The Sri Lankan subspecies is the largest and also the darkest of the Asian elephants, with patches of depigmentation—areas with no skin color—on its ears, face, trunk and belly. Sri Lanka is one of the best places to see packs of wild elephants. Let us show you the best elephant safaris in Sri Lanka right now.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is one of the best Elephant Safaris in Sri Lanka for one simple reason. You’re going to see elephants. This is because it is one of the smallest safaris in Sri Lanka and has one of the densest populations of elephants as well.
But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean that they are crammed in like sardines, they have plenty of space. It just means that it is the easiest place to see elephants in Sri Lanka by far.
Yala National Park in comparison is much larger with much less density of elephants (we only saw 2 in our 12-hour safari). So, if you only want to see elephants then this Udawalawe is one of your best options.
I would say that the only downside is that there are a LOT of other jeeps around you at all times. This is similar to all of Sri Lanka but due to the small size of the safari, this is slightly worse in Udawalawe. They can also get competitive with each other but are usually completely respectful towards the elephants.
There are a number of other animals at Udawalawe but the main show is the elephants. However, if you are hoping to also see the Sri Lankan leopard then you may be disappointed; they are few and far between. However, if that is not an issue then this is the elephant safari for you.
Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is in the north of Sri Lanka and is considered by many to be the most beautiful safari in all of Sri Lanka. This is due to the incredible topography of lakes and lush vegetation.
However, does this make it one of the best elephant safaris in Sri Lanka? Yes and no.
Due to the wide-open plains, it is one of the easiest places to spot wildlife in Sri Lanka and that includes the elephants. However, Wilpattu is very big so the density of elephants here is actually quite low.
You’ll probably see elephants at a distance but you probably won’t get the up close and personal experience of Udawalawe or Minneriya.
This, however, comes with a fantastic benefit for Wilpattu. It is one of the most peaceful safari parks in all of Sri Lanka and you will probably be the only jeep you will ever see. Couple that with good opportunities to see the elusive Sri Lankan leopard and you get a great overall experience.
Minneriya National Park and Kaudulla National Park
These two parks are super close together, which means the animals often walk between them. They also might visit the nearby Hurulu Eco Park
They are located in the famous ‘cultural triangle’, which is an area of incredible history and nature.
This area is one of the best places to experience elephant safaris in Sri Lanka. The reason for this is that in the dry season, there is a HUGE migration of Asian elephants to Minneriya, as they search for water.
The dry season runs from around June to September in this part of Sri Lanka, so book your trip around towards the end of this time to have the best chance of experiencing a herd of elephants marching together.
The elephants move to Minneriya from Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Park in August and September.
So, I recommend Minneriya after this time and Kaudulla before this time. Don’t worry about this too much as you’ll see elephants all year round at either.
