Safari Tour in Udawalawa National Park

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka and want to glimpse some of the island’s incredible wildlife, the Safari Tour in Udawalawa National Park offers an enticing option. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed info paints a clear picture of what you can expect — from close encounters with elephants to the chance to observe a variety of native animals in their natural habitat.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the expert-guided safaris promise insightful spotting of elephants, crocodiles, and deer, with private transport and WiFi making the journey comfortable and connected. The visit to the elephant orphanage adds a meaningful touch, highlighting Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts.

A possible consideration is that admission tickets for the national park aren’t included in the price, which means you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, the early start (around 4 a.m.) might not suit everyone, especially travelers who prefer to sleep in or are traveling with very young children.

This tour is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to experience Sri Lanka’s lush environment in an authentic, relaxed setting. It balances adventure with comfort, making it a practical choice for those seeking a memorable day in the wild.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Focus: Offers the chance to see elephants, deer, crocodiles, and more in their habitat.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into animal behavior.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transport and WiFi onboard add value and ease.
• Additional Visits: The elephant orphanage provides a touching view of conservation efforts.
• Price & Inclusions: $100 per person, with optional extra costs for park admission.
• Timing & Accessibility: Early morning start suits early risers; moderate physical fitness required.

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

The Journey Begins in Galle

Starting from Galle Railway Station, the tour kicks off early around 4 a.m., which is perfect for those who want to maximize the day’s wildlife viewing chances. The private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and with WiFi on board, you can even share some photos or check in with friends during the trip.

Having a dedicated guide from PRIME CARBAR Tours and Travels guarantees that you’re in capable hands, with local knowledge that can help you spot elusive wildlife and answer your questions along the way. The tour is exclusive to your group, meaning you’ll share the experience with just your companions, creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

First Stop: Udawalawe National Park

The main event is the three-hour drive through Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll get to observe a broad array of wildlife. This park is known for being one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see large herds of elephants in the wild. Reviewers mention that guides are skilled at tracking these giants, often positioning the vehicle to get good, unobstructed views.

Besides elephants, expect to see spotted deer, monkeys, water buffalo, and a variety of birds like peacocks and other waterfowl. Crocodiles and iguanas are often spotted sunning themselves near the water bodies. One review notes how “the environment feels alive,” with animal sightings happening regularly, which can make the three hours feel surprisingly short.

However, note that admission tickets to the park are not included — so you should plan to purchase those separately, which adds to the overall cost but allows you flexibility to choose the best options available on the day.

The Elephant Orphanage Visit

After the safari, the tour includes a visit to the Udawalawa Elephant Orphanage, where rescued baby elephants are cared for after being abandoned or unable to survive on their own. The one-hour visit offers a touching chance to see these gentle giants close up, learn about Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts, and possibly catch the elephants during feeding or bathing time.

While admission is not included, reviewers have found the visit to be well worth it, describing it as “a meaningful addition” to the safari. It provides a softer, more personal perspective on elephants, contrasting the wild sightings from earlier.

Practical Details and Additional Info

• The tour includes WiFi onboard and private transportation, making the trip smooth and connected.
• Start early — around 4 a.m. — to maximize wildlife sightings while animals are most active.
• The tour runs every day from Monday to Sunday, with flexible cancellation policies if plans change.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended; while the vehicle is comfortable, some walking or standing may be necessary during the park stops.
• The tour is private, so your group gets personalized attention from guides.

What We Love About This Tour

The balance of wildlife viewing with conservation education makes this safari appealing. The guides’ expertise, often appreciated in reviews, ensures you’re not just passing by animals but understanding their behavior and habitat. The early start is a plus for wildlife enthusiasts who want to catch animals at their most active — dawn is the best time for animal sightings in Sri Lanka.

The visit to the elephant orphanage adds an emotional and educational element, offering a chance to connect with the animals on a more personal level. It’s a reminder of the importance of conservation and the efforts being made to protect Sri Lanka’s elephants.

The inclusion of WiFi and private transport enhances comfort and convenience, making the whole day feel more seamless. Plus, the group discounts and mobile ticketing make it flexible and budget-friendly for families or groups of friends.

Things to Consider

The cost of admission tickets for the national park isn’t included in the $100 price, so you’ll need to purchase those separately. It’s worth budgeting around this extra expense. Also, the early morning start might not appeal to everyone, especially late risers or travelers with young children. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be the best fit.

Weather can also influence the experience — since the tour operates in the early morning, be prepared for potential rain or dew, and dress accordingly. The tour’s physical requirements are moderate, but some walking or standing during wildlife spotting is expected.

Comparing to Other Experiences

While this safari offers a solid, authentic wildlife experience, it’s more focused on sightings and conservation than on luxury. If you’re seeking a luxury wildlife cruise or whale-watching tour, the nearby options provide different kinds of adventure. Nonetheless, this tour’s value lies in its combination of wildlife, education, and comfort.

If you’re interested in other nearby experiences, consider exploring whale and dolphin watching or walking tours of Galle, which can be booked separately. The links provided in the “similar experiences” section can help tailor your trip to match your interests.

The Sum Up

This Udawalawa National Park safari from Galle is a practical, rewarding choice for travelers wanting an authentic wildlife encounter in Sri Lanka. The expert guides, early morning start, and combination of wild and rescued elephants make it stand out for nature lovers. While it requires a bit of pre-planning for park admission fees, the overall value and unique insight into animal behavior make it worthwhile.

Perfect for those who enjoy seeing large mammals in their natural environment and appreciate a meaningful conservation story, this tour balances adventure with education. It’s especially suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers eager to experience Sri Lanka’s lush landscape in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

FAQ

Do I need to book the park admission tickets separately?
Yes, the tour price does not include the national park admission, so you should purchase those tickets separately to access the park.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins early around 4:00 a.m., which is ideal for wildlife viewing but might be early for some travelers.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Absolutely, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi onboard, making the journey pleasant.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, moderate physical fitness is recommended, but generally, it’s suitable for families and travelers who can handle some walking and early mornings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are experts in Udawalawa’s wildlife and can offer insightful commentary during the safari, making the experience more enriching.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, possibly a hat or sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them for better wildlife viewing. Don’t forget your camera!