Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure with the Udawalawa Safari from Ahungalla and Bentota. This all-inclusive excursion promises an up-close encounter with the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s renowned Udawalawa National Park. Hop aboard a comfortable vehicle and let an experienced driver and tracker guide you through the lush landscapes, where you’ll have the chance to spot the iconic Asian elephant, a diverse array of birds, and other captivating creatures. With complimentary refreshments, detailed wildlife guides, and the flexibility of free cancellation, this safari delivers an immersive experience that will leave you yearning for more. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning sights and sounds that make this journey truly unforgettable.
Good To Know
- This 8-hour adventure in Udawalawa National Park offers a comprehensive safari experience starting from $191.60 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
- The safari includes a 3.5-4 hour guided wildlife viewing session led by knowledgeable drivers and trackers, focusing on spotting Asian elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.
- The tour provides convenient pickup options from Bentota or Ahungalla, with a scenic 2.5-hour drive through picturesque landscapes and rural Sri Lankan life.
- Participants will have access to binoculars, wildlife/birding guide books, and safety gear to enhance their immersive encounter with Udawalawa’s rich biodiversity.
- The safari experience allows visitors to explore one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, offering opportunities to observe a wide range of flora and fauna, including unique reptilian species.
Activity Overview
What does the Udawalawa Safari from Ahungalla & Bentota entail? This all-inclusive safari promises an 8-hour adventure into the heart of Udawalawa National Park.
Priced from $191.60 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Travelers can choose to be picked up from Bentota or Ahungalla and will be dropped off at their respective locations.
The guided tour features 4 hours of expert-led wildlife viewing, where guests can spot iconic Sri Lankan animals like Asian elephants, spotted deer, and golden jackals.
With a duration of 3.5 to 4 hours, the safari experience promises an unforgettable up-close encounter with one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
Pickup and Itinerary
The Udawalawa Safari from Ahungalla & Bentota kicks off with convenient pickup locations, offering guests a seamless start to their wildlife adventure.
Travelers can be picked up from either Bentota or Ahungalla, and dropped off at the same locations at the end of the tour.
The guided tour provides 4 hours of exciting wildlife viewing within Udawalawa National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier biodiversity hotspots.
The drive to the park takes approximately 2.5 hours, and the safari experience itself lasts 3.5 to 4 hours, giving guests ample time to spot a diverse array of flora and fauna.
With a knowledgeable safari driver and wildlife tracker, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable encounter with nature.
Wildlife and Flora Highlights
Recognized as one of the ten global biodiversity hotspots, Udawalawa National Park is home to a remarkable array of wildlife.
Visitors can spot the majestic Asian Elephants, graceful Spotted Deer, and cunning Golden Jackals roaming the lush landscapes. Other captivating creatures include Sambar Deer, Ruddy Mongoose, Indian Grey Mongoose, Indian Hare, Tufted Gray Langur, and Toque Macaque.
The park also boasts an impressive reptilian population, with sightings of the Indian Rock Python, Saltwater Crocodile, and Bengal Monitor.
Birdwatchers will delight in the presence of the Crested Hawk-Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, White-Rumped Shama, and Brown-Capped Babbler, among others.
Tour Inclusions
With an English-speaking Safari Driver cum Wildlife tracker leading the way, the tour includes entrance tickets to the renowned Udawalawa National Park.
Guests will travel in a comfortable Jeep during the safari and a car for pickup and drop-off. Complimentary cool water bottles, snacks, or tropical fruits are provided, and optional lunches can be arranged.
To enhance the experience, the tour also includes wildlife and birding picture guide books, as well as binoculars. These thoughtful inclusions ensure guests can fully enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawa, one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots, without worrying about the logistics.
Restrictions
Though not suitable for individuals over 95 years old, the Udawalawa Safari experience caters to a wide range of adventurers.
While the itineraries are subject to change, the main stops along the way are carefully curated to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
Whether you’re spotting majestic elephants, elusive leopards, or a diverse array of bird species, the safari promises an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity.
Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras and binoculars to capture the breathtaking moments.
The restrictions in place ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawa National Park.
Getting to Udawalawa National Park
Departing from the coastal towns of Ahungalla and Bentota, safari-goers embark on a scenic journey to Udawalawa National Park, a verdant sanctuary teeming with diverse wildlife.
The approximately 2.5-hour drive traverses picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of rural Sri Lankan life. The route winds through lush tea plantations, verdant paddy fields, and charming villages, building anticipation for the wildlife-rich encounters ahead.
Along the way, travelers may spot:
- Vibrant birdlife in the skies
- Majestic water buffaloes cooling off in nearby ponds
- Locals engaged in traditional farming practices
Arriving at the park gates, the excitement heightens as the safari experience truly begins, unfolding the wonders of Udawalawa’s natural treasures.
What to Bring for the Safari
Preparing for the Udawalawa safari calls for a thoughtful selection of essentials to fully take in the park’s natural wonders.
Binoculars are a must-have to spot wildlife from a distance, while a camera with a telephoto lens can capture stunning close-ups of elephants, deer, and exotic birds.
A lightweight, breathable outfit and comfortable walking shoes ensure mobility and comfort during the safari.
Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, shields you from the tropical sun.
Insect repellent wards off pesky mosquitoes.
Safari Experience and Highlights
Embarking on the Udawalawa safari, visitors are greeted by the park’s expansive landscapes, a mosaic of grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests.
The 3.5-4 hour journey offers unparalleled opportunities to spot the park’s diverse wildlife. Herds of majestic Asian elephants roam freely, while sightings of spotted deer, golden jackals, and a variety of birds captivate onlookers.
The safari experience is further enriched by:
- Glimpses of the elusive Indian Rock Python and Bengal Monitor
- Awe-inspiring encounters with the powerful Saltwater Crocodile
- The chance to observe the unique behaviors of the Toque Macaque and Tufted Gray Langur
This immersive wildlife adventure promises an unforgettable connection with the natural wonders of Udawalawa National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize My Safari Experience?
Absolutely! Guests can customize their safari experience by requesting specific wildlife sightings, photography stops, or adding optional extras like packed lunches. The tour operator is happy to accommodate individual preferences to make the safari truly memorable.
Are There Any Additional Costs During the Safari?
The safari package includes all necessary costs, so there are no additional expenses during the tour. Travelers can enjoy a seamless and worry-free experience exploring Udawalawa National Park’s abundant wildlife and captivating landscapes.
How Experienced Are the Safari Guides?
The safari guides are highly experienced and knowledgeable wildlife trackers. They’re passionate about the park’s biodiversity and use their keen eyes and expertise to give guests unparalleled sightings of the diverse flora and fauna.
What Is the Best Time of Day for Wildlife Viewing?
The best time for wildlife viewing is typically in the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active. During these cooler hours, visitors can spot elephants, deer, and other species as they emerge from their resting places.
Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses for the Safari?
No special permits or licenses are required for this safari. The tour operator handles all the necessary paperwork, so guests can simply enjoy the incredible wildlife viewing experience without any additional hassle or preparation.
The Sum Up
The Udawalawa Safari from Ahungalla and Bentota promises an unparalleled adventure for wildlife enthusiasts. Explore the diverse ecosystem of the Udawalawa National Park, spotting majestic Asian elephants and a variety of bird species. With expert guidance, complimentary refreshments, and the convenience of hotel pickup, this all-inclusive safari offers an unforgettable immersion in Sri Lanka’s natural wonders, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.