Embark on an extraordinary adventure with the Udawalawe Safari Day Tour, a captivating excursion that takes you deep into the heart of Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness. Organized by the renowned Dim Tours Sri Lanka, this 8-hour journey promises an immersive exploration of the country’s natural treasures, from the serene Elephant Transit Home to the thrill of a 4-hour jeep safari through the breathtaking Udawalawe National Park. With expert guides, luxury transportation, and the chance to savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, this tour offers a window into the island’s remarkable ecosystems and conservation efforts. Prepare to be captivated as you uncover the wonders that await.
Good To Know
- This 8-hour Udawalawe Safari tour from Bentota/Aluthgama/Ahungalla is organized by Dim Tours Sri Lanka and includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
- The tour offers a 4-hour jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, providing opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
- Participants are transported in air-conditioned luxury vehicles and a private jeep is provided for the national park safari.
- Lunch at a local restaurant, along with bottled water, fruits, and snacks, is included in the tour package.
- The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals over 70 years of age, and pets are not allowed.
Tour Overview
The Udawalawe Safari Day Tour offers a captivating opportunity to explore the magnificent Udawalawe National Park, located just a short drive from Bentota, Aluthgama, and Ahungalla.
Organized by Dim Tours Sri Lanka, this private tour provides an 8-hour immersive experience, complete with a live guide and audio guide available in English, German, and Russian.
Priced from $240 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a convenient pickup from 13 locations across the region.
Travelers can choose between a morning or evening safari, both of which promise an unforgettable encounter with the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ahungalla.
Inclusions and Itinerary
Kicking off the Udawalawe Safari Day Tour is a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where guests can witness the remarkable rehabilitation efforts for orphaned elephants.
After the transit home, the tour proceeds to the renowned Udawalawe National Park for a 4-hour jeep safari. Travelers will have the opportunity to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, deer, and an abundance of bird species.
A lunch break at a local restaurant provides a chance to refuel before the safari continues. The all-inclusive package covers national park entry fees, bottled water, fruits, and snacks, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout the day.
Transportation and Amenities
For the Udawalawe Safari Day Tour, guests are consistently transported in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle to and from the designated pickup and drop-off locations.
During the safari, travelers are provided with a private Jeep for the Udawalawe National Park experience. The tour package includes all necessary entry fees, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.
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Bottled water, fresh fruits, and snacks are provided throughout the day to keep guests energized and hydrated.
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The tour covers government taxes and highway tolls, leaving no hidden costs for the travelers.
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Experienced guides, fluent in English, German, and Russian, accompany the group, offering live commentary and audio guides.
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The transportation and amenities are designed to optimize comfort and convenience for the Udawalawe Safari Day Tour participants.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour promises an enjoyable and seamless experience for all guests.
Pickup and Drop-off Details
From the specified pickup locations, guests are provided with free transportation to the Udawalawe Safari site. Pickup and drop-off services are available from 13 convenient locations, including Unawatuna, Beruwala, and Bentota. Guests are advised to wait in their hotel lobby 5 minutes before their scheduled pickup time. The 13 drop-off locations mirror the pickup options, ensuring a seamless return journey.
| Pickup Locations | Drop-off Locations |
|---|---|
| Unawatuna | Unawatuna |
| Beruwala | Beruwala |
| Balapitiya | Balapitiya |
| Hikkaduwa | Hikkaduwa |
| Kalutara | Kalutara |
Elephant Transit Home Visit
After the complimentary pickup from the specified locations, guests head to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
This unique facility serves as a temporary home for orphaned or abandoned elephant calves, rehabilitating them before their release into the wild.
Visitors can expect:
- An up-close encounter with these gentle giants as they’re bottle-fed and cared for by dedicated staff
- Insights into the transit home’s conservation efforts and the challenges faced by Sri Lanka’s elephant population
- Opportunities to observe the elephants’ natural behaviors and daily routines in a safe, controlled environment
- Educational information about the transit home’s role in protecting and preserving Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant heritage
- A chance to support the facility’s vital work through donations or sponsorships.
Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari
Following the Elephant Transit Home visit, guests embark on the highlight of the tour – the Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari.
During this 4-hour excursion, the private safari jeep ventures deep into the park, offering up-close encounters with the diverse wildlife. Guests have the chance to spot herds of Asian elephants, along with other majestic creatures like water buffaloes, crocodiles, deer, and an array of bird species.
The experienced guide provides insightful commentary, sharing knowledge about the park’s ecology and inhabitants.
Traversing the rugged terrain, the safari immerses visitors in Udawalawe’s natural splendor, creating lasting memories of this remarkable wilderness experience.
Lunch Break at Local Restaurant
After the exhilarating Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari, the tour takes a break for lunch.
Guests are treated to a delightful meal at a local restaurant, where they can savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
The menu features:
- Fragrant rice and curry dishes
- Flavorful lentil-based daal
- Fresh seasonal vegetables
- Tangy chutneys and sambols
- Refreshing tropical fruits for dessert
The lunch break provides a welcome respite, allowing travelers to recharge and enjoy the local culinary traditions.
With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the meal isn’t just nourishing, but also a cultural experience that enriches the overall safari adventure.
Important Information
The Udawalawe Safari Day Tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 70 years of age. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants during the excursion. On top of that, pets are not allowed, and visitors are prohibited from feeding the animals within the national park. This is to maintain the natural ecosystem and minimize any potential disruptions. The tour provider has implemented these guidelines to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
| Condition | Reason |
|---|---|
| Not Suitable for Pregnant Women | Safety Concerns |
| Not Suitable for Individuals Over 70 | Safety Concerns |
| No Pets Allowed | Maintaining Natural Ecosystem |
| No Feeding of Animals | Minimizing Disruptions |
| Overall Customer Rating | 5/5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Udawalawe?
The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season, from July to September. This is when wildlife sightings are most abundant, as animals congregate around the park’s watering holes to beat the heat.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
No, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour includes bottled water, fruits, and snacks provided by the tour company to enjoy during the Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari.
Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the safari duration. Guests can upgrade their tour to a longer safari experience, which provides more time to explore the Udawalawe National Park and increases the chances of spotting diverse wildlife.
Are There Any Medical Facilities Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are medical facilities available during the tour. The tour operator has first-aid kits on hand, and they’ll contact emergency services if needed. Guests with pre-existing conditions should consult with their doctor before booking.
Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own During the Safari?
No, guests are not allowed to leave the group or explore on their own during the safari. The tour is conducted in a private Jeep, and guests must remain with the group and guide for safety and regulatory reasons.
The Sum Up
The Udawalawe Safari Day Tour from Bentota, Aluthgama, or Ahungalla offers an unforgettable adventure. Explore the Elephant Transit Home, embark on a thrilling 4-hour jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, and savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. With air-conditioned transportation, expert guides, and diverse wildlife sightings, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience that showcases Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and conservation efforts.
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