Udawalawe safari guide
Udawalawe safari guide - Wildlife spotting in Sri Lanka’s south coast
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Sri Lanka is venturing into one of its many national parks, teeming with diverse wildlife. If the thought of seeing herds of majestic elephants brings a big smile to your face, then Udawalawe National Park is the place for you! With an impressive elephant population and expert guides who have a 99.9% success rate of spotting these gentle giants, you are in for a treat. Do not miss my complete safari guide to Udawalawe National Park for all the insider tips and fun facts!
Topics
Udawalawe wildlife - Safari guide
Elephants
First and foremost, Udawalawe is famous for its incredible elephant population, around 500 of them roam the park! You are almost guaranteed to come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures. They often gather in herds, although you might spot a lone elephant wandering peacefully. Interestingly, tusked elephants are quite rare here, as males only emerge during mating season, which happens just once or twice a year. During our visit, we even came across the skeletal remains of an elephant that lived to an estimated 90 years!
Buffaloes & crocodiles
But it is not just elephants! You are also likely to encounter buffaloes and crocodiles. With the help of your guide, who has an expert eye for wildlife, you can spot these fascinating creatures in action. We even witnessed crocodiles attempting to hunt buffaloes, a thrilling, albeit unsuccessful, spectacle to see in real life.
Leopard tracks & other wildlife
While leopards call Udawalawe home, sightings are extremely rare due to their low numbers. However, guides often point out tracks and clues, like a scratched-up tree where a leopard reportedly chased a monkey. Keep your eyes peeled, as the park also hosts deer, wild boars, jackals, otters, and playful monkeys.
Udawalawe bird watching - Safari guide
If you are a bird enthusiast, Udawalawe is your dream come true. With a mix of resident species and migratory visitors, the park is a haven for birdwatching. Bring along binoculars or a camera to capture these feathered beauties in all their glory.
Udawalawe jeep safari - The ultimate guide
The only way to explore Udawalawe National Park is via a jeep safari, an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the wilderness. Self-entry is not allowed, so booking a tour is essential.
Sunrise or sunset safari?
You can choose between a sunrise or sunset safari. The early morning option lets you continue your journey by mid-morning, making it ideal if you are short on time. However, it tends to be busier than the quieter, albeit warmer, sunset safari. Weigh the pros and cons and pick what suits your itinerary best.
Udawalawe safari tour - How to book?
Through your accommodation
The accommodations in Udawalawe are very cheap and there is a reason for that, they want you to join their tour. Almost all accommodations in Udawalawe offer safari tours. While this can be convenient, not all tours are created equal. Avoid tours that simply follow other jeeps, opt for a knowledgeable guide who takes the road less travelled and shares fascinating insights. Some accommodations may pressure guests into booking their tour, so always check reviews beforehand to ensure quality.
Book online
For peace of mind, book your safari tour online. This ensures a reputable guide and a well-organized experience. Highly-reviewed options like this one are recommended for hassle-free planning.
Additional Costs
Park entrance fees
To access Udawalawe National Park, there is an entrance fee in addition to the safari tour cost. Foreigners pay $25 per adult during peak season ($20 in the off-season), while children enjoy a $10 discount.
Travel to other destinations - Udawalawe safari guide
For most travel within Sri Lanka, it is best to take the local bus. Check with your accommodation which line is best to take. If you want to travel a bit more luxuriously, in some cases you can opt for an air-conditioned minivan, in which case you share the van with a small group of people. From Udawalawe, you have the option of travelling to Hiriketiya or Haputale, check local transport options locally.
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Last update: 26-01-2025 © Doris Leone
‘Un abrazo’ and maybe we will see each other one day; Doris Leone
