Udawalawe Safari DayTrip frm Bentota/Kalutara/Ahungalla/Hikkaduwa

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Wildlife on the Udawalawe Safari Day Trip

Taking a safari in Sri Lanka is an adventure that offers a chance to witness some of the most incredible wildlife sightings in their natural habitat. The Udawalawe Safari Day Trip, organized by Bentota Travel Mart, is a well-loved option for travelers staying in areas like Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Ahungalla, or Kalutara. This tour gets rave reviews for its expert guides, good value, and the chance to see large herds of elephants, plus other fascinating animals like monkeys and crocodiles.

One thing we love about this trip is the early start, which maximizes chances of spotting wildlife before the heat of the day sets in. It’s also a private, all-inclusive experience—meaning no hidden costs, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch taken care of. However, the long hours—around 10 to 12—might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to early mornings. Still, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just want a memorable, authentic encounter with nature, this trip suits those craving an immersive day in Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

This tour caters best to travelers who value guided wildlife encounters, comfort, and convenience. It’s ideal for those wanting a structured but authentic safari experience and who appreciate the chance to visit an elephant orphanage as well. Let’s explore what makes this day trip so appealing, along with the details that help you decide if it’s right for your Sri Lankan adventure.

Key Points

• Early start for optimal wildlife viewing—taking the 4:30 am or 7:30 am options maximizes chances of seeing animals active in cooler hours.
• All-inclusive private tour—including transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water, offering good value and stress-free planning.
• Expert guides and drivers—many reviewers praise their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, making the day more engaging.
• Diverse highlights—from the vast grasslands of Udawalawe National Park to the Elephant Transit Home, the tour offers multiple wildlife experiences.
• Long but rewarding day—though lengthy, most travelers find it worthwhile and enjoyable, especially with the early start.
• Authentic encounters—reviews mention being close to elephants, seeing young calves being fed, and observing animals in natural settings.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on This Udawalawe Safari Day Trip

This tour is crafted for those who want more than just a quick glance at wildlife; it’s about soaking in a day full of sights, sounds, and genuine moments. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect, based on the detailed itinerary and reviews.

Convenient Pick-up and Early Departure

The day begins with pick-up from your hotel or accommodation in Wadduwa, Waskaduwa, Kalutara, Maggona, Beruwala, Aluthgama, Bentota, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Balapitiya, Ambalangoda, Hikkaduwa, or Rathgama—all included in the tour. You can choose from three different start times: 4.30 am, 7.30 am, or 11.00 am, with the early start being the most popular among wildlife lovers.

Getting picked up early means you’re on the road before the sun rises, and the cooler morning hours are prime wildlife viewing time. One reviewer, Ricky D., noted that the 4 am start was “worth it as it got very hot through the morning,” and the elephants, birds, and monkeys are most active during these hours.

The Journey to Udawalawe National Park

Your private vehicle, driven by an experienced, friendly guide, shuttles you comfortably to the park, which takes roughly 2-3 hours depending on your pick-up location. Many travelers mention that the transportation itself is pleasant—clean, air-conditioned, and with a knowledgeable driver who shares insights about Sri Lanka’s landscape and wildlife along the way.

The Safari in Udawalawe National Park

Once inside the park, the highlight is the jeep safari—lasting approximately three hours. You’ll be in a private safari jeep, which enables closer views of the wildlife than you’d get from a larger tour bus.

Expect to see large herds of elephants roaming freely across the grasslands, which many reviews describe as a highlight. Paul H. mentioned taking the early safari for “more chances to see wildlife,” a good tip because animals tend to be more active in the cooler parts of the day. Several reviewers, like Michal J., noted seeing “more than a dozen elephants,” along with deer, peacocks, and crocodiles.

The guides are praised for their knowledge—many can point out species you might miss or explain animal behaviors. One reviewer, Lisa C., fondly recalled seeing “baby elephants feeding,” which was “fabulous.” Others appreciated the chance to see crocodiles basking in the sun or monitor lizards lurking near water bodies.

Elephant Transit Home (ETH)

After the safari, the tour visits the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a facility dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned calves. Established in 1995, ETH is a moving experience—reviewers have described it as “very moving” to see baby elephants being fed, and to witness wild elephants walking within a meter or so of the jeep on the safari, offering up close and personal moments.

Most travelers find this part of the trip incredibly worthwhile—seeing young elephants being cared for and then released back into the wild is a rare chance to witness conservation in action. The entry fees for ETH are included, so there are no extra costs here.

Lunch and Additional Stops

The tour includes a delicious Sri Lankan lunch, often praised for its authenticity and flavor—many mention the papadam and local dishes as highlights. After lunch, the tour can include some optional stops, but the main focus remains on the park and ETH.

End of the Day and Return

The return journey usually begins in the early afternoon, with drop-off back at your hotel or accommodation. Reviewers like Paul H. comment on the good service from start to finish, appreciating the seamless organization and attentive guides.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, several factors make this tour a standout:

• The early start is crucial for wildlife enthusiasts who want to see animals in their most active state. The chance to see elephants, birds, monkeys, and crocodiles in natural behaviors is a big draw.
• The private, all-inclusive package simplifies planning—everything from transportation, entry fees, to lunch is handled upfront, making it easier to relax and focus on the experience.
• The guides’ knowledge and friendliness are consistently praised, helping you get the most out of the day and ensuring you don’t miss the best sightings.
• The Elephant Transit Home offers a heartfelt experience that combines wildlife viewing with conservation awareness.
• The value for money is notable, considering all costs are included and reviews show many travelers felt they received a memorable, well-organized day.

Potential Considerations

While the trip is highly praised, a few points are worth noting:

• The long hours, particularly with an early start, might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to early mornings.
• The safari can be quite full if you opt for a later start, but the private nature of this tour helps mitigate this concern.
• Weather can impact the experience—poor weather may lead to cancellations or a less optimal safari, but the tour provider offers the option to reschedule or get a full refund if cancelled due to weather.

Why This Tour Is Ideal for You

This safari day trip is perfect if you’re seeking an authentic wildlife experience in Sri Lanka without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. It suits nature lovers, families, or curious travelers eager to see elephants and other animals in a natural environment, especially with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide.

If you value comfort, convenience, and transparency—with no hidden costs—this tour offers excellent value. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day outside the busy beaches, enjoying Sri Lanka’s wild side, and creating memories that are likely to last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Udawalawe Safari Day Trip from Bentota is a well-rounded, highly rated experience that combines stunning wildlife sightings with thoughtful organization. The early start, private transport, and inclusion of key attractions like the Elephant Transit Home make it a compelling choice for travelers eager to connect with nature.

While the long hours might be a stretch for some, most reviews agree that the opportunity to see elephants in their natural habitat, the friendly guides, and the overall value make this tour a standout. It’s suited best for those who don’t mind an early wake-up call in exchange for an unforgettable day in Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
You can choose from three start times: 4:30 am, 7:30 am, or 11:00 am, with the early start being popular for wildlife viewing.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private transportation with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide is included, along with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are covered as part of the package.

What should I bring for the safari?
While not explicitly listed, it’s wise to carry sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, camera, and some snacks—though lunch and bottled water are provided.

How long is the safari?
The jeep safari lasts about three hours within the park, with additional time for travel and visiting ETH.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Most travelers find it suitable, but keep in mind the long day and early start. The tour is private, so you can assess the pace accordingly.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and a full refund isn’t available.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private, all-inclusive package, modifications are likely possible—discuss with Bentota Travel Mart if needed.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with the option for a full refund.

To sum it up, if wildlife encounters, expert guides, and hassle-free logistics are what you’re after, this Udawalawe safari day trip offers an authentic, memorable experience at a good value—ideal for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.