Private Half Day Tour: Udawalawe National Park with Elephant Transit Home Visit

Udawalawe , Sri Lanka

Private Half Day Tour: Udawalawe National Park with Elephant Transit Home Visit

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About this experience

Take a tour of Udawalawe National Park with Elephant transit home visit, one of Sri Lanka's largest animal sanctuaries. Because this is a private tour, you’ll have plenty of time to hear commentary about the wildlife you’ll see and ask questions. Keep an eye out for elephants, water buffalo, fox, leopards, and other animals from the comfort of a rugged 4x4 vehicle. Morning, Afternoon, or full-day options are available to suit your schedule.

Available options

Morning Tour

Duration: 4 hours: Morning 5.30a.m to 9.30a.m<br/>Pickup included

Afternoon Tour

Duration: 4 hours: 2pm to 6pm<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Udawalawe National Park Entrance Fee

Elephant Transit Home Fee

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Framed by soaring highlands on its northern boundary, the Uda Walawe National Park is one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, it's also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting.

Supported by the Born Free Foundation, this complex is a halfway house for orphaned elephants. After rehabilitation, the elephants are released back into the wild, many into the Uda Walawe National Park. Although you can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, seeing them at feeding time (from a viewing platform) is still a lot of fun.

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Udawalawe

Udawalawe is a small town in southern Sri Lanka known for its proximity to the Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in elephants. The town serves as a gateway to one of the country's most important wildlife conservation areas, offering a unique blend of nature and adventure.

Top Attractions

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most important wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its large population of Asian elephants. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including safaris and guided tours.

Nature Half-day to full-day Approx. 5,000 LKR ($25 USD) for a safari

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can observe elephants being cared for and, if lucky, see them being released back into the wild.

Nature 1-2 hours Approx. 500 LKR ($2.50 USD) for entry

Udawalawe Reservoir

The Udawalawe Reservoir is a large artificial lake that provides water to the national park and surrounding areas. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Dambana Viharaya

Dambana Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located near Udawalawe. The temple is known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish. Often accompanied by sambols and other side dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center. Can be sweet or savory.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (check for egg)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices. Often served with a side of sambol.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with a blend of spices and goraka (a sour fruit). Often served with rice or bread.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian (fish)

Popular Activities

Wildlife safaris Hiking Birdwatching Beach relaxation Scenic drives Nature walks Temple visits Local markets

Best Time to Visit

January to September (dry season)

The dry season is the best time to visit Udawalawe for wildlife viewing, especially elephants. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.

25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) 77°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Udawalawe is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices in advance.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) southeast of Udawalawe
Bandaranaike International Airport • 160 km (99.4 miles) southwest of Udawalawe

By train

Udawalawe Station

By bus

Udawalawe Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe (local ride-hailing app)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Udawalawe Town Near Udawalawe National Park

Day trips

Tangalle

60 km (37.3 miles) • Full day

Tangalle is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for those looking to combine wildlife viewing with beach relaxation.

Ella

100 km (62.1 miles) • Full day or overnight

Ella is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Kataragama

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Kataragama is a sacred city known for its religious significance and the annual Esala Perahera festival. It's home to several important temples and shrines.