All Inclusive Private Safari in Minneriya National Park
Active
Duration varies
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the moments of giants of the earth and study the way they eat, drink, play and behave. These cutest animals are moving within three national parks usually to find their foods and water so we will bring you to the best suited national park (Minneriya,Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco) on the day of your Safari according to the data that we gathered during the previous days.
If you are traveling during the gathering season which is from July to September we can surely show you more than 100 elephants during this experience. Sometimes you might lucky enough to spot around 400 elephants.
This experience will also give you the chances to spot some other animal species as well.
We will offer you bottled water and a small snack along with a drink during the Safari.
Available options
Evening Safari from Habarana
We will pick-up/drop-off from/to any location in Habarana and will provide you a 4WD jeep with an Experienced driver/tracker. Entrance Tickets, Snack and Bottled Water will be provided.
Evening Safari from Sigiriya
We will pick-up/drop-off from/to any location in Sigiriya and will provide you a 4WD jeep with an Experienced driver/tracker. Entrance Tickets, Snack and Bottled Water will be provided.
Evening Safari from Kandalama
Pickup included
Evening Safari from Dambulla
We will pick-up/drop-off from/to any location in Dambulla and will provide you a 4WD jeep with an Experienced driver/tracker. Entrance Tickets, Snack and Bottled Water will be provided.
What's included
Transportation by a Luxury 4WD Safari Jeep
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Bottled water
Service of an Experienced driver/tracker
Soft Drinks
Free Hotel pickup and drop-off from/to Habarana, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandalama Hotels
What you'll see
You will be welcome by your private experienced driver/tracker at your hotel or your provided pick-up location and he will drive you to the National Park to begin your safari and he will drive you throughout the national park to show you these Asian Jumbos while showing you some other animal species.
Itinerary
2.00 P.M – Pick-Up from your hotel at Habarana, Sigiriya, Dambulla, or Main Entrance of Minneriya National Park or Habarana Junction.
2.30 P.M – Begin your game drive at Minneriya National Park.
5.30 P.M to 6.00 P.M – Finishing time of your Safari.
6.30 P.M – Drop you off to the place that we have picked you up.
We will offer you bottled water and a small snack along with a drink during the Safari.
The Annual, Largest Gathering of Asian Elephants
This is the National Park which happens the world famous Largest Gathering of Asian Elephants. During the dry season (From July to September) elephants are gathered on the banks of Minneriya tank at evening hours, so you can spot some more elephants specially during this period of the year. As elephants are only active during evening hours in these areas this evening safari will give you better chances to spot these wild animals.
About Elephants
Average Weight: Male – 5400Kg / Female – 2700Kg
Average Height – Male – 2.7M / Female – 2.2M
Life Span – 48 Years
Foods – Adult elephant can eat up to 300 pounds of foods per.day
Elephants require about 68.4 to 98.8 L (18 to 26 gal.) of water daily, but may consume up to 152 L (40 gal.). An adult male elephant can drink up to 212 L (55 gal.) of water in less than five minutes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
23 reviews
5★
18
4★
2
3★
1
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is casual
Meeting point
We pick up from the park entrance
About Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.
Top Attractions
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.
Historical
Full day
Free
Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba
One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Jethawanaramaya Dagoba
The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Isurumuniya Temple
A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Hoppers
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian.
Rice and Curry
A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mihintale
Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery
Tea tasting
Visiting temples
Exploring ancient ruins
Attending religious ceremonies
Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival
Best Time to Visit
January to March
This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
UTC+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anuradhapura is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Use reputable tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
Getting there
By air
- Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km
By train
Anuradhapura Railway Station
By bus
Anuradhapura Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sacred City
New Town
Tuktukaraya
Day trips
Mihintale
12 km • Half day
A sacred mountain site where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka, featuring ancient ruins and temples.
Ritigala Forest Monastery
30 km • Full day
A UNESCO-listed forest monastery with ancient ruins and a rich biodiversity.
Avukana Buddha Statue
50 km • Full day
A colossal Buddha statue carved out of a single rock, standing 40 feet tall.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • July/August (full moon day)
Poson Festival • June (full moon day)
Vesak Festival • April/May (full moon day)
Pro tips
- Visit the Sacred City early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the historical sites.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Respect the religious customs and traditions when visiting temples.
- Carry a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
![Minneriya National Park Safari [Morning / Evening]](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-674x446/15/1f/89/35.jpg)
