Kandy’s safari tours pack serious adventure into manageable excursions. After exploring dozens of options, I found the most worthwhile safaris center around Udawalawe National Park, where elephants roam freely year-round. The Day Excursion combining Sigiriya Rock with a safari delivers excellent value, letting you tick off both culture and wildlife in one efficient day. For those heading north, the shuttle services to Trincomalee and Anuradhapura cleverly integrate game drives, saving both time and money.
I especially love the private Minneriya Safari – it avoids the crowded jeep convoys and lets you linger at wildlife sightings. The Hurulu Eco Park option is another gem, offering intimate encounters with elephants in a less-visited setting.
Let’s look at my favorite safari experiences around Kandy.
Good To Know
Udawalawe National Park offers a full-day safari tour from Kandy with a chance to see elephants, knowledgeable guides, and round-trip transportation.
Minneriya National Park safari tours from Kandy include round-trip transportation, shared jeep safaris, and English-speaking drivers.
Kaudulla and Wilpattu National Park safaris from Kandy provide comprehensive experiences with moderate physical activity levels and accessibility options.
Kandy to Trincomalee or Anuradhapura shuttle tours combine scenic drives with safari experiences, ideal for travelers seeking diverse landscape and wildlife sightings.
Customized safari experiences from Kandy, such as Minneriya Safari Game Drive and Hurulu Eco Park Safari, offer private tours with hotel pickup, meals, and tailored itineraries.
Kandy to Trincomalee Shuttle & Safari Drive
The Kandy to Trincomalee Shuttle & Safari Drive offers travelers an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central and eastern regions.
The tour includes a safari drive with an experienced trekker, evening snacks, bottled water, and national park entrance fee. With a maximum of 10 travelers and a minimum of 2 participants required, this tour provides a personalized experience.
The pickup is from Kandy or suburbs at 11:30 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off available. While not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, most can participate.
Priced from $100.00 per person, the tour features positive feedback on wildlife sightings, though leopards aren’t present in this part of the country.
Read our full review: Kandy to Trincomalee Shuttle & Safari Drive Review
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Udawalawe Safari Day Tour From Kandy
Travelers seeking an exhilarating safari experience can embark on the Udawalawe Safari Day Tour from Kandy, operated by Vishwa Colombo Tours.
This private tour offers a chance to explore the Udawalawe National Park in a private 4×4 jeep. The tour includes admission fees, a knowledgeable guide, and round-trip transportation from Kandy.
With a start time of 5:30 AM, guests can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, in their natural habitat.
The tour also includes visits to the Maha Saman Devalaya temple and a gem museum in Ratnapura.
While the tour is non-refundable upon cancellation, its overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 suggests a rewarding experience for travelers.
Read our full review: Udawalawe Safari Day Tour From Kandy Review
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Day Excursion From Kandy to Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock & National Park Safari
Conveniently located in Kandy, JK Travels Sri Lanka offers a comprehensive day excursion that takes visitors on a captivating journey to the iconic Sigiriya Rock, the stunning Pidurangala Rock, and an exhilarating National Park safari.
Priced from $55 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, and all necessary entrance fees.
Travelers praise the tour’s flexibility and the driver’s storytelling abilities. While wildlife sightings can be limited, the overall experience is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing the tour.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, this day trip is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore Kandy’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Day Excursion From Kandy to Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock & National Park Safari Review
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Private Udawalawe Nationalpark Jeep-Safari
Embarking on a private Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic wildlife of Sri Lanka.
This half-day tour, starting from Kandy, provides a personalized experience tailored to your group. Explore the park in an air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle, with the chance to spot elephant herds and other animals.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and the jeep costs. With no hidden expenses, the price starts from €85.70 per person, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, making it an exciting way to learn about Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Private Udawalawe Nationalpark Jeep-Safari Review
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Day Tour to Dambulla, Sigiriya and Safari From Kandy (Group Tour)
For those seeking a comprehensive day tour from Kandy, the Day Tour to Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Safari package offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural experiences.
Priced from $22.95 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and WiFi. While entrance fees to Dambulla Cave Temple ($6), Sigiriya Rock ($30), and the Safari ($35) are additional, the experience promises a memorable adventure.
Accommodating up to 30 travelers, the tour departs at 6:30 am and ends back at the meeting point. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most, except pregnant travelers.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Dambulla, Sigiriya and Safari From Kandy (Group Tour) Review
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Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari From Kandy
Combining cultural and natural marvels, the Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari from Kandy offers an immersive day tour that showcases Sri Lanka’s iconic landmarks.
For $95 per person, travelers are treated to a 3-hour safari in Minneriya National Park to witness wild elephants in their natural habitat.
The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock, a village tour, and lunch.
With hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide, this private tour is ideal for those seeking an enriching experience.
Boasting free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, it’s no wonder this tour is popular and likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari From Kandy Review
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Kandy City Tuk Tuk Safari
The Kandy City Tuk Tuk Safari provides a unique and immersive way to explore the vibrant city of Kandy. Priced from $60 per person, this private tour includes transportation by tuk-tuk, an English-speaking driver/guide, and entrance tickets to various sites.
Guests will be picked up from the Sri Dalada Maligawa and returned to the same location at the end of the tour. The experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, but most others can participate.
Operated by Lakpura LLC, the tour is likely to sell out, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.
With water bottles provided and the option to add food and drinks, this safari offers a comprehensive Kandy experience.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tuk Tuk Safari Review
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Minneriya Safari Game Drive From Kandy
Exploring the wonders of Minneriya National Park is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Kandy.
This private tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temples and a thrilling safari game drive in Minneriya.
With pickup and drop-off from Kandy, travelers will enjoy the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and a delicious lunch.
The safari jeep rental and entrance tickets are included, allowing for an immersive encounter with the park’s diverse wildlife.
Whether you’re hoping to spot elephants, deer, or birds, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
Priced at €173.33 per group (up to 3 people), it’s a fantastic value for an enriching excursion.
Read our full review: Minneriya Safari Game Drive From Kandy Review
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Visit Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park From Kandy
Adventurous travelers often embark on a thrilling jeep safari at Minneriya National Park from Kandy, seeing the park’s diverse wildlife.
This private tour, operated by Unique Lanka Tours, provides a personalized experience for your group. For $150 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking driver, a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, and private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour picks up from the Kandy area at 8:00 AM, with confirmation received at booking. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can sit on laps.
With a 5-star rating based on one review, this safari is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Read our full review: Visit Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park From Kandy Review
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Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom and Wild Elephant Safari From Kandy
Enjoy the rich history and natural wonders of Sri Lanka with this captivating tour that combines the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the wildlife-filled Minneriya National Park.
Explore the majestic Gal Vihara, Polonnaruwa Vatadage, and other iconic sites with a dedicated guide providing personalized commentary.
Then, hop into a safari jeep and venture into Minneriya National Park, home to a large population of elephants.
This private tour offers hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary entrance fees, making it a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Discover the perfect blend of history and nature on this unforgettable day in Sri Lanka.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom and Wild Elephant Safari From Kandy Review
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Minneriya National Park Safari With Jeep From Kandy
What better way to experience the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wilderness than with a thrilling Minneriya National Park safari from Kandy?
Priced from $110 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, a shared jeep safari, park entrance fees, and an English-speaking driver.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the moderate activity level makes it suitable for most travelers.
With bottled water, lunch, and complimentary WiFi, this safari offers a comfortable and convenient way to spot elephants, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Just be sure to arrive 10 minutes early and note that additional charges may apply for pick-ups outside the city limits or changes to the drop-off location.
Read our full review: Minneriya National Park Safari With Jeep From Kandy Review
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Polonnaruwa and Minneriya Safari From Kandy
This tour offers a comprehensive experience combining visits to the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa and the wildlife-rich Minneriya National Park.
The private tour from Kandy, Sri Lanka, is priced from $176.00 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
Highlights include a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, lunch at a local restaurant, and entrance fees for both sites.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate physical fitness level.
Operated by Travceylon Leisure, this tour is likely to sell out, and gratuities aren’t included.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa and Minneriya Safari From Kandy Review
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Hurulu Eco Park Safari From Kandy
Nestled within the lush landscapes surrounding Kandy, the Hurulu Eco Park offers a captivating safari experience.
Visitors can embark on a private, air-conditioned jeep safari through the park, spotting a diverse array of wildlife along the way. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water per person, and all taxes and service charges.
While the safari isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility or medical conditions, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an immersive nature experience.
Priced from $146 per person, the Hurulu Eco Park safari promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Hurulu Eco Park Safari From Kandy Review
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Kandy to Anuradhapura Shuttle & Safari Drive
Departing from Kandy, travelers embark on a shuttle journey to Anuradhapura, with an engaging safari drive along the way.
Operated by Tuktukdude Leisure, this tour offers a maximum of 12 participants the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
Included in the $95 per person price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a safari drive with an experienced trekker, packed evening snacks, bottled water, and the National Park fee.
Confirmation is received at booking, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Travelers should note the non-refundable cancellation policy and that infants must sit on laps.
Most visitors can comfortably participate in this Kandy to Anuradhapura Shuttle & Safari Drive experience.
Read our full review: Kandy to Anuradhapura Shuttle & Safari Drive Review
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Kaudulla National Park Safari From Kandy
Travelers seeking a wildlife adventure can embark on a private safari tour to Kaudulla National Park from Kandy. This park is designated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, offering the chance to spot deer, boars, Sri Lankan sambar deer, and various bird species.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Kandy, admission fees, and a Jeep safari experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it requires only a moderate level of physical fitness.
With free cancellation and the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before the experience, this safari tour provides a flexible and enjoyable way to explore Kaudulla’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Kaudulla National Park Safari From Kandy Review
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Wilpattu National Park Private Safari (All Inclusive) From Kandy
For those looking to explore the vast wilderness of Wilpattu National Park, a private safari tour from Kandy offers an all-inclusive experience. Priced from €208.96 per person, this tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, and WiFi.
Guests can select their pickup point, with the tour starting at 5:00 am. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation or rescheduling is available up to 24 hours prior. This private tour ensures guests can fully enjoy the park’s diverse flora and fauna without the crowds.
Read our full review: Wilpattu National Park Private Safari (All Inclusive) From Kandy Review
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Sigiriya & Minneriya Safari Tour From Kandy
From the serene landscapes of Wilpattu National Park, the Sigiriya & Minneriya Safari Tour from Kandy offers a captivating exploration of two renowned destinations in Sri Lanka.
Priced from $140.40 per person, this private tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary entrance fees.
The tour begins at 6:00 AM and lasts the entire day, with a moderate physical fitness level required.
Travelers can expect to visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and embark on a wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, home to a large elephant population.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available through the operator, Ceylon Travel Dream.
Read our full review: Sigiriya & Minneriya Safari Tour From Kandy Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tours Suitable for Solo Travellers?
Tours are generally suitable for solo travelers, as they provide a convenient and safe way to explore a new destination. Many tour operators offer group tours that cater to solo travelers, fostering a social and interactive experience.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Absolutely, many safari tour operators offer customizable itineraries. Travelers can work with the company to adjust the duration, activities, and destinations to suit their preferences and needs. This allows for a more personalized and enjoyable safari experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but most allow full refunds for cancellations made at least 24-48 hours in advance. Some may charge a small fee for closer-in cancellations. Customers should review the policy before booking.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to confirm with the tour operator in advance. They can provide details on the accessibility of the vehicles and any necessary accommodations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
You can generally bring your own food and drinks on the safari tours. Most tour operators allow this, as it provides more flexibility and comfort for your. However, it’s always best to confirm the policy with the specific tour company beforehand.
The Sum Up
Kandy offers a range of safari tours to nearby national parks, allowing visitors to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Sri Lanka. From day trips to Udawalawe, Minneriya, and Wilpattu, to combined excursions featuring historical sites like Sigiriya, these tours provide opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique sightseeing experience, Kandy’s safari options cater to diverse interests and budgets.