Udawalawe Safari DayTrip frm Bentota/Kalutara/Ahungalla/Hikkaduwa

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants in their natural habitat while visiting Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe Safari Day Trip from Bentota offers an impressive and well-organized way to do just that. This private, all-inclusive tour has earned a stellar reputation—boasting a 5.0 rating from 61 reviews—thanks to its knowledgeable guides, authentic encounters, and good overall value.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the early morning safari maximizes wildlife sightings, including large herds of elephants. Secondly, the visit to the Elephant Transit Home enriches your understanding of Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts. Lastly, the seamless logistics—like hotel pick-up, private transportation, and a well-reviewed lunch—make it a stress-free day.

One thing to keep in mind is the long duration; some reviews mention that the safari is quite lengthy, which means you’ll want to prepare for a full day out. This tour suits wildlife lovers, families, and those eager to see elephants up close without breaking the bank. If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded safari experience in Sri Lanka, this trip might just be your best bet.

Key Points

• Excellent guides and service ensure a smooth, engaging adventure.
• Early start (4:30 am) increases your chances of seeing active wildlife, especially elephants.
• All-inclusive experience covers entrance fees, jeep safari, lunch, and transportation, offering great value.
• Authentic encounters with orphaned elephants at the Elephant Transit Home add a touching, educational element.
• Private transportation with a friendly, experienced driver makes the day comfortable and hassle-free.
• Flexible timings (pickups at 4:30 am, 7:30 am, 11 am) cater to different schedules, though early starts are recommended for wildlife viewing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Udawalawe National Park (3 hours)

The trip kicks off with a morning pickup—either at 4:30 am, 7:30 am, or 11:00 am—depending on your preferred schedule. The early start is a big plus, as many reviewers highlight that wildlife activity peaks in the cooler early hours. We loved the way the safari drivers used their local knowledge to track the animals—our guide, Janith, was especially praised for his enthusiasm and skill at spotting wildlife.

Once inside the park, you’ll notice the landscape is mostly grasslands and bush forest—ideal terrain for spotting large herds of elephants, which are the main attraction here. With a private safari jeep, you’ll have ample opportunity to observe these gentle giants, along with deer, crocodiles, peacocks, and various bird species.

Reviewers like Paul_H emphasize that the early safari was “more chance to see wildlife,” and they appreciated the personalized attention that comes with a private tour. The 3-hour window is enough to soak in the landscape and enjoy multiple sightings without feeling rushed.

Elephant Transit Home (ETH) (30 minutes)

Following the safari, visitors are taken to the Elephant Transit Home, an orphanage established in 1995 by Sri Lanka’s Department of Wildlife Conservation. This is where you’ll witness the rehabilitation of orphaned baby elephants, with some being milk-fed by caretakers—a rare, heartwarming sight highlighted by many reviews.

Visitors, like Lisa_C, mention how feeding the baby elephants was a memorable highlight, with the experience offering a rare glimpse into conservation efforts. The ETH is also a valuable educational stop, explaining the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s elephants and how some are released back into the wild once matured.

Additional Stops and Experiences (if applicable)

While the core itinerary includes the park and ETH, the tour may incorporate other short stops, which could include scenic viewpoints or local villages, depending on your guide’s suggestions. These additional experiences are not explicitly detailed but are common in similar tours, adding local flavor and context.

What You’ll Get: Inclusions and Value

This tour is designed to be all-inclusive, so you won’t need to worry about hidden costs. It covers:

• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Wadduwa, Waskaduwa, Kalutara, Maggona, Beruwala, Aluthgama, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Balapitiya, Ambalangoda, Hikkaduwa, or Rathgama
• Private transportation with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide
• All entrance fees, including those for Udawalawe National Park and ETH
• Jeep safari, which is essential for game viewing and makes a significant difference in sightings
• Lunch and bottled water, ensuring hydration and energy throughout the long day

This package is praised for its value for money, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience and the personalized service. As one reviewer notes, “No hidden costs,” and many mention the professionalism of guides like Janith, who adds to the overall enjoyment.

Considerations

While this is mostly a positive experience, some travelers mention the length of the day—up to 12 hours—which might be tiring for those not used to long excursions. Also, since drinks (apart from bottled water) are not included, bringing your own beverages might be a good idea, especially on warmer days.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

The journey begins early, which means you’re often on the road before sunrise. The cool morning air, the anticipation of spotting wildlife, and the promise of seeing Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants create a sense of adventure. Many reviewers highlight how their guides made the experience more memorable—sharing interesting facts, pointing out elusive animals, and maintaining a friendly, enthusiastic attitude.

During the safari, expect to be quiet and observant, listening to the sounds of the wilderness. Several visitors recall the soundscape of the park, with birdsong, distant elephants, and rustling grass adding to the immersive feel. The sight of a herd of elephants crossing a waterhole or grazing peacefully is a moment many describe as unforgettable.

Lunch is a simple but tasty meal, often praised for being fresh and satisfying after hours in the park. The overall vibe is one of genuine connection to nature, with many reviewers mentioning how close they felt to the wildlife—sometimes within a few meters of wild elephants and other animals.

Authentic Encounters and Personal Highlights

From numerous reviews, a key highlight is the feeding of orphaned baby elephants. Witnessing these tiny creatures being bottle-fed at ETH evokes a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts. Several reviewers remarked on how moving and touching the experience was, with one describing it as “a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

The safari itself is praised for good wildlife sightings—many reviewers reported seeing more than a dozen elephants, along with deer, crocodiles, and various bird species. The early start was frequently highlighted as crucial for maximizing sightings, and guides like Janith were lauded for their sharp eyes and patience.

Multiple reviewers also appreciated the personalized nature of this private tour, which avoided the crowds often associated with larger group safaris. This intimacy allows for better wildlife viewing and more meaningful interactions with the guides.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari day trip provides a well-rounded, authentic wildlife experience in Sri Lanka. It’s perfect for those who want to see elephants in their natural habitat, learn about conservation, and enjoy a hassle-free, private day out. The combined elements of early morning game viewing, the educational ETH visit, and the convenience of private transport create a compelling package.

However, it’s worth noting that the long duration may not suit everyone—especially travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules. If you’re someone eager for a relaxed pace or are traveling with small children, you might want to consider how the day’s length fits into your plans.

The value, professionalism, and quality of wildlife sightings make this tour a standout choice for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, all entrance fees (park and ETH), a safari jeep, lunch, and bottled water—making it a comprehensive, stress-free experience.

How long does the safari last?
The safari itself lasts approximately 3 hours, but the entire day can extend up to 10-12 hours, including travel, breaks, and the ETH visit.

What time should I expect to be picked up?
Pickups are available at 4:30 am, 7:30 am, or 11:00 am, depending on your preference. Many find the early start yields better wildlife sightings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, but keep in mind the long day and early start might be tiring for very young children.

Are drinks included?
Bottled water is included, but other drinks are not. It’s advisable to bring your own beverages, especially in hot weather.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, with sun protection, a hat, and insect repellent. A camera and binoculars will enhance your experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, especially regarding timing or additional stops.

What is the booking process like?
Bookings are usually made 34 days in advance, with most travelers opting for the early safari. Confirmations are straightforward, and flexible cancellation policies are available.

Who operates this tour?
Bentota Travel Mart handles the experience, ensuring professional service, experienced guides, and reliable logistics.

Final Words

The Udawalawe Safari Day Trip from Bentota offers an authentic, engaging way to encounter Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants in their natural surroundings. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and meaningful conservation-focused stops, it balances adventure with education.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a traveler seeking a memorable day immersed in nature, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories. Just prepare for a full day, go early for the best sightings, and you’ll find yourself with stories to tell and photos to cherish for a lifetime.