Afternoon Safari at Udawalawe National Park - Elephant Game Drive
Spend late afternoon where reservoir and grassland meet to watch Sri Lankan elephants, water buffalo and shorebirds. This four-hour jeep safari focuses on concentrated, close-range wildlife viewing with local guides and hotel transfers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Best light for photos
Afternoon light (late golden hour) brings contrast and long shadows—set up early and bring binoculars for distant groups.
Stay inside the jeep
Animals are wild—remain seated and follow the guide’s instructions to avoid stressing or provoking wildlife.
Bring water and snacks
The pickup and drop-off are included, but the jeep can be hot and dusty—carry a refillable bottle and light snack.
Respect park rules
Don’t feed animals, litter, or block tracks; responsible behavior supports conservation and future sightings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Elephant Transit Home—short visit to see rescue and rehabilitation work (near the park entrance)
- •Reservoir embankment at sunset for wide-angle water and bird viewing away from main jeep tracks
Wildlife
- •Sri Lankan elephant
- •Water buffalo
Conservation Note
Stay on designated routes, avoid feeding or approaching animals, and use lodging and guides that support local conservation and community initiatives.
The park was created in 1972 to protect animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir and to conserve habitat at the wet/dry zone boundary.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Helps spot distant groups and observe behavior without approaching wildlife.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Afternoon sun is strong; protection prevents sunburn during open-jeep viewing.
Light windbreaker
Early evening can cool quickly, and dust or light spray from the reservoir makes a thin layer useful.
Telephoto lens or zoom camera
A 200–400mm equivalent helps frame elephants and birds without getting too close.
Common Questions
How likely am I to see elephants?
Very likely—Udawalawe is known for resident Sri Lankan elephant groups that frequent reservoir edges in the late afternoon.
Are pickups and park fees included?
Yes; hotel pickup/drop-off, park entrance fees and bottled water/snacks are included with this tour.
Is this suitable for children or pregnant travelers?
Children can join but follow safety guidance; the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or heart problems.
What should I wear?
Light, neutral-colored clothing, closed-toe shoes for jeep access, a hat and sunscreen; avoid bright colors that attract insects.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Udawalawe, Sabaragamuwa Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires getting in/out of a safari jeep and tolerating bumpy roads.
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