Discover the Wild at Udawalawa with this Full-Day Safari and Elephant Encounter
Imagine spending a day surrounded by Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, from the calm waters of a national park to the playful antics of orphaned baby elephants. For travelers in Tangalle or Hiriketiya, this tour offers a balanced blend of wildlife viewing, educational moments, and comfortable transportation. At just $81 per person, it’s a well-priced way to get closer to Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants and other native creatures. The trip lasts around 8 hours, starting with a morning pickup from your hotel, giving you enough time to enjoy the park’s highlights without feeling rushed.
What we find particularly appealing about this experience are the opportunity for up-close animal encounters, especially feeding the adorable baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home, and the chance to see large herds of elephants thriving in their natural habitat. Plus, the guided jeep safari promises expert insight into the park’s diverse wildlife, making every sighting more meaningful. A potential consideration is the entrance fee, which isn’t included in the package, so budget for that separately. This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, nature photography, and learning about conservation efforts—especially those who don’t mind a full day on the road with a relaxed pace.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Wildlife Focus: Visit Udawalawa National Park and the Elephant Transit Home for a close look at elephants, crocodiles, and more.
- Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a stress-free experience.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into the animals and park.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to standalone park visits, this package offers good value, with the caveat of paying entrance fees separately.
- Family-Friendly: The chance to feed baby elephants and see animals in their habitat makes it ideal for families and nature lovers.
- Full-Day Experience: An 8-hour trip allows ample time to enjoy the park and surroundings.
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An In-Depth Look at the Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
Starting Off: Easy Pickups and Comfortable Transport
From your hotel in Tangalle or Hiriketiya, the tour begins with a convenient pickup by air-conditioned vehicle. This beats the hassle of arranging transport on your own, and it frees you from the logistics of navigating Sri Lanka’s sometimes unpredictable roads. The drive to Udawalawa takes approximately 2 hours, giving you a chance to relax and get oriented with your guide, who will likely share snippets about the park and local wildlife.
The Elephant Transit Home: Feeding Baby Elephants
The first stop is at the Elephant Transit Home, where you get about 30 minutes to watch and feed orphaned baby elephants. These gentle giants are among the most charming sights in Sri Lanka, especially when they’re eagerly reaching out with trunks for their bottles. According to reviews, guides like Pradeep really enhance this part of the experience—his knowledge and enthusiasm make it memorable. One traveler even said, “Pradeep was the best, couldn’t recommend him more,” emphasizing the value of having a passionate guide.
This part of the tour offers a rare, intimate glimpse into wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts. It’s a highlight for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in conservation. The feeding session is both educational and heartwarming, providing insight into the ongoing work to save and nurture Sri Lanka’s elephants.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Udawalawa National Park via Jeep Safari
After the elephant encounter, it’s time for the main event—a guided safari through Udawalawa National Park. The park’s landscape is characterized by large water bodies, grassy plains, and woodland, all supporting a thriving population of elephants and other animals. The safari jeep, which seats small groups comfortably, offers an open view that allows you to spot wildlife with ease.
During the safari, you can expect to see a variety of animals, including crocodiles, wild boars, spotted deer, barking deer, mongoose, and even 30 species of snakes. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy the 50 species of butterflies and many bird varieties, which are often seen fluttering overhead or perched in trees. The park’s water sources attract large herds of elephants, which are the main attraction, often seen bathings or grazing.
According to reviews, many guests have been thrilled by the close-up sightings. One review states: “We saw so many elephants up close, one even stuck its trunk in the van”—a classic moment that captures how accessible and engaging the safari can be.
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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The combination of animal encounters, guided insights, and the chance to see Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in their natural setting makes this tour particularly valuable. The guides are generally well-regarded, with some guests praising their knowledge and enthusiasm. The park’s large elephant population and the chance to see crocodiles basking on the banks make for memorable photos and stories.
Potential Drawbacks and Things to Keep in Mind
One consideration is the extra cost of entrance fees, which aren’t included in the tour price. Budget accordingly, especially if you want to maximize your time inside the park. Plus, while the 8-hour duration offers a comprehensive experience, it involves a fair amount of time on the road, which might be long for very young children or those prone to motion sickness.
The tour runs on a pre-set schedule, so checking availability and starting times in advance is wise. Some travelers also mention that the group size isn’t specified, so it’s worth asking if you prefer a smaller or private experience.
Who Should Sign Up?
This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families with children eager to see elephants, and travelers wanting a convenient, guided experience that combines education and adventure. It’s perfect if you appreciate professional guides and want to avoid the hassle of planning your own safari. If you’re on a tight budget but still want to see elephants and other animals, this tour offers good value—even after adding the entrance fees.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This safari tour offers a solid introduction to Sri Lanka’s wildlife, blending the joy of feeding baby elephants with the thrill of spotting elephants and crocodiles in their habitat. The convenience of hotel pickup and expert guidance make it a stress-free way to spend a full day exploring Udawalawa, especially if you’re based in Tangalle or Hiriketiya.
If you value close animal encounters, beautiful scenery, and informative guides, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip. It’s a great option for those who want a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for photo moments and learning about conservation. Keep in mind that the extra entrance fees are not included, so plan for that in your budget.
In sum, this tour is a worthwhile investment for nature lovers, families, and curious travelers seeking a meaningful wildlife experience outside the usual tourist spots. The chance to see large herds of elephants and interact with adorable baby elephants, all within a beautiful park setting, makes it a memorable activity that’s worth considering during your time in Sri Lanka.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Tangalle or Hiriketiya are included, using an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable ride.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early enough to allow for a full day of wildlife viewing and animal encounters.
Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees to Udawalawa National Park are not included in the package and need to be paid separately.
Can I feed the baby elephants?
Yes, part of the experience includes about 30 minutes of feeding and observing the orphaned baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home.
What animals might we see on the safari?
Expect to see elephants, crocodiles, wild boars, deer, mongoose, snakes, and many bird species. The park’s water sources attract large herds of elephants and other wildlife.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. The opportunity to see and feed baby elephants makes it especially suitable for families and children.
What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some snacks, water, and sun protection. Wearing comfortable clothes and closed shoes for the safari is recommended.
How do I book this experience?
You can reserve through the provided link, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
This safari offers a wonderful snapshot of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, with the convenience of guided tours and the chance for intimate animal moments. Whether you’re a wildlife buff or just looking for a memorable family outing, it’s an experience that delivers authentic encounters with nature.
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