Afternoon Safari at Bundala National Park — Flamingo Wetlands & Coastal Wildlife Drive
Spend a late afternoon in Bundala National Park watching flamingos, shorebirds and occasional elephants across lagoons and salt flats. This three-hour jeep safari favors golden-hour wildlife viewing and easy access from Tissamaharama or Yala.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring binoculars
Binoculars dramatically increase sightings of distant flamingos and waterfowl; 8x–10x is ideal.
Time for golden hour
Book the afternoon slot—birds feed near dusk and the light improves photography and visibility.
Expect dust and bumps
Wear closed shoes and bring a bandana or mask for dust in open safari jeeps.
Carry water and meds
A three-hour drive includes limited stops—bring water and any personal medication.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Salt pans and small, inland mangrove channels that hold shorebirds at low tide
- •A coastal viewpoint just outside the park where fishermen land and local birdlife feeds at dusk
Wildlife
- •Greater flamingo
- •Marsh crocodile
Conservation Note
The park is managed for migratory bird habitat and faces pressures from coastal development and salt production; visitors are encouraged to follow park rules and minimize disturbance.
Bundala was designated Sri Lanka’s first wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and formally protected as a national park in 1969.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Essential for picking out distant flamingos, ducks and raptors on the lagoons.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Late afternoons can still be very bright and sun exposure is high near open water.
Sturdy closed shoesEssential
Protects feet from dust, thorns and uneven ground when stepping out of the jeep.
Light rain shell
Useful in short monsoon or inter-monsoonal showers that can pop up suddenly.
Common Questions
How long is the safari?
The tour runs about three hours in the afternoon, typically picked up mid-afternoon and returned at dusk.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect migratory waterbirds (including greater flamingo), shorebirds, marsh crocodiles, and occasional elephants, deer, langurs and jackals.
Is the park suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes—game drives are in a jeep and considered easy, but those with mobility issues should note there is some stepping up and uneven ground if exiting the vehicle.
Are park entrance fees and refreshments included?
Yes—entrance fees, safari jeep cost and light refreshments/water are included in the tour price as described.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Hambantota, Southern Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires getting in/out of an open jeep and short stretches on uneven ground for photos
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