From Dambulla: Full Day Safari at Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park is a prime wildlife destination in Sri Lanka, offering visitors a chance to witness the majestic Sri Lankan elephants and diverse ecosystems. This full-day safari tour from Dambulla promises an unforgettable adventure, with the opportunity to spot not only large herds of elephants but also leopards and over 160 bird species. With convenient transportation, included meals, and flexible cancellation policies, this tour provides a worry-free way to explore one of the island’s natural wonders.

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Key Points

Full-day safari at Minneriya National Park costs $195.00 per person, with a duration of 12 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Safari starts at 6:00 am with hotel pickup from Dambulla, Sigiriya, Habarana, or Kandalama, and includes the opportunity to see diverse wildlife.
Packed breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and all government taxes are included in the tour.
Customized safari jeeps and entrance fees to Minneriya & Eco National Parks are covered.
Recommended items to bring include binoculars, passport or ID, and a charged smartphone, along with comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day safari at Minneriya National Park costs $195.00 per person and lasts 12 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, customized safari jeeps, packed breakfast and lunch, refreshments, and all government taxes.

Participants should bring binoculars, ID, and a charged smartphone, though gratuities aren’t included.

Availability can be checked, and spots can be reserved by selecting the desired participants and date.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The safari starts at 6:00 am with a pickup from hotels in Dambulla, Sigiriya, Habarana, or Kandalama.

Guests will embark on a journey to witness the abundant wildlife at Minneriya and Eco National Parks. During the safari, they can expect to see large herds of Sri Lankan elephants, endemic monkeys, sambar, axis deer, leopards, and sloth bears.

Guests will embark on a journey to witness the abundant wildlife at Minneriya and Eco National Parks, where they can expect to see Sri Lankan elephants, monkeys, deer, and more.

Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot over 160 bird species, including adjutants, storks, and cormorants. The diverse ecosystems are home to 24 mammals, 9 amphibians, 25 reptiles, 26 fish, and 75 butterflies.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before continuing the safari until 5:00 pm.

Inclusions

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off via safari jeep or comfortable vehicle.

Entrance fees to Minneriya & Eco National Parks are covered. Customized safari jeeps enhance wildlife viewing. A packed breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are provided.

Fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees are all included. Refreshments and water are available during the tour. All government taxes are incorporated into the package price.

Participants should bring binoculars, passport or ID, and a charged smartphone. However, gratuities aren’t included in the package.

Important Information

Participants should bring binoculars, passport or ID card, and a charged smartphone to fully enjoy the safari experience.

It’s important to be prepared for the day’s activities:

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy walking shoes suitable for the safari terrain.
Apply sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the sun and insects.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.
Stay hydrated by bringing water or purchasing refreshments during the tour.

Gratuities aren’t included in the package price and can be provided at the participant’s discretion.

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Booking and Availability

How can travelers check availability for this full-day safari at Minneriya National Park?

Travelers can easily check the availability for start times on the tour’s booking page. Simply select the desired date and number of participants to see the available options.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing travelers to reserve their spot and pay later. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can get a full refund if their plans change.

Securing a spot is quick and convenient, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience at Minneriya National Park.

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Explore the Diverse Ecosystems

Minneriya National Park boasts a diverse array of ecosystems teeming with an abundance of wildlife.

Visitors can explore:

Vast grasslands and scrublands sustaining herds of elephants, sambar deer, and spotted deer.
Dense forests nurturing endemic primates like the purple-faced langur and slender loris.
Aquatic habitats including the picturesque Minneriya Tank, home to aquatic birds and reptiles.
Diverse wetlands providing a haven for migratory birds like the greater adjutant stork, painted stork, and cormorants.

This incredible biodiversity makes Minneriya a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive safari experience.

Witness the Majestic Sri Lankan Elephants

Although Minneriya National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, the main draw for many visitors is the opportunity to witness the majestic Sri Lankan elephants.

During the safari, guests are likely to encounter large herds of these magnificent creatures as they gather around the park’s reservoirs in search of water and forage.

Watching the elephants interact and care for their young is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

With patience and luck, visitors may even spot the park’s elusive leopards and sloth bears.

The safari provides an unparalleled window into the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Birdwatching Opportunities

Along With the abundant wildlife, Minneriya National Park offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

The park is home to over 160 bird species, including:

Minneriya National Park boasts over 160 bird species, including majestic waders, skilled divers, and endemic and migratory avian wonders.

Adjutants and storks, majestic wading birds with impressive wingspans
Cormorants, diving birds known for their skilled fishing abilities
Endemic species like the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, the national bird of Sri Lanka
Migratory birds that visit the wetlands and forests during certain seasons

Birdwatchers can spot a diverse array of avian life, from vibrant kingfishers to graceful raptors, making the safari an unforgettable experience.

Common Questions

Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available. Bookings of 6 or more participants can receive a 10% discount on the per-person price. To take advantage of this offer, simply inquire when reserving your safari tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and water for the safari. However, a packed breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant are already included in the tour package.

Is There an Option for a Private Safari Tour?

Yes, there’s a private safari tour option. Guests can book a private safari jeep for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience. The private safari offers more flexibility and personalized attention compared to the shared group tours.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Leopards?

The best time to spot leopards in Sri Lanka is during the dry season, typically from June to September. This is when the animals are more active and visible in the national parks.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Safari?

The tour includes binoculars for wildlife viewing, but participants should also bring a charged smartphone. Other recommended items are a camera, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the weather and terrain.

The Sum Up

This full-day safari at Minneriya National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife. From observing majestic elephants in their natural habitat to spotting over 160 bird species, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystems. With comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and flexible booking, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.