Regardless of its size, Sri Lanka possesses an extremely high degree of biodiversity and is viewed as one of the top biodiversity hotspots in the world. If you are an elephant lover then you must go on a wildlife safari in Sri Lanka where many elephants meander aimlessly in Udawalawe National Park. Going on a safari in Sri Lanka is one of the best things to add to your agenda.

Udawalawe National Park is located in the south of Sri Lanka and is a popular destination for those hoping to spot wild elephants. It is quite possibly the best place in Sri Lanka to see elephants throughout the year as there are a few hundred elephants within the park, and you can sometimes witness a herd of females moving or bathing together in the wild during an Udawalawe National Park safari.

The drive through the park can be bumpy and rough, and it’s not uncommon for jeeps to be vying for the best spots when an animal is spotted. You are not allowed to drive up close to the animals or harass them.
Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s smaller national parks at only 308.2 km². It is estimated that within this space over 500 elephants live. It’s simple really, a smaller space with a higher density of elephants increases your chances of seeing them!

In addition to the dozens of elephants, you might also see kingfishers, crocodiles, eagles, buffalo, peacocks, deer, and monkeys on an Udawalawe safari drive. Udawalawe does have leopards (an estimated 1 dozen or so) but the chances of spotting one are extremely rare.