Udawalawa Safari Park and Transit Home From Tangalle

Situated near the picturesque town of Tangalle, Udawalawa Safari Park offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. This 7-hour tour promises an exhilarating 3-hour jeep safari, where guests can expect to encounter a captivating array of species, from majestic elephants to the elusive buffalo. But the real highlight may just be the chance to visit the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home, a remarkable facility dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of orphaned elephants. As you prepare to embark on this extraordinary adventure, one can’t help but wonder what other extraordinary sights and experiences await.

Good To Know

• Udawalawe Safari Park offers a 7-hour tour with a 3-hour jeep safari to view elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and diverse bird species near Tangalle, Sri Lanka.
• The tour includes an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, which provides care and rehabilitation for displaced elephants.
• The park was established in the 1970s as a sanctuary for wildlife displaced by reservoir construction and is the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka.
• Visitors can expect to see a thriving elephant population, along with other wildlife such as buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, and over 50 butterfly species.
• The tour can be booked with flexible arrangements, including early morning hotel pickup, local lunch, and additional fees for the Elephant Transit Home visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

The Udawalawe Safari Park, located within the Udawalawe National Park near Tangalle, offers visitors a thrilling 7-hour tour to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the region.

The tour includes an early morning pickup from your hotel in Tangalle, followed by a 3-hour game drive in a jeep to view elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Guests can also choose to enjoy an optional local lunch and visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for an additional fee.

With its rich history and abundant wildlife, the Udawalawe Safari Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Itinerary Highlights

Early morning pickup from the hotel in Tangalle kicks off the Udawalawe Safari Park tour. After the drive, visitors embark on a thrilling 3-hour game drive in a jeep to spot wildlife. The highlight is the chance to view the park’s thriving elephant population, as well as buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, and hare. Visitors can also spot over 50 butterfly species. An optional local lunch at a hotel in Udawalawe and a 30-minute visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (for an extra fee) provide further opportunities to immerse in the park’s natural wonders.

Pickup	Safari Drive	Lunch	Additional Visit
Early Morning	3 Hours	Optional	Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (Extra Fee)

Wildlife and Habitat

Established in the 1970s as a sanctuary for animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir, the Udawalawe National Park boasts a thriving population of elephants.

The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including buffaloes, wild boar, sambhur, and hares. With over 50 species of butterflies fluttering through the landscape, the park offers a rich tapestry of natural wonders.

As the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka, Udawalawe attracts visitors from around the world who come to witness the impressive array of native fauna and flora.

The park’s conservation efforts have been instrumental in preserving the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Visitor Information

Booking a tour of the Udawalawe Safari Park is a straightforward process, with options to reserve now and pay later.

The tours last around 7 hours, with early morning pickup from Tangalle hotels. During the 3-hour game drive, visitors can expect to see a thriving elephant population, as well as buffalo, wild boar, and an abundance of bird species.

While lunch at a local hotel is optional, there’s an additional 30-minute visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home available for an extra fee.

Certain restrictions apply, such as not being suitable for pregnant women or those with physical limitations.

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable clothing and a camera to capture the park’s diverse wildlife.

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Park History

The Udawalawe National Park’s origins can be traced back to the 1970s, when it was established as a sanctuary for animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

This protected area serves as a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, including:

1. A thriving elephant population
2. Buffalo, wild boar, and sambhur
3. Over 50 species of butterflies

Today, the park is the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the remarkable natural beauty and abundant wildlife that call this sanctuary home.

The park’s long history as a haven for displaced animals continues to shape its role in conservation efforts and eco-tourism in the region.

Pricing and Bookings

For the Udawalawe Safari Park tour, prices start from $110.00 per person.

This includes pickup and drop-off from your Tangalle hotel, transportation by air-conditioned shared vehicle, and a 3-hour game drive in a jeep to view the park’s abundant wildlife.

An optional local lunch at a hotel in Udawalawe can be arranged at an additional cost. Visitors also have the option to add a 30-minute visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for an extra fee.

Booking is flexible, with the ability to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Though the Udawalawe Safari Park tour offers an immersive wildlife experience, it may not be suitable for all visitors.

The tour has several restrictions and accessibility considerations:

1. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as pregnancy, back/heart problems, or recent surgeries, are advised not to participate.

2. Visitors should avoid bringing pets, weapons, alcohol, and glass objects, as these are strictly prohibited within the park.

3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the duration of transfers may vary depending on traffic conditions.

It’s essential for prospective guests to review these guidelines carefully before booking the tour to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure.

What to Expect

Embarking on the Udawalawe Safari Park tour presents visitors with an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

The day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Tangalle, setting the stage for an exciting adventure. During the 3-hour game drive, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a thriving elephant population, as well as other wildlife like buffalo, wild boar, and a diverse array of bird species.

While a local lunch is optional, the highlight of the day is likely the visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where you can observe the rehabilitation and care of these gentle giants.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be surrounded by the park’s lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Early Morning the Best Time to Spot Wildlife?

Early morning is generally the best time to spot wildlife, as animals are more active during the cooler hours before the day heats up. This increased activity improves the chances of successful sightings.

Are There Any Opportunities for Wildlife Photography?

The safari drive offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Guests can capture stunning images of elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species during the early morning game drive when animals are most active.

Can We Extend the Safari Drive Duration if Needed?

Sure, visitors can extend the safari drive duration if needed, but this would incur an additional fee. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests to spend more time viewing the park’s wildlife, subject to availability and additional costs.

Do Guides Provide Information About the Park’s Conservation Efforts?

The guides typically provide detailed information about the park’s conservation efforts, explaining how the national park was established to protect the displaced wildlife and highlighting the ongoing initiatives to preserve the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Are There Any Cultural or Historical Sites to Visit Nearby?

The tour doesn’t include visits to nearby cultural or historical sites, but visitors can explore the region’s ancient temples, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes on their own before or after the safari experience.

The Sum Up

Udawalawe Safari Park is a captivating destination that offers visitors an unforgettable adventure in nature. With its diverse wildlife, including elephants and buffalo, and the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, this 7-hour tour is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the park make it a truly remarkable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: