Udawalawa National Park stands out as a top wildlife destination in Sri Lanka, thanks to its impressive population of elephants, diverse birdlife, and scenic landscapes. Its accessibility and concentration of large mammals make it ideal for both quick visits and longer explorations. We particularly like the private safaris that offer a personalized experience and the all-day tours that pack in more wildlife viewing and scenic stops. These options allow travelers to get up close with elephants and spot rare birds, all while enjoying expert-guided comfort.
If you’re planning a safari in Sri Lanka, you’ll find that Udawalawa offers a variety of tours tailored to different schedules and interests. Whether you prefer a short, focused wildlife encounter or an in-depth day trip, there’s something here for every nature lover. For an easy-to-book, well-reviewed option, check out the Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari, renowned for its friendly guides and excellent wildlife sightings.
1. Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari
At number one, this private safari is a favorite for its personalized touch. Priced at just $26 per person and rated 4.8/5 based on 48 reviews, it offers a 3-hour wildlife adventure. The tour focuses on exploring Udawalawa’s lush wilderness with an experienced guide who can help you spot herds of elephants, water buffalo, wild boar, and a variety of birds. The intimate nature of a private safari means you’re less likely to be crowded by other vehicles, giving you a more natural viewing experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the quality of the guides and the flexibility in pick-up locations. Many visitors praise the guide’s knowledge—like Darmasiri or Asanka—who help spot elusive wildlife and share insightful stories. The reviews mention seeing many elephants, with one guest noting, “We saw lots of wildlife — everything I was expecting and a bit more.” It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want a personalized, relaxed safari experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value, friendly guides, and ample wildlife spotting in just a few hours. Ideal for those short on time but eager for an authentic safari.
2. From Ella: All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari
The second spot on our list goes to the All Inclusive Udawalawe Safari from Ella. For around $140 per person, this 8-hour tour is a more comprehensive experience, including scenic drives, off-road adventures, and a scenic tour of the surrounding countryside. The trip kicks off with pickup from nearby towns like Ella or Wellawaya, making it convenient for travelers staying in those areas.
This tour’s main draw is its guide Dino, whose enthusiasm and local knowledge make the experience memorable. Guests rave about his storytelling and the chance to see elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and abundant bird species. The tour includes a game drive, with a chance for off-road exploration, plus stops for photos and local Sri Lankan treats like coconut cups of tea. One reviewer called Dino “a born guide,” highlighting his passion for animals and the region.
The value here is in the full-day immersion—if you want a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s wildlife with comfort and expert guidance, this is a top pick. The tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, giving you a chance to see baby elephants being fed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a thorough, well-organized safari with extra sightseeing and local flavor, especially if you’re staying nearby.
3. Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
For a half-day experience at just $28 per person, this combined tour offers a quick but rewarding wildlife outing. It includes a jeep safari inside Udawalawa, focusing on spotting elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife, then visits the Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants being fed—an adorable and heartwarming highlight.
Rated 4.4/5 from 15 reviews, this tour is praised for its helpful driver and the chance to see a variety of animals in their natural environment. Several guests mention arriving promptly and feeling like they’ve seen everything they hoped for, with one noting, “Unbelievable, so many beautiful creatures and very knowledgeable guide.”
It’s a good choice for those short on time but wanting a balanced experience of wildlife viewing and interaction with elephants. Since it lasts only 4 hours, it fits well into a busy schedule without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a short, straightforward safari with a special visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
4. Udawalawe National Park | Full day-10 Hours | All Inclusive
At number four, the Full Day Udawalawe Safari offers a comprehensive 10-hour outing with a seasoned guide boasting over 10 years of experience. The tour includes multiple wildlife stops, a large variety of animals, and a detailed exploration of the park.
Starting from early morning, this trip is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time in Udawalawa. It includes scenic drives, game drives, and visits to key areas like the Elephant Transit Home. Participants consistently praise the guide’s expertise and the chance to see elephants, jackals, deer, and countless bird species. The tour’s length allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to photograph or just soak in the scenery.
Pricing is at $121 per person, which might seem high, but the inclusion of expert guiding and a full day of wildlife viewing makes it a good value for serious wildlife fans. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guide and the richness of the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for serious wildlife enthusiasts and those who want an in-depth, relaxed exploration of Udawalawa over a full day.
$121 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best Udawalawa safari depends on your schedule, budget, and interests. If you just want a short, budget-friendly introduction, the private safari (Tour #1) is perfect. For those staying near Ella and seeking a full-day adventure with extra sightseeing, the All Inclusive Safari offers great value. If you’re tight on time but want the essence of the park, the Half-Day Safari & Elephant Transit hits the spot. And for serious wildlife lovers, the Full Day Tour delivers an immersive experience.
Consider your budget, how much time you have, and whether you want extra sights or a focus solely on wildlife. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
In summary, Udawalawa National Park offers options for every type of traveler—from quick visits to comprehensive day-long safaris. For a personalized experience, the private safari is hard to beat. For a fuller day with scenic stops, go for the all-inclusive tour. And if time is tight but you still want to see elephants and other wildlife, the half-day safari with Elephant Transit Home is a solid choice. Whatever you pick, booking ahead will help ensure you don’t miss out on this rewarding wildlife adventure.