Day Excursions to Udawalawe From Bentota

Review of Day Excursions to Udawalawe From Bentota

Planning a day trip from Bentota to Udawalawe can be a fantastic way to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife and scenic beauty in a manageable, well-organized package. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve reviewed the details and feedback from travelers to give you a comprehensive picture of what to expect.

What stands out about this excursion is the chance to see hundreds of elephants in their natural habitat, the chance to explore the impressive Udawalawe Dam, and the convenience of a private, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off. All for a reasonable price of $174 per person, booked usually 14 days in advance.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to pack some snacks or plan to grab a bite during your day. This trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers who want a full day of adventure without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees. If you’re pressed for time but eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants and scenic spots, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife viewing: Home to hundreds of elephants, the Udawalawe National Park offers prime wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off make for a stress-free experience.
• Inclusive fees: National park entry fees and jeep hire are covered, simplifying your day.
• Flexible timing: The tour starts early at 6:00 am, giving you a full day for exploration.
• Additional site: Visiting the Udawalawe Dam offers scenic views and insight into local irrigation and hydroelectric projects.
• No lunch included: Plan ahead for meals as it’s not part of the package.

A Detailed Look at the Udawalawe Excursion

Why choose this trip?

The appeal of this tour lies in its focus on Sri Lanka’s abundant wildlife, especially its elephants. Udawalawe National Park is renowned for hosting several hundred elephants, making it a must-visit for animal lovers. The park’s open landscape and well-maintained jeep safaris provide up-close views that are both exciting and memorable.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel early in the morning—around 6:00 am—giving you the best chance to catch the animals at their most active, when the light is soft and the wildlife less wary of humans. The journey from Bentota is approximately a 2-3 hour drive, depending on traffic, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

The National Park Experience

Once inside Udawalawe, expect roughly 3 hours exploring via open-air jeep. Vehicles are included in the price, and most guides are knowledgeable and eager to spot and point out different animals and plants. The reviews mention that guides sometimes have energetic personalities, which adds to the fun—”They knew where to look and made it exciting,” one traveler shared.

While elephants are the main attraction, the park also hosts other wildlife, including deer, wild boars, water buffalo, and various bird species. The lush surroundings and the chance to see animals in their natural environment make this a worthwhile experience, especially if you’re used to more crowded or artificial wildlife attractions.

Udawalawe Dam – A Scenic Stop

After the safari, the tour includes a quick visit to the Udawalawe Dam. This site offers impressive views of the large irrigation dam, which stretches roughly 3.9 km. Visitors can appreciate the engineering feat of the dam, which is also used for hydroelectric power, contributing to the local energy grid since 1969.

This stop is relatively brief—about 10 minutes—but provides a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to see local agriculture and water management in action. Depending on traffic, the visit can include a short walk or just a quick scenic look from the vehicle.

Additional Inclusions and Practicalities

Your tour price covers all entry fees for the national park, bottled water, jeep hire, and an English-speaking driver. This means no hidden costs or surprises, which adds to the convenience. Plus, the small group size or private arrangement ensures a more personalized experience.

Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day. The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, so prepare for a full day out of your hotel.

What Travelers Say

While this tour hasn’t garnered many reviews yet, those who have booked appreciate the well-organized itinerary and friendly guides. One review mentions the “stunning views” during the dam stop, and others highlight the opportunity to spot elephants up-close as the main highlight.

Some travelers have noted that the timing depends on traffic, which is typical for a tour starting early in the morning from Bentota. The flexibility of the schedule is useful, but do expect some variability in travel times.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience offers great value when considering the included fees and the expertise of guides. The combination of wildlife, scenic dam views, and hassle-free transportation makes it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time in Sri Lanka.

It’s especially suited for those keen on wildlife photography or simply wanting to see elephants in a natural setting, rather than a crowded zoo or sanctuary. If you’re traveling with family or a small group and want a private, personalized day trip, this tour fits that bill nicely.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full day of wildlife and scenic exploration without the need to arrange their own transport or worry about entrance fees. It suits nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and those interested in Sri Lanka’s water management systems.

If your primary goal is to capture fantastic photos of elephants and enjoy a comfortable, guided experience, this tour offers a practical and rewarding option. Conversely, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less structured day or want to include meals, you might consider supplementing this trip or exploring other options.

The Sum Up

This Udawalawe day trip from Bentota strikes a balanced blend of wildlife, scenery, and convenience. The inclusion of park fees, jeep safaris, and transportation makes it a solid choice for travelers who want to see elephants and experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty without fuss. While the early start and the lack of lunch may be minor considerations, they are easily managed with some prep.

Overall, it offers great value for money, especially given the opportunity to get close to Sri Lanka’s elephant herds and enjoy scenic views of the dam. It’s a practical option for those short on time but eager for an authentic wildlife encounter.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes national park fees, bottled water, jeep hire within the park, an English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins early at 6:00 am, offering a full day of exploration and maximizing wildlife sightings.

How long is the drive from Bentota to Udawalawe?
Depending on traffic, the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day.

How long is the visit to Udawalawe National Park?
Expect about 3 hours inside the park, primarily spent on a guided safari with opportunities to see elephants and other wildlife.

What are the main highlights of the trip?
The main highlights are the wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park, the chance to see hundreds of elephants, and the scenic stop at Udawalawe Dam.

Is the experience suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended; access to animals and scenic views makes it enjoyable, but consider mobility when booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife and scenic sights in a single day. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just eager to see elephants in the wild, it promises a memorable adventure in the company of knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport.