Private Udawalawe National Park Safari — Morning & Evening Elephant Tours
Three-hour private safaris in Udawalawe put travelers within sight of sizable herds of Asian elephants across reservoir-fed grasslands. Morning runs offer cooler light and active sightings; evenings bring long, golden views and quieter tracks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book morning for crisp sightings
Early-morning tours usually offer cooler temperatures and more active wildlife behavior, increasing chances to see elephants and grazing herds.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto
A 200–300mm equivalent lens or compact binoculars helps you frame elephants and skittish cats without disturbing them.
Stay hydrated and protected
Carry bottled water and high-SPF sunscreen; shade is limited and sun exposure can be intense during midday drives.
Follow your guide’s safety brief
Keep windows partially closed when instructed and never attempt to approach or feed wildlife—guides know safe viewing distances.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Elephant Transit Home (nearby rehabilitation center) for close-up learning about calf rescue
- •Reservoir edge viewpoints at sunrise for reflective water and birdlife scenes
Wildlife
- •Asian elephant
- •water buffalo
Conservation Note
Support local conservation by respecting viewing distances, avoiding single-use plastics, and considering donations or visits to the Elephant Transit Home that aid rehabilitation efforts.
Udawalawe National Park was established in 1973 to protect the reservoir catchment and provide sanctuary for elephants displaced by dam construction.
What to Bring
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
Helps spot distant herds and observe behavior without getting close.
Light sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Reduces sun exposure during open-jeep stretches in the middle of the day.
Light waterproof layer
Sudden tropical showers can occur—pack a compact rain shell for comfort.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet during transfer walks and provides stable footing on uneven surfaces.
Common Questions
What time of day is best for wildlife viewing?
Early morning and late afternoon/evening are best—animals are more active and light conditions are better for photography.
Are sightings guaranteed?
No guarantee—wildlife is unpredictable—but Udawalawe has a high probability of elephant sightings due to resident herds.
Is this suitable for children and infants?
Yes; the operator notes it’s suitable for all fitness levels, but infants may need to sit on an adult’s lap and should be kept shaded.
How do I get to the park from Colombo?
Udawalawe is about a 4–5 hour drive from Colombo; many visitors stay in nearby towns like Udawalawe or Embilipitiya and arrange park pickup.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Udawalawe, Sabaragamuwa Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short periods standing in the jeep and bumpy roads.
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