom in on the majestic elephants, deer, and other elusive creatures.

Patience and a keen eye are equally important – wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, so embracing the unique moments is key.

With the right gear and mindset, visitors can return with stunning photographs that immortalize the magic of the Udawalawe safari.

Safari Attitude

Embracing the spirit of adventure is key when embarking on a safari in Udawalawe. Patience and flexibility are essential – wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Embrace the unique opportunities that arise during the safari. As the customized jeep navigates through the diverse landscapes, keep an open mind. You may spot Sri Lankan elephants grazing peacefully, or catch a glimpse of a majestic leopard in the distance.

The safari experience is about more than just ticking off animal sightings. It’s about enjoying the rhythm of the wild, appreciating the beauty of nature, and cherishing the privilege of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in the Area?

Yes, you can combine this safari and elephant sanctuary tour with other activities in the area. Many travelers also visit nearby beaches, explore local towns, or participate in water sports during their stay.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, though it’s best suited for children aged 6 and up who can comfortably participate in the safari and visit the Elephant Transits Home. Families with younger kids are welcome but should exercise caution.

Can I Expect to See a Leopard During the Safari?

While leopard sightings are possible in Udawalawe National Park, they’re not guaranteed. Visitors may catch glimpses of these elusive cats, but the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants and deer, provides plenty of other thrilling safari experiences.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The typical group size for this tour is small, usually around 6-8 people. This allows for a more personalized and intimate safari experience, with the ability to navigate the park in customized vehicles and interact closely with the wildlife.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements That Can Be Accommodated?

The tour operator is happy to accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests should inform the team of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure a seamless experience.

The Sum Up

The Mirissa/Weligama: Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transits Home tour offers an immersive adventure through Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Guests can spot elephants, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat during the safari and witness the rehabilitation of abandoned baby elephants at the Transits Home. Seamless transportation and a flexible cancellation policy ensure a hassle-free experience, making this tour a must-do for nature enthusiasts exploring the wonders of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: