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Udawalawe National Park, located in the southern region of Sri Lanka, is one of the most popular and best-preserved wildlife reserves on the island. Famous for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, the park attracts nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers from around the world. If you’re looking for a unique, unforgettable experience amidst Sri Lanka’s diverse flora and fauna, a safari at Udawalawe should be at the top of your travel list.
In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about a wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park, including the best time to visit, what wildlife you can expect to see, and tips for making the most of your safari experience.
Established in 1972, Udawalawe National Park spans 30,821 hectares of land, making it the third-largest national park in Sri Lanka. The park is known for its incredible populations of elephants, leopards, deer, crocodiles, and various bird species, making it a wildlife photographer’s paradise.
What sets Udawalawe apart from other national parks in Sri Lanka is its unique combination of dry-zone forest, grasslands, and wetlands. The park is situated near the Udawalawe Reservoir, which attracts a variety of animals and birds throughout the year. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a casual visitor, the park offers a stunning backdrop for an adventurous safari experience.
Udawalawe can be visited year-round, but the best time for a wildlife safari largely depends on your preferences and what animals you hope to see.
The dry season, from May to September, is considered the best time for a safari at Udawalawe. During this period, the animals are concentrated around the few remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is warm, but not too harsh, and the lack of rain means the roads inside the park are in good condition.
Though less popular due to the rain, the wet season can also offer a unique experience for visitors. The park becomes lush and green, and the landscape transforms into a beautiful, tranquil setting. However, some areas might be inaccessible due to rain, and wildlife could be more spread out, making it slightly harder to spot animals.
The shoulder seasons between February and April can also offer a balance of good weather and wildlife sightings. Temperatures are moderate, and although there may be occasional showers, the overall experience is pleasant. During this time, the park is less crowded, offering a more peaceful safari experience.
One of the main draws of Udawalawe National Park is its large population of wild elephants. The park is home to approximately 500 elephants, and sightings are common. These gentle giants roam freely across the park, and during a safari, you may witness them bathing in the reservoir, feeding on vegetation, or even playing in the mud.
The best part is that the elephants at Udawalawe are not confined to any specific area, which gives visitors a more authentic experience. While some other parks may have elephant “camps” or controlled environments, Udawalawe offers an opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Though leopards are generally elusive, Udawalawe is one of the few places where these big cats can be spotted, especially during dawn or dusk. The park’s terrain, consisting of dense forests and open grasslands, provides an ideal habitat for leopards and other carnivores.
Besides leopards, you might also come across Sri Lankan sloth bears, jackals, and even wild boars. While sightings of these carnivores are rare compared to elephants, your chances of encountering them are higher in Udawalawe than in many other national parks in Sri Lanka.
Udawalawe is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 bird species recorded in the park. These include both resident and migratory birds. Some of the most common bird species you may encounter include the Sri Lankan junglefowl, painted storks, and the endemic red-faced malkoha.
During your safari, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of birds perched on trees or flying across the grasslands. The combination of wetlands and open plains makes it an ideal environment for both waterfowl and raptors, giving you plenty of opportunities to capture beautiful bird images.
In addition to elephants and leopards, Udawalawe is home to a wide range of other mammal species. You might spot herds of sambar deer, axis deer, wild boar, and water buffalo roaming the plains. These mammals are often seen grazing in the open areas or near water sources.
Other notable species include the grey langur monkey, which is frequently seen in the trees, and the toque macaque, which is a type of monkey endemic to Sri Lanka. While less frequently encountered, crocodiles and other reptiles can also be seen, especially near the park’s water bodies.
The most common way to explore Udawalawe National Park is by jeep safari. The park offers a wide range of safari options, including half-day and full-day excursions. Most visitors opt for early morning or late afternoon safaris when animals are more active, and the temperatures are cooler.
You’ll travel in a sturdy 4×4 jeep with an experienced guide who knows the park’s terrain and wildlife. The guides are not only skilled in spotting animals but also provide in-depth knowledge about the species, their behaviors, and the ecological importance of the park. Their expertise significantly enhances the overall experience.
Besides jeep safaris, there are also options for walking safaris and boat safaris. Walking safaris, although rare in Udawalawe, can offer a more intimate experience with nature. Boat safaris around the Udawalawe Reservoir also provide an exciting opportunity to spot water birds and other aquatic wildlife.
To enhance your wildlife safari experience, it’s best to wear neutral-colored clothing, such as beige, khaki, or light brown. Bright colors can disturb the animals and make them more likely to flee from sight. Neutral clothing helps you blend into the environment and increases your chances of observing wildlife closely.
Udawalawe National Park offers numerous opportunities for wildlife photography, so don’t forget to bring a good camera. A zoom lens will help you capture distant wildlife, while binoculars will allow you to get a closer look at animals from a safe distance.
The weather in Udawalawe can be hot and humid, so it’s important to bring water and wear sun protection. Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and take insect repellent with you to avoid discomfort during the safari.
Wildlife safaris require patience. Animals in the park roam freely, so sightings are not guaranteed. It’s important to be patient and respectful of the animals and the environment. Do not disturb the animals or their habitat, and follow the instructions given by your guide.
After a long day of safari adventures, you’ll want to rest and recharge. Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options near Udawalawe National Park, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
For a more immersive experience, you can opt for a lodge or campsite situated on the outskirts of the park. These places provide a close connection with nature and often offer additional activities like nature walks or birdwatching.