From Negombo: Wilpattu National Park Safari Guided Day Tour

Exploring the vast and untamed Wilpattu National Park is a captivating experience. This guided day tour from Negombo promises an immersive encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. From spotting majestic leopards to witnessing the serene Villus, the safari promises a wealth of natural wonders. With convenient amenities and a knowledgeable guide, the tour offers an opportunity to explore the heart of this remarkable ecosystem. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this guided safari may just be the perfect addition to your Sri Lankan itinerary.

Key Points

• Enjoy a full-day guided tour to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, departing from Negombo.
• Explore the park’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and birdlife, during a game drive led by knowledgeable local guides.
• Discover the park’s unique ecosystem of natural lakes, known as Villus, which provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
• The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off, transportation, a local guide, bottled water, and a lunch stop at Puttalam Hotel.
• Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun hats are recommended for the safari, which is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour from Negombo is priced from $105.00 per person.

This full-day tour lasts 10 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The safari includes pickup and drop-off, a jeep, a local guide, bottled water, and all necessary fees. Lunch at a Puttalam Hotel is also provided.

Itinerary and Transportation

From Negombo, the tour departs for the approximately 4-hour journey to Wilpattu National Park.

Along the way, travelers enjoy photo stops and scenic views.

Upon arrival, the group embarks on a game drive guided by knowledgeable drivers who assist in spotting wildlife.

The group embarks on a game drive guided by knowledgeable drivers who assist in spotting wildlife upon arrival at Wilpattu National Park.

The safari explores the park’s numerous Villus (lakes) in search of animals like leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.

After the safari, the tour returns to Negombo.

Shared transfers are provided, though early or late pick-up may incur additional charges if the drop-off location differs from the starting point.

Wilpattu National Park: Sri Lanka’s Largest and Oldest

Wilpattu National Park is Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest national parks, covering an impressive 508 square miles (131,694 hectares).

It’s known for its unique feature – the numerous Villus, or natural lakes, which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Visitors can spot a variety of animals, including leopards, elephants, spotted deer, sloth bears, and crocodiles, as well as an abundance of bird species.

The park is guided by knowledgeable drivers who assist in spotting the diverse wildlife that calls Wilpattu home.

With its rich ecosystem and natural beauty, Wilpattu is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Notable Wildlife Encounters

While exploring Wilpattu National Park, visitors can expect to witness an array of captivating wildlife encounters.

The park is home to a diverse range of species, including:

1. Majestic Leopards: Spotting these elusive big cats as they prowl through the dense bush is a thrilling highlight for many safari-goers.

2. Gentle Giants: Herds of Elephants can be observed grazing or bathing in the park’s numerous Villus (lakes), providing a truly awe-inspiring experience.

3. Multitude of Birds: The park boasts a rich variety of birdlife, from vibrant peacocks to storks and herons wading in the shallow waters.

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Unique Features of Wilpattu National Park

Along With its abundant wildlife, Wilpattu National Park boasts several unique features that distinguish it from other parks in Sri Lanka.

At the heart of the park lie numerous "Villus" – natural, shallow lakes that provide critical watering holes for the diverse fauna. These Villus are a prime attraction, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe animals such as elephants, leopards, and crocodiles during their daily visits.

The park’s terrain also features a mix of brush, grasslands, and dense forests, creating a varied landscape that supports a rich biodiversity. This diversity is a key draw for visitors seeking an immersive safari experience.

Guided Safari Experience

Visitors to Wilpattu National Park can expect a guided safari experience led by knowledgeable drivers who assist in spotting the park’s diverse wildlife.

The safari provides opportunities to see:

1. Leopards, the park’s most iconic predator.

2. Herds of elephants roaming the landscape.

3. A variety of other species, including spotted deer, sloth bears, and crocodiles.

Knowledgeable guides help maximize the chances of wildlife sightings and provide insights into the park’s unique features, such as the numerous Villus (lakes) that attract a wide range of animals.

Knowledgeable guides enhance the chances of wildlife sightings and provide insights into the park’s unique Villu lakes that attract diverse animals.

The safari offers an immersive and educational experience in Sri Lanka’s largest national park.

Included Amenities and Recommendations

The Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience for visitors. The tour package includes pickup and drop-off, jeep hire, a local guide, bottled water, and a local lunch at Puttalam Hotel. Plus, entry fees to the national park are covered. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses and sun hats to protect against the elements. Researchers should review national park fees before booking. The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

| Included Amenities | Additional Recommendations |

| — | — |

| Pickup/Drop-off | Comfortable Shoes |

| Jeep Hire | Sunglasses |

| Local Guide | Sun Hats |

| Bottled Water | Review National Park Fees |

| Lunch at Puttalam Hotel | Not Suitable for Pregnant/Wheelchair Users |

| National Park Entry Fee | |

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Travelers have given the Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on 29 reviews.

Top highlights mentioned include:

1. Professional pickup and drop-off service.

2. Knowledgeable guides who assist in spotting wildlife.

3. Ample time allowed for taking photos.

However, some noted the safari duration often exceeded 10 hours, and wildlife sightings varied.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Duration or Schedule?

The tour duration and schedule can’t be customized. It’s a shared transfer with a fixed itinerary and pickup time. However, additional charges may apply for different drop-off locations beyond the designated return point in Negombo.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Package Deals Available?

There are no discounts or group package deals specifically mentioned for this Wilpattu National Park safari tour. However, travelers may be able to negotiate group rates directly with the tour operator upon inquiry.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Safari Tour?

The safari tour has a maximum group size of 7 participants. No additional discounts or group package deals are offered. Shared transfers are provided, though early or late pick-up options are not available.

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the safari, though bottled water is provided. It’s recommended to pack a light snack or lunch, as the provided local meal may not suit all dietary preferences.

Is There Any Age Limit or Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no age limit, but the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are advised against joining this safari due to the terrain and long duration.

The Sum Up

The "From Negombo: Wilpattu National Park Safari Guided Day Tour" offers an immersive wildlife experience in Sri Lanka’s largest national park. With a guided jeep safari, the chance to spot diverse species, and amenities like transportation and lunch included, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Priced at $105 per person, it’s a practical way to explore Wilpattu’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

You can check availability for your dates here: