Udawalawa in 1 Day for Friends - 4x4 jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park
In Collaboration with A Visitor. Updated on February 24, 2026.
Private pickup from Ella, Matara, Galle, Tangalle, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Ahangama or nearby areas for a guided 4x4 safari in Udawalawe National Park with a stop at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Pickup is approximately 30 minutes before the chosen start time. National park entry tickets are not included — please bring cash for park entry if required.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with A Visitor, inspired by the tour Ella, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mirissa to Udawalawe Safari Day Trip. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- 4x4 jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park
- Chance to see wild elephants, water buffalo, birds and crocodiles
- Visit to Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to observe young elephants
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Ella, Mirissa, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Matara, Tangalle or nearby; transfer to Udawalawe for a morning 4x4 jeep safari followed by a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Driver will hold a sign with your name and will collect you ~30 minutes before the start time shown on your voucher. Approximate end of service / drop-off back at your hotel is mid-afternoon.
Udawalawe National Park — 4x4 Jeep Safari
Transfer into Udawalawe National Park and board a private 4x4 jeep with an experienced driver/guide for a wildlife viewing safari. During the drive you may see elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and many bird species. Safari routing and timing follow park regulations and aim for quiet areas where wildlife congregates.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring cash for the park entry ticket (not included) and carry it separately from valuables.
- Dress in neutral, lightweight clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen — mornings can be bright but breezy.
- Keep cameras and phones stable; use a zoom lens (200–400mm recommended) for safe distance wildlife photos rather than approaching animals.
Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home — Visit and feeding observation
Short transfer to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to observe rescued and orphaned elephant calves during public viewing times. The visit focuses on observation and learning about the rehabilitation work; feeding times are scheduled by the Transit Home (occur multiple times daily).
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive on time for the scheduled viewing window — the Transit Home operates strict feeding schedules.
- Maintain quiet and move slowly around the viewing areas; the facility enforces distance rules to protect the animals.
- Carry water and a small snack; facilities have limited options and nearby shade can be limited during mid-morning.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 2 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Attraction |