Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s picturesque southern region lies Udawalawe National Park, a veritable oasis teeming with an abundance of wildlife. From the majestic elephants roaming the sprawling grasslands to the elusive leopards prowling the dense forests, this unspoiled sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure. Set out on a thrilling 7-hour safari from the coastal town of Kaluthara, where you’ll witness firsthand the park’s diverse ecosystem and the remarkable creatures that call it home. With the convenience of hotel pickup, a scenic drive, and a guided jeep tour, this captivating experience offers a chance to learn about the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. Prepare to be captivated, for the wonders of Udawalawe National Park are waiting to be discovered.
Good To Know
- 7-hour wildlife safari at Udawalawe National Park, priced at $100 per person, with pickup and drop-off in Kaluthara.
- Opportunity to spot elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species during the 3-hour safari in the park.
- Established in the 1970s, Udawalawe is known for its large elephant population and is the third most visited park in Sri Lanka.
- Inclusions cover hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, jeep safari, bottled water, and park entrance fees.
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and a "pay later" option is provided for reservations.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Embarking on a captivating wildlife safari at Udawalawe National Park, visitors can expect an unforgettable adventure. Priced from $100 per person, the 7-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of reserve now, pay later.
Guests will be picked up from Bentota or Kaluthara and embark on a 1.5-hour drive to the park, where they’ll enjoy a 3-hour safari in an open-top jeep, spotting elephants, leopards, birds, and other diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
An optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is also available for an additional fee. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, shared transportation, the safari, water, and park entrance fees.
Itinerary and Experience
The journey to the wildlife haven of Udawalawe National Park begins with a 1.5-hour drive from the pickup locations in Bentota or Kaluthara.
Upon arrival, adventurers embark on a thrilling 3-hour safari through the park’s lush grasslands and forests, spotting majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitat.
For those seeking an extended experience, an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home can be arranged, where visitors can observe the rehabilitation efforts for orphaned elephants.
After the safari, guests return to their accommodations in Kaluthara or Bentota, having witnessed the wonders of this premier Sri Lankan wildlife destination.
Wildlife and Park Features
Created in the 1970s as a sanctuary for displaced wildlife, Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its large population of elephants, making it the third most visited park in Sri Lanka. Boasting a diverse array of wildlife, the park is home to an array of species, including leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and over 150 bird species. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic landscapes, from lush grasslands to dense forests and a serene reservoir. To better appreciate the park’s incredible biodiversity, consider the following highlights:
| Wildlife Sightings | Park Highlights |
|---|---|
| Elephants | Lush Grasslands |
| Leopards | Diverse Forest Habitats |
| Sloth Bears | Calming Reservoir |
| Endemic Birds | Spectacular Sunsets |
| Sambar Deer | Unique Geological Features |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari offers an inclusive experience, providing a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and seamless adventure.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned shared vehicle transportation, a jeep safari drive, bottled water, and the entrance fee to the national park. Guests can enjoy the spectacular wildlife sightings without worrying about additional costs.
However, the tour excludes food, drinks, and optional gratuities. Personal expenses and shopping are also not included.
Travelers are advised to bring essential items like comfortable shoes, cameras, and insect repellent to make the most of this unforgettable safari experience.
Accessibility and Restrictions
Not everyone can fully participate in the Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari. The tour has certain accessibility and restriction guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests. Certain medical conditions, such as back or heart problems, allergies, or recent surgeries, may make the safari unsuitable. Plus, pets, oversized luggage, drones, alcohol, glass objects, and fireworks are strictly prohibited. Guests must be able to navigate uneven terrain and ride in an open-top jeep. Despite these restrictions, the safari remains an incredible opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
| Accessibility | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Comfortable shoes required | No pets allowed |
| Able to navigate uneven terrain | No oversized luggage |
| Can ride in open-top jeep | No drones |
| No recent surgeries or medical conditions | No alcohol or glass objects |
| No fireworks |
What to Bring and Expect
Proper preparation is key to fully immersing oneself in the Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari experience.
Bring comfortable, closed-toe shoes to navigate the uneven terrain. Pack a camera to capture the incredible diversity of elephants, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Don’t forget insect repellent and a lightweight scarf or hat to shield from the sun. Having a charged smartphone and binoculars on hand will enhance your safari experience.
While food and drinks aren’t included, having some cash for optional purchases at the Elephant Transit Home is recommended.
Remember to respect the wildlife by not feeding the animals or disturbing their natural environment.
Respect for Wildlife
Respecting the wildlife at Udawalawe National Park is paramount during the safari experience.
Visitors must refrain from feeding the animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and even put them in harm’s way. Plus, it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and avoid any actions that could disturb their habitats.
- Observe the animals from a respectful distance, allowing them to roam freely without interference.
- Refrain from making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the wildlife.
- Dispose of any trash responsibly, ensuring the park remains pristine and safe for the animals.
Booking and Cancellation
To book a wildlife safari at Udawalawe National Park, visitors can easily reserve their spot in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, allowing for flexibility in planning.
Travelers simply need to pay later, securing their reservation without an upfront cost. This safari departs from Kaluthara, with convenient pickup locations in Bentota and Kaluthara.
With a 7-hour duration, the experience provides ample time to immerse in the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether seeking elephants, leopards, or vibrant birdlife, this Udawalawe adventure promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Safari Tour?
The tour is offered in a shared jeep, so the group size isn’t strictly limited. However, to ensure an intimate and comfortable experience, the group size is typically kept small, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the wildlife sighting in Udawalawe National Park.
Can I Customize the Safari Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
The tour operator generally accommodates customization requests, allowing guests to tailor the safari itinerary to suit their preferences. However, changes may incur additional fees or require advance notice to ensure availability.
Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Safari Drive?
The safari offers excellent photo opportunities throughout the drive. Guests can capture stunning shots of elephants, birds, and the park’s diverse landscapes. The open-top jeep allows for unobstructed views and easy photography during the 3-hour safari.
Can I Charge My Electronic Devices During the Tour?
Yes, you can charge your electronic devices during the tour. The air-conditioned shared vehicle provides USB charging ports, so you can keep your camera, smartphone, and other gadgets fully powered for capturing unforgettable wildlife moments.
Do I Need a Guide or Can I Explore the Park Independently?
For this wildlife safari, visitors can’t explore Udawalawe National Park independently. A guide-led jeep tour is required to ensure a safe and informative experience spotting elephants, leopards, and other incredible animals in their natural habitat.
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The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure at Udawalawe National Park from Kaluthara. Enjoy the park’s stunning grasslands and forests, where you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including majestic elephants and elusive leopards. With convenient booking options and a thrilling jeep safari, this 7-hour experience promises an exhilarating encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse natural wonders.