Udawalawe National Park Safari

Udawalawe National Park is a renowned Sri Lankan wildlife haven teeming with a diverse array of species. Those seeking an immersive safari experience can embark on a thrilling journey through this captivating landscape. With carefully curated packages and personalized attention, the safari offers a chance to spot majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a myriad of other wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you opt for a morning, evening, or extended adventure, the skilled driver-trackers ensure an unforgettable encounter with the park’s remarkable denizens. As you prepare to set out, the excitement builds, leaving you eager to uncover the wonders that await.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Safari Tours In Sri Lanka.

Key Points

• Udawalawe National Park Safari offers a thrilling 4×4 vehicle experience to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including the opportunity to spot a wide range of animals.
• The safari package includes an experienced driver who serves as a knowledgeable tracker, as well as complimentary water and hotel pickup/drop-off for accommodations outside the 5 km radius.
• The safari is available in 3-hour morning/evening excursions and a 10-hour extended adventure, with the cooler hours providing the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Entrance fees to the national park must be paid separately in cash upon arrival, with additional costs for food, beverages, and gratuities.
• The safari offers a private tour experience with a maximum of 6 passengers per 4×4 vehicle, ensuring a personalized and flexible exploration of the park.

Overview of the Safari

Udawalawe National Park Safari offers visitors a chance to embark on a thrilling journey through Sri Lanka’s diverse wilderness, providing ample opportunities to spot a wide range of wildlife.

The safari experience includes a 4×4 vehicle with a maximum capacity of 6 passengers, along with an experienced driver who also serves as a knowledgeable tracker.

Guests can choose from various safari options, including a 3-hour morning or evening excursion, as well as a 10-hour extended adventure.

To ensure a comfortable and convenient experience, the package includes free pickup and drop-off within 5 km of the park gate, and a complimentary water bottle per person.

With its Badge of Excellence, the Udawalawe National Park Safari is a top-rated attraction in Sri Lanka.

Included Services

The safari package includes a 4×4 safari jeep that can accommodate up to 6 passengers, along with an experienced driver who also serves as a knowledgeable tracker.

Pickup and drop-off services are provided within 5 km of the park gate, ensuring a convenient start and end to the adventure. Each guest will receive a complimentary water bottle to stay hydrated during the safari.

If your hotel is located outside the 5 km radius, the package also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the entire experience seamless.

While the entrance fees to the park must be paid in cash separately, the included services provide a comprehensive and worry-free safari experience.

Excluded Services

Though the safari package includes several valuable services, there are also some expenses that travelers will need to cover separately.

Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park must be paid in cash upon arrival.

Plus, food, beverages, and gratuities for the driver and staff aren’t included in the package price and will need to be budgeted for separately.

By understanding these excluded services upfront, visitors can better plan and prepare for their safari experience.

The entrance fees will vary depending on the visitor’s nationality and age, so it’s important to check the current rates.

Knowing these additional costs ahead of time allows travelers to manage their overall safari budget effectively.

Recommended Times

When it comes to the best times to embark on a safari at Udawalawe National Park, visitors have several options to choose from.

The morning safari, typically starting at 6:00 am, lasts for 3 hours and allows travelers to witness the park’s wildlife in the cooler, more active hours of the day.

Similarly, the evening safari, commencing at 3:00 pm, also provides a 3-hour experience as the animals become more active towards dusk.

For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration, a 10-hour safari starting at 7:00 am is available, though it’s advisable to avoid the midday hours between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm when the animals are less active and the heat can be intense.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation.

The tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, but it’s located near public transportation.

Participants shouldn’t have any heart problems or other serious medical conditions, as most travelers can take part in the experience.

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate.

The Udawalawe National Park Safari offers an immersive and personalized wildlife adventure. With a maximum of 6 passengers per 4×4 safari jeep, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and exclusive experience. Your experienced driver, who also acts as a tracker, will guide you through the park, ensuring you have the best chance of spotting elephants, deer, and other local fauna.

This tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.

Entrance Fees

The entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park aren’t included in the safari package and must be paid separately in cash upon arrival.

These fees cover the cost of accessing the park and contribute to its conservation efforts.

The amount varies depending on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers.

For a jeep with up to six passengers, the entrance fee is approximately $15 USD per person.

Children under the age of 12 receive a discounted rate.

It’s important to have the exact cash on hand to pay the fees, as the park authorities don’t accept credit cards or provide change.

Paying the entrance fees ensures a seamless start to your Udawalawe safari adventure.

Hotel Pickup and Dropoff

For customers staying outside the 5-kilometer radius of the park entrance, the safari package includes complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off services.

Travelers can easily arrange their transportation to and from the starting point of the safari, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout their Udawalawe adventure.

This service is particularly beneficial for those who are staying in accommodations further away from the park gates, as it eliminates the need for self-driving or arranging additional transportation.

The pick-up and drop-off are coordinated by the safari provider, allowing guests to focus on the excitement of the safari itself without worrying about logistics.

This added convenience enhances the overall value and enjoyment of the Udawalawe National Park experience.

Private Tour Experience

This safari offers a private tour experience, where only your group will participate. Travelers can enjoy the exclusivity of having the safari vehicle and guide dedicated solely to their party, allowing for a more personalized and flexible exploration of Udawalawe National Park. With a maximum of 6 passengers, this intimate setting ensures a comfortable and immersive journey through the park, where you can set the pace and focus on the sights and wildlife that interest you most.

Key Features	Benefits	Experiences
Dedicated Safari Vehicle	Flexible Itinerary	Personalized Attention
Private Guide	Undivided Focus	Exclusive Encounters
Intimate Group Size	Comfort & Privacy	Tailored Exploration

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour operator does not provide any water bottles or other refreshments, so it’s recommended to pack any desired snacks and beverages ahead of time.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Wear?

There are no strict dress code requirements, but visitors should wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes. Wearing bright colors or patterns may scare away wildlife, so neutral tones are recommended for a more immersive safari experience.

Can I Purchase the Entrance Tickets Online in Advance?

You can’t purchase Udawalawe National Park entrance tickets online in advance. The tickets must be paid in cash upon arrival at the park gate. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues and secure a spot on the desired safari.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

When going on a safari, it’s important to be aware of safety precautions like staying inside the vehicle, following the guide’s instructions, and being cautious around wild animals. Wearing sun protection and staying hydrated are also recommended.

How Often Do the Safari Vehicles Rotate During the Tour?

The safari vehicles typically rotate frequently during the tour to ensure all guests have an opportunity to get the best views. Most tours rotate the seating arrangement every 30-45 minutes for an optimal experience.

Recap

Udawalawe National Park Safari offers a thrilling adventure through Sri Lanka’s diverse wilderness.

Travelers can choose from a 3-hour morning or evening safari, or an extended 10-hour adventure, all aboard a 4×4 vehicle with an experienced driver-tracker.

The safari package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, complimentary water, and a private tour experience.

Entrance fees, food, beverages, and gratuities aren’t included and should be budgeted for separately.