Udawalawa: Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour

Exploring Sri Lanka’s wildlife can be a highlight of any trip, and the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers just that — a chance to see some of the island’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re an avid animal watcher or just looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, this tour promises a rewarding experience without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see a large herd of elephants outside Africa, as well as the chance to spot other wildlife like crocodiles, buffalo, and deer. The guided aspect, led by knowledgeable local guides, makes the experience both informative and engaging. Plus, the relatively short duration of three hours makes it easy to fit into your travel plans.

On the flip side, a consideration is that the park entrance fee of around $37 USD is not included, so be prepared for that additional expense. If you’re someone who prefers a very personalized or private experience, this tour’s group size (up to 6 people per jeep) offers a good balance of intimacy and affordability. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a genuine, budget-friendly wildlife encounter.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $21 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and wildlife experience.
• Wildlife Variety: Expect to see elephants, buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a host of bird and butterfly species.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, helping visitors understand animal behavior and park ecology.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 6 passengers per jeep, you’ll have a more personalized experience than larger tours.
• Flexible Scheduling: Check availability for different starting times, making it adaptable to your itinerary.
• Additional Costs: Park entrance fee (~$37 USD) and food are not included but are manageable expenses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Safari Experience

The Udawalawe Safari Tour is a classic choice for travelers eager to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife without the hassle of organizing a full-day outing or hiring private transport. Starting with hotel pickup within the Udawalawe area, you’ll hop into a sturdy safari jeep designed for good visibility and easy animal spotting. The small group size ensures that the experience remains intimate and less rushed, allowing you time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

The itinerary is straightforward, focusing on exploring the 230,821-hectare park, home to approximately 500 elephants. We loved the way guides position the vehicle for optimal viewing, often stopping at key points where animals tend to congregate. From watching a young elephant interact with visitors to spotting herds of buffalo grazing, the encounters feel natural and unforced.

Wildlife viewing is the core of the tour. You’ll likely see elephants in large groups, which is arguably the highlight outside of Africa, as one reviewer noted, “the best elephant gathering outside of Africa.” Many visitors praise guides like Koshala or Pathum for their sharp eyes and insightful commentary. As one reviewer put it, “He always put us in perfect spots to see all animals with a very good view.”

Other animals frequently seen include crocodiles basking on riverbanks, spotted and barking deer darting through the undergrowth, wild boar, sambar, and even mongoose. Birdwatchers will enjoy the chance to see dozens of bird species and butterflies, adding to the richness of the experience.

The landscape itself is a mix of open plains, waterholes, and patches of forest, which makes for excellent photography opportunities. The three-hour duration is typically enough to get a good overview of the park’s wildlife without feeling rushed, according to reviews that mention how just a few hours can produce a surprising number of sightings.

A picnic lunch can be taken in the park, though this is not included in the cost. For many, it’s a leisurely break amid the wilderness, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be returned to your hotel, often with a camera full of pictures and a mind full of memories. Many travelers express satisfaction with the value for money, especially given the number of animals they see and the quality of the guides.

Why Choose This Tour?

This safari suits travelers who want a reliable, guided wildlife experience without the complexity of a full-day safari or the expense of private tours. It’s especially appealing for those on a budget who still want a high chance of seeing elephants and other iconic species. The guided aspect adds educational value, making it a good choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-timers alike.

While not a full-day adventure, it offers enough time to enjoy and photograph wildlife without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re interested in learning more about Sri Lanka’s fauna, the knowledgeable guides’ insights will make the experience more meaningful.

The Sum Up

The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to get up close with Sri Lanka’s wildlife. The combination of small-group transportation, expert guides, and a focus on the park’s most famous residents — elephants — makes it one of the top options for wildlife lovers visiting the region.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a reliable, engaging safari experience with good value for money. If your goal is to see elephants and a variety of other animals without the hassle of organizing a full-day trip or paying high prices, this tour is a smart choice.

While it does require paying the park entrance fee separately, many find that the cost is justified by the quality of sightings and the professionalism of the guides. It strikes a nice balance between comfort, affordability, and authenticity — a true taste of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels within the Udawalawe area, making logistics much easier.

How much does the park entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee is approximately 37 USD (Sri Lankan Rupees 11,000) and is paid separately by travelers.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 6 passengers per jeep ensures a relatively intimate experience and better animal viewing opportunities.

How long does the safari last?
The tour typically lasts around 3 hours, which is enough time to see a variety of animals without feeling rushed.

Is food provided?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, you can bring your own picnic or purchase snacks locally.

Are there any accessibility limitations?
Yes, this activity is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for pregnant women.

What animals are commonly seen?
Elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, deer, mongoose, and numerous bird species are frequently spotted.

Do guides explain what we see?
Absolutely. Guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to answer questions, adding educational value to the experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

This safari promises genuine encounters with Sri Lanka’s wild side, all at a price that makes it accessible to many. If you’re after a fun, well-organized, wildlife-focused outing, it’s a choice worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: