Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour from Tissamaharama/Yala

If you’re thinking about a safari experience in Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers a solid adventure for wildlife lovers, especially those eager to see Asian elephants in their natural habitat. Hosted by Yala Dreams Wild Safari Tours Sri Lanka, this 7-hour excursion promises a mix of wildlife viewing, cultural insight, and a touch of conservation—the kind of trip that can turn a good holiday into a memorable one.

What immediately appeals to us is the ease of planning—free hotel pick-up and drop-off from several key locations like Tissamaharama and Hambantota make it accessible and hassle-free. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of luxurious safari jeeps and expert guides assures a comfortable and educational experience. On the flip side, the park entrance fee isn’t included, so budget an extra few dollars for your tickets. Still, for the price of $70 per person, the value offers a compelling way to encounter Sri Lanka’s wilderness without breaking the bank. If you love animals, especially elephants, and want an authentic, guided safari close to Yala, this tour is a real contender.

Key Points

• Convenience: Free hotel pick-up and drop-off from multiple locations streamline your day.
• Wildlife & Conservation: Focus on spotting Asian elephants and visiting the Elephant Transit Home, emphasizing local conservation efforts.
• Comfort & Guidance: Luxurious jeeps and experienced guides enhance the safari experience.
• Value: Affordable price with included amenities like water, cool drinks, and binoculars.
• Timing & Duration: 7-hour experience with flexible starting times based on availability.
• Practicality: Park entrance fee not included, but tickets are available at the park, making it straightforward to plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Detailed Experience

Starting Off: Easy Pick-up & Private Transport

The tour kicks off with complimentary pick-up from your hotel in Tissamaharama, Hambantota, or nearby areas like Yala, Kirinda, and Weerawila. This is a big plus, especially if you prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transport. The private, air-conditioned vehicles are a step above the usual safari vans, adding a layer of comfort that you’ll appreciate after a long drive or a hot day.

The Safari in Udawalawe National Park

Once you arrive at Udawalawe, you’ll hop into a luxurious safari jeep—not just any vehicle, but one designed for comfort and optimal wildlife viewing. The guided tour lasts around 5 hours, giving you ample time to scan the landscapes, waterholes, and grasslands for wildlife. As one reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guides pointed out animals and shared interesting facts about their behavior,” making the experience both fun and educational.

Udawalawe is known as one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild Asian elephants, and you’ll likely spot herds grazing or wading through water. The park’s open plains, dotted with patches of forest and water bodies, make for excellent photographic opportunities, especially with the binoculars provided for free during the tour.

Visiting the Elephant Transit Home

After the safari, the tour includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, a chance to see young, orphaned elephants being cared for before their eventual release back into the wild. This part of the tour, lasting about an hour, offers a close-up look at the conservation work being done in Sri Lanka. Many reviews highlight this as a heartwarming experience, with visitors noting how the guides explain the elephants’ stories and the importance of protecting these gentle giants.

More Great Tours Nearby

Drop-off & Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up with drop-offs at your initial pick-up locations—Kirinda, Weerawila, Kataragama, Palatupana, Hambantota, or Tissamaharama—making it easy to continue your day without stress. The flexible scheduling, with various starting times based on availability, means you can tailor the experience to your travel plans.

What You’ll Love

The fact that all transport is included and guides are highly experienced makes this a hassle-free adventure. The price point of $70 offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of amenities like water, cool drinks, and binoculars. Plus, the small group setting ensures a more personalized and less crowded experience, which many travelers find enhances their connection with the environment.

The elephants’ transit home visit is a highlight for animal lovers and offers an authentic look at conservation efforts. The tour’s emphasis on wildlife—especially elephants—is a significant draw, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts or families wanting an educational outing.

Considerations & Practical Tips

While the experience offers great value, remember that park entrance tickets are not included. Expect to pay a separate fee at the gate, which can vary. We recommend arriving early or booking in advance to secure your preferred start time. The 7-hour duration is well-paced, but be prepared for some early mornings or late mornings depending on your chosen schedule.

Also, the tour is designed for private groups, which means it’s intimate, but it might not suit travelers looking for a large, social safari. If you prefer a more personalized experience with expert guides, this is perfect.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for You

If you’re passionate about wildlife and elephants, value comfort and convenience, and are eager to learn about conservation efforts, this safari ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited for those who want a high-quality experience at a reasonable price without sacrificing comfort or expert guidance. Families, photographers, or solo travelers will all find it a worthwhile adventure.

Travelers who appreciate flexibility and would like to combine wildlife viewing with visiting a notable elephant orphanage will find this tour offers a good balance of nature, education, and ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay for park entrance tickets separately?
Yes, the park entrance fee is not included in the $70 tour price, but tickets are available at the park’s entrance. Make sure to budget a few extra dollars for this.

How long is the safari in Udawalawe National Park?
The guided safari lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to see wildlife and explore the park.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transport, luxurious safari jeeps, expert guiding, water, cool drinks, and binoculars. It also includes the elephant orphanage visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age limits, the relaxed pace and focus on wildlife make it generally suitable for families with older children who enjoy nature.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for capturing wildlife moments. Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are advisable.

The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour from Tissamaharama offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience for anyone eager to see elephants and Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a comfortable, guided setting. The inclusion of luxurious jeeps, expert guides, and a chance to visit the Elephant Transit Home distinguishes it from more basic safaris, making it a fantastic choice for animal lovers and conservation-minded travelers alike.

If you’re looking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty without the fuss, this tour is a sound investment. It’s best suited for those who want a personalized, educational experience that highlights wildlife and conservation, all within a manageable time frame and at an accessible price.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a family seeking an engaging outing, or simply someone eager to see elephants roaming free, this safari provides a reliable and enriching window into Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: