Udawalawa National Park is a highlight for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, especially if you’re eager to see elephants in their natural environment. Unlike many parks, Udawalawa offers expansive vistas with large herds of Asian elephants, water buffalo, and a rich variety of birdlife. We particularly appreciate the private safari experiences, like the Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari, which promise close encounters and personalized attention. These tours tend to be smaller and more flexible, making for a more relaxed and intimate wildlife viewing experience.
For travelers with a long layover or those on a tight schedule, the Hambantota Port: Udawalawe Safari Tour & Transit Home Visit offers a quick but rewarding glimpse into Sri Lanka’s wildlife. And if you’re staying in Ella or heading down the coast, there are convenient options like the From Ella: All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari or the Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle & Udawalawa Safari, blending scenic transfers with wildlife spotting.
Below, we’ll walk through each of these top tours, highlighting what makes them special and helping you pick the best fit for your Sri Lanka trip.
1. Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari
At number 1 on our list, the Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari offers a 3-hour journey into Sri Lanka’s wilderness with a focus on close animal encounters. Priced at just $26 per person, this tour is surprisingly affordable considering the personalized experience. Your knowledgeable guide helps you spot herds of elephants, water buffalo, and various bird species, making sure you don’t miss the highlights.
What makes this safari stand out is its private nature—your group gets the full attention of an experienced guide without the distraction of large crowds. Reviews are glowing, with visitors praising the driver’s friendliness and wildlife knowledge. One person noted, “We saw many elephants and appreciated the careful way the guide approached the animals.” The flexibility to choose your pickup location adds to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a relaxed, tailored safari experience without sacrificing wildlife sightings. It’s perfect if you love animals and prefer intimate tours.
2. From Ella: All Inclusive Udawalawe National Park Safari
Coming in at number 2, this full-day safari from Ella is a comprehensive way to see Udawalawe’s wildlife while enjoying the scenic journey. For $140 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a guided game drive, and a scenic drive on the way back. The package also offers the chance to take some memorable photos of elephants, crocodiles, and monkeys, with the added benefit of an expert guide who shares insights into Sri Lanka’s ecology.
What makes this option unique is the combination of a full-day adventure with a well-organized itinerary that includes stops for Sri Lankan desserts and local tea. Guests mention Dino, the guide, as passionate and knowledgeable, often highlighting his personal stories and careful wildlife observation. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a full-day experience with a touch of local flavor.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers staying in Ella who want a full immersion into Udawalawe’s wildlife with comfort and expert guidance.
3. Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle & Udawalawa Safari
For around $52 per person, this shuttle service combines transportation and adventure. It’s perfect if you’re planning a coastal or southern Sri Lanka itinerary and want to include a safari en route. The Ella shuttle with safari offers a 3-hour wildlife drive inside Udawalawe, giving you a taste of Sri Lanka’s big game amidst a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
This tour is especially convenient for those who prefer to maximize travel time by combining transfers with wildlife viewing. While it’s less private, it offers flexibility and simplicity. It’s suited for travelers who are on the move and want a quick but rewarding safari experience without extra fuss.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with a packed itinerary who want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see elephants between other Sri Lankan destinations.
4. Hambantota Port: Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home
At position 4, this 4-hour tour from Hambantota Port balances wildlife spotting with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home. For $66 per person, it’s a good option for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time. The safari includes a game drive where you can expect to see a wide variety of animals and elephants, with guides who are knowledgeable about their habits and habitats.
One of the highlights is the chance to see baby elephants being fed at the Transit Home, which draws many visitors. The driver and guide are praised for their professionalism and care, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for those looking to combine wildlife with other activities in the area.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want a balanced wildlife experience with a special visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
5. Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Udawalawa Safari & Elephant Transit Home
This half-day Udawalawe safari costs $93 per person and is designed for travelers exploring the southern coast. It’s a relaxed way to see elephants and other wildlife, including crocodiles and buffalo, in their natural environment. The tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, making it both fun and educational.
Travelers appreciate the comfortable air-conditioned transport and the chance to spot animals in the wild. The tour is rated highly, with one reviewer noting that it’s a good early start for wildlife, although they mention the sanctuary visit is optional. It’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of wildlife viewing and coastal relaxation.
Bottom Line: Great for coast-bound travelers seeking a half-day nature break with wildlife encounters.
6. Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour
At number 6, the Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home offers a 4-hour half-day trip for $28 per person. This tour includes a jeep safari with a guide who’s familiar with the wildlife and habitat. Visitors often mention seeing elephants, crocodiles, and many bird species, with one reviewer emphasizing the helpfulness of their guide.
The highlight is the ability to see wild elephants close up and interact with the young at the Elephant Transit Home. Its affordability and focus on key wildlife experiences make it a good option for budget travelers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick, budget-friendly safari with reliable wildlife sightings.
7. Galle/Unawatuna/Mirissa: Udawalawe Safari
This full-day Safari from Galle and southern beaches covers a lot of ground for $115 per person. It’s perfect if you’re staying along the south coast and want to include a safari as part of your itinerary. The tour promises close-up views of elephants and other wildlife, along with hassle-free hotel pickup.
Guests rave about the guide’s attentiveness and the chance to see a large herd of nearly 400 elephants that call Udawalawe home. The long day out is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive experience with comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers on a southern Sri Lanka tour who want a hassle-free, full-day safari with guaranteed wildlife sightings.
8. From Ella: Udawalawe Safari with Elephant Transit Home
This full-day Ella to Udawalawe safari costs $65 per person and is suited for those wanting a dedicated wildlife day trip. It covers a full 10 hours and includes visiting the Elephant Transit Home, where you can see baby elephants being fed.
While the reviews are more mixed, with some mentioning the timeline is tight, it remains a solid choice for wildlife fans staying in Ella. The guide is praised for his knowledge, and the safari promises a wide variety of animals. It’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and a keen interest in elephants.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts in Ella seeking a full-day adventure with a focus on elephants.
$65 per person
9. Udawalawe National Park | Full day-10 Hours | All Inclusive
Ranked at number 9, this full-day, all-inclusive safari offers a comprehensive wildlife experience for $121 per person. Led by a guide with over 10 years of experience, it guarantees sightings of elephants and a variety of other animals and birds. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it extremely convenient.
Guests highlight the professionalism of the guide and mention the opportunity to see large herds of elephants in the wild. This option is ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, hassle-free day with a trusted guide.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious wildlife watchers wanting a smooth, extended day in the park.
$121 per person
10. Udawalawe Wild Safari Tours | 10 Hours Safari
Finally, the Udawalawe Wild Safari offers a full 10-hour adventure at $69 per person. It’s led by a guide with a decade of experience and promises excellent elephant sightings as well as glimpses of crocodiles, buffalo, and many bird species.
This tour is a good middle ground—long enough to see a wide range of wildlife but still manageable in a day. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the ability to see animals in a natural setting. It’s a strong choice for those wanting a full day of safari but without the higher price tag of some full-inclusion tours.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a full day of wildlife viewing with a trusted guide but prefer a more budget-conscious option.
$69 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Udawalawa National Park
Picking the right safari depends on your budget, schedule, and wildlife interests. If you’re after personalized attention and close encounters, the private safaris like the Udawalawa National Park: Private Safari are hard to beat. For those on a time crunch or with a cruise itinerary, the Hambantota Port offers a quick window into Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants.
Travelers staying in Ella or along the south coast will appreciate the full-day options for a relaxed, comprehensive experience. Meanwhile, budget-conscious visitors can opt for shorter, efficient tours like the Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons (November to April). Consider your time availability and whether you prefer a private, guided experience or a more economical group tour.
Final Thoughts
Udawalawa National Park offers a variety of tour options, from quick visits to full-day safaris. If you’re keen on seeing large herds of elephants in the wild, the full-day tours and Galle/Unawatuna/Mirissa safari might be your best bets. For more personalized, intimate experiences, the private safaris deliver excellent value and memorable wildlife encounters.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance and matching the tour to your interests and schedule will ensure a rewarding experience in this remarkable wilderness.