Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Orphanage

Tangalle and Hiriketiya are coastal gems that offer more than just sun-soaked beaches. Nestled inland lies the Udawalawa National Park, a wildlife haven teeming with majestic elephants and other captivating creatures. Set out on a journey through this lush sanctuary, where you’ll witness the heartwarming care provided to orphaned elephants at the Elephant Transit Home. As you explore the diverse habitats, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s impressive denizens, each with their own remarkable stories waiting to be unveiled. Prepare to be enchanted by the delicate balance of conservation and wildlife that defines this exceptional experience.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Safari Tours In Matara.

Good To Know

• A half-day tour from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Udawalawa National Park and Elephant Transit Home, offering a 7-hour immersive wildlife experience.
• Includes air-conditioned transportation, guided jeep safari, and baby elephant feeding at the Elephant Transit Home.
• Udawalawa National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, wild buffalos, deer, wild boars, and various reptile and bird species.
• The Elephant Transit Home is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned elephant calves, providing visitors with educational insights.
• The tour features a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes all entrance fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour transports visitors from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to the renowned Udawalawa National Park and Elephant Transit Home.

For $90.00 to $85.50 per person, guests can embark on a 7-hour adventure, exploring the park’s lush habitats and observing its diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and a wide array of birds and reptiles.

The tour includes comfortable air-conditioned transportation, a guided jeep safari, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where they can witness the feeding and rehabilitation of orphaned baby elephants.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible booking policy, this tour offers an immersive wildlife experience tailored to the needs of the modern traveler.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from the local hotel in Tangalle/Hiriketiya, where guests board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the 2-hour drive to the Elephant Transit Home.

Upon arrival, visitors have the opportunity to witness a 30-minute feeding session with the baby elephants. This unique experience allows guests to observe the dedicated care and rehabilitation efforts at the facility.

Following the Elephant Transit Home, the tour proceeds to Udawalawa National Park, where a jeep safari takes travelers on an exciting journey to spot a variety of wildlife, including the park’s thriving elephant population.

Udawalawa National Park

Udawalawa National Park is home to a thriving elephant population supported by abundant water sources. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including wild buffalos, spotted deers, barking deers, wild boars, sambars, hares, mongoose, crocodiles, and an array of reptiles and birds. Visitors can expect to witness up to 30 species of snakes, 50 species of butterflies, and a myriad of avian wonders during their jeep safari. The park’s expansive grasslands, dense forests, and sprawling wetlands create a dynamic ecosystem that allows these magnificent creatures to thrive in their natural habitat.

Wildlife Sightings	Udawalawa National Park
Elephants	Abundant
Wild Buffalos	Widespread
Bird Species	Diverse

Elephant Transit Home

At the heart of the Elephant Transit Home lies a remarkable facility dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned or injured elephant calves.

Visitors can witness the caring treatment and nurturing environment provided to these gentle giants, as they prepare for their eventual return to the wild.

The Transit Home features:

• Dedicated feeding times, where visitors can observe the elephants being bottle-fed by caretakers
• Spacious, well-equipped enclosures that mimic the natural habitat, promoting natural behaviors
• A team of expert veterinarians and mahouts who monitor the elephants’ health and development
• Educational exhibits highlighting the importance of elephant conservation and the Transit Home’s critical role
• Opportunities to support the organization through donations or volunteering.

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Wildlife Sightings

Traversing the diverse landscapes of Udawalawa National Park, visitors can expect to encounter a vibrant array of wildlife.

Amongst the lush vegetation, herds of majestic elephants roam freely, while wild buffalos wallow in the abundant water sources.

Spotted and barking deer dart gracefully through the undergrowth, while wild boars forage for food.

Overhead, a myriad of bird species soar, from the iconic peacock to the elusive endemic varieties.

The park is also home to a thriving population of predators, including snakes, mongoose, and crocodiles, providing an opportunity to witness the delicate balance of nature.

This rich biodiversity makes Udawalawa a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Included Services

The tour package includes essential services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Travelers are provided with comfortable air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a stress-free journey to the Elephant Transit Home and Udawalawa National Park. Experienced local guides accompany the group, sharing their expertise on the wildlife and ecosystem.

Entrance fees to both the Elephant Transit Home and the national park are covered, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the activities. Plus, convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services are included, eliminating the need for additional logistics.

These inclusive offerings create a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure for nature enthusiasts.

• Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
• Professional driver/guide
• Entrance fees to Elephant Transit Home and Udawalawa National Park
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Expertise on wildlife and ecosystem

Customer Feedback

Rave reviews from satisfied travelers underscore the tour’s resounding success, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on five glowing accounts.

Guests enthusiastically recount smooth transportation and abundant wildlife sightings, including 30-40 elephants, in Udawalawa National Park.

The Elephant Transit Home particularly captivates visitors, who highlight the compassionate care for injured baby elephants and the educational insights gained.

One reviewer notes the site’s impressive museum, complementing the firsthand experience of observing the gentle giants.

Across the board, travelers depart the tour with a profound appreciation for Sri Lanka’s remarkable elephants and the conservation efforts underway to protect them.

Booking Details

Efficiently booking this immersive tour is a breeze, as travelers can conveniently reserve their spot now and pay later.

The hassle-free cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Guests can look forward to:

• An air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable 2-hour drive to the Elephant Transit Home
• Flexibility to schedule the tour at their preferred time and date
• Stress-free pickup from their local hotel in Tangalle/Hiriketiya
• Professional driver/guide to ensure a seamless and informative experience
• Guaranteed admission to the Udawalawa National Park and Elephant Transit Home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Food Is Provided for the Baby Elephants?

The baby elephants are fed a specialized formula milk, designed to meet their nutritional needs. Visitors get to witness the feeding and can observe the elephants’ eagerness to drink the nourishing liquid.

Is It Possible to Interact With the Baby Elephants?

Visitors can interact with the baby elephants during the 30-minute feeding session at the Elephant Transit Home. They’re allowed to hand-feed the orphaned calves a nutritious milk formula, providing a unique and memorable wildlife experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the Elephant Transit Home visit, but some restrictions may apply to protect the elephants’ well-being. Check with the tour guide for specific guidelines on photography to ensure an enjoyable and responsible experience.

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

The best time to visit Udawalawa National Park is during the dry season from June to September, when the park’s abundant waterholes attract large herds of elephants and other wildlife, offering prime viewing opportunities.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Needs?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special needs. The operator is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary or provide additional assistance to ensure the comfort and accessibility of all guests.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the enchanting blend of wildlife and conservation on the Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Orphanage tour. Witness the heartwarming baby elephant feeding session at the Elephant Transit Home, then explore Udawalawa National Park‘s diverse habitats, spotting majestic elephants and other wildlife in their natural environment. This immersive half-day adventure offers a truly unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: