Safaris In Sri Lanka: 5 Best National Parks To Visit

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I might be getting addicted. Safaris. Jeeps. Elephants. Binoculars. Crocodiles. Camera. Leopards. Scanning tree tops and the horizon. Searching for movement.  It is hot and dusty and the ride is bumpy. What better way to pass your days than on safaris in Sri Lanka?

Safaris in Sri Lanka were definitely on the list of “things to do” but I didn’t really plan on visiting five National Parks! How could I predict that I would feel so alive, finding myself in the presence of elusive and majestic creatures?

Read about highlights and details of Bundala, Kumana, Minneriya, Uda Walawe and Yala National Parks. They are listed in alphabetical order.

1. Safaris In Sri Lanka: Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a gorgeous wetland full of migratory and resident birds. We went to see the birds! July is not the prime season to see migratory birds but we were hoping to see flamingoes. We did not see flamingoes, but as explored the waterways and dunes, we found elephants, monkeys and plenty of wildlife.

We were the only jeep driving along the sand spits between the waterways. The landscape was gorgeous and between a host of sea birds, pied kingfishers, white-bellied sea eagles, monkeys, jackals and an elephant we were thrilled with our safari. A definite must if you are a bird lover. I will have to return in peak season between September and April.

Safaris in Sri Lanka: Pro Travel Tip

The best time to take a safari in Bundala National Park is between November and March, which is the dry season in the region. During this time, the water levels in the park’s lagoons and wetlands begin to recede, creating ideal conditions for migratory birds to flock to the park in large numbers. This makes it an excellent time for birdwatchers to observe a wide variety of bird species, including rare and endangered species such as the greater flamingo and the painted stork.

5 Facts About Bundala National Park

1. Bundala National Park is located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka, on the southeastern coast of the island.
2. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the greater flamingo, which migrates to the park in large numbers during the winter months.
3. Bundala National Park is one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory birds in Sri Lanka, and it has been designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.
4. The park is also home to a diverse range of other wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, spotted deer, and wild boars.
5. The landscape of the park is characterized by salt pans, lagoons, and sand dunes, which provide a unique habitat for a variety of plants and animals, making it an important ecological hotspot in Sri Lanka.

Bundala National Park Details:

Operator: Our guesthouse owner at Sanoga Guest House, Tissamarahama

Early morning safari

Private: 2 people

Cost: 6000 LKR ($54.00 Canadian, each)

Duration: 3.5 hours

Included: a driver, a tracker picked up at the park gates, and all park fees

2. Safaris In Sri Lanka: Kumana National Park

Also known as Yala East, we were drawn to this park as it is known to be much less busy than Yala with similar, although less frequent, sightings of wildlife. We were the only jeep around which, in one way, was wonderful. But, with no tracker and fewer jeeps, there were fewer experienced eyes scanning for wildlife. We saw lots of spotted deer, water buffalo and water birds.

The highlight was seeing multiple Malabar pied hornbills. As you leave the park, you pass through the Kumana bird reserve where there is a bird-watching tower. It was quite the spectacle seeing the painted storks roosting for the night.

Although we did see a few elephants, they were mostly retreating into the bushes. I wonder if we would have seen more had there been a tracker in the Jeep with us. I’m so glad we had already been to Yala.

Safaris in Sri Lanka: Pro Travel Tip

The best time for a safari in Kumana National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the park’s waterholes and wetlands dry up, causing large numbers of animals to congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The dry season also coincides with the nesting season of several species of migratory birds, such as the painted stork, spoonbill, and pelican, making it a great time for birdwatchers. It’s important to note that the park is closed from September to October each year for the breeding season of the birds, so it’s best to plan your safari accordingly.

5 Facts About Kumana National Park

1. Kumana National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Ampara District of Sri Lanka, on the southeastern coast of the island.
2. The park covers an area of over 35,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, 23 species of mammals, and several species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
3. Kumana National Park is particularly renowned for its birdlife, and it is a popular destination for birdwatchers from all over the world.
4. The park is also home to several species of endangered animals, including the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, and fishing cat.
5. Kumana National Park is located in close proximity to Yala National Park, and the two parks together form an important ecological corridor for the movement of wildlife between the coastal and inland areas of Sri Lanka.

Kumana National Park Details:

Operator: On the street of Arugam Bay; was not particularly impressed

Afternoon Safari

Shared: 4 people

Cost: 5000 LKR ($45 Canadian, each)

Duration: 4 hours

Included: driver (no tracker) and park fees

Bathroom: at the entrance

3. Safaris In Sri Lanka: Minneriya National Park

The Gathering:

Do not miss the annual gathering of the elephants in August.

Asian Elephants come from far and wide to eat the lush grass that has grown as the water in the Minneriya Tank (reservoir) has receded. It is the dry season and other watering holes have dried up. Minneriya has food and water for the elephants. Thus, there can be up to 500 elephants in the park by mid-August. It is the largest gathering of Asian Elephants in the world.

As I was travelling solo at the time, and my guesthouse owner in Polonnaruwa couldn’t seem to find me a safari to share, I decided to take the public bus to the park gates and find someone to share the cost of the safari. It was quite a bit of effort doing it this way, but totally worth it. I found Florian from France. We agreed on the cost with a Jeep driver, paid our entrance fee and we were off.

This was an experience of a lifetime! It was a spectacular sight to see groups of 60 or more elephants eating, socializing, bathing, spraying water and roaming together.

Although I was there in late July, there were about 400 elephants in the park. By mid-August, there are about 500 or more, according to our guide. Our guide was a wealth of information and made us aware, several times, of the smell of the male elephant musth – the hormone testosterone released by male elephants looking to mate. He reminded us many times how dangerous elephants can be.

There were probably 200 jeeps in the park the day that I went. Apparently, there are even more in mid-August. Despite the number of jeeps, the pathway was quite wide which resulted in an easy flow and an ability to give the elephants their space. Although not all Jeep drivers did. And when our guide told us that it is not uncommon for an elephant to charge a jeep, it is cause for concern. Humans, once again, encroach on animals in their natural habitat.

It is easy to just lose yourself in the wonder of this species. Their closeness. Their touching. The babies are surrounded by nurturing females. The enormous males. Seeing this gathering of elephants in the wild, reinforced my zero tolerance to elephants in captivity. Why is it necessary?

These elephants epitomized freedom as they wandered in their groups. It made me cringe to think that we, as humans, still think it is acceptable to ride elephants (their back is their weakest body part). It made me sick to think there are poachers killing these intelligent creatures to protect their farms or to garnish their ivory.

This sight at Minneriya left me with a healthy respect for elephants. It left me marvelling at our natural world. It left me in awe.

Safaris in Sri Lanka: Pro Travel Tip

The best time to take a safari in Minneriya National Park is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the water levels in the Minneriya Tank begin to recede, forcing large herds of elephants to gather.

5 Facts About Minneriya National Park

1. Minneriya National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, near the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
2. The park covers an area of 8,889 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, 24 species of mammals, and several species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
3. Minneriya National Park is particularly famous for its annual elephant gathering, which occurs between June and September each year when hundreds of elephants migrate to the park to gather around the Minneriya Tank to feed and bathe.
4. The park is also home to several other notable animal species, including the Sri Lankan sambar deer, Sri Lankan leopard, and purple-faced langur.
5. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Minneriya National Park is also home to several ancient ruins and archaeological sites, including the 3rd-century Minneriya Tank and the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa.

Minneriya National Park Details:

Operator: Mahasen Jeep Safari is the name on the jeep. I found many willing safari drivers at the park gates.

Afternoon Safari (the recommended time of day during “The Gathering”)

Shared: 2 people

Cost: 5680 LKR ( $51.00 Canadian, each)

I went to the park specifically to find someone to share the cost.

Buying the entrance to the park is cheaper if you purchase it with someone 3180LKR ($28.00 Canadian, each)

Sharing the cost of the jeep was 2500 LKR ($22.00 Canadian, each)

I saved about $25 Canadian sharing the safari.

Duration: 4 hours

Included: driver,  a volunteer tracker and all park fees

Bathroom: at the entrance

4. Safaris In Sri Lanka: Uda Walawe National Park

It was hot and windy as we drove up and down the rutted roads looking for wildlife. As always, the animals don’t just line up for you! They are going about their business of living. The highlight for me was the watering hole with about 5 elephants and only 2 jeeps. I find pachyderms captivating and could watch them for hours.

There were many elephants to be seen, lots of water buffalo and many species of birds – bee-eaters, parakeets, hornbills, Indian rollers and painted storks.

As in all the Sri Lankan national parks, the trees were majestic and the landscape gorgeous.

Safaris in Sri Lanka: Pro Travel Tip

The best time to go on a safari in Uda Walawe National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September, as this is when wildlife sightings are most common and the park’s grasslands are at their most beautiful.

5 Facts About Uda Walawe National Park

1. Uda Walawe National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces of Sri Lanka, near the town of Embilipitiya.
2. The park covers an area of over 30,800 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, 33 species of mammals, and several species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
3. Uda Walawe National Park is particularly famous for its large population of Sri Lankan elephants, which can often be seen grazing and bathing in the park’s grasslands and waterways.
4. The park is also home to several other notable animal species, including the Sri Lankan leopard, Sri Lankan sambar deer, water buffalo, and sloth bear.
5. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Uda Walawe National Park is also a popular destination for eco-tourism and offers visitors a range of activities, including safaris, nature walks, and bird watching tours. The park also features several man-made lakes, including the Uda Walawe Reservoir, which provides water for the park’s wildlife and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.

Uda Walawe National Park Details:

Operator: Our guesthouse owner at Silent Bungalow, Uda Walawe

Afternoon Safari

Shared: 4 people

Cost: 4150 LKR ( $37 Canadian each)

Duration: 3.5 hours

Included: driver (no tracker) and all park fees

5. Safaris In Sri Lanka: Yala National Park

Oh, Yala! And to think we almost skipped it. We had read mixed reviews about safari drivers and hoards of jeeps so considered not going. The lure of seeing a leopard changed our minds. Our full-day Sri Lankan safari in Yala National Park was a trip highlight.

How could it not be? Yala is home to a wide variety of wildlife – wild boars, water buffalo, sloth bears, mongoose, crocodiles, two types of monkeys, many species of birds, elephants and the elusive leopard – to name just a few!

There were a lot of safari jeeps, even though we were not visiting during peak season. The drivers call each other when there is a leopard sighting so, suddenly jeeps appear out of nowhere. Our driver called it, “The Colombo Traffic Jam!” The way I see it, there are many trained eyes looking for wildlife so the chance of seeing something spectacular increases. The drivers were all very respectful of the animals.

Safaris In Sri Lanka: Spotting A Leopard

I really didn’t believe that we would see animals mid-afternoon but that is exactly when we saw the leopard. First of all, he was resting in the tree and all that was visible was his back. A leopard’s back! Patience was rewarded when he turned around and was looking right at us. Eventually, he climbed down from the tree. Such a powerful animal.

All the drivers started heading off in various directions. As we bumped down the rutted track, I glanced up and although my jaw was flapping, I was speechless. There, about to cross in front of us, was the leopard.

It was incredible.

But that was not the end of the leopard sightings. Our day ended by watching a leopard eat a deer in the bushes. It wasn’t a crystal clear view but, we could definitely see activity, hear him and see his tail standing straight up!

Yala National Park was my first safari in Sri Lanka. Perhaps it was the amazing sights there that inspired me to go on four more safaris!

Safaris in Sri Lanka: Pro Travel Tip

The best time to visit Yala National Park for wildlife sightings is during the dry season from February to June when the water levels are low, and animals are concentrated around the water sources. During this time, you can see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and many species of birds.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you might want to visit during the offseason from July to January when the park is less busy, and the rates are lower.

The park is open throughout the year, but it is closed for a period of about one month from September to October for maintenance purposes.

5 Interesting Facts About Yala National Park

1. Yala National Park is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, covering an area of 979 square kilometres.
2. The park is divided into five blocks, with two of them open to the public. Block one (also known as Yala East) is the most visited area of the park, while block two (also known as Yala West) is less crowded but offers more wildlife sightings.
3. Yala National Park is home to the highest concentration of leopards in the world, with an estimated population of around 40-50 individuals.
4. The park has a diverse range of ecosystems, including dry monsoon forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which support a variety of flora and fauna.
5. Yala National Park has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 2nd century BC. The park also contains several ancient ruins and temples, including the Sithulpauwwa rock temple and the Magul Maha Viharaya.

Yala National Park Details:

Operator: Our guesthouse owner at Sanoga Guest House, Tissamarahama

Full Day Safari

Private: 2 people

Cost: 9000 LKR ( $81.00 Canadian, each)

Duration: 12 hours (including a lunch/ rest break of 90 minutes)

Included: driver and a tracker in the jeep with us, all entrance fees to the park

Lunch was by the Indian Ocean provided by our hosts for a small cost (650 LKR / $5.80 Canadian)

Bathroom: at the lunch rest stop – in the bushes

A visit to one of Sri Lanka’s National Parks should be on your itinerary when you visit Sri Lanka. The experience of safaris in Sri Lanka is grounding, exhilarating and unforgettable.

Which National Park would be first on your list?

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