Udawalawe: National Park Safari with Elephant Transit Home

Embark on a safari adventure in Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore the park's diverse ecosystems and see elephants, water buffalo, sambar deer, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Start your safari adventure in Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore the park's diverse ecosystems and see elephants, water buffalo, sambar deer, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Spanning over 30,000 hectares, Udawalawe National Park is famous for its free-roaming herds of elephants. With an estimated 600-700 individuals, visitors are almost guaranteed a close encounter with these gentle giants. Watching elephants graze, bathe, and interact in their natural habitat is a mesmerizing experience that leaves a lasting impression.

While elephants are the park's main attraction, Udawalawe boasts an incredible variety of wildlife. The park is home to water buffalo, sambar deer, spotted deer, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Birdwatchers will also find a paradise here, as over 200 bird species call the park home, including the Sri Lankan grey hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and colorful kingfishers.

The park’s landscape is a blend of open grasslands, riverine forests, and marshy wetlands. Its natural beauty is accentuated by the Udawalawe Reservoir, which not only provides water for the park's wildlife but also creates a picturesque backdrop for safari adventures. Early mornings and late afternoons, with their golden light, are the best times to capture stunning photographs of the park's vistas and wildlife.

A safari in Udawalawe is a well-organized affair. Jeep safaris, led by experienced guides, take visitors deep into the park, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife up close. Morning and evening safaris are particularly popular, as these are the times when animals are most active.

Udawalawe is also home to the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants. Visitors can witness the feeding of young elephants and learn about conservation efforts, adding an educational dimension to their trip.