Wilpattu National Park Safari

Wilpattu National Park offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to enjoy Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness. With its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife, the park promises an exhilarating safari experience. Travelers can expect to encounter a variety of exotic animals, from majestic leopards to playful sloth bears, all while navigating the park’s serene landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure, Wilpattu’s captivating charm is sure to leave a lasting impression. However, before embarking on this thrilling journey, there are a few key details to consider.

Key Points

• Wilpattu National Park offers a unique wildlife experience, including sightings of leopards, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife, starting from $31.94 per person.
• The safari duration ranges from 4 to 10 hours, with a shared 4×4 jeep, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours for a full refund.
• Wilpattu is known for its less crowded environment, offering a genuine sense of wilderness and a rich diversity of species, including endemic butterflies.
• Park entrance tickets are not included in the safari price, costing 13,000 LKR for one person or 23,000 LKR for two.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off services are available for an additional charge, with pickup locations in Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Colombo.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Safari Details and Pricing

The Wilpattu National Park Safari offers a unique wildlife experience starting from $31.94 per person.

Wilpattu National Park Safari offers a unique wildlife experience starting from $31.94 per person.

With a duration of 4-10 hours, the safari includes a shared 4×4 jeep. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours for a full refund, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.

The safari starts at the Wilpattu National Park Hunuwilagama Gate, but park entrance tickets aren’t included and cost 13,000 LKR for one person or 23,000 LKR for two.

Visitors should bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and water for an unforgettable adventure.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Wilpattu National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Sri Lanka, renowned for its leopard and sloth bear populations.

The park contains about 60 natural lakes that attract diverse wildlife, including 31 mammal species. Elephants, deer, boar, and crocodiles roam the varied habitats.

Abundant birdlife includes Jungle Fowl, Painted Stork, and migratory species. Endemic butterflies like Blue and Common Mormons thrive here.

Reptiles such as Mugger Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, and turtles are also found.

Wilpattu offers a genuine sense of wilderness, supporting resident and migrant species in its unique ecosystem.

Unique Aspects of Wilpattu

Although less visited than other parks in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu offers a genuine sense of wilderness.

The park’s varying habitats support a rich diversity of resident and migrant species. Visitors may spot endemic butterflies like:

1. Blue Mormon

2. Common Mormon

3. Common Rose

4. Crimson Rose

Reptiles such as Mugger Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Pythons, and various turtles also thrive in Wilpattu.

This pristine natural setting allows for a truly immersive wildlife experience, away from the crowds.

Exploring Wilpattu’s unique ecosystems and discovering its hidden gems is an adventure not to be missed.

Important Information and Regulations

Visitors meet at the Wilpattu National Park Hunuwilagama Entrance to begin their safari. It’s essential to come prepared with necessary items like sunglasses, sun hats, cameras, sunscreen, water, cash, and binoculars. Certain activities are prohibited, including bringing pets, smoking, using drones, consuming alcohol, littering, touching animals or plants, and making fires. Nudity is also not allowed. This ensures the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

| Required | Prohibited |

| — | — |

| Sunglasses | Pets |

| Sun hat | Smoking |

| Camera | Drones |

| Sunscreen | Alcohol |

| Water | Littering |

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Transportation and Accessibility

Hotel pickup and drop-off services aren’t included in the Wilpattu National Park safari package, but can be arranged for an additional charge from various locations, including Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Arugambay, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Negombo, and Colombo.

The safari isn’t suitable for pregnant women. To access the park, visitors must meet at the Wilpattu National Park Hunuwilagama Entrance.

Visitors should bring:

1. Sunglasses

2. Sun hat

3. Camera

4. Sunscreen, water, cash, and binoculars

Getting to Wilpattu National Park

Reaching Wilpattu National Park is a straightforward endeavor. The park’s Hunuwilagama Gate serves as the primary entry point. Visitors can arrange hotel pickups and drop-offs from various locations, including Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Arugambay, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Negombo, and Colombo, for an additional charge. However, the safari itself does not include hotel transfers.

| Transportation Options | Pickup Locations | Approximate Travel Time |

| ——————— | ————— | ———————– |

| Private Vehicle | Trincomalee | 2.5 hours |

| | Batticaloa | 3 hours |

| | Arugambay | 4 hours |

| Shared Van/Shuttle | Polonnaruwa | 1.5 hours |

| | Sigiriya | 2 hours |

Best Time to Visit Wilpattu

When is the best time to visit Wilpattu National Park? The ideal times are during the dry seasons from May to September and December to March.

Here’s why:

1. Wildlife Viewing: The dry months offer the best opportunities to spot wildlife like leopards, sloth bears, and elephants as they congregate around the park’s natural lakes and waterholes.

2. Comfortable Weather: Temperatures are milder, ranging from 25°C to 35°C, making for pleasant safari experiences.

3. Fewer Crowds: Visitation is lower during the dry seasons, providing a more exclusive and immersive wildlife encounter.

4. Birdwatching: The park’s avian diversity is at its peak during the migratory bird season from November to April.

Safari Experiences and Highlights

A Wilpattu National Park safari offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife and awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

Travelers can spot iconic species like leopards, sloth bears, and elephants among the park’s 60 natural lakes. The varying habitats support a rich array of resident and migratory bird species, from Jungle Fowl to majestic eagles.

Beyond the abundant wildlife, the safari experience provides a genuine sense of wilderness, allowing guests to disconnect and appreciate the park’s serene beauty.

With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and flexible durations, a Wilpattu safari promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Sri Lanka’s ecological gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Spot Leopards and Sloth Bears on the Safari?

Yes, visitors can spot leopards and sloth bears on the safari. The park is renowned for its healthy populations of these elusive animals, which are commonly sighted during the tours.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price listed doesn’t include the park entrance fee, which is 13,000 LKR per person or 23,000 LKR for two people. There may also be additional fees for hotel pickup and drop-off services, if requested.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Customers can easily change their plans without penalty by taking advantage of this flexible cancellation option.

Can I Self-Drive Through the Park Instead of a Guided Tour?

No, you can’t self-drive through Wilpattu National Park. All safaris are conducted by designated tour operators using shared 4×4 safari jeeps. Private vehicles aren’t allowed within the park for wildlife viewing.

Are There Any Facilities or Refreshments Available During the Safari?

There are no refreshment facilities during the safari, but you can bring your own snacks and drinks. However, park rules prohibit consuming any food or beverages inside the safari vehicles.

The Sum Up

Wilpattu National Park offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s untouched wilderness. With its diverse wildlife, including elusive leopards and sloth bears, and a range of safari options, this park provides a unique and affordable adventure for nature enthusiasts. The free cancellation policy and flexible booking options make it an accessible and convenient choice for those seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: