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1984

9.5 hours
Max people : 10
Shared group
Year-around
English
Hotel pickup

What to Expect

The wild heart of Sri Lanka calls at Udawalawe National Park, where vast grasslands meet the tranquil waters of Udawalawe Reservoir, and wildlife roams freely. This Bentota to Udawalawe safari tour offers an unforgettable encounter with elephants, deer, peacocks, and hornbills in their natural habitat, where every rustle of leaves or distant call tells a story of life thriving in the wild. From the moment you enter the park, adventure and discovery unfold with every turn. Every moment is a balance of thrill, discovery, and the serene rhythm of nature.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive along the Southern Expressway, bringing you closer to the park’s serene wilderness. Morning safaris reach Udawalawe by 7:00 AM in soft dawn light; afternoon safaris arrive around 1:00 PM under warm sunlight. As you venture into the park, herds of elephants traverse open plains, peacocks call from trees, and deer graze near waterholes. The safari winds through grasslands and bushland, with the Udawalawe Reservoir visible from certain viewpoints, home to crocodiles, waterbirds, and other wildlife. Along the way, you have the optional chance to visit the Elephant Transit Home at no extra charge, a heartwarming stop to see baby elephants cared for before their release back into the wild.

To make your safari seamless and enjoyable, we provide a 4×4 jeep safari with an experienced trekker, guiding you safely and expertly through the park. Picnic breakfast or afternoon snacks and bottled water are included to keep you refreshed, while the optional Elephant Transit Home stop adds a special touch at no extra cost. With every detail thoughtfully arranged, this Bentota to Udawalawe safari tour leaves you with a day of wonder, calm, and memories that linger long after the journey ends.

Pickup

Hotels in Bentota, Beruwala, and Induruwa

Time

Morning Safari Ride4.30 AM - 2.00 PM
Afternoon Safari Ride11.00 AM - 8.30 PM

Price Includes

Hotel pickup and drop
Safari drive by 4 x 4 jeep
Service of an experienced trekker
Picnic breakfast or afternoon snacks
Bottled water

Price Excludes

National park entrance fee

Booking confirmation

Instant confirmation

Cancellation policy

Partially refundableIf the participation date is more than two weeks away
Non refundableIf the participation date is less than two weeks away

Key Attractions

Udawalawe National ParkWhere open plains meet the misty edge of the highlands, Udawalawe National Park unfolds in quiet grandeur. Herds of elephants move like shadows across the golden grass, peacocks fan their feathers in the sun, and eagles glide through skies alive with motion. Home to over 200 species of birds, the air hums with calls that change with every hour of the day. Every jeep trail through Udawalawe National Park feels alive with color and sound making it one of the most captivating natural escapes to experience on a safari from Bentota. It’s where stillness and wilderness coexist, and every turn of the trail feels like a story written in dust, wind, and sunlight.
Udawalawe ReservoirAt the heart of the park lies the Udawalawe Reservoir, a mirror to the sky and a gathering place for life. Elephants wade through its shallows, crocodiles bask on its edges, and kingfishers flash blue and gold across the water. As the sun rises or sets, the lake turns into a painting of light — a moment that makes every Bentota to Udawalawe National Park journey feel cinematic. Sitting by the water, you sense how time slows here; how every ripple carries the peace of the wild.
Elephant Transit Home (Optional)A short drive from the park gates, the Elephant Transit Home tells a softer story of the wild — one of care, healing, and hope. Here, orphaned elephants are lovingly cared for until they’re strong enough to return to the forests of Udawalawe National Park. Though not part of every safari from Bentota, it’s a meaningful stop for those who wish to witness conservation in motion. Watching the young elephants feed and play, you see a gentler side of the wilderness — a reminder that in Udawalawe, compassion and the call of the wild live side by side.

Photos

Itinerary

4:30 AM / 11:00 AMHotel Pickup

We pick you up from hotels in Bentota, Beruwala, Induruwa, or suburbs. (If required, a brief stop for refreshments or lunch can be arranged en route before the safari.)

7:00 AM / 1:30 PMStart Safari Drive

Meet your safari conductor or trekker at Udawalawe and board a private observation 4 x 4 safari jeep. Enjoy your breakfast or snacks while exploring the wild.

11:00 AM / 5:30 PMEnd of Safari Drive

Return to the starting point and prepare for your drive back. (Optional: Visit the Elephant Transit Home after the safari at no extra cost.)

2.00 PM / 8:30 PMHotel Drop-Off

We drop you off at your hotel in Bentota, Beruwala, or Induruwa.

Map

Special Notes

Booking ConfirmationAll bookings are instantly confirmed and backed by a 100% guarantee. Chauffeur details will be shared 24 to 48 hours prior to your tour. For a smooth arrival, your driver will be waiting at the pickup point or arrivals area with a personalized name sign.
Tailor-Made ItineraryThis itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferences. Simply fill out the inquiry form with your requests, and we’ll create a personalized experience just for you.
AccommodationWhile accommodations are not included, we’re happy to arrange them upon request. Just let us know your preferred daily budget and lodging style, and we’ll provide tailored recommendations.
Groups Larger Than 10Planning for a group of ten or more? Enjoy special discounted rates! Just fill out the inquiry form, and we’ll get back to you with a personalized quote tailored to your group.

FAQ

What should I wear for the Udawalawe safari?

For your Bentota to Udawalawe safari, wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. A hat or cap helps with sun protection, and sunglasses are recommended to stay comfortable under the tropical sun.

What should I bring for the Udawalawe safari?

For your Bentota to Udawalawe safari, pack essentials like a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, sunscreen, a camera or smartphone to capture wildlife, and binoculars if you want a closer look. Carry extra cash for park entrance fees, souvenirs, or other personal expenses. Bring extra water bottles if needed, and a small backpack to keep your belongings organized and hands-free during the safari.

What is the entrance fee for Udawalawe National Park?

For foreign adults, the entrance fee is typically USD 30–40, varying slightly with group size and exchange rate changes. Children between 6 and 11 years are charged about half the adult rate, and kids under 6 can enter for free. SAARC nationals may be eligible for discounted rates.

What is the Udawalawe National Park best season to visit?

Udawalawe National Park is a year-round safari destination, offering memorable wildlife experiences in any season. During the dry months, animals are more active and visible, often venturing out into the open, making sightings especially rewarding. While there may be occasional rain during the monsoon season, the safari remains enjoyable, as wildlife can still be spotted and the park retains its natural beauty.

What is the best time of day for a safari in Udawalawe?

The best time of day for a safari in Udawalawe depends on the experience you’re looking for. The standard morning safari is great, but for those seeking an extra advantage and for die-hard safari enthusiasts, the sunrise safari is ideal, and we offer a departure from Bentota around 3:30 AM. This allows you to arrive at the park entrance just as it opens at 6:00 AM to enjoy the best conditions for wildlife spotting with fewer safari jeeps around.

Afternoon safaris (around 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM), on the other hand, reveal the park’s warm hues and often feature herds gathering near the water for their evening drink. Both morning and afternoon safaris offering a different yet equally enchanting Udawalawe experience.

Why is this Bentota to Udawalawe safari unique?

The Bentota to Udawalawe safari is unique because it is among Sri Lanka’s most accessible wildlife parks abundant with the raw beauty of the wilderness. Travelers can witness large elephant herds in their natural habitat, cross open savannas, and spot a wide variety of wildlife — from buffalo and spotted deer to more than 200 species of birds. The safari offers an immersive experience in an open-concept jeep, allowing you to feel fully connected to the landscape. Each journey is also enhanced by the scenic drive from Bentota, passing coastal villages, paddy fields, and lush countryside before entering the park, making the adventure as memorable as the wildlife itself.

What is the Bentota to Udawalawe distance?

The distance from Udawalawe to Bentota is approximately 150 km, taking around 3.5 to 4 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions.

What kind of wildlife will I be able to spot?

During your Bentota to Udawalawe safari, you can expect to see large herds of elephants, often grazing or bathing in rivers and reservoirs. The park is also home to spotted deer, water buffalo, sambar deer, and wild boar, along with crocodiles resting near water bodies. Birdwatchers will delight in over 200 species of birds, including eagles, kingfishers, and peacocks. With luck, you may also encounter leopards, jackals, and mongoose, making each safari ride a rich and varied wildlife experience.

Is the safari family-friendly?

Yes, the Bentota to Udawalawe safari is family-friendly and suitable for travelers of all ages. The safari pace is gentle, allowing children and elderly guests to enjoy wildlife sightings safely from the jeep. However, it is best to consider if your little ones would be comfortable encountering animals and birds. An experienced local trekker or guide accompanies every jeep, ensuring safety and helping everyone make the most of the wildlife adventure.

What is an observation 4 x 4 safari jeep and why is it used in this tour?

An observation 4×4 safari jeep is a specialized off-road vehicle, custom-built for wildlife encounters, allowing almost 360-degree views of the park and its wildlife. Its four-wheel drive ensures stability and smooth travel across Udawalawe’s rugged terrain.

It is used in this Bentota to Udawalawe tour to provide an immersive experience, making it easier to spot animals, take photographs, and feel fully connected to the natural surroundings. The open design also allows travelers to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness without barriers while staying safe, creating a more intimate and engaging safari experience.

What types of vehicles are provided for hotel pickup/drop-off?

Vehicle options for this Bentota to Udawalawe tour hotel pickup or drop-off depend on your group size. For up to 3 passengers, a Sedan or SUV such as a Toyota Prius, Honda Vezel, Honda Fit Shuttle, or Suzuki Fronx is used. Groups of up to 4 passengers usually travel in an MPV like a Nissan Serena, while larger groups of up to 10 passengers use a Commuter van such as a Toyota HiAce or similar.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In case of adverse weather conditions, we may need to reschedule the tour or adjust the itinerary depending on the conditions. Your safety is our priority, and we want to make sure that the conditions are safe for traveling.