Bentota is a prime spot for travelers looking to make the most of their day with a variety of full-day tours. Its central location on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast puts you near wildlife parks, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re eager to see elephants in the wild, explore ancient temples, or spot leopards in Yala, Bentota offers options that suit different interests and energy levels. We particularly love the Private Full Day Udawalawe Safari Trip, which combines wildlife viewing with a comfortable experience and the chance to see large herds of elephants up close.
If you’re into cultural history, the Kandy Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded day visiting elephant foundations, spice gardens, and sacred temples. For wildlife enthusiasts wanting to see leopards and crocodiles, the Full Day Yala Safari Trip provides an exciting day immersed in nature. Lastly, for budget-conscious travelers, the From Bentota: Full-Day Yala National Park Safari delivers a solid wildlife experience at a more accessible price. Below, we break down each tour to help you choose the best fit.
1. Private Full Day Udawalawe Safari Trip with Lunch
This full-day safari from Bentota offers a close look at Udawalawe National Park’s incredible elephant population. The tour includes free pick-up and drop-off from Kalutara to Hikkaduwa areas, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. The main highlight is the chance to see large herds of elephants—up to 600 roam within the park—and spot other wildlife such as crocodiles, water buffalo, and deer.
The itinerary features a visit to Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned calves are rehabilitated for release back into the wild. This is an especially meaningful experience for animal lovers and conservation-minded travelers. The trip takes about 10 to 12 hours, with around 8 hours in the park, and includes admission at no extra cost.
Tour guide Sammy is praised for his knowledge and ability to steer guests safely through crowded areas, while making wildlife sightings enjoyable. Reviewers mention feeling at ease and seeing a wide variety of animals, which is rare in such a large park.
Bottom Line: If spotting elephants and learning about their care is your priority, this safari is a top choice. It offers excellent value, especially with the included visits and expert guidance.
2. Kandy Full Day Tour Private All Inclusive
For a cultural and scenic experience, the Kandy Full Day Tour provides a bit of everything in about 9 to 10 hours. Starting with hotel pickup, the tour includes stops at Pinnawala Elephant Village and the Millennium Elephant Foundation, where you can get hands-on with elephants and learn about their rehabilitation. If you’re interested in Sri Lanka’s medicinal traditions, a visit to a local herbal garden in Mawanella is included, offering an authentic insight into Ayurveda.
Next, the tour visits Kandy’s Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, one of the island’s most revered religious sites. After exploring the city’s historic streets, you’ll enjoy a scenic lunch at a viewpoint (lunch not included), and learn about the gem industry at a factory. The day ends with a stop at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, featuring lush greenery and exotic plants.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a blend of history, culture, and nature. The inclusion of the elephant foundation and gem factory makes it especially appealing for those interested in Sri Lanka’s artisanal crafts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and culture buffs, this tour offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s heritage with manageable driving distances. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a varied itinerary without rushing.
$185.00 per person
3. Full Day Private Yala Safari Trip with Lunch
This tour takes you to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s second-largest and most famous wildlife sanctuary. Spanning over 375 square miles, Yala is renowned for its high leopard density and diverse ecosystems that include moist monsoon forest, lagoons, and grasslands. The 10 to 12-hour day includes a 4-hour safari inside the park, where you’re likely to see leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off in Bentota, making it a hassle-free way to learn about wildlife. Guides are experienced at spotting elusive animals like leopards, which is a highlight for many wildlife lovers. The itinerary emphasizes scenic drives en route to and from the park, with a focus on wildlife viewing.
This safari ranks high for adventure seekers who want the thrill of spotting big cats and other iconic species in their natural habitat. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see several animals in a single game drive.
Bottom Line: If your main goal is wildlife spotting, especially leopards, this tour is hard to beat. The longer duration and focus on the park make it ideal for serious wildlife enthusiasts.
$200.00 per person
4. From Bentota: Full-Day Yala National Park Safari Tour
Offering great value for budget travelers, this Yala Safari departs from Bentota and includes hotel pickup and drop-off with a 4-hour safari inside Yala. Priced at $105 per person, it’s one of the most accessible options for those wanting a wildlife adventure without breaking the bank.
The tour features scenic drives and wildlife viewing opportunities similar to the more expensive options, with the chance to see elephants, crocodiles, and a wide bird variety. While it’s a bit shorter than other Yala trips, it still offers a comprehensive taste of the park’s rich biodiversity. The itinerary is flexible, with pickup from several locations including Beruwala, Waskaduwa, Bentota, and Kalutara, making logistics easier.
Guests appreciate the smooth organization and the chance to experience Yala’s wildlife on a budget. The main drawback is the shorter safari time, which may limit animal sightings, but for many, it’s a good introduction.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking affordable wildlife safaris with reliable logistics, especially if you’re short on time or budget, but still want to see Yala’s famous wildlife.
$105 per person
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Bentota
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. If wildlife photography or seeing large herds of elephants is your top priority, the Udawalawe Safari offers the most reliable sightings and a relaxed pace. For a blend of culture and nature, the Kandy tour combines temples, elephants, and scenic views in a manageable day.
If big cat sightings excite you, then the Yala Safari is hard to beat, though it’s longer and more intense. For travelers on a budget or those with limited time, the Yala from Bentota provides a solid wildlife experience at a lower price.
Consider your physical fitness—most tours involve some walking and vehicle rides—and the season. Wildlife tours tend to be best in dry months when animals gather around water sources. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Bentota offers a range of full-day tours that cater to different interests, whether you’re after wildlife encounters, cultural exploration, or a mix of both. For a truly memorable experience, the Udawalawe Safari stands out for its elephant sightings, while the Kandy tour provides cultural richness. Wildlife lovers should consider the Yala Safari for its chance to see elusive predators, and budget travelers will appreciate the Yala from Bentota for affordable access.
No matter which you pick, booking early helps ensure you get the dates you want. With so many options, you’re sure to find a full-day tour that turns your Bentota visit into a truly memorable adventure.