Udawalawe National Park Safari and Elephant Transit Home

Nestled in the arid plains of southern Sri Lanka, Udawalawe National Park offers a captivating safari experience unlike any other. Teeming with a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards, this 5-hour adventure promises to leave a lasting impression on adventurous travelers. Alongside an experienced guide, visitors can explore the park’s stunning landscapes at their own pace, catching glimpses of nature’s finest while learning about crucial conservation efforts at the renowned Elephant Transit Home. With convenient hotel pickup and complimentary refreshments, this safari promises an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders – and a chance to uncover the park’s most enchanting secrets.

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

Good To Know

• 5-hour immersive safari experience in Udawalawe National Park, known for diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and endemic birds.
• Flexible timing for exploration, private 4×4 jeep, and complimentary pickup/drop-off, providing a personalized and convenient tour.
• Opportunity to visit the Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants, contributing to conservation efforts.
• Affordable pricing with up to 40% savings, no upfront payment required, and free cancellation, offering excellent value for money.
• Experienced guide with over 10 years of expertise, ensuring a knowledgeable and insightful exploration of the park’s rich biodiversity and landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Duration

Udawalawe National Park Safari offers visitors a 5-hour immersive experience in one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries.

This private tour provides flexible timing, allowing guests to explore the park at their own pace.

Led by an experienced guide with over a decade of expertise, the safari takes visitors through the park’s grasslands, forests, and wetlands, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, Sambar deer, crocodiles, and endemic bird species.

The stunning landscapes and the chance to visit the Elephant Transit Home make this safari a must-do for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

Pricing and Booking Details

Travelers can save up to 40% on the Udawalawe National Park Safari, with prices starting from €22.26 per person.

There’s no upfront payment required – simply reserve your spot and pay later.

What’s more, you can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The 5-hour tour offers a private safari experience with a knowledgeable driver/guide who’s over 10 years of experience.

Guests can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and endemic bird species, all while taking in the stunning landscapes of grasslands, forests, and wetlands.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Udawalawe National Park Safari tour includes a private 4×4 safari jeep, an experienced driver/guide, and complimentary water bottles.

Free hotel pickup and drop-off in the Udawalawe area are also provided. Entrance tickets for both the Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home are covered in the tour price.

However, the tour doesn’t allow for the use of drones, alcohol, or drugs. Travelers with mobility impairments may find the safari challenging, as the terrain can be uneven.

Udawalawe National Park

Nestled within the verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka’s southern region, the Udawalawe National Park stands as a testament to the island’s diverse and well-preserved natural wonders.

Established in 1972, this impressive reserve covers an area of 308 square kilometers, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Home to a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, the park boasts a remarkable array of endemic species, including the Sri Lankan Jungle fowl and Spurfowl.

Visitors can expect to encounter a multitude of captivating creatures, from majestic elephants and elusive leopards to graceful sambar deer and awe-inspiring crocodiles, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking grasslands, forests, and wetlands.

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Elephant Transit Home

Adjoining the Udawalawe National Park is the Elephant Transit Home, a pioneering initiative dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of orphaned and injured elephants.

Established in 1995, this facility serves as a temporary haven for these gentle giants, providing them with specialized care and nutrition until they’re ready to be reintroduced into the wild.

Visitors can witness the heartwarming process of the elephants’ recovery and observe the dedicated efforts of the caretakers.

The Elephant Transit Home not only safeguards the well-being of these majestic creatures but also educates the public on the importance of elephant conservation in Sri Lanka.

Wildlife and Endemic Species

Udawalawe National Park boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and endemic species.

The park’s 308 square kilometers are home to a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards.

Visitors can expect to spot:

• Sri Lankan Jungle Fowl, the national bird of Sri Lanka, known for its vibrant plumage and distinct crowing
• Spurfowl, a unique ground-dwelling bird species endemic to the region
• Sambar deer, the largest deer in Sri Lanka, gracefully roaming the grasslands
• A variety of crocodiles basking on the park’s wetlands and waterways

This biodiversity, coupled with the stunning landscapes of grasslands, forests, and wetlands, makes Udawalawe a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Landscape and Scenery

The park’s breathtaking landscapes captivate visitors, offering a diverse tapestry of natural wonders.

Sweeping grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with towering trees and punctuated by tranquil wetlands.

Dense, verdant forests provide a lush backdrop, their canopies filtering the sunlight and creating an enchanting, almost otherworldly ambiance.

Winding rivers and streams meander through the landscape, their banks home to a variety of aquatic life.

The diverse habitats within Udawalawe National Park create a stunning visual feast, from the rugged grandeur of the hills to the serene beauty of the marshes, all of which contribute to the park’s captivating allure.

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Travelers’ enthusiastic reviews attest to the exceptional Udawalawe National Park safari experience.

Visitors praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who expertly navigate the park and help spot a variety of wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards. The stunning landscapes, from grasslands to wetlands, leave a lasting impression, while the Elephant Transit Home provides a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close.

Families, solo travelers, and groups of friends all recommend this tour, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

With flexible timing, complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, and no upfront payment required, this safari offers an unbeatable value.

• Overall rating: 5/5 based on 2 reviews
• Guides praised for friendliness and animal spotting expertise
• Recommended for families, solo travelers, and groups of friends
• Not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Longer Safari?

While the standard safari is 5 hours, there may be options for a longer tour. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about the availability and pricing of extended safari experiences to suit their preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks on the Udawalawe safari, the tour provides complimentary bottled water. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife without the distraction of personal snacks or beverages.

Are There Any Additional Costs for the Tour?

The tour price includes all the major expenses, such as the private safari jeep, experienced guide, water, and entrance fees. There are no additional costs beyond the tour package price unless visitors choose to purchase optional extras on-site.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience. Solo travelers, families, and groups of friends can all enjoy the private safari at their own pace.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. The private nature of the experience allows for flexible timing and the ability to focus on areas of greatest interest to the traveler.

The Sum Up

The Udawalawe National Park Safari offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes teeming with diverse wildlife. With an experienced guide and private 4×4 jeep, visitors can explore at their own pace, witness the rehabilitation of orphaned elephants, and enjoy crucial conservation efforts. Whether you’re seeking majestic elephants, elusive leopards, or breathtaking scenery, this safari promises an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: