Embarking on an all-inclusive Udawalawe National Park safari from Colombo promises an exhilarating wildlife adventure. Travelers can expect a full-day excursion featuring a comfortable drive and a thrilling jeep safari through the park’s diverse landscape. With the chance to spot elephants, crocodiles, and vibrant bird species, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s captivating natural wonders. But the safari’s highlights don’t end there, as the experience also includes a visit to the renowned Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
Key Points
- Full-day safari package from Colombo to Udawalawe National Park, including transportation, entrance fees, and a 3-hour jeep safari.
- Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, wild boar, and various birds and butterflies.
- Optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for a 45-minute stop.
- Comfortable air-conditioned shared vehicle transportation with bottled water provided.
- Recommended items for the safari include comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the wildlife.
Overview of the Tour
What does this full-day safari to Udawalawe National Park from Colombo entail?
It’s a 12-hour adventure, with pickup from Colombo hotels. The 4-hour drive leads to a 3-hour jeep safari for wildlife viewing.
Visitors can also tour the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. An optional lunch at a local restaurant is available.
Visitors may spot elephants, buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, hare, crocodiles, birds, and butterflies.
The national park was established in the 1970s as a sanctuary for animals displaced by the Udawalawe Reservoir.
Transport is in an air-conditioned shared vehicle, and entrance fees are included.
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Highlights of the Itinerary
The safari begins with a 4-hour drive from Colombo to Udawalawe National Park.
Upon arrival, guests embark on a 3-hour jeep safari for wildlife viewing. They may spot elephants, buffalo, wild boar, sambhur, hare, crocodiles, and a variety of birds and butterflies.
After the safari, the tour visits the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home for a 45-minute stop. An optional local lunch is available at an additional cost.
The park was established in the 1970s as a sanctuary for animals displaced by the Udawalawe Reservoir, making it a unique wildlife destination.
Transportation and Amenities
Transportation for the tour is provided via an air-conditioned shared vehicle.
Bottled water, entrance fees for the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, and park tickets are all included. Gratuities for the guides are optional.
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
Pets and large luggage are prohibited. Confirmation of the booking will be received at the time of reservation.
The duration of the transfers may vary due to traffic conditions.
Customer Reviews
Customers have generally praised their experiences on this Udawalawe National Park safari. Many highlighted the knowledgeable guides who helped them spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and an array of birds. Reviewers also appreciated the less crowded nature of the park compared to other popular destinations. The overall journey from Colombo was described as smooth, with skilled drivers and ample time for wildlife viewing.
| Rating | Number of Reviews | Percentage |
| —— | —————- | ———- |
| 5 Stars | 8 | 72.7% |
| 4 Stars | 2 | 18.2% |
| 3 Stars | 1 | 9.1% |
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information to Know
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended for this safari. Pets and large bags are prohibited.
Participants will receive confirmation upon booking, but this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
While the duration of transfers may vary due to traffic conditions, the overall journey from Colombo to Udawalawe National Park is a smooth one. Skilled drivers transport guests in air-conditioned shared vehicles, providing bottled water and covering entrance fees and tickets.
This full-day safari offers a less crowded wildlife viewing experience compared to some other parks in Sri Lanka.
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Preparing for the Safari
To prepare for the safari, travelers will want to ensure they’ve the recommended items on hand.
Comfortable shoes and sun protection like hats and sunglasses are a must for the outdoor adventure. Bringing a camera is encouraged to capture the incredible wildlife sightings.
Travelers should avoid bringing pets or large bags, as they’re prohibited. While the tour includes bottled water, packing a few extra snacks can be helpful.
With these essentials packed, safari-goers will be ready to enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawe National Park and observe its diverse animal inhabitants.
Exploring Udawalawe National Park
The 4-hour drive from Colombo to Udawalawe National Park sets the stage for an exhilarating wildlife encounter.
Upon arrival, guests embark on a thrilling 3-hour jeep safari, spotting a diverse array of animals:
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Majestic elephants roaming the vast grasslands
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Nimble wild boar scurrying across the terrain
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Stately sambhur deer gracefully navigating the landscape
After the safari, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center dedicated to orphaned and injured elephants.
This comprehensive experience immerses guests in the natural wonders of Udawalawe, creating cherished memories of Sri Lanka’s abundant wildlife.
Visiting the Elephant Transit Home
After the thrilling jeep safari, visitors make their way to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center dedicated to caring for orphaned and injured elephants.
At the transit home, guests observe the scheduled feedings and treatments provided to the resident elephants. They learn about the facility’s mission to rehabilitate the animals and return them to the wild.
Witnessing the dedicated care and attention given to these gentle giants is a moving experience. The visit provides a glimpse into the vital conservation efforts that protect Sri Lanka’s beloved elephant population.
Common Questions
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Safari?
The tour does not seem to offer an option for a private safari. It is an all-inclusive shared vehicle experience. Upgrading to a private safari may be available through a separate booking or by contacting the tour provider directly.
Can We Stop for a Scenic Photo Opportunity During the Drive?
Yes, the tour includes scenic photo stops during the 4-hour drive to Udawalawe National Park. Travelers can capture picturesque landscapes and countryside views along the way before arriving at the park for the safari.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the safari tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Safari?
Yes, guests can bring their own snacks and drinks on the safari. The tour overview indicates that bottled water is provided, but there’s no restriction on bringing personal items. Guests should be mindful of any park rules regarding food and waste management.
Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration On-Site?
There’s no option to extend the safari duration on-site. The tour itinerary is fixed at 3 hours, and any modifications must be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Extending the safari time isn’t possible during the tour.
The Sum Up
This all-inclusive Udawalawe National Park safari from Colombo promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. Travelers will enjoy a comfortable drive, a thrilling jeep safari, and the opportunity to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants and crocodiles. The tour also includes a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to explore the natural wonders of this region.
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