Udawalawe National Park Camping Tour: Night Safari, Camping & Elephant Orphanage Visit
Spend a night under the stars at Udawalawe National Park with guided morning and evening safaris and a visit to the elephant orphanage. This private camping tour pairs close wildlife viewing—especially elephants—with simple camp comfort and local natural history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your safaris
Morning and evening drives offer the highest chance to see elephants and raptors—plan to be ready at sunrise and late afternoon.
Pack insect protection
Mosquitoes and ticks are active at dusk; bring DEET-based repellent and consider permethrin-treated clothing.
Respect wildlife distance
Keep noise low and windows closed in the jeep to avoid disturbing animals and increasing safety risks.
Bring reusable water bottle
Refill from provided water stations to stay hydrated during drives and reduce plastic waste.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Late-afternoon viewpoints along the reservoir road for birdwatching
- •Short walks near the visitor center where smaller mammals and endemic birds congregate
Wildlife
- •Sri Lankan elephant
- •Greater Sri Lanka junglefowl (and various raptors)
Conservation Note
Visitors help sustain local conservation through park fees and responsible tourism; keep to trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and minimize single-use plastics to reduce impacts.
Udawalawe was designated to protect the reservoir and wildlife corridors after the creation of the reservoir in the 1960s–70s; it later became a key site for elephant conservation and tourism.
What to Bring
Lightweight hiking shoesEssential
Closed shoes with good tread for uneven ground around campsites and jeep boarding.
Headlamp with spare batteriesEssential
Hands-free light for the campsite and early-morning preparations.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)Essential
Protects against mosquitoes and ticks at dusk and in grassy areas.
Binoculars (8x–10x)
Helps pick out distant elephants, birds, and raptor ID during drives.
Common Questions
How does camping work inside the park?
Camping is at a designated site near park boundaries with canvas tents, basic bedding, and a cook/crew—it's comfortable but rustic, not a luxury lodge.
Will I see elephants on every safari?
Udawalawe has a high elephant density and sightings are common, but wildlife is never guaranteed; morning and evening drives maximize chances.
Is the elephant orphanage admission included?
The tour includes entrance to the Udawalawe elephant orphanage as listed; visits allow close viewing but handling policies are set by the orphanage staff.
Is this trip suitable for children?
The tour is family-friendly for most children but not recommended for pregnant travelers; children should be supervised and follow guide instructions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (48 hours)
Location
Udawalawe, Sabaragamuwa Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires mobility for short walks and getting in/out of safari jeeps and camping facilities.
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