Explore the Heart of Sri Lanka’s Wilderness
Located on the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Udawalawe National Park is one of the island’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. Renowned for its large population of wild elephants and diverse range of species, the park offers visitors a raw, authentic wildlife experience unlike any other.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s majestic wildlife, the Udawalawe Wild Safari Tour is the perfect choice.
This 6-hour private jeep safari is designed to take you deep into the heart of the park, where elephants roam freely, birds soar gracefully above, and nature reveals its untamed beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or first-time visitor, this safari promises breathtaking moments and lifelong memories.
Why Choose Udawalawe National Park for Your Safari?
Udawalawe is one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for spotting elephants in the wild. Unlike many other parks, sightings here are almost guaranteed — making it an essential stop for anyone passionate about wildlife.
Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park’s ecosystem consists of open grasslands, scrub jungles, marshes, and the beautiful Udawalawe Reservoir, which attracts herds of elephants and numerous other species.
Highlights of Udawalawe include:
- A thriving elephant population (over 600 residents)
- Rich birdlife with endemic and migratory species
- Stunning landscapes with reservoirs and grasslands
- A variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians
- Easy accessibility from southern Sri Lanka destinations like Ella, Tangalle, and Mirissa
Whether you’re on a family trip, honeymoon, or photography expedition, Udawalawe offers a safe and enriching safari experience for all ages.
Your Udawalawe Safari Experience
Comfortable and Private Jeep Safari
Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup within the Udawalawe area. You’ll board a comfortable luxury 4×4 jeep designed for optimal wildlife viewing and photography. With space for up to six passengers, the private safari ensures personalized attention, safety, and comfort.
An English-speaking driver-guide accompanies you throughout the adventure, sharing fascinating facts about the park’s ecosystem, animal behaviors, and ongoing conservation projects.
The smooth off-road ride through the park’s scenic terrain lets you get close to wildlife while maintaining a respectful distance, ensuring safety and ethical observation.
Wildlife Encounters to Remember
Udawalawe is most famous for its herds of wild Asian elephants, which can be seen bathing, feeding, or walking across the open plains. However, elephants are only the beginning — the park’s biodiversity offers plenty more to discover.
Animals you may encounter:
- Asian Elephants – The main stars of Udawalawe; sightings are frequent throughout the day.
- Crocodiles – Often spotted sunbathing near lakes and rivers.
- Spotted Deer and Water Buffalo – Commonly seen grazing in the grasslands.
- Peacocks and Junglefowl – Adding color and sound to the wilderness.
- Leopards and Wild Cats – Rare but thrilling to spot for the lucky few.
- Birds – From hornbills to eagles, Udawalawe is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Every safari brings new surprises — no two experiences are ever the same. Whether it’s a majestic elephant herd crossing your path or a flash of a colorful kingfisher darting across the water, each moment is magical.
Morning vs. Evening Safari
You can choose between a morning safari or an evening safari, depending on your preference.
Morning Safari (Best for Active Wildlife)
- Starts early, often before sunrise.
- Cooler temperatures make animals more active.
- Ideal for photography with soft natural light.
- Includes light breakfast or refreshments.
Evening Safari (Perfect for Sunsets & Relaxed Viewing)
- Begins mid-afternoon and continues until sunset.
- Witness the golden glow of the savanna.
- Excellent opportunity to photograph landscapes and elephants near water sources.
Both options offer rich experiences — your choice depends on whether you want to start your day with adventure or end it in nature’s golden hour.
What’s Included in the Udawalawe Safari Tour
Your 6-hour full-day safari package offers great value with all essential inclusions to ensure a seamless experience:
✅ Private 4×4 Jeep Transport – Comfortable seating and panoramic visibility.
✅ Experienced English-Speaking Driver-Guide – Provides insights into wildlife and ecology.
✅ Park Entrance Fees – Included in the package for hassle-free entry.
✅ Light Refreshments or Breakfast – Depending on safari timing.
✅ Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off – Within Udawalawe area.
✅ Government Taxes – No hidden costs.
Not Included:
Meals beyond refreshments, gratuities, and transport from areas outside Udawalawe (available at an extra cost).
Tips for a Perfect Udawalawe Safari Experience
To make the most of your safari, here are some practical travel tips:
- Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothes in neutral colors.
- Footwear: Closed shoes or sandals with grip are ideal.
- Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Mosquito Repellent: Essential for early morning or evening safaris.
- Hydration: Carry bottled water to stay refreshed.
- Photography: Bring a camera or binoculars to capture close-up wildlife views.
- Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early for a smooth check-in process.
Being prepared ensures comfort and safety, allowing you to focus entirely on the beauty of the park.
About Udawalawe National Park
Declared a national park in 1972, Udawalawe was established to provide a sanctuary for wildlife displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir. Today, it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most visited parks due to its accessibility and year-round elephant sightings.
- Location: Between Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, about 165 km from Colombo.
- Area: Approximately 30,821 hectares.
- Habitat: Dry zone grasslands, scrub jungle, and forest patches.
- Main Attraction: Over 600 wild elephants.
- Best Time to Visit: All year round — though the dry season (May to September) offers the best animal sightings.
The Udawalawe Reservoir acts as a natural magnet for animals seeking water, making it a hotspot for wildlife observation and photography.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
Udawalawe plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation efforts. The park is not only home to elephants but also a range of threatened species whose habitats are protected under national law.
Visitors are encouraged to support conservation by practicing eco-friendly tourism:
- Avoid feeding animals.
- Keep noise to a minimum.
- Do not litter inside the park.
- Respect the guide’s instructions at all times.
By joining the Udawalawe Safari Tour, you contribute directly to the park’s sustainability through entrance fees and responsible tourism practices that protect its ecosystem.
The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
A must-visit attraction nearby is the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, located just outside the park entrance. Managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, it rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants before releasing them back into the wild.
Visitors can watch feeding sessions from a safe distance and learn about elephant care and rehabilitation. Combining a visit here with your safari adds an educational dimension to your wildlife adventure.
Who Can Join This Safari?
The Udawalawe Wild Safari Tour is suitable for everyone:
- Families with children: Safe, educational, and engaging.
- Solo travelers: A great opportunity to explore nature peacefully.
- Couples: Perfect for romantic adventure getaways.
- Photographers and nature enthusiasts: Ideal for close encounters and dramatic landscapes.
With private jeeps, you can customize your experience — focus on elephants, birds, photography, or simply relax and take in the scenery.
Why Book with SafariBookingSriLanka.com?
At SafariBookingSriLanka.com, we specialize in authentic, private safari experiences designed for comfort and discovery. When you book your Udawalawe Wild Safari Tour through us, you get:
- Experienced and licensed safari guides.
- Modern, comfortable jeeps with safety features.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Personalized service for individuals and small groups.
- Commitment to responsible, sustainable tourism.
Our team ensures every safari is well-planned, educational, and unforgettable — giving you a true connection with Sri Lanka’s wilderness.
Best Time to Visit Udawalawe
Udawalawe is open year-round, but the dry season (May to September) is considered the best time for safaris.
During this period, animals gather around water sources, making sightings frequent and dramatic.
However, the park’s open landscape means you can still spot wildlife even during the wetter months (October to April), when the scenery turns lush and green — ideal for photographers.
Nearby Attractions
After your Udawalawe safari, you can explore nearby destinations such as:
- Ella – A scenic hill town known for waterfalls and hiking trails.
- Rathnapura – The city of gems, rich in history and culture.
- Yala National Park – For a chance to see leopards.
- Bundala National Park – A paradise for birdwatchers.
Combining Udawalawe with other parks or cultural sites creates a well-rounded Sri Lankan adventure.
Conclusion: A Safari You’ll Never Forget
A journey through Udawalawe National Park is more than just a safari — it’s a profound connection with nature. Watching elephants bathe at sunrise, listening to the call of exotic birds, and feeling the peace of Sri Lanka’s wilderness are moments that stay with you forever.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Udawalawe Wild Safari Tour offers the perfect balance of comfort, adventure, and discovery.
Book your safari today at SafariBookingSriLanka.com and experience one of the most iconic wildlife adventures in Asia.