Udawalawe Safari Day Tour From Kandy

Traveling to Sri Lanka offers a chance to experience a land rich with wildlife, history, and vibrant culture. The Udawalawe Safari Day Tour from Kandy promises a full immersion into the island’s natural beauty, especially if you’re eager to see elephants in their natural habitat. With a mix of cultural sights and wildlife encounters packed into about 12 hours, this tour has plenty to offer for curious travelers.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience are three things: firstly, the opportunity to witness herds of elephants bathing and feeding in their natural environment, which is a rare and magical sight. Secondly, the comfortable private transportation makes the long day much easier and more relaxing. Lastly, the inclusion of cultural visits, like the historic Maha Saman Devalaya temple, adds a meaningful layer to the trip.

However, one thing worth considering is that the Udawalawe National Park entry fee isn’t included in the standard price, so you’ll want to budget extra for that. This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day, balancing wildlife, culture, and scenic views, especially if you’re staying in Kandy and looking for a day trip that’s both engaging and worthwhile.

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary with a cultural stop and a wildlife safari
• Comfortable private transport ensures a smooth day
• Wildlife sightings of elephants, buffalo, deer, and monkeys in their natural setting
• Cultural insight with a visit to the Maha Saman Devalaya temple
• Value for money, with included entrance fees for cultural sites
• Potential extra costs for park entry and safari guides

A Close Look at the Tour Itinerary

This day-long adventure kicks off early, with a pickup at 5:30 am in Kandy, perfect for maximizing your daylight hours. The first stop is the Maha Saman Devalaya, a revered Buddhist temple dedicated to the guardian deity Saman. This cultural highlight offers a peaceful start to the day, giving insight into local religious practices. Visitors mentioned that the temple’s atmosphere is calm, and the free admission makes it a worthwhile brief stop, especially for those interested in Sri Lanka’s spiritual traditions.

Next, you’ll head towards Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its abundant elephants and scenic surroundings. The drive itself is an experience, as you’ll travel through Sri Lanka’s dry zone, with picturesque views of a mountain range in the background. Even from the vehicle, you can sense the vastness and untouched beauty of this part of the island.

Once at the park, the highlight is the two-hour Jeep Safari. While the safari jeep isn’t included in the base price, past visitors rave about the experience, describing it as “full of enjoyment” and praising the guides’ support. With a knowledgeable driver and potentially a guide, you’re likely to spot herds of elephants—some reportedly bathing and playing—along with buffalo, monitor lizards, and deer. One reviewer explicitly noted that they saw many elephants and found the safari “really great,” underscoring how rewarding this part of the tour can be.

The park is situated around a reservoir, which attracts aquatic birds and other wildlife, adding to the scenic charm. Some reviewers appreciated the chance to see elephants in such a natural, unforced environment, making it a genuine wildlife experience rather than a staged attraction.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra?

The tour price of $350 per person covers air-conditioned private transportation, all fees and taxes, and entrance to the Maha Saman Devalaya and a gem museum in Ratnapura. These cultural stops add value, giving travelers a taste of Sri Lanka’s spiritual and geological history.

However, the entrance fee for Udawalawe National Park and the jeep safari are not included, which is an important consideration. Many visitors found the safari to be the most exciting part of the day, so budgeting an additional amount for this is wise. The guide fees and food/drinks are also extra, so packing some snacks and water for the journey is advisable if you want to avoid additional expenses.

Transportation and Timing

Starting early in the morning at 5:30 am, the tour is designed to make the most of daylight hours. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, and the driver speaks English, offering some local insights along the way. The total duration is roughly 12 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Past travelers praised the smooth organization, noting that the driver was helpful and the hotel arrangements were seamless. If you’re someone who appreciates punctuality and efficiency, this tour setup is likely to meet your expectations.

Authentic Encounters and Reviewer Insights

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge and helpfulness. One shared that the safari was “full of enjoyment,” emphasizing the support from the guide, Terrance, and the excellent hotel arrangements. Another praised how well the tour was managed, especially for a short trip in Colombo, which speaks to the company’s organizational skills.

The thrill of seeing elephants in their natural habitat has left many travelers with memories to cherish. As one reviewer put it, “It was a very interesting tour where we saw many elephants,” and many expressed the desire to recommend this experience to friends.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Book early to secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.
• Prepare extra funds for the park entry fee and safari guide, if you want the full experience.
• Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water for the safari, as the day can get hot and sunny.
• Bring your camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing—these sightings are often the highlight.
• Expect early mornings, but the cool start makes the long drive more bearable and the wildlife activity more vibrant.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants and other animals in their natural environment. It’s also suited for those who want a mix of cultural and nature-based experiences without spending multiple days traveling. If you’re a traveler based in Kandy wanting a convenient, well-organized day trip that balances scenic views, cultural insight, and wildlife spotting, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re particularly passionate about wildlife photography, be aware that the safari fee is extra, and you might want to consider booking a guide or a private safari for better chances of seeing more elusive species like leopards.

Final Thoughts

The Udawalawe Safari Day Tour from Kandy offers a compelling glimpse into Sri Lanka’s wild side, wrapped in a culturally enriching package. It’s a tour that balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and the thrill of spotting elephants—something that stays with travelers long after the day ends. The prices reflect good value when considering the cultural sites and private transport, though the safari’s additional costs are worth budgeting for if wildlife is your main focus.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a full, hassle-free day out with solid organization and authentic wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a cultural explorer, or someone simply eager to see elephants in the wild, this tour will likely leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation from Kandy, making the long day much more comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 am, aiming to give you the full daylight hours for wildlife viewing and sightseeing.

Are entrance fees for Udawalawe National Park included?
No, the park entry fee and jeep safari are not included in the base price, so you’ll need to budget for these extras.

Can I participate if I travel alone?
Absolutely. This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, regardless of group size.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring essentials like sun protection, water, snacks, and a camera. The safari can be hot, and wildlife viewing is best with a good zoom or binoculars.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the long day and early start suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with a full-day trip.

In summary, this tour offers a thorough look at Sri Lanka’s wildlife and cultural sites within a practical day. It’s well-organized, offers authentic experiences, and provides excellent value—especially if you’re keen to see elephants in the wild. Just remember to plan for the extra costs and prepare for an early start, and you’re set for a memorable adventure in Sri Lanka’s beautiful wilderness.