All inclussive Udawalawa National Park Safari From Colombo

All-Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari From Colombo

A day trip from Colombo to Udawalawe National Park offers a chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife—elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of birds—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For $209 per person, you get a full 12-hour adventure that includes transportation, a safari jeep, entrance fees, and a stop for lunch, making it an excellent value for travelers eager to connect with nature.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it runs, with early morning pickup and comfortable transport that gets you right into the heart of the reserve. The chance to see Sri Lanka’s thriving elephant population in their natural habitat is a highlight, but we also appreciate the opportunity to spot other wildlife and countless bird species. Plus, the visit to the Elephant Transit Home adds a special touch, giving a behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts.

One potential consideration is the long drive from Colombo—about five hours each way—which might feel tiring for some. However, the scenic journey and the anticipation of wildlife sightings tend to outweigh the travel time for most. This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, especially those who want a guided experience without the hassle of organizing a private safari.

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Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Spot elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of birds in their natural environment.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, entrance fees, safari jeep, and bottled water are covered.
• Flexible Lunch Option: Enjoy lunch at your own expense at a local hotel within the park area.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned shared vehicle, making the long drive more enjoyable.
• Authentic Experience: Small-group safaris allow for a more relaxed and intimate wildlife viewing.
• Conservation Insight: Visit the Elephant Transit Home, supporting wildlife rescue efforts.

What to Expect on This Safari

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Colombo, usually early in the morning. This is a key advantage—no need to worry about navigating or arranging transport. The drive to Udawalawe takes approximately five hours, giving you time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for the day ahead. The journey is part of the experience, with lush landscapes and local villages passing by.

Arrival and Safari Drive

Once you arrive at Udawalawe National Park, you’ll hop onto a shared jeep for a 3-hour game drive. The park was created in the 1970s to shelter animals displaced by the Udawalawe Reservoir, making it an important refuge for Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Here, you’ll enjoy a close-up look at herds of elephants, which are the park’s most famous residents. Several reviews mention the quality of sightings—“We saw a lot of elephants, buffalos, lizards, a large variety of birds, turtles, and even a crocodile,” notes one traveler.

The jeep safari is a highlight, with many travelers appreciating the small group size that allows for more flexible viewing and photograph opportunities. The terrain is generally flat and accessible, suitable for most participants. Keep in mind, the safari is not a 4×4 adventure like Yala, so expect a more relaxed, family-friendly experience.

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Lunch Break at a Local Hotel

After the safari, you’ll have some free time to enjoy a lunch at a local hotel within the park area. While not included in the price, this is a great chance to sample Sri Lankan cuisine—think fresh rice and curry or local snacks—at your own expense. Several reviews emphasize that the lunch options are straightforward and satisfying, providing the energy needed for the rest of your day.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are cared for before being released back into the wild. This visit typically lasts around 45 minutes and offers a heartwarming look at conservation efforts. Reviewers have appreciated this stop, saying it adds a meaningful and educational element to the tour.

Return Journey to Colombo

The day concludes with the return drive to Colombo, expected to take about five hours. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, tired but full of sights and stories.

The Experience in Detail: What Makes It Special

Wildlife Sightings: The primary draw is the chance to see large herds of elephants in their natural habitat. Reviewers like Anca have called the safari “wonderful,” highlighting how helpful and friendly the guide was in spotting animals. The park’s diversity also includes buffalo, wild boar, and various bird species, with some travelers mentioning peacocks, jackals, and mongoose. The presence of crocodiles and turtles adds to the thrill of the game drive.

Authentic Nature Encounter: Unlike crowded parks elsewhere, Udawalawe remains less crowded, allowing visitors to spend quality time observing the animals. Ipsita praised the lack of crowds, which enhances the experience, giving you plenty of opportunities for close-up wildlife viewing and photography.

Conservation and Education: The Elephant Transit Home is a meaningful addition, especially for animal lovers. It offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants. The care and dedication seen here resonate deeply with many visitors, making the trip more than just a safari but an opportunity to support wildlife conservation.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned shared vehicles, which make the long drive comfortable. The group size for the safari itself is small enough to be intimate but large enough to keep costs reasonable. From reviews, the drivers are skilled and punctual, and the vehicles arrive on time for pickup.

Price and Value

At $209 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the transportation, park entrance fees, and safari drive. Some travelers note that, although it is a long day, the quality of wildlife sightings and the convenience make it worth the cost. The fact that you can enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics is a bonus.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This safari suits nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who don’t mind a full-day trip and want a guided, hassle-free experience. It’s ideal for travelers interested in elephants and birdwatching, as well as those eager to see Sri Lanka’s native animals in a relatively peaceful setting. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a luxury safari experience, as the focus is on wildlife viewing rather than high-end amenities.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a budget-friendly, authentic wildlife experience that provides close encounters with elephants and other native species, this tour hits the mark. The small group size and focus on local conservation efforts add depth to the journey, making it more meaningful than just a sightseeing trip.

The long drive is a consideration, but for many, the reward of witnessing Sri Lanka’s elephants in their natural environment outweighs the travel time. This tour offers a good introduction to Sri Lanka’s wildlife reserves, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive safari experience.

For families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to experience Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and impressive animal populations without breaking the bank, this tour provides value, comfort, and a genuine glimpse of the country’s natural beauty.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Colombo to Udawalawe?
The drive takes about five hours each way, so prepare for a full day out. The journey is scenic, with plenty of local villages and lush greenery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature of the safari and the focus on wildlife make it suitable for families, provided children can handle the long day and vehicle rides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended. Bring water bottles and a camera for wildlife photography. Luggage or large bags are not allowed.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is at your own expense at a local hotel near the park. Several reviews mention that the food is simple but satisfying.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants are the main attraction, but you might also see crocodiles, buffalo, wild boar, and many bird species including peacocks and hornbills.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking at the Elephant Transit Home.

What is the group size?
The safari is conducted in shared jeeps, which typically accommodate small groups, allowing for more personalized viewing.

How is the guide’s English?
From reviews, guides are helpful and friendly, though some mention English could be a little better. Still, their knowledge of animal spotting is highly appreciated.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this safari from Colombo to Udawalawe offers a wonderful chance to see Sri Lanka’s cherished elephants and wildlife in a relaxed, well-organized setting. If connecting with nature on a budget appeals to you, this trip might just be the highlight of your Sri Lankan adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: