Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home from Hambantota Port
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8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
If you are looking for an ultimate safari experience, this is the ideal tour where you can witness the untamed beauty and mismatchable splendor in Udawalawe National Park. Observe Sri Lanka’s natural wilderness; wildlife and different habitats of animals during your safari with Beyond Escapes Safari Team. Udawalawe is the best place in Sri Lanka to see playful giants interact with each other. After the safari you will visit elephant Transit Home which is the Asia’s first rehabilitation center for elephants. This shore excursions will leave you wonderful memories with wild elephants in Sri Lanka!
Available options
Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home from Hambantota Port
Pickup included
What's included
Light Refreshments & Bottled water
Lunch in an outside restaurant
Pickup and drop-off in by an Air-conditioned vehicle in Hambantota harbour
Cost of Safari jeep
All government taxes on date
Entrance tickets to the National park and elephant transit home
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
07:00 hrs – You will be picked up from the passenger pier at Hambantota Port and transferred to Udawalawe.
08:30 hrs – Begin your guided game drive at Udawalawe National Park.
Established to provide a sanctuary for wildlife displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir, the park is located at the boundary of Sri Lanka’s wet and dry zones. Udawalawe is renowned for its large population of Sri Lankan elephants, which are frequently seen in the park’s open landscapes, especially around the reservoir. In addition to elephants, the park is home to water buffalo, water monitor lizards, sambar deer, monkeys, and the occasional leopard. Udawalawe is also a paradise for bird lovers, with a rich variety of resident and migratory species.
11:30 hrs – Exit the national park and proceed to a local restaurant for lunch.
2
13:00 hrs – Proceed to visit the Elephant Transit Home.
The Elephant Transit Home (Ath Athuru Sevana) is a government-managed rehabilitation center located in Udawalawe, Sri Lanka. It provides care for orphaned, abandoned, injured, or sick baby elephants found in the wild. These elephants are nurtured and treated in a protected environment until they are strong enough to be released back into their natural habitat.
15:00 hrs – Depart Udawalawe and drive back to Hambantota Port.
What's not included
Expenses of personal nature
Gratuities (Recommended)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
If you are pregnant, you should not take part.
If you have back problems; heart complaints or other serious medical conditions, you should carefully consider whether to participate.
About Hambantota
Hambantota is a coastal city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the famous Hambantota Cricket Stadium. The city is also home to the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden and the Bundala National Park, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers.
Top Attractions
Mirijjawila Botanical Garden
A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of local and exotic plants, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 500 LKR)
Bundala National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Nature
Half-day or full-day
Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)
Hambantota Cricket Stadium
A state-of-the-art cricket stadium that has hosted international matches and is a must-visit for cricket fans.
Sports
2-3 hours for a tour
Moderate (around 500-1000 LKR for a tour)
Ruhunu National Park
A national park known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
Nature
Half-day or full-day
Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)
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.
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 or coconut sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.
Lunch
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Wildlife safaris
Snorkeling
Hiking
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Botanical garden visits
Temple visits
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the best time to visit Hambantota as the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.
25-32°C
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hambantota is generally safe for travelers, but it is essential to take standard precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 25 km from Hambantota
By bus
Hambantota Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common form of public transport in Hambantota. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hambantota City Center
Mirijjawila
Bundala
Day trips
Tangalle
50 km • Half-day or full-day
A beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Yala National Park
60 km • Full-day
One of the most famous national parks in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • July-August
Pro tips
- Visit the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Book a guided safari at Bundala National Park for the best wildlife spotting experience.
- Try local street food for an authentic and budget-friendly dining experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala to enhance your interaction with locals.
- Carry small denominations of cash for local shopping and transportation.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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