Glamping Safari Bordering Udawalawe National Park

Imagine waking up in a luxurious tent with the sounds of elephants trumpeting nearby, then spending your day spotting wildlife in one of Sri Lanka’s top parks. For around $268 per person, you can spend two days at the Mohoora Tented Safari Camp, located right on the edge of Udawalawe National Park — a prime spot for wildlife lovers. Guided by naturalist guides, this tour offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters that are hard to find elsewhere.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of game drives with the comfort of glamping (that’s glamorous camping). The opportunity to see elephants up close, roam with bird species, and even catch a glimpse of a leopard makes it a real highlight. Plus, the evening campfire dinners under the stars deliver a magical finish to each day. A potential concern is the level of organization, which some travelers have pointed out, but overall, the experience remains highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a unique Sri Lankan adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want more than a quick safari, enjoy naturalistic experiences with knowledgeable guides, and appreciate cozy accommodations in remote locations. If you’re comfortable with a group size of up to four people and enjoy being outdoors, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 2-day safari with guided game drives and walks.
• Luxury camping experience right on the border of Udawalawe National Park.
• Wildlife sightings include elephants, birds, buffalo, and possibly even leopards.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Campfire dinners and starry nights add a special touch to the stay.
• Group size is small, making it intimate and personalized.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to give you a thorough exploration of Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its large herds of elephants. At $268, it’s a solid investment considering it’s all-inclusive — meaning the accommodation, multiple safaris, meals, park fees, and beverages are covered. It’s a rare chance to combine luxury camping with the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

The tour begins at Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll spend the first day on a 6-hour safari. This is the core of the experience, allowing you to witness the elephants as they gather around waterholes, feeding or bathing. The park is strategically located on the boundary of Sri Lanka’s wet and dry zones, creating a diverse habitat ideal for many species.

By the second day, you’ll take a walking tour along the park’s border, offering a closer, more deliberate look at the landscape and animals. This 1-hour walk is free of charge, giving a different perspective from the jeep safaris. The day ends with a second safari — a more relaxed way to soak in the wildlife — and a magical candlelight dinner under the stars around a campfire.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Wildlife Safari and Check-in

The adventure kicks off at the entrance of Udawalawe National Park. Here, your naturalist guide — perhaps Solomon, based on reviews — will lead you through what could be a 60-minute walk to get your bearings and enjoy the park’s surroundings. The first safari, lasting about six hours, is the highlight, with jeep rides through the park’s vast 31,000 hectares.

Expect to see herds of elephants—possibly dozens gathered at water sources—along with water buffalo, sambar deer, monitor lizards, and a variety of monkeys. Bird watchers will be in heaven, as the park hosts numerous species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

One reviewer mentions, “Our guide Solomon was perfect and so enthusiastic, he brought the safari to life.” This enthusiasm makes a difference in spotting animals and understanding their habits. The safaris include park and tracker fees, and you’ll have unlimited water during the drives.

Day 2: Wildlife & Night Walks

The morning begins with a breakfast at the camp, which offers a good base for the day’s activities. After breakfast, there’s a walking along the park border — a rare chance to see the wildlife in a different way, more up-close and slow-paced. It’s a free activity, but one that offers a quieter, more personal view of the terrain.

Later, an evening safari takes place, offering a second chance at spotting animals in the cooler hours of the day. The safari Jeep, guide, and tracker are all included, ensuring you’re well-equipped for animal sightings.

The evening’s highlight is an outdoor candlelight dinner under the stars, a cozy and memorable way to conclude the day. Many guests mention how special camping beneath the Milky Way felt — a genuine highlight for those seeking a more immersive experience.

Accommodation and Facilities

Staying at the Mohoora Tented Safari Camp means sleeping in luxury tents with proper amenities, right on the park’s edge. The tents are designed to blend natural comfort with a sense of adventure, offering a campfire experience and meals included in the price.

The HB meal plan ensures you’re well-fed with dinner on day 1 and breakfast on day 2. The camp provides bottled water throughout, and the setting under the stars adds to the sense of adventure. The camp staff are described as friendly and attentive, although some reviews suggest that organization could be improved, especially regarding pickup instructions and logistical clarity.

Practical Considerations

One important note from reviews is that transportation beyond the campsite on the second day isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly if you want to explore further or head elsewhere after the tour. The tour operates every day from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with the pickup point conveniently located near the park entrance.

The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer smaller groups (max 4 travelers), making the experience more personalized, and those comfortable with outdoor conditions like insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

What the Reviews Say

While most reviews are very positive, highlighting stunning wildlife sightings and magical nights under the stars, a couple of guests mention organizational issues, especially around pickup instructions. One reviewer stated, “first up, the pick-up instructions were unclear,” but still appreciated the overall experience once on-site.

The enthusiasm of guides, especially Solomon, and the unique campfire dinners are frequently praised. Guests also love the chance to see large herds of elephants and enjoy birdwatching in the park.

Price & Value Analysis

At $268 per person, this experience offers good value, considering the inclusiveness of meals, safaris, park fees, and accommodation. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, comfortable wildlife experience in Sri Lanka, it’s a smart choice. The small group size and personalized guiding make it particularly appealing.

However, travelers should weigh the logistical aspects — especially the transportation arrangements and potential organizational hiccups — against the overall value and experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect if you want more than just a quick jeep ride — you want timed walks, guided wildlife spotting, campfire nights, and comfortable tents right at the park’s edge. It suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor nights and intimate group sizes. It’s especially good for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants, birds, and possibly leopards in a natural setting.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences but appreciates the comfort of glamping, this tour offers a balanced blend. People who prefer organized, guided tours with knowledgeable naturalists will find it especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this glamping safari near Udawalawe means investing in a comfortable yet authentic wildlife adventure. You’ll get the chance to see Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants in their natural habitat, enjoy beautiful sunset dinners, and spend nights under the stars in well-equipped tents. Although some logistical issues have been noted, the overall experience is well-loved for its stunning wildlife sightings and dedicated guides.

It’s an ideal option for nature lovers seeking a personalized, immersive safari in a remote corner of Sri Lanka. If you appreciate small group settings, wildlife walks, and luxury camping, you’ll likely find this experience both memorable and worthwhile.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children below 6 years can stay free if sharing a tent with parents. Kids between 6 and 12 are charged 50%, and there are no age restrictions, making it family-friendly.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Since conditions can be warm, windy, or rainy, packing suitable clothing is recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included, with an HB meal plan. You’ll also have unlimited bottled water during safaris and meals.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience with guides who can focus on your wildlife interests.

How is the accommodation?
You’ll stay in well-equipped tents that combine comfort with outdoor adventure, complete with campfire dinners and starry nights.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour operates on a set schedule, but the inclusion of guided walks and safaris offers some flexibility for personal interests.

This glamping safari experience offers a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a setting that’s both luxurious and authentic. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the chance to see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat, combined with the comfort of glamping, makes it a memorable adventure worth considering.