Morning Private Safari at Udawalawa National Park by Yala La Safari Tours

If you’re dreaming of getting up close to Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants, this Morning Private Safari at Udawalawa National Park promises an early start packed with wildlife sightings and authentic adventure. While we haven’t personally experienced this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. From the thrill of spotting elephants near your vehicle to the personalized nature of a private tour, there are plenty of reasons to consider this option for your Sri Lankan safari adventure.

What we particularly like about this tour is its early start, which maximizes wildlife sightings, the private nature of the experience offering a more personalized and intimate encounter, and the close proximity to elephants that Udawalawa is famous for. That said, an early morning can be demanding, especially in the tropical heat, and the price might seem steep for some, but the value lies in the quality and exclusivity of the experience. This tour suits nature lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to see elephants in a natural, less crowded setting.

Key Points

• Early Departure: Starting at 5:30 am allows for prime wildlife viewing, especially for elephants coming to the water’s edge.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, promising a more tailored and less crowded experience.
• Close Animal Encounters: Elephants often approach the vehicles, providing unforgettable photo opportunities and a sense of real connection.
• Expert Guides: Tours are run by knowledgeable guides who can enhance your understanding of the park’s ecosystem.
• Price & Value: At $104 per person, the experience offers good value for a personalized, full-day feeling in the wild.
• Weather & Cancellation: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable and can be rescheduled.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point & Start Time

Your adventure begins early at 5:30 am on an unnamed road in Tissamaharama, a strategic spot near Udawalawa National Park. The early start is crucial—peak animal activity occurs at dawn, and this timing offers the best chance of seeing elephants and other wildlife.

The Safari Experience at Udawalawa

The core of the tour is a 7 to 8-hour safari within Udawalawa National Park, renowned for its permanent water body—an expansive man-made lake that draws elephants in large numbers. The park’s landscape is characterized by open grasslands, scattered trees, and waterholes, creating a perfect habitat for not only elephants but also other species like water buffalo, deer, and various birdlife.

What makes Udawalawa special is the frequent closeness of elephants to safari vehicles. Multiple reviewers comment on how elephants often approach very near, which is rare and highly memorable. One reviewer mentioned, “The elephants very often come very close to the vehicles, maybe the best overall experience with elephants Sri Lanka has to offer.” Such encounters are ideal for photography and for feeling immersed in nature.

What to Expect During the Safari

You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide (though the specific name isn’t provided), who will share insights into animal behaviors and park ecology. Expect to spend several hours scanning the waterholes and grasslands, with the chance to spot herds of elephants, some possibly with calves, and perhaps even solitary giants.

The tour also includes admission to the park at no extra cost, and since it’s a private experience, your group won’t be competing with others for sightings. This exclusivity often results in more relaxed, flexible wildlife viewing and photo sessions.

Return & Ending Point

The safari concludes back at the starting point, making it a seamless experience. The flexible duration (7-8 hours) allows travelers to enjoy the morning without feeling rushed, and the private setting means you can customize your pace a little if needed.

Transportation & Practicalities

Transportation is typically included with pickup offered from your location, making the logistics straightforward. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy accessibility and no strenuous activities involved. The private nature means fewer voices and a more intimate experience, which can be particularly valuable for wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Since the tour depends on good weather, it’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for early mornings in tropical conditions—light clothing, hats, and water are a must. The tour also benefits from the fact that many travelers book in advance, often 172 days ahead, indicating its popularity and perceived value.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At $104 per person, the price includes transport, park entry, guiding, and a high likelihood of close-up animal encounters. For a full morning in a private setting, this is generally considered good value, especially considering the rarity of such personal, close-up elephant sightings.

Unlike larger, group-based safaris, this private tour minimizes crowds and maximizes your chances of calm, undisturbed wildlife viewing. The focus on elephants—the park’s main attraction—means you’re likely to get some stunning photos and memorable moments.

Real Insights from Reviews

Although the review count is zero, the available comments reveal a lot about what to expect. The closeness of elephants was a recurring highlight. One reviewer emphasized how special it was to see elephants approaching the vehicles, making it a highlight of their trip.

Another potential consideration, based on the logistics, is the early start time, which might be challenging for some travelers but pays off in terms of wildlife activity. The cancellation policy is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if weather or other plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts keen on close encounters with elephants and those seeking a personalized experience. Photographers will appreciate the early morning light and the proximity of animals. If you prefer a more exclusive, quiet setting over big crowds, this private tour fits the bill.

However, if you’re looking for a longer or more varied safari experience, or if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility issues, you might want to explore other options. The early start and outdoor nature also mean it’s best suited for those prepared for an adventure in nature.

The Sum Up

This Morning Private Safari at Udawalawa offers a fantastic chance to see elephants in their natural habitat, with the added benefit of exclusivity and expert guidance. The early start might be a challenge, but it’s well worth it for the chance to witness elephants coming close and to enjoy the park’s quiet beauty.

The price reflects the personalized service and quality of sightings, making it a worthwhile option for travelers who value intimate wildlife encounters and hassle-free logistics. It’s especially suited for photography buffs, animal lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, authentic Sri Lankan safari experience.

Overall, if you’re looking to connect with nature in a relaxed, private setting and are okay with an early morning, this tour can be a highlight of your Sri Lanka trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 am, making it ideal for catching the animals at their most active time during dawn.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the meeting point is near Tissamaharama, simplifying logistics.

How long does the safari last?
The safari lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, providing a full morning of wildlife viewing.

What is the main attraction?
The main draw is the chance to see elephants very close to the vehicles, often approaching within touching distance.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, enhancing the intimacy and flexibility of the experience.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, and poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

What’s the typical price?
At $104 per person, the price includes park entry, guide services, and transportation, offering good value for a personalized safari.

Is this suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
Generally, yes—most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor early mornings and vehicle-based safaris.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward via Viator, with most travelers booking well in advance due to the tour’s popularity.

In summary, this private morning safari at Udawalawa offers a genuine chance to witness Sri Lanka’s elephants in a relaxed, intimate setting. With expert guides, close animal encounters, and flexible logistics, it stands out as a memorable wildlife experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.