Udawalawe is one of Asia’s best places to see wild elephants up close, almost guaranteed on every safari. With open grasslands, a central reservoir and dramatic mountain backdrops, the park offers stunning scenery and frequent wildlife encounters. Ideal for first time safari goers, families and photographers seeking authentic, untamed experiences without the crowds.

• Wild elephant sightings almost guaranteed
• Great for first time safari travellers
• Open landscapes ideal for photography
• Central reservoir attracts abundant wildlife
• Home to Elephant Transit Home nearby
• Excellent all year, especially dry season

Udawalawe National Park, straddling Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces, is widely regarded as the best place in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants reliably. With its wide open plains, tall grasslands and shimmering Udawalawe Reservoir, the park mimics the savannah like ecosystems of East Africa, making animals easier to spot and photograph.

Over 500 elephants live in and around the park and sightings are common during both morning and evening game drives. You will often see elephants crossing tracks, bathing in the lake or feeding in small family groups. It’s also home to water buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles and a vibrant array of birdlife, including fish eagles and peacocks.

Unlike Yala or Minneriya, Udawalawe is far less crowded, giving you quieter, more respectful wildlife encounters. Nearby, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves, offering a meaningful bonus visit for ethically minded travellers.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made includes Udawalawe in safaris that are perfect for families, photographers and anyone wanting a powerful, natural elephant experience without the chaos of mass tourism. Here, elephants aren’t tracked for spectacle, they simply exist, roam and remind you why the wild is worth protecting.