Udawalawe National Park Safari from Dikwella: Afternoon Jeep Safari to See Wild Elephants
Take an afternoon jeep safari from Dikwella into Udawalawe National Park to watch Sri Lankan elephants, waterbirds and grassland mammals gather around reservoir edge. This private tour includes hotel pickup, a three-hour game drive, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring binoculars
A 7x–10x pair brings distant herds and bird flocks into sharp view from the jeep.
Sun protection
Afternoon sun can be strong—wide-brim hat and SPF 30+ sunscreen are important during open-jeep viewing.
Carry water and snacks
Although the tour includes transport, carry personal water and a light snack to stay energized during the long day.
Motion and bump readiness
Jeep trails are rough; secure gear and prepare for bumpy rides if you have back sensitivity.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit the Elephant Transit Home near the park entrance to see rehabilitated calves (check viewing times).
- •Stop at the Udawalawe reservoir viewpoint at dusk for wide-angle composition and concentrated wildlife activity.
Wildlife
- •Sri Lankan elephant
- •Sambar deer
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to follow jeep tracks, respect distance from animals, and support local rehabilitation programs like the Elephant Transit Home to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
The park was created in 1972 to protect the Udawalawe reservoir’s catchment and to conserve wildlife displaced by dam construction.
What to Bring
Binoculars (7x–10x)Essential
Essential for spotting elephants and birds at distance without relying on long lenses.
Telephoto lens (200–300mm) or zoom cameraEssential
Allows close-up wildlife shots from the jeep while keeping a safe distance.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Afternoon heat and open jeep exposure make sun protection critical.
Light rain jacket
Useful during brief tropical showers in inter-monsoon and monsoon periods.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes; the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Dikwella with an English-speaking chauffeur.
Are park entrance and jeep safari fees included?
The itinerary lists the jeep safari and admission as included—confirm at booking for final ticket inclusion details.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Udawalawe is best known for Sri Lankan elephants, along with waterbirds, sambar or spotted deer, water buffalo and occasional monitor lizards.
Is this suitable for people with back problems or pregnancy?
Not recommended—long transfers and bumpy jeep terrain can be uncomfortable or unsafe for travelers with spinal issues or pregnancy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Dikwella, Southern Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate: must tolerate multi-hour vehicle transfers and short walks on uneven ground
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