Udawalawa National Park Safari: Day Trip to See Elephants & Waterbirds
Spend a day tracking Asian elephants and waterbirds at Udawalawa National Park. This guided day tour combines a visit to the Elephant Transit Home with a 3–4 hour jeep safari across reservoir plains and wetlands.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Wildlife is most active early—aim to depart at dawn to catch elephants and waterbirds before midday heat.
Bring binoculars
Jeep viewing distances can be several hundred meters; binoculars or a telephoto lens improve sightings and photos.
Hydrate and shade up
Sun is strong; carry water and a wide-brim hat to avoid heat fatigue during open-vehicle stretches.
Respect viewing distances
Follow guide instructions—do not approach or feed wildlife; close encounters with elephants can be dangerous.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Late-afternoon reservoir shoreline—excellent for waterbird concentrations and soft light photography
- •Small irrigation wetlands on the park perimeter—great for kingfishers and marsh birds outside main tracks
Wildlife
- •Asian elephant
- •Sri Lankan sambar deer
Conservation Note
The Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned calves; visitors are asked to minimize disturbance, avoid litter, and follow guide rules to reduce stress on animals.
The park was established in the early 1970s to protect wildlife displaced by the creation of Udawalawe Reservoir and to preserve elephant habitat.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Helps identify distant elephants and waterbirds across the reservoir.
Sunscreen and sun hatEssential
Protects against strong equatorial sun during open-vehicle time.
Light rain shell
Useful during short tropical downpours if visiting in the monsoon months.
Telephoto camera lens or zoom
Allows close-framing of wildlife from the safety of the jeep.
Common Questions
How long is the jeep safari portion?
The jeep safari typically runs about 3–4 hours within the park, leaving time for transfers and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
Can I see baby elephants at the Transit Home?
Yes—scheduled feedings and observations at the Elephant Transit Home allow you to see milk feeding of rescued calves, subject to the center’s public viewing times.
Is transport provided from nearby towns?
Private, air-conditioned transport is included on most day tours—confirm your pickup point when booking as options vary by operator.
Are there safety restrictions for pregnant travelers or those with back problems?
This tour notes it is not recommended for travelers with spinal or cardiovascular issues and pregnant guests due to bumpy jeep rides and potential sudden movements.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Udawalawe, Sabaragamuwa Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to board a safari jeep and do short, uneven-surface walks.
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