One-Day Safari: Yala or Udawalawe National Park From Kalutara
Choose Yala’s scrubs or Udawalawe’s waterholes on this long-day safari from Kalutara. Expect focused wildlife viewing—elephants in Udawalawe, leopards at Yala—bumpy tracks, and a full 10–12 hour outing with a private vehicle and guide.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Wildlife is most active early; schedule the earliest pickup possible to catch cooler hours and better sightings.
Bring optics and a zoom
A pair of binoculars and a 200–400mm lens will dramatically improve distant sightings and composition.
Stay hydrated and sun-safe
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water, sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat—shade is limited on many jeep routes.
Respect park rules
Remain in the vehicle unless your guide directs otherwise; never feed or approach wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Elephant Transit Home, Udawalawe – a rescue and rehabilitation center near the park with scheduled viewing times
- •Kirinda fishing village and quiet beaches near Yala—good for a short coastal detour after the safari
Wildlife
- •Sri Lankan leopard
- •Asian elephant
Conservation Note
Follow park rules and keep to vehicles—tourism directly funds rangers and local conservation projects like the Elephant Transit Home, so low-impact behavior helps sustain them.
Yala and Udawalawe were designated to protect diverse habitats and water catchments; Udawalawe formed around a reservoir project in the 1960s and became a national park in 1973.
What to Bring
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
Helps spot distant elephants, leopards, and birdlife from the jeep.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)Essential
Open plains and sparse canopy expose you to intense sun for extended periods.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Useful for short walks, getting in and out of the jeep, and uneven surfaces.
Light rain jacket or packable shell
Protects against sudden showers during inter-monsoon periods and keeps dust off gear.
Common Questions
Which park is better for seeing elephants?
Udawalawe has a high concentration of wild elephants and is the more reliable choice for elephant sightings.
Can the operator arrange a private safari jeep?
Yes—the operator can arrange a private jeep at an additional cost; request it at booking to secure availability.
Are park entrance fees included?
This specific one-day booking lists admissions as not applicable; confirm entrance fees and permits separately with the supplier before departure.
What pickup locations are available?
Pickups are offered from Kalutara, Beruwala, Aluthgama, Bentota and Wadduwa—provide your pickup point when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Tissamaharama, Southern Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for long stretches in and out of vehicles and short walks over uneven ground
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