Udawalawe , Sri Lanka

Udawalawe National Park Private Safari

Active

(194 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enter the Land of Elephants as you go on a 3-hour Udawalawe National Park Safari! Search for sightings of the giants of the animal world in the plains and grasslands of this Sri Lankan National Park. Explore the Udawalawe Reserve for a glimpse into the lives of the local wildlife. Get your birdwatching binoculars ready to catch sight of a number of endemic and migratory birds. If you are a butterfly enthusiast, know that the park is a haven for you too. This is a 3-hour break in a wonderland of wildlife!

Available options

Jeep with No Tickets (9 hrs)

LK50A01I00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep with No Tickets (9 hrs)

Jeep with Tickets (3 hrs)

LK50A05C00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep Tickets (3 hrs)

Jeep with No Tickets (3 hrs)

LK50A01C00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep with NoTickets (3 hrs)

Jeep with Tickets (9 hrs)

LK50A02I01: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep with Tickets (9 hrs)

Jeep with Tickets (6 hrs)

LK50A01F00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep with Tickets (6 hrs)

Jeep with No Tickets (6 hrs)

LK50A01F00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari including Jeep with No Tickets (6 hrs)

What's included

Experienced Driver (Also your tracker).

Park entrance tickets are included when "Jeep With Tickets" selected.

Water bottle (per-person).

Free Pickup/Drop off from/to any location within the radius of 5 KM from the Park Gate.

Private Safari Jeep (Maximum of 6 Passengers per jeep).

Detailed itinerary

Udawalawe is a small town located in the southern part of the Ratnapura District in Sri Lanka. It is situated in close to the district's boundary with the Hambantota District and Monaragala District.

The Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife reserve covering nearly 120 square miles of land with a number of geological formations. Established on the 30th of June 1972, the park lies on the boundary of the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces of Sri Lanka. As such, it majorly consists of plains, grasslands, forests and marshes - while being bounded by soaring mountains along the northern border. A major river, the Walawe and a many of its tributaries run pass through the park, providing ample water for the wildlife. The annual rainfall in the Udawalawe National Park is around 1500 millimeters, and the average temperature stays at a comfortable 27° - 28° Centigrade (81°-82°F). The park has over 94 species of plants, 21 species of fish, 12 species of amphibians, over 30 species of reptiles, over 180 species of birds (33 of which are migratory), 43 species of mammals and 135 species of butterflies.

Udawalawe is a small town located in the southern part of the Ratnapura District in Sri Lanka. It is situated in close to the district's boundary with the Hambantota District and Monaragala District.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off if outside of 5km of park entrance gate

Food And Drink

Gratuities

Park entrance tickets are excluded when "Jeep With No Tickets" selected.

Available languages

Written guide

DE IT FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

180 reviews

5★

163

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

If you are booking a half-day safari, advise if it is a Morning or Evening safari.

A maximum of 6 people per booking

Not recommended for child aged 5 years or under

Meeting point

We will meet and pick you up from any hotel in Udawalawe within the radius of 5KM from the Park Gate.

Important notes

Please do note that the National Park has a separate entrance ticket, hence if you reserve the jeep with no tickets option you will have to purchase the park entrance ticket at the park gate.

About Udawalawe

Udawalawe is a small town in southern Sri Lanka known for its proximity to the Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in elephants. The town serves as a gateway to one of the country's most important wildlife conservation areas, offering a unique blend of nature and adventure.

Top Attractions

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most important wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its large population of Asian elephants. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including safaris and guided tours.

Nature Half-day to full-day Approx. 5,000 LKR ($25 USD) for a safari

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can observe elephants being cared for and, if lucky, see them being released back into the wild.

Nature 1-2 hours Approx. 500 LKR ($2.50 USD) for entry

Udawalawe Reservoir

The Udawalawe Reservoir is a large artificial lake that provides water to the national park and surrounding areas. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Dambana Viharaya

Dambana Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located near Udawalawe. The temple is known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish. Often accompanied by sambols and other side dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center. Can be sweet or savory.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (check for egg)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices. Often served with a side of sambol.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with a blend of spices and goraka (a sour fruit). Often served with rice or bread.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian (fish)

Popular Activities

Wildlife safaris Hiking Birdwatching Beach relaxation Scenic drives Nature walks Temple visits Local markets

Best Time to Visit

January to September (dry season)

The dry season is the best time to visit Udawalawe for wildlife viewing, especially elephants. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.

25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) 77°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Udawalawe is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices in advance.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) southeast of Udawalawe
Bandaranaike International Airport • 160 km (99.4 miles) southwest of Udawalawe

By train

Udawalawe Station

By bus

Udawalawe Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe (local ride-hailing app)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Udawalawe Town Near Udawalawe National Park

Day trips

Tangalle

60 km (37.3 miles) • Full day

Tangalle is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for those looking to combine wildlife viewing with beach relaxation.

Ella

100 km (62.1 miles) • Full day or overnight

Ella is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Kataragama

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Kataragama is a sacred city known for its religious significance and the annual Esala Perahera festival. It's home to several important temples and shrines.