Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour From Kandy

Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s true natural gems. Nestled in the island’s northwestern region, it’s a haven for an array of wildlife, from majestic leopards to gentle elephants. Setting out on a safari tour from Kandy provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in this captivating ecosystem, teeming with biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious explorer, the Wilpattu adventure promises to leave an indelible mark on your Sri Lankan experience.

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Key Points

A 10-hour safari tour from Kandy to Wilpattu National Park, including a 3-hour drive, 4-hour jeep safari, and a local meal.
The tour offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as leopards, elephants, deer, and crocodiles in the 508 square mile park.
Inclusions cover pickup/drop-off, jeep hire, guide, bottled water, meal, and park entrance ticket, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
The safari is not suitable for pregnant women, those with certain health issues, or individuals with animal allergies.
Customized itineraries and private tours are available, but guests are advised to bring specific items for comfort and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour is an exhilarating wildlife experience that takes visitors on a journey through one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national parks.

This activity lasts 10 hours and covers the 3-hour drive from Kandy to the park, 4 hours of wildlife viewing, and the 4-hour return trip.

Priced from £81.11 per person, the tour includes pickup, a local English-speaking guide, jeep hire, food, water, and park entrance fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

The safari promises sightings of leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife in Wilpattu’s dense forests and numerous lakes.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Wilpattu National Park

Itinerary Details

Around 07.00 AM, the tour begins with pickup from designated locations in Kandy.

The 3-hour drive to Wilpattu National Park allows travelers to enjoy the scenic countryside.

Once at the park, guests embark on a 4-hour jeep safari, spotting wildlife like leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and diverse birds.

After the safari, travelers enjoy a local meal at Puttalam Hotel.

The return journey to Kandy takes approximately 4 hours.

The return journey to Kandy takes approximately 4 hours, completing the day’s comprehensive Wilpattu National Park experience.

The day’s activities encompass travel time, immersive wildlife viewing, and a delicious lunch, providing an engaging and comprehensive Wilpattu National Park experience.

Wildlife Experience

Spanning 508 square miles (131,694 hectares), Wilpattu National Park was established in 1938 and is renowned for its dense woodland and numerous Villus (lakes).

Visitors can expect to spot an array of wildlife, including:

Leopards, the park’s most famous inhabitants and a highlight for many safari-goers.
Elephants, often seen roaming in herds throughout the park’s diverse habitats.
Spotted deer, a common sight that attracts predators like leopards.
Crocodiles, sloth bears, and a diverse array of bird species that call Wilpattu home.

This rich biodiversity makes Wilpattu a truly captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off, Jeep hire at the park, an English-speaking local guide, bottled water, a local meal, and the national park entrance ticket. However, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, animal allergies, recent surgeries, or motion sickness. Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, cash, and binoculars. Prohibited items include pets, large luggage, drones, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, and nudity. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and the duration may vary due to traffic conditions.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Pickup and drop-off | Pregnant women |

| Jeep hire at the park | Individuals with back/heart problems |

| English-speaking local guide | Animal allergies |

| Bottled water | Recent surgeries |

| Local meal | Motion sickness |

| National park entrance ticket | Wheelchair accessibility |

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What to Bring

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat for the Wilpattu National Park safari tour.

Bringing a change of clothes, camera, and sunscreen is also recommended.

It’s wise to pack rain gear and insect repellent, as the weather and bugs can be unpredictable.

Plus, having some cash on hand and binoculars can enhance the wildlife viewing experience.

Having some cash and binoculars on hand can enhance the wildlife viewing experience during the Wilpattu National Park safari tour.

Prohibited items include pets, large luggage, drones, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, and nudity.

Following these packing suggestions will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable safari adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park Safari | Jeep with Tickets

Prohibited Items

Visitors are prohibited from bringing pets, large luggage, drones, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, and nudity on the Wilpattu National Park safari tour.

These items aren’t allowed as they can disrupt the natural environment, pose safety risks, and interfere with the wildlife viewing experience.

The tour operator aims to preserve the park’s ecosystem and ensure a safe, enjoyable outing for all participants.

Violating these rules may result in entry denial or the termination of the tour.

Visitors are encouraged to pack light and only bring essential items that are permitted to make the most of their safari adventure.

Accessibility

Wilpattu National Park safari tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. The terrain within the park can be uneven, with bumpy roads and unpaved paths. This makes it challenging for individuals using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

Some key considerations regarding accessibility:

Safari vehicles aren’t equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps.
Walking trails within the park may have steps, slopes, and obstacles that pose difficulties.
Restroom facilities may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users.
Persons with limited mobility may struggle to navigate the undulating landscape.

Guests with accessibility needs should consult with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure their requirements can be accommodated.

Variations and Considerations

A few variations and considerations may be worth noting for the Wilpattu National Park safari tour. For instance, pickup locations can be arranged from other cities besides Kandy. The duration may fluctuate depending on traffic conditions and wildlife sightings. Plus, private tours with a customized itinerary can be requested. Younger children may also require special accommodations. To help visualize some options, consider this table:

|———–|———-|———-|———-|

These factors can be discussed when booking the Wilpattu National Park safari tour.

Common Questions

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

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the safari, though bottled water is provided. Alcoholic beverages and glass objects are prohibited for safety reasons.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

While the tour itinerary is pre-set, customizations may be possible based on guests’ preferences and physical capabilities. Travelers should consult with the tour operator to discuss any special requests or needs prior to booking.

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari Experience?

The tour recommends comfortable, casual clothing like t-shirts, pants, and closed-toe shoes. Visitors should dress for the weather and terrain, bringing sun protection, rain gear, and insect repellent as needed for the safari experience.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses to Participate?

No special permits or licenses are required to participate in this safari tour. As long as visitors meet the listed suitability requirements, they can join the tour with the necessary inclusions provided by the tour operator.

Can I Take a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, private tours are available for the Wilpattu National Park Safari. You can book a private tour instead of a group tour, which provides a more personalized experience. Pricing may vary based on the number of participants.

The Sum Up

On this Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour from Kandy, visitors will embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure. They’ll enjoy a scenic drive, a 4-hour jeep safari, and the opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species in one of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks. With convenient transportation, a local meal, and an English-speaking guide, this 10-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Wilpattu’s rich biodiversity.