The Sri Lankan National Park that is World Famous for Elephants
The Udawalawe National Park is home to many more species of Sri Lankan wildlife which include the endemic Toque Macaque and the Sri Lankan leopard (seen very rarely). The Sri Lankan Sloth Bear has been recorded as well, but it is seldom seen. There are numerous species of fish, reptiles and amphibians, and an incredible total of 183 bird species recorded as inhabiting the Park, while many others pass through on their migratory routes, making Udawalawe a great place for a memorable bird safari as well.
Udawalawe is the third most visited Park in Sri Lanka, in the southern dry-zone of the country, and spans approximately 31,000 hectares, providing for ample elephant safari opportunities as well as observing the Park’s other Sri Lankan wildlife.
Safari Timetable & Weather
The climate in the Park is characterised by seasonal rainfall and uniformly high temperature conditions. The average annual rainfall is about 1,500 mm in the south end, and it gradually increases towards the north. The annual average temperature is 32°C with no serious fluctuations being recorded.
Two rainfall peaks occur in a year, one between April and May and the other between October and November. A short dry spell is experienced between February and March, and a prolonged dry period is observed from mid-May until the end of September.
Safari Attire & Necessities
- Attire of cotton, earthy-coloured garments are recommended during the safari. A light sweater or jacket is recommended for morning Safaris.
- Sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen, insect repellent creams, and dust masks are recommended.
Mahoora Safari Highlights
- Mahoora has the largest pool of professional naturalists in the country. This allows us to guarantee that an exclusive naturalist can be provided for each group.
- Mahoora owns the largest fleet of modified safari jeeps in the country. We guarantee an exclusive safari jeep for each group. These jeeps are specially designed for comfort and optimal game viewing/ photography setups.
Safari & Game Drives > Elite
- Enjoy two all-inclusive safaris for every night stayed at Mahoora; all entry permits, park fees, and government taxes for the entire stay are included.
- An all-inclusive, full-day safari option will be provided for guests staying more than a night.
- An exclusive jeep with front-faced, comfortable, elevated seats is provided for maximised game viewing and photography opportunities.
- A professional naturalist is exclusively provided for each booking. This is a completely private safari experience for Mahoora Elite, thus you will not be sharing either the jeep or naturalist with other guests.
- A complimentary picnic basket for the safari with chilled beverages and snacks will be provided.
- Equipment for wildlife photographers can be provided on request, such as monopods, bean bags etc. during the safari.
- Unlimited water will be provided.
Safari & Game Drives > Premium
- Enjoy two all-inclusive safaris for every night stayed at Mahoora; all entry permits, park fees, and government taxes for the entire stay are included.
- An all-inclusive, full-day safari option will be provided for guests staying more than a night.
- An exclusive jeep with front-faced, comfortable, elevated seats is provided for maximised game viewing and photography opportunities.
- A professional naturalist is provided for each jeep.
- A complimentary picnic basket for the safari with chilled beverages and snacks will be provided.
- Equipment for wildlife photographers can be provided on request, such as monopods, bean bags etc. during the safari.
- Unlimited water will be provided.