Udawalawe National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Visit

Embark on an exhilarating 4.5-hour adventure into the heart of Udawalawe National Park, where diverse ecosystems teem with remarkable wildlife. Spot majestic elephants, elusive sloth bears, and mighty crocodiles in their natural habitats during a captivating 3-hour game drive. Complement this thrilling safari with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where you’ll witness the compassionate care of orphaned elephants. With convenient hotel pickups, expert guides, and flexible booking options, this immersive experience promises to showcase Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity in an unforgettable way. What surprises await as you venture into this stunning natural sanctuary?

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Safari Tours In Udawalawa.

Good To Know

• Explore the diverse ecosystems of Udawalawe National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears.
• Enjoy a 3-hour game drive within the 30,821-hectare park, with the opportunity to visit the Elephant Transit Home.
• Pricing starts from LKR 3,937 per person, with morning and afternoon safari options and hotel pickup/drop-off available.
• Booking process is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexibility to pay later.
• Safari experience is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, so consider physical requirements before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Udawalawe National Park Safari is a popular activity that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of this renowned Sri Lankan national park.

Priced from LKR 3,937 per person, the 4.5-hour tour includes a 3-hour game drive in the park, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can choose between morning and afternoon safaris, with pickup and drop-off provided from hotels in the Udawalawa area.

The tour provides a chance to observe elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and various bird species in their natural habitats, surrounded by the park’s breathtaking forests, grasslands, and water bodies.

Safari Experience and Itinerary

Guests’ safari experience commences with a pickup from their hotels in the Udawalawa area, where they can choose between morning (6:30 a.m./7:00 a.m.) or afternoon (1:30 p.m./2:00 p.m.) safaris.

They’ll embark on a 30-minute jeep ride to Udawalawe National Park, where a thrilling 3-hour wildlife game drive awaits.

The itinerary includes:

1. Taking in the diverse ecosystems of the 30,821-hectare national park, home to elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and more.
2. Admiring breathtaking landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies.
3. Observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
4. A 30-minute break at Udawalawa before visiting the Elephant Transit Home for baby elephant feeding.

The safari experience concludes with a return to the hotel at approximately 10:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Wildlife Viewing Highlights

Udawalawe National Park spans an expansive 30,821 hectares, encompassing diverse ecosystems that serve as a haven for a wide array of wildlife.

Visitors can expect to encounter majestic elephants, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, elusive sloth bears, and a variety of colorful bird species.

The breathtaking landscapes, ranging from dense forests to expansive grasslands and serene water bodies, provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

With the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitats, the Udawalawe National Park safari offers an immersive and awe-inspiring experience that allows travelers to connect with the wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse and thriving ecosystem.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The Udawalawe National Park safari package includes pickup and drop-off, as well as the services of a professional driver-cum-guide, a 3-hour wildlife game drive, and the necessary entrance fees.

These entrance fees cover the Udawalawe National Park (11,000 LKR/approx. 37 USD) and the Elephant Transit Home (3,500 LKR/approx. 12 USD).

Visitors should note that all payments for entrance fees must be made in cash, in Sri Lankan Rupees.

Plus, guests have the option to add a picnic breakfast to their morning safari at an additional cost of 8 USD per person.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this safari experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

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Important Information and Restrictions

There are a few important restrictions to be aware of when booking the Udawalawe National Park safari. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the bumpy terrain.

A minimum of two adults is required for the booking, and children aged 5 or below can join for free, while those aged 5-12 pay a 50% charge and must be accompanied by an adult.

Arrangements outside the specified pickup and drop-off areas may incur additional charges. Visitors should be prepared for the safari’s physical demands and ensure they meet the requirements to fully enjoy the wildlife experience.

Booking and Reservation

Booking a safari at Udawalawe National Park is a straightforward process. Travelers can reserve their adventure online, selecting from available morning or afternoon options.

Once booked, they’ll have the flexibility to pay later and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The booking process involves a few simple steps:

1. Choose the preferred safari time and number of participants.
2. Provide the necessary personal and contact details.
3. Select the "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option if desired.
4. Confirm the booking and receive the necessary details and vouchers.

With these easy steps, visitors can secure their Udawalawe National Park safari and look forward to an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Arrival and Pickup Arrangements

Upon securing their Udawalawe National Park safari, travelers can look forward to a seamless pickup experience.

The tour operator provides convenient hotel pickup options in the Udawalawa area, with morning and afternoon safari timings available. Guests can choose to join the safari at either 6:30 a.m./7:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m./2:00 p.m.

A professional driver-cum-guide will transport them in a comfortable vehicle for the 30-minute journey to the national park. This hassle-free arrangement ensures travelers can focus on the upcoming wildlife adventure, without the need to worry about logistics.

Once at the park entrance, the safari experience begins, providing an immersive encounter with the diverse flora and fauna of Udawalawe.

Explore Udawalawe’s Diverse Ecosystems

Spanning an impressive 30,821 hectares, Udawalawe National Park boasts a diverse array of ecosystems that captivate visitors.

The park’s landscapes feature:

1. Lush, verdant forests teeming with a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.

2. Vast, open grasslands where herds of majestic elephants roam freely.

3. Serene water bodies that attract a myriad of aquatic species, including crocodiles.

4. Rugged, rocky outcroppings that provide a home to the elusive sloth bear.

As you traverse the park, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks for the safari. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand as there may be restrictions or additional guidelines to consider.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the safari, but visitors should avoid using flash as it can disturb the animals. It’s important to follow the guides’ instructions and respect the park’s rules to ensure an enjoyable and responsible experience.

How Can I Ensure the Safety of My Belongings During the Safari?

To ensure the safety of belongings during the safari, visitors should use a small daypack or cross-body bag, avoid carrying valuables, and keep them close to the body. The safari vehicle also provides secure storage space.

Are There Any Health and Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Guests should be aware of safety guidelines like avoiding close contact with wild animals, staying on designated paths, and listening to the guide’s instructions. Certain health conditions may restrict participation in the safari activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Request Additional Stops During the Tour?

While the standard itinerary can’t be customized, visitors may contact the tour provider to request additional stops or modifications, which may incur extra charges. The tour provider will work to accommodate reasonable requests within the overall time frame.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Udawalawe’s lush landscapes, where you’ll witness nature’s wonders up close. From majestic elephants to elusive sloth bears, this safari offers an immersive experience that’ll leave you in awe of Sri Lanka’s remarkable biodiversity. With expert guides and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts in this remarkable national park.

You can check availability for your dates here: