Private Full Day Udawalawe Safari Trip with Lunch

A full-day safari adventure at Udawalawe National Park offers a fantastic way to see Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants in their natural habitat. This private tour, priced at $180 per person, is tailored for those staying along the south coast, particularly around Bentota, Kalutara, Hikkaduwa, or nearby areas. It lasts roughly 10 to 12 hours — perfect for a dedicated wildlife outing — with the added convenience of pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel.

What immediately appeals to us about this experience are two key aspects: first, the guaranteed elephant sightings given the park’s large herds, and second, the visit to the Elephant Transit Home, which highlights Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife conservation. These features add depth to the tour, making it more than just a game drive — it’s an insightful glimpse into the country’s efforts to protect its gentle giants.

That said, a potential consideration is the long transportation time — about 8 hours in total. For some travelers, this might feel a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to long drives. But if wildlife and authentic encounters are your priority, this trip offers excellent value.

This tour is well-suited for anyone who loves animals, nature, and wants a comfortable, guided experience. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family, wildlife enthusiasts, or those curious about Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts showcased at the Elephant Transit Home.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Private Tour: Includes pick-up, drop-off, all fees, and a delicious lunch.
• Guaranteed Wildlife Viewing: Large herds of elephants and other animals like leopards, crocodiles, and water buffalo.
• Conservation Focus: Visit to the Elephant Transit Home, emphasizing Sri Lanka’s wildlife rescue efforts.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle and safari jeep included.
• Long Day, Rich Experience: Total travel and activity time around 10-12 hours, suitable for dedicated wildlife fans.
• Highly Rated: Consistently 5-star reviews for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics.

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka and eager to see its famed elephants in the wild, a private full-day safari in Udawalawe National Park could be just the ticket. Known for its large herds and consistent sightings, Udawalawe offers one of the best chances in Sri Lanka to observe elephants as they roam freely. Offered by Sammy Tours, this tour combines wildlife viewing, conservation education, and local hospitality, all wrapped into a single day from the south coast.

What the Tour Covers

The experience starts early, with a pick-up from your hotel around 10:30 am. Over the course of approximately 10 to 12 hours, you’ll cover two main stops: the Udawalawe National Park itself and the Elephant Transit Home. The journey involves about 8 hours of transportation — so bring some snacks and patience — but the reward is seeing one of the most accessible and wildlife-rich parks in Sri Lanka.

First Stop: Udawalawe National Park

Once inside the park, you’ll hop into a safari jeep—a key to getting close to the animals without disturbing their natural routines. Here, you’ll immediately notice the vast open landscapes, framed by towering highlands to the north. The big draw? The elephants. Herds of up to 30 elephants are common, and with a population of around 600 residing in the park, your chances of sightings are high.

Beyond elephants, you might see leopards stealthily stalking, crocodiles basking on the banks, water buffalo, deer, and an array of bird species. The park’s open terrain makes it easier to spot wildlife than more densely wooded reserves, and the experienced guides are adept at finding animals without chasing them.

A highlight of this stop is the chance to witness elephants engaging in social behaviors or simply grazing peacefully. As one reviewer, Julian, recounts, “Superb trip with Sammy. Steered us through the crowds. Saw all the elephants and wildlife in the park. He is knowledgeable, and at all times we felt safe and enjoyed the trip.” This underscores the importance of having a guide who knows where to look and how to keep the experience safe and relaxed.

Second Stop: Elephant Transit Home

After several hours in the park, your next destination is the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a facility dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned elephants. Established in 1995, the ETH is a remarkable example of wildlife conservation, where calves are nurtured until they’re ready to return to the wild.

Here, you’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these gentle giants. The 30-minute visit provides a behind-the-scenes look at how young elephants are cared for and eventually released. The admission fee is included, and visitors often find the experience both heartwarming and educational.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the guaranteed elephant encounters are a major plus. The park’s sizable herds and your guide’s expertise mean you’re very likely to see elephants, which is a big reason why many travelers choose this tour. Second, the visit to the Elephant Transit Home adds a meaningful element—seeing conservation in action and understanding Sri Lanka’s dedication to protecting its elephants.

Practicalities and Value

The tour includes all fees, bottled water, and a lunch, making this a hassle-free day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is crucial given the heat, and the safari jeep ensures you’re close enough to the action without feeling intrusive. The price of $180 per person may seem steep, but considering the comprehensive experience, convenient logistics, and the opportunity for close-up wildlife sightings, it’s quite reasonable.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the long travel time — about 8 hours between transportation and the park activities. If you’re not accustomed to long drives, this could feel tiring. Also, since the day is packed, it leaves little room for flexibility if you want a more relaxed pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or traveling with family and eager to see Sri Lanka’s elephants in a safe, guided environment, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those interested in conservation, as the Elephant Transit Home offers insights into rescue efforts. However, if you prefer a shorter excursion or are sensitive to long travel hours, you might want to consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

This safari offers a well-rounded experience—combining wildlife sightings, conservation awareness, and comfort. It’s a prime choice for travelers who want to see elephants up close, learn about local efforts to protect them, and enjoy an all-inclusive, guided day without the hassle of planning logistics.

The reviews highlight the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, with many guests feeling they had a safe, engaging, and memorable experience. The chance to witness large herds in their natural environment is a highlight that makes this tour stand out among Sri Lanka’s wildlife excursions.

In essence, this trip is about connecting with nature, understanding the importance of conservation, and enjoying the thrill of spotting elephants and other animals in the wild. It’s suitable for wildlife lovers, families, and those with a day to spare for a meaningful adventure.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 to 12 hours, including transportation, park visits, and the Elephant Transit Home visit.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, with an air-conditioned vehicle and safari jeep.

What animals might I see?
Elephants are the main attraction, but you can also see leopards, crocodiles, water buffalo, deer, and various bird species.

Is there an entrance fee?
All entrance fees — for Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home — are included in the tour price.

What about food?
A lunch is included, so you won’t need to worry about finding food during the long day.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is geared toward most travelers, including families, especially those interested in wildlife.

How experienced are the guides?
Guests consistently praise guides for their knowledge and ability to find animals, making the experience more rewarding.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention.

To sum it up, if your goal is to see elephants in a natural setting and learn about Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts, this Udawalawe safari tour offers a valuable, well-organized, and authentic experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy comfortable logistics, and go beyond just a typical sightseeing trip.