Sri Lanka’s Udawalawa National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary that offers an unforgettable safari experience. Spanning over 230,000 hectares, the park is home to a thriving elephant population, providing visitors with exceptional opportunities to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Guided by experienced experts, the tour promises up-close encounters with a diverse array of species, including the elusive leopard. While the convenience of transportation and stunning scenery add to the overall appeal, the true allure of the Udawalawa safari lies in the chance to witness the park’s remarkable…

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Key Points

Udawalawa National Park offers guided safari tours to explore its diverse wildlife, including a thriving population of over 500 Sri Lankan elephants.
Safari tours provide opportunities for close encounters with elephants, leopards, deer, and other animals in their natural habitats.
The comprehensive safari experience includes scenic views of lush landscapes, wetlands, and waterways, led by experienced wildlife guides.
Hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off services, and safari jeeps accommodating up to 6 passengers, ensure a comfortable tour.
The park’s status as a crucial conservation area and its rich biodiversity make it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

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Overview of Udawalawa National Park

Udawalawe National Park, sprawling across 230,821 hectares, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces of Sri Lanka.

Home to approximately 500 elephants, the park boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, sambar, hare, mongoose, crocodiles, and 30 snake species.

Plus, visitors can witness over 50 butterfly species and a variety of bird types.

Established in 1972, Udawalawe serves as a crucial conservation area, providing a safe haven for the island’s magnificent elephants and other native fauna.

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Wildlife Diversity in Udawalawa

Although spanning a vast area of 230,821 hectares, Udawalawe National Park is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife. From the iconic Sri Lankan elephant with a population of around 500, to the elusive leopard and a variety of deer species, the park is a true haven for nature enthusiasts.

Spanning a vast 230,821 hectares, Udawalawe National Park is a haven for diverse wildlife from elephants to elusive leopards.

Visitors may encounter wild buffalo, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, sambar, hare, and mongoose, as well as 30 snake species and 50 butterfly species.
The wetlands and riverine habitats also provide a sanctuary for crocodiles and a vibrant array of bird life.

With such a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, Udawalawe offers an unforgettable wildlife experience for all who visit.

Memorable Elephant Encounters

Visitors to Udawalawe National Park are often captivated by the park’s thriving elephant population. With around 500 elephants roaming the 230,821-hectare reserve, safari-goers have ample opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Travelers frequently report memorable encounters, such as observing herds grazing peacefully or even seeing young calves playfully interacting with their families. The sheer size and power of the elephants never fail to impress, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness these impressive animals up close.

Udawalawe’s elephant population is truly a highlight of the safari experience.

Guided Safari Tour Experience

As part of the Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour, visitors are provided with a guided exploration of the expansive reserve.

The experienced guides lead the group through the park, sharing their deep knowledge of the diverse wildlife and ecosystem.

The safari experience offers:

Up-close encounters with majestic elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat
Opportunities to spot a variety of other animals, including wild buffalo, deer, and crocodiles
Breathtaking views of the park’s lush landscapes and scenic waterways.

The guided tour ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors to witness the wonders of Udawalawa National Park.

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Transportation and Logistics

For the Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour, the tour operator provides hotel pickup and drop-off services from the Udawalawe area.

Participants will be transported in a Safari Jeep that can accommodate up to 6 passengers.

Safari Jeeps can accommodate up to 6 passengers, ensuring a comfortable and immersive journey through the Udawalawe National Park.

The tour includes a guided experience, ensuring visitors make the most of their safari adventure.

While the park entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, the tour package offers a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the vast Udawalawe National Park.

The transportation and logistics are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for the participants.

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Participant Restrictions

Certain participants may be restricted from joining the Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour.

There are a few important considerations:

The safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women, as the rough terrain and open-air jeep can pose risks.
The tour is also not wheelchair accessible, so individuals with mobility challenges may not be able to fully participate.
Plus, the safari may not be appropriate for very young children, as the long duration and exposure to wildlife could be overwhelming or unsafe.

Ratings and Customer Reviews

The Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour has received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 93 customer reviews.

Travelers particularly praise the tour’s guide, who received a 4.7/5 rating, and the transportation, which was also rated 4.7/5. The value for money was rated 4.4/5.

Many customers highlight memorable encounters with elephants and diverse wildlife, although some express disappointment over not spotting leopards.

Pricing and Booking Information

The Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour offers flexible booking options. Guests can save up to 5% on the standard price of $22.82 per person, paying only $21.68 per person.

The tour lasts 3 hours and a reserve now, pay later option is available. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour features:

Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in the Udawalawe area
Transportation in a Safari Jeep with a maximum of 6 passengers
A guided tour included in the price

Booking this safari is easy and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour operator recommends enjoying the meals and refreshments provided to fully immerse in the safari experience and support the local community.

Is It Possible to Extend the Safari Duration?

The safari duration can be extended, but it comes at an additional cost. Guests should check with the tour operator about options and pricing for extending the tour beyond the standard 3-hour duration.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The safari tour provides restroom facilities at designated stops within the national park. Participants can use these facilities during the 3-hour safari experience.

Can I Request a Private Safari Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private safari tour instead of a group tour. Private tours are available upon request, though they may cost more than the group tour option. Speak with the tour operator for availability and pricing.

What Should I Bring to Prepare for the Safari?

For a safari, it’s best to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and binoculars. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water and snacks. Some tour operators may provide additional gear, so it’s worth checking with them beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Udawalawa National Park Safari Tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, particularly its iconic elephant population. Guided by experienced experts, the tour provides visitors with incredible up-close encounters and stunning scenic views, making it a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts. With convenient transportation and reasonable pricing, the safari tour is a seamless and accessible way to explore one of the country’s premier wildlife sanctuaries.