Minneriya National Park halfday Safari
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
To reserve a national park, please choose one from the options provided. Each reservation is for one park only, and you may select either a morning or evening safari. Please leave a note to inform us of your preferred park.
The Jeep tour will commence from the main entrance of the park near the car park. If your hotel is within a 10km radius of the entrance, you are entitled to a complimentary pickup from your hotel in Habarana or Minneriya. The morning safari starts at 6:00 am, while the afternoon safari begins at 1:00 pm.
During the safari, you will have the opportunity to witness groups of elephants, and crocodiles resting on the banks or swimming in the lakes, and vibrant birds of prey fishing. You may also encounter various other birds and animals, including herds of elephants visiting to quench their thirst and rest.
Available options
From Habarana/Minneriya Pickup
Minneriya National Park For 1<br/>Pickup included
Pax 6
Pickup included
For 2 Pax
Minneriya National Park for 2<br/>Pickup included
For 5
Minneriya National Park For 5<br/>Pickup included
For 4
Minneriya National Park For 4<br/>Pickup included
For 3
Minneriya National Park For 3<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Minneriya National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in Sri Lanka, famous for its large population of Asian elephants. A half-day safari in this park offers visitors the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, as well as a variety of other wildlife such as Leopard, deer, buffalo, monkeys, and various species of birds. The safari typically lasts for about 4 hours include pickup and Drop-off, with experienced guides taking visitors on a thrilling ride through the park's rugged terrain in vehicles. The park is especially popular during the dry season when elephants gather around the park's central reservoir, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Minneriya Elephant Gathering is a spectacular display of wildlife and a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats for these magnificent creatures. It's an experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting Sri Lanka.
What's not included
Lunch
Admission Fee & tax in National Park USD45 per person, USD 100 for 2 person, USD 120 for 3 person
Admission Fee & tax in National Park USD140 for 4 person, USD150 for 5 person, USD 165 for 6 person
Additional person charge - $25
Minneriya National Park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
21 reviews
5★
13
4★
2
3★
2
2★
2
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.8
266 reviews
5★
238
4★
22
3★
3
2★
0
1★
3
Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient palace ruins and stunning frescoes. This 5th-century rock fortress offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture.
Top Attractions
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
The iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a 5th-century palace and fortress complex built by King Kasyapa. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan history.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
USD 30 (foreign tourists)
Pidurangala Rock
Pidurangala Rock offers an alternative climb with breathtaking views of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscape. It's less crowded and more affordable than Sigiriya Rock.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
USD 5 (entry fee)
Sigiriya Museum
The Sigiriya Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history and significance of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It houses artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient site.
Historical/Museum
1 hour
USD 10 (foreign tourists)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian (unless served with egg or meat)
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat, cooked on a hot plate with spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian
Fish Ambul Thiyal
A sour and spicy fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit) and a blend of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Non-vegetarian, contains seafood
Popular Activities
Rock climbing (Sigiriya and Pidurangala)
Jeep safaris (Minneriya National Park)
Tea tasting
Spa treatments
Visiting ancient temples and ruins
Watching cultural shows
Boat rides on Habarana Lake
Elephant rides
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This is the best time to visit Sigiriya due to pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The clear skies offer the best views of the rock and surrounding landscapes.
25-32°C (77-90°F)
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sigiriya is generally safe for tourists, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a smooth trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
- • Negotiate prices before starting a journey or purchasing items.
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 160 km (100 miles)
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
By train
Habarana Railway Station
By bus
Habarana Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sigiriya Village
Habarana
Day trips
Dambulla Cave Temple
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five intricately decorated caves with statues and frescoes of the Lord Buddha and various deities.
Minneriya National Park
20 km (12.4 miles) • Full day
Minneriya National Park is famous for its elephant gathering, especially during the dry season. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife safaris.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. It features well-preserved ruins of royal palaces, temples, and monuments.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • August
Sigiriya Festival • August/September
Pro tips
- Start your climb to Sigiriya Rock early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Hire a local guide for a more detailed and engaging experience at Sigiriya.
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
- Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection when exploring the rock fortress.
- Visit the Sigiriya Museum before climbing the rock to gain context and historical insights.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
