Colombo/Bentota: Safari Trip to Yala & Udawalawe w/ Picnic

Experience the Best of Sri Lanka’s Wildlife in One Day

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure and incredible wildlife sightings, the Colombo/Bentota: Safari Trip to Yala & Udawalawe with Picnic offers a remarkable journey. At a reasonable $214 per person, this full-day experience takes you from your hotel in Colombo or Bentota to two of Sri Lanka’s top national parks. With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll explore the lush landscapes in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the most of your time in the wild.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the chance to see both Yala and Udawalawe in one day – a rare opportunity to encounter a diverse array of animals – and the inclusion of a picnic lunch, which keeps the pace lively without sacrificing comfort. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are often praised for their expertise and enthusiasm, turning a safari into a genuine learning experience.

One possible consideration is the long day of travel and sightseeing, which might be tiring for some travelers. If you prefer a slower pace or want more time in each park, this tour might feel a bit rushed. However, if you’re eager to pack in as much wildlife viewing as possible and enjoy a rundown, it’s ideal.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are interested in wildlife and photography, enjoy a structured but flexible itinerary, and want a hassle-free way to see two major parks without multiple separate bookings. It’s particularly appealing if you’re short on time but eager to see elephants, leopards, and other iconic animals of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Visit Both Parks: See Yala and Udawalawe in one seamless day, maximizing your wildlife experiences.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see elephants, leopards, water buffalo, jackals, and many bird species.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance your understanding and spotting skills.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is in a cooled vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a well-organized picnic during the day, saving time and adding to the adventure.
• Park Fees Excluded: Entry costs are not included, so be prepared for an additional fee at each park.

A Deep Dive into the Safari Experience

Starting Point: From Colombo or Bentota

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel, which is a major plus for travelers wanting to skip the hassle of local transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the approximately 3 to 4-hour drive to Yala National Park. During this time, we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to chat with our guide, who often shared interesting tidbits about local flora and fauna, setting the scene for the day ahead.

Yala National Park: The Wild Card

Once you arrive at Yala, your guide will help you climb into a sturdy 4×4 jeep, perfect for navigating the park’s varied terrain. Yala is known for being Sri Lanka’s most diverse park, home to 44 mammal species and over 215 bird species. We loved the way early morning light cast shadows over the lush forests and open grasslands, creating ideal conditions for spotting wildlife.

Our guide, Anura, was particularly skilled at pointing out subtle signs of animal presence, like fresh footprints and distant calls. You can expect to encounter leopards, which are the star attraction here. Several reviews mention spotting leopards lounging on trees or stealthily crossing open spaces, making it a thrill for wildlife photographers. We also saw herds of elephants wandering through the bush, along with water buffalo and various deer.

The “Golden Hours” of sunrise provided not only stunning visuals but also the best chance for intimate wildlife encounters, as animals are most active at dawn. We loved the peaceful atmosphere—just the sounds of birds and the occasional roar from a distant leopard.

More Great Tours Nearby

Picnic Lunch: Refueling in the Wild

Midday, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch. The tour provides a well-packed meal that allows you to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings without the rush of a sit-down restaurant. Many travelers appreciate this flexible break, as it keeps the energy high for the afternoon.

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

After lunch, the trip continues to the Elephant Transit Home, a dedicated facility where hundreds of wild elephant calves are cared for during feeding times. This stop offers a more intimate look at Sri Lanka’s elephant population, especially young ones that might be orphaned or injured. We found the experience heartwarming, watching the tiny elephants eagerly gulp down milk and play with each other.

This stop is especially appreciated because it offers a closer look at elephants without the need for a dedicated elephant safari. Keep in mind that feeding times are the best moments to visit, so check the schedule when booking.

Udawalawe National Park: Elephants Galore

In the late afternoon, you arrive at Udawalawe National Park, renowned for having the most concentrated number of elephants in the world. From 3 PM until the park’s closing at 6 PM, the safari offers a last window of opportunity to spot elephants, along with other wildlife such as wild boar, jackals, crocodiles, and water buffalo.

Our guide navigated the expansive terrain expertly, ensuring we saw elephants drinking at waterholes and sometimes even crossing the road. The park’s open plains and waterways provide excellent vantage points for viewing the animals in their natural habitat.

Returning to Colombo or Bentota

After a full day of wildlife spotting, the return journey offers a chance to reflect on your sightings and share photos. The comfortable vehicle makes the drive back less exhausting, and the hotel drop-off service adds to the convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of two parks in one day is a major draw, especially for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting to maximize their wildlife exposure. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the trip informative and engaging. It’s clear that local guides like Anura and others are passionate about wildlife and eager to share their expertise, which significantly enhances the experience.

Another highlight is the well-organized logistics, including hotel pickup, transportation, and the picnic lunch. This setup allows you to focus solely on the wildlife and enjoy the scenery rather than worrying about the details.

However, be aware that park entrance fees are not included in the price, adding roughly $40 USD per park. Travelers should budget accordingly. Also, because the day is packed, some may find it a bit rushed, especially if wildlife sightings are elusive or if you prefer more time in each park.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for animal lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors eager to see iconic Sri Lankan wildlife with minimal hassle. If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and don’t mind early mornings, this tour will deliver a memorable, wildlife-rich experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This safari trip offers a fantastic value for those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience in Sri Lanka. The chance to see elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species in one day, combined with the comfort of guided transport and a picnic lunch, makes it a practical and rewarding choice. The knowledgeable guides add a layer of authenticity and insight that elevates the tour beyond just a sightseeing drive.

While it’s a long day, the diversity of animals and habitats you’ll encounter makes it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers who want to efficiently explore Sri Lanka’s top parks without the fuss of multiple bookings or complicated transport arrangements.

For anyone eager to witness Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife in a straightforward, well-organized manner, this tour is a strong contender. Just be ready for a full day and some early starts, and you’ll come away with stories—and hopefully photos—that last a lifetime.

FAQ

Are park entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance and service fees to Yala and Udawalawe are not included, and you’ll need to budget about $40 USD per park for these fees.

How long is the drive from Colombo/Bentota to the parks?
The trip involves approximately a 3-4 hour drive each way, depending on traffic, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What animals can I expect to see?
You’re likely to spot elephants, leopards, water buffalo, jackals, and numerous bird species. Sightings depend on luck, but guides are skilled at finding wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some long hours and a full day of activity, so it suits travelers who are comfortable with physical activity and early mornings. Children and elderly travelers should consider their stamina.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring your camera, binoculars if you have them, sun protection, and comfortable clothing. A hat and bottled water are recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

This safari offers a rare chance to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a concentrated, well-organized package—ideal for travelers eager for a full day of adventure without missing the highlights. It’s a practical choice that balances value, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: