Udawalawe National Park | Full day-10 Hours

If you’re craving an authentic wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka, a full-day safari in Udawalawe National Park might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect from this 10-hour excursion. From expert guides to unforgettable animal sightings, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated parks.

Three aspects we love about this tour include the expertise of guides with over a decade of experience, the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat, and the flexible pickup and drop-off arrangements that make planning easier. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long duration, which might be tiring for some, especially during hot weather.

This tour best suits wildlife enthusiasts, families with older children, or anyone eager to spend a full day exploring Sri Lanka’s wilderness with knowledgeable guides at your side. If you’re looking for a balance between adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters, this safari ticks most boxes.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Led by guides with 10+ years of experience who know the park inside out.
• Elephant Sightings: Udawalawe is renowned for its large herds and close encounters with elephants.
• Flexible Planning: Choose your pickup time, with options at 6:00 am or 8:00 am.
• Comprehensive Tour: A full 10-hour experience covering diverse landscapes and animal sightings.
• Meal & Water Included: Enjoy a leisurely lunch and cold drinks amidst wildlife viewing.
• Authentic Experience: Small groups and respectful driving make for a more intimate safari.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Timing

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, either early morning at 6:00 am or 8:00 am, giving you some control over your start time. One review highlighted how smoothly the process went — “we were the only ones, so had the jeep entirely to ourselves,” which means a more personalized experience. The pickup is punctual and professional, setting the tone for the day.

The Journey into the Park

The drive to Udawalawe National Park is part of the adventure, and the scenery en route hints at the beauty awaiting inside. Once at the park, you’ll hop into a jeep—a sturdy, open-sided vehicle ideal for wildlife viewing. With a total duration of about 10 hours, it’s a comprehensive excursion, but the long hours promise plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the landscape.

Wildlife Viewing: What You’ll See

The main attraction? Elephants. Udawalawe is famed for its large herds, and guides are excellent at positioning you for the best sightings. One reviewer shared that their guide, Anju, “took his time, asked about our wishes, and was respectful,” which is crucial when you’re hoping to see shy animals like elephants in their natural setting.

Beyond elephants, expect to encounter leopards, jungle cats, monkeys, foxes, mongooses, jackals, wild boars, crocodiles, and sambar deer. The birdlife is equally impressive, with many species fluttering overhead or perched in trees. The guides’ knowledge enhances this experience, pointing out wildlife you might otherwise miss, and sharing interesting facts along the way.

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Lunch and Refreshments

Midway through your day, you’ll enjoy a lunch break in the park, which adds to the feeling of being truly immersed in nature. The included meal is a chance to recharge while soaking in the scenery. Reviewers noted that the lunch was tasty and that a cooler box with water was available throughout, keeping everyone refreshed amid the heat.

The Benefits of a Full-Day Tour

Having 10 hours in the park allows for a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to observe animals, take photos, and enjoy the environment. You won’t feel rushed, and the guides are attentive to your interests. One guest mentioned that they appreciated the “relaxed, respectful driving,” which made the experience more authentic and comfortable.

Guide Expertise and Small Group Feel

The guides are a standout feature. One reviewer praised their guide, “Anju,” for sharing interesting animal facts and respecting the animals, never rushing or pushing their luck. This respectful approach helps make wildlife sightings more genuine and less intrusive for the animals.

Additional Comforts and Flexibility

The tour includes a flexible booking system, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This offers peace of mind if your plans change. The small group sizes and professional driver guides ensure you get a personalized experience, unlike large, impersonal tours.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

While the tour’s price might seem high for some, the full-day duration, expert guides, and the chance to see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat make it a worthwhile investment. One reviewer mentioned their guide, Gimhana, was very responsive outside the park, making the entire process smooth from booking to post-safari contact.

Considerations

The 10-hour duration means you’ll spend a significant part of the day outdoors, which could be tiring, especially in the Sri Lankan heat. However, the included lunch and water help mitigate fatigue. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the nature of the activity.

Practical Details and What’s Included

• Duration: 10 hours
• Pickup options: 7th Mile Post or near the Safari Service point
• Drop-off: Same as pickup location
• Language: English-speaking guides
• Cancellation policy: Free up to 24 hours in advance
• What’s included: Hotel pickup/drop-off, Jeep safari, lunch, water
• Not allowed: Drones, alcohol, drugs
• Suitable for: Wildlife enthusiasts, older children, adventure seekers

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you want a comprehensive, guided wildlife experience with plenty of time to see elephants and other animals, this safari fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a respectful, small-group environment. However, if you prefer shorter excursions or are sensitive to long outdoor hours, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a reliable guide and jeep transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
Elephants are the main highlight, but you might also see leopards, jungle cats, monkeys, foxes, crocodiles, and various deer and bird species.

Is food provided?
Yes, a delicious lunch is included, and cold water is available throughout the day.

How long does the safari last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, giving plenty of time for wildlife viewing and relaxing in the park.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides have over 10 years of experience and are well-versed in spotting wildlife and sharing interesting facts.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children who can handle a full day outdoors, as the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended, along with closed shoes.

Can I customize the start time?
Yes, you can choose between a 6:00 am or 8:00 am pickup.

Are drones or alcohol allowed?
No, drones, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited during the safari for safety and wildlife protection.

A full-day safari in Udawalawe National Park offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. Guided by experienced professionals, you’ll have the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife in a setting that encourages respectful observation. The inclusion of a leisurely lunch and water ensures comfort, while the flexible booking options make planning straightforward.

This experience caters most to wildlife lovers, those eager to fill a full day with authentic nature encounters, and travelers who value expert guides and small-group intimacy. If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic safari adventure, this tour provides solid value and the kind of memories that stick with you long after the day ends.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, Udawalawe’s gentle giants—its elephants—are sure to leave a lasting impression. Pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a day of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife watching.

You can check availability for your dates here: