Udawalawe National Park Wildlife Safari From Mirissa

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s southern region, the Udawalawe National Park beckons nature enthusiasts with its untamed beauty and diverse wildlife. Embarking on a safari from the coastal town of Mirissa, adventurers can enjoy a captivating 7-hour excursion that promises to leave them awestruck. From the scenic drive to the thrilling game drive, this experience offers a tantalizing glimpse into the park’s rich ecosystem, where majestic elephants roam and a symphony of avian species takes flight. But the adventure doesn’t end there, as the option to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home adds a compelling layer of conservation to the journey.

Good To Know

• The Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari from Mirissa is a 7-hour excursion that costs approximately €90.21 per person.
• The safari includes a 3-hour game drive in open-top jeeps, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants and birds.
• Pickup locations are available from Bentota and Kalutara, with a 2.5-hour journey to the national park and back.
• The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home can be visited for an additional fee, providing insights into conservation efforts.
• Adherence to park rules, such as no feeding animals and staying on designated paths, is required to ensure a responsible and immersive wildlife experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

Typically, the wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park from Mirissa costs from €90.21 per person.

This 7-hour excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of reserving your spot without immediate payment.

The safari includes a 3-hour game drive through the park, where you’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of elephants, birds, and the picturesque landscape.

An optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home can also be arranged for an additional fee.

With free cancellation and flexible booking, this safari is an ideal way to learn about Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Itinerary and Experience

The safari begins with pickups from Bentota and Kalutara, followed by a 2.5-hour journey to the enchanting Udawalawe National Park.

Once there, guests embark on a thrilling 3-hour game drive to spot the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, birds, and more. The open-top jeep provides unobstructed views, allowing travelers to capture stunning photographs of the landscapes and animals.

For those interested, an optional 30-minute visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home can be arranged for an additional fee.

The safari concludes with the return journey, another 2.5-hour drive back to the pickup locations.

Wildlife and Conservation Significance

Udawalawe National Park’s conservation significance dates back to the 1970s, when it was established as a sanctuary for wildlife displaced by the creation of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

Now, the park is known for its large elephant population, making it the third most visited in Sri Lanka. Visitors can expect to spot a diverse array of wildlife, from birds to big cats, amidst the park’s picturesque landscapes.

The park’s importance extends beyond just providing a home for animals – it plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage for generations to come.

Exploring Udawalawe’s wonders on a wildlife safari is a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Pickup Locations and Travel

Pickup locations for the Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari are offered from Bentota and Kalutara. The journey to the park takes approximately 2.5 hours by car, offering a scenic drive through Sri Lankan countryside.

Guests can look forward to:

• Admiring the lush green landscapes dotted with coconut palms and paddy fields
• Catching glimpses of local village life as the road winds through small towns
• Spotting wildlife like monkeys, peacocks, and water buffaloes along the way
• Enjoying the refreshing breeze as the open-top jeep navigates the winding roads
• Anticipating the excitement of the upcoming safari in the renowned national park.

More Great Tours Nearby

Activity Details and Highlights

Upon arriving at Udawalawe National Park, guests embark on an exhilarating 3-hour game drive through the park’s expansive landscapes. Aboard open-top jeeps, they enjoy the pristine wilderness, capturing stunning photographs of the park’s diverse wildlife. From majestic elephants roaming the grasslands to an array of vibrant bird species, the safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s iconic fauna in its natural habitat. The journey also includes an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where guests can observe the conservation efforts dedicated to caring for orphaned elephants.

Wildlife Sightings	Photographic Opportunities
Elephants	Landscapes
Deer	Bird species
Crocodiles	Elephant herds
Monkeys	Sunsets

Important Information and Restrictions

Certain considerations must be kept in mind when embarking on this wildlife safari.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, allergies, recent surgeries, or motion sickness.

Guests are advised to come prepared with the essentials:

• Comfortable shoes
• Sun hat
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent

Plus, the park has strict rules that must be adhered to, such as no feeding of animals, staying on public paths, and respecting wildlife and plants.

Re-entry isn’t allowed after leaving the venue, and late arrivals can’t join once the event starts.

Ticket Prices and Group Size

The ticket prices for the Udawalawe National Park wildlife safari range from USD 35 to USD 50 per person, depending on the group size.

Smaller groups of 2-3 individuals typically pay the higher end of the range, while larger groups of 4 or more can take advantage of the lower per-person rates.

Regardless of group size, the safari offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including the park’s famous elephant population.

Travelers should book their spots in advance to secure their preferred departure time and take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy.

Park Rules and Regulations

When visiting Udawalawe National Park, travelers must adhere to a set of regulations to ensure the well-being of the wildlife and preserve the natural environment.

These rules include:

• No feeding the animals as it can disrupt their natural behavior and diet.
• Staying on designated public paths to avoid trampling on the vegetation and disturbing the flora and fauna.
• Respecting the wildlife and plants by avoiding loud noises and unnecessary disturbances.
• Refraining from bringing in glass objects, alcohol, or fireworks, which can pose safety hazards.
• Adhering to the park’s re-entry policy, as once you leave, you can’t re-enter the premises.

Compliance with these regulations not only enhances the overall safari experience but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of this remarkable national treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My DSLR Camera During the Safari?

Yes, visitors can use their DSLR cameras during the safari. The park rules allow photography within reason, so guests can capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes throughout the 3-hour game drive in Udawalawe National Park.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The typical group size for this tour is flexible, with tickets priced based on the number of participants. Groups are usually small, allowing for an intimate and personalized wildlife viewing experience in Udawalawe National Park.

Do You Offer Any Discounts or Special Packages?

The tour operator offers group discounts for larger parties, starting at 5 or more travelers. They also provide special safari packages that include an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home at an additional fee.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Yes, visitors can opt to extend their safari duration for an additional charge. This allows more time to spot wildlife and explore the park’s diverse landscapes at a leisurely pace.

Can I Purchase a Photo Package From the Tour Provider?

The tour provider offers an optional photo package that allows guests to purchase professional photographs taken during the wildlife safari. This provides a convenient way to capture memorable moments from the excursion without the hassle of carrying extra equipment.

The Sum Up

The Udawalawe National Park Wildlife Safari from Mirissa offers an unforgettable adventure, blending the thrill of an open-air jeep safari with the opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. From majestic elephants to a vibrant array of bird species, this exhilarating excursion immerses visitors in the natural wonders of the region while supporting conservation efforts. With a seamless journey and an optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home, it’s a must-experience for nature enthusiasts exploring the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: