South coast and safari

Udawalawe

Elephants, almost guaranteed

Udawalawe is the park to pick if elephants are what you came for. The open landscape makes them easy to spot, and the safaris are usually a little cheaper and calmer than at Yala. The Elephant Transit Home nearby raises orphaned calves, and you can watch feeding time from a viewing platform.

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Udawalawe

Part of the island: South coast and safari
Suggested stay: 1 night
Best months: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Things to do: Ask us

Weather

When to go

Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so the best months depend on the coast. This is the pattern here.

Jan: best
Feb: best
Mar: best
Apr: best
May: best
Jun: best
Jul: best
Aug: best
Sep: best
Oct: expect rain
Nov: expect rain
Dec: good

Best Still good Expect rain

Stays

Where to stay

Prices per night for two people sharing, for dates about six weeks away. Yours may differ.

Budget

Clean, simple guesthouses and small hotels

Eagle Safari Cottage
$24
Three-star cottage stay near Udawalawe National Park.
Wi-Fi · Air conditioning
Wild Safari Clay House
$53
Two-star clay-house stay in the Udawalawe area.
Wi-Fi · Air conditioning

Comfort

Mid-range hotels, often with a pool

Green Paradise Cottage Udawalawa
$63
Three-star cottages with garden, lounge and bar.
The Countryside Udawalawe
$74
Pool and air-conditioned rooms; packed breakfast offered.
Pool · Air conditioning · Breakfast