Udawalawe National Park boasts some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning wildlife viewing opportunities. Travelers can embark on a 4-hour safari to spot wild elephants, buffalos, and other endemic species in their natural habitats. The tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where visitors can observe the rehabilitation of orphaned elephants. This affordable and flexible excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, making it a must-consider for nature enthusiasts.

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Key Points

4-hour guided safari in Udawalawe National Park and visit to the Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants.
Budget-friendly tour priced at Kč 547 per person with flexible booking and free cancellation.
Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like elephants, buffalos, deer, and boars during the 4×4 Jeep safari.
Knowledgeable driver/guide provides insights and avoids crowds for an incredible safari experience.
Convenient transportation with hotel pickup included and option for public or private transfers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 4-hour Udawalawe National Park Safari and Elephant Transit Home Tour. Priced from Kč 547 per person, it’s a budget-friendly excursion.

Booking is flexible – reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. The safari is conducted in a 4×4 Jeep with an experienced driver/guide, accommodating up to 6 passengers.

The highlight is visiting the Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours to observe baby elephants. The tour is available in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

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Safari Experience

A 4×4 Jeep safari tour with an experienced driver/guide takes visitors through Udawalawe National Park to spot a variety of wildlife.

The safari experience offers:

Opportunities to see wild elephants, buffalos, deer, boars, and an array of other animals including 30 species of snakes and 50 species of butterflies.
A visit to the Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours to observe baby elephants.
A knowledgeable guide who provides insights and avoids crowds for an incredible safari experience.

Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, customers have been highly satisfied with the Udawalawe National Park tour.

With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 102 reviews, the tour is praised for its great safari experience and knowledgeable guides.

Customers highlight the variety of wildlife spotted, including elephants, deer, and birds. They also appreciate the convenient transportation and value for money.

One reviewer from the UK noted the "fantastic half-day safari with great insight from our guide," while a customer from China described the "wonderful safari with a variety of animals seen; knowledgeable guide."

Tour Inclusions

The Udawalawe National Park tour includes a 4×4 Jeep safari with an experienced driver/guide.

The key inclusions are:

The key inclusions are transportation in a 4×4 Jeep with a knowledgeable driver/guide and the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife.

Hotel pickup from the Udawalawa area or National Park entrance
Transportation in a 4×4 Jeep with a knowledgeable driver/guide
The opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, deer, and more

However, the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park or any food and drinks.

Pickup from hotels outside the specified areas is available for an additional charge, allowing for a flexible and customized experience.

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Important Information

To explore the wildlife in their natural habitat, visitors enter Udawalawe National Park via a 4-wheel drive Jeep.

This mode of transportation allows travelers to venture deep into the park and observe animals up close.

Guests can take advantage of the tour’s flexible booking policy, reserving their spot now and paying later.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can adjust their plans as needed.

This safari offers a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse flora and fauna in an immersive and responsible manner.

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Getting to Udawalawe National Park

Visitors can reach Udawalawe National Park from various locations in Sri Lanka. The most popular options include:

From Colombo: The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, covering a distance of around 200km.
From Galle: The journey is about 3 hours, covering 150km.
From Ella: The drive takes approximately 2 hours, covering a distance of 80km.

Regardless of the starting point, the park is well-connected by public transportation or private transfers.

Visitors can arrange transportation through their hotel or tour operator to ensure a hassle-free journey to this remarkable wildlife haven.

Wildlife Sightings at Udawalawe

As visitors explore Udawalawe National Park, they can expect to encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the majestic Asian elephant, which is the park’s main attraction. Herds of elephants roam freely, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors.

Beyond elephants, the park is home to buffalos, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boars, sambars, hares, mongooses, crocodiles, and over 30 species of snakes.

Birders can spot up to 50 species of butterflies and a variety of birds. The knowledgeable guides skillfully navigate the terrain to provide an unforgettable safari experience amidst Udawalawe’s abundant wildlife.

Visit to Elephant Transit Home

What makes the Elephant Transit Home such a highlight of the Udawalawe National Park tour? The opportunity to witness the feeding of baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home is a true highlight.

Visitors can observe:

Caretakers bottle-feeding the young elephants, providing crucial nutrients and care.
Elephants playing and interacting with each other, showcasing their natural behaviors.
The Elephant Transit Home’s mission to rehabilitate orphaned or injured elephants and eventually release them back into the wild.

This intimate encounter with the baby elephants offers a unique and memorable experience during the Udawalawe safari adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food and Water Provided During the Safari Tour?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. Visitors will need to bring their own food and water for the safari experience.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the safari. The tour does not include any meals or beverages, but visitors are free to pack and consume their own provisions during the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the safari tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though parents should ensure their children follow the guide’s instructions for safety. Infant car seats may be available upon request for young children.

Can I Take Photographs During the Safari and at the Elephant Transit Home?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the safari and at the Elephant Transit Home. However, it’s important to follow any rules or restrictions set by the park or conservation authorities to avoid disturbing the animals.

Is It Possible to Extend the Safari Duration or Visit Additional Locations?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can also request to visit additional locations within the park, subject to availability and an extra charge. However, these options should be arranged in advance with the tour operator.

The Sum Up

This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s magnificent wildlife and support elephant conservation. With convenient hotel pickups, flexible booking, and an experienced guide, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique adventure, this tour promises an exceptional experience.