Udawalawe National Park
A premier wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, renowned for its guaranteed elephant sightings and diverse fauna in a serene landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Animals are most active
Udawalawe National Park
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, renowned for its guaranteed elephant sightings and diverse fauna in a serene landscape.
"Udawalawe National Park offers one of the best and most reliable elephant safaris in Sri Lanka."
🎯 Less Crowded Than Yala
Udawalawe is often less crowded than Yala, offering a more serene safari experience with fewer jeeps around.
🐘 Elephant Sightings Guaranteed
You're almost certain to see elephants here, making it a top choice for reliable wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elephant Encounters
Throughout the park
Witness herds of Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat. Sightings are virtually guaranteed and often up close.
Diverse Wildlife
Various habitats
Beyond elephants, spot water buffalo, crocodiles, peacocks, deer, monkeys, and numerous bird species.
Udawalawe Dam
Udawalawe
A significant irrigation and hydroelectric dam offering scenic views and a different perspective of the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Safari Wisely
Timing is Key for Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Less Crowded Than Yala
Udawalawe is often less crowded than Yala, offering a more serene safari experience with fewer jeeps around. +1
🐘 Elephant Sightings Guaranteed
You're almost certain to see elephants here, making it a top choice for reliable wildlife encounters.
🚗 Book Safari in Advance
Many lodges can arrange safaris. Compare prices and book ahead to secure a good deal and operator.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be in a jeep for several hours, so comfortable footwear is a must for the bumpy ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Less Crowded Than Yala
Udawalawe is often less crowded than Yala, offering a more serene safari experience with fewer jeeps around. +1
🐘 Elephant Sightings Guaranteed
You're almost certain to see elephants here, making it a top choice for reliable wildlife encounters.
🚗 Book Safari in Advance
Many lodges can arrange safaris. Compare prices and book ahead to secure a good deal and operator.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be in a jeep for several hours, so comfortable footwear is a must for the bumpy ride.
📸 Respectful Wildlife Viewing
Choose guides who respect animal space. Avoid operators who approach wildlife too closely.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Udawalawe National Park is overwhelmingly praised for its reliable elephant sightings and beautiful natural scenery. Visitors highlight the knowledgeable guides and the park's serene, less crowded atmosphere compared to other popular safari destinations. While most experiences are positive, some note that certain guides can be overly aggressive in approaching animals, emphasizing the importance of choosing responsible operators.
"5 stars and more! Amazing place! Beautiful nature, wonderful views. And many animals. We met elephants right after entering the park. One of the most beautiful places. Totally recommend"
Ana Ana
"A beautiful national park with a variety of wild life. We took a safari trip and we wre lucky to see some of the wild animals. We visited in July and I would recommend to visit early in the morning, before it gets hot, than you have a better chance to see many animals as possible. The main attraction would be the elephants. It may get a little too budy though, with many safari jeeps and tourists. But it worth visiting. Recommended in the are."
Alexander Nadim
"I had an amazing experience at Udawalawe National Park. Got to see so many elephants up close, and the safari ride was really exciting. The nature and views were so beautiful and peaceful.
Our guide was friendly and explained a lot about the animals and the park. It was my first time visiting, and I really enjoyed every moment. Highly recommend this place if you love wildlife and nature.
Will definitely visit again one day!"
Yasitha Dilshan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Udawalawe National Park is accessible by road. Many travelers visit as part of a larger Sri Lanka itinerary, often from Ella or Tissamaharama. You can hire a private taxi or take public buses. Safari jeeps are typically arranged through your accommodation or a local tour operator.
Yes, most hotels and guesthouses in the Udawalawe area can arrange safari jeep bookings for you. It's advisable to book this in advance, especially during peak season.
The most convenient way is to hire a private taxi, which takes around 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus, but this will involve transfers and take longer.
Yes, Udawalawe National Park is a popular day trip destination, especially for those traveling between the hill country and the southern coast. Many visitors spend one night in the area to do a morning or afternoon safari.
While there are buses that go to the town of Udawalawe, they don't typically go directly into the park. You'll likely need to arrange a safari jeep from the town or your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park entrance fees are typically around $15-20 USD per person for foreigners, plus an additional fee for the safari jeep. Prices can vary, so it's best to confirm with your safari operator.
While you can often book on the spot, booking your safari in advance through your accommodation or a reputable tour operator is recommended to ensure availability and potentially better pricing.
The park is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Safaris are conducted during these hours, with the best viewing times being early morning and late afternoon.
Safari packages usually vary by duration, with 3-hour, half-day (5-hour), and full-day options available. The price often reflects the duration of the safari.
It's advisable to carry some Sri Lankan Rupees for park entrance fees and potentially for your safari jeep, though many operators may accept USD or have card payment options. Confirm payment methods beforehand.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Udawalawe is renowned for its large elephant population. You can also spot water buffalo, crocodiles, deer, monkeys, jackals, peacocks, and a variety of bird species. Leopards are rarely seen here.
Early mornings (6:00 AM - 10:00 AM) and late afternoons (4:00 PM - 6:30 PM) are considered the best times to see wildlife as animals are most active and the temperatures are cooler.
A 3-hour safari is a good introduction, but a half-day (5-hour) safari allows for a more comprehensive experience and better chances of spotting diverse wildlife.
Most safari guides are knowledgeable about the park's wildlife and ecosystems. They can provide insights into animal behavior and the park's conservation efforts.
While it can get busy, Udawalawe is generally less crowded than other popular parks like Yala, offering a more relaxed safari experience. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The open grasslands and waterholes are excellent for wildlife photography. The late afternoon light provides beautiful golden hour shots of the animals and landscapes.
Yes, it is safe to take photos from the safari jeep. However, always follow your guide's instructions and avoid leaning out too far, especially when animals are close.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or 100-400mm) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wider lens can be useful for landscape shots.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in national parks in Sri Lanka to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always check the latest regulations before your visit.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with peak animal activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When booking a safari, opt for a reputable operator that prioritizes safety and ethical wildlife viewing. Ensure the jeep has adequate seating and that the guide is experienced with children. Early morning or late afternoon safaris are best to avoid the midday heat and keep younger ones comfortable. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities within the park are limited.
📸 Wildlife Photographers
Bring your longest telephoto lens (e.g., 100-400mm) to get close-up shots of the wildlife. A wider lens can be useful for capturing the vastness of the park and its diverse ecosystems. Be prepared for bumpy rides, so a sturdy tripod or monopod can be beneficial. Remember to respect the animals and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb them.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in guesthouses or budget-friendly lodges outside the immediate park entrance. These often have partnerships with local safari drivers and can help you secure a more economical rate. Traveling during the shoulder seasons might also offer better prices on accommodation and safaris.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Safari Experience
Many accommodations in Udawalawe can arrange safaris, and it's often recommended to book through them for convenience. However, it's wise to inquire about the safari duration and what's included. A 5-hour safari is generally considered ideal for a comprehensive experience, allowing ample time to explore different areas of the park and increase your chances of spotting a wider array of animals.
Consider the time of day for your safari. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime viewing times as the animals are most active and the temperatures are more pleasant. This also offers the best light for photography, with soft, warm hues illuminating the landscape and its inhabitants.
Wildlife of Udawalawe
Beyond the elephants, Udawalawe is a haven for other fascinating animals. Water buffalo are frequently spotted, often seen wallowing in muddy waterholes. Crocodiles inhabit the park's waterways, and deer and monkeys (like the toque macaque) are common sights. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of avian life, including vibrant peacocks, storks, eagles, and pigeons.
While Udawalawe is celebrated for its elephants, it's important to note that sightings of predators like leopards are rare. If your primary goal is to spot leopards, other parks like Yala might offer better chances. However, for a reliable and immersive experience with elephants and a rich variety of other wildlife, Udawalawe stands out as a premier destination.
The Udawalawe Dam and Reservoir
Adjacent to the dam is the Udawalawe Reservoir, which not only serves irrigation purposes but also contributes to hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir and its surrounding landscape offer a different kind of beauty compared to the park's wildlife areas. It's a place where you can appreciate the scale of human infrastructure alongside the natural environment.
While the dam itself is an impressive sight, the area around the reservoir can also be a good spot for birdwatching, especially for water birds. It provides a scenic backdrop and a moment of reflection on the region's natural resources and their management.
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