
1 / 10From Udawalawe: Udawalawe Safari Tour
About this activity
Explore one of Sri Lanka's premier wildlife reserves, home to hundreds of wild elephants and endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. This 5.5-hour safari offers year-round elephant viewing against a backdrop of lush forests and wetlands that sustain the park's exceptional biodiversity.
This population of elephants can be sustained in the national park owing to its lush greenery and large bodies of water that are vital for the survival of such a large population of elephants. The elephant population is not the only attraction in the national park.
It is also known to be home to a wide range of flora and fauna, some of which exist only in Sri Lanka.
Primates found in the national park include toque macaques and tufted grey langurs. Rodents include Indian hare and about five species of wild rat and mouse, including the rare and endemic Ceylon spiny mouse. The endemic golden palm civet and the Asian palm civet also call the national park home.
Udawalawa is a popular destination for those hoping to spot wild elephants. It is quite possibly the best place in Sri Lanka to see elephants throughout the year as there are a few hundred elephants within the park.
Highlights
- ✓Spot wild elephants in their natural habitat—Udawalawe has the highest concentration viewable year-round in Sri Lanka
- ✓Encounter endemic wildlife including golden palm civets and the rare Ceylon spiny mouse
- ✓See toque macaques and tufted grey langurs in forested areas
- ✓Traverse wetlands and grasslands rich with birdlife and smaller mammals
- ✓Learn about conservation efforts sustaining one of Asia's largest elephant populations
Insider tips
- ★Early morning departures (6–7 a.m.) offer the best elephant sightings when animals are most active
- ★Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to maximize wildlife photography opportunities
- ★The dry season (June–September) concentrates animals around water sources, improving sighting odds
Good to know
- •5.5-hour total duration includes drive time from your hotel and the safari itself
- •Wear neutral-coloured, lightweight clothing to blend into the environment and stay comfortable in warm conditions
- •Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential—the park offers limited shade during midday hours
- •Hotel pickup and drop-off are typically included; confirm meeting point and time when booking
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Visit June to September (dry season) when animals congregate near water sources, making sightings more frequent. Early morning departures are ideal regardless of season, as elephants are most active at dawn.











