Epic Wildlife Encounters: Minneriya Safari Adventure

Embark on a remarkable safari adventure with Lanka Getaways, offering unparalleled chauffeur services and car rentals accompanied by private drivers for an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Tour Overview

Duration: days / nights

Price: $

Unforgettable Wildlife Exploration in Minneriya National Park Embark on an unforgettable wildlife exploration in Sri Lanka's North Central Province at Minneriya National Park, located 182 kilometers from Colombo.

This haven for wildlife is close to the vibrant cities of Habarana and Polonnaruwa, offering a convenient base for your adventures.

The Heart of Minneriya

The Ancient Rainwater Reservoir The centerpiece of Minneriya is the vast, ancient Minneriya Rainwater Reservoir, recently restored to its former glory.

This life-giving reservoir irrigates a large part of Polonnaruwa district, showcasing the remarkable engineering feats of the past.

Bird enthusiasts will find Minneriya a haven, especially around the Minneriya reservoir, where large water birds like the lesser adjutant and painted stork thrive.

The park also serves as a sanctuary for resident and migratory bird species, with notable sightings of flocks of little cormorants and other waterfowl.

Endemic bird species such as the Sri Lanka jungle fowl and brown-capped babbler are among the park's avian treasures, contributing to a total of 11 threatened bird species recorded in the area.

A Wildlife Corridor

Year-Round Elephant Sightings and More Minneriya National Park hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including Sri Lanka's endemic monkeys, the purple-faced langur, and the toque macaque.

The park is also frequented by large herbivores such as the Sri Lankan sambar deer and axis deer.

It serves as a habitat for rare and endangered species like the Sri Lankan leopard and sloth bear, with reports suggesting sightings of the gray slender loris.

In terms of amphibians and reptiles, Minneriya is home to nine species of amphibians, including the endemic and endangered Slender Wood Frog.

Among the 25 recorded reptile species, eight are endemic, including the red-lipped lizard.

Visitors may also spot water and land monitors, as well as the Mugger Crocodile near the tank.

The reservoir supports a variety of freshwater fish species. The park's vegetation is characterized by tropical dry mixed evergreen forests, abandoned chaparral lands, grasslands, and wetlands.

Open grasslands and old chena lands are dominated by numerous species of small shrubs, contributing to the park's rich biodiversity.

Book Your Dream Wildlife Adventure

Chauffeur Service: Sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery while a professional chauffeur whisks you away to Minneriya National Park and other Sri Lankan gems.

They'll ensure a safe, comfortable, and stress-free journey, allowing you to focus on the wildlife

Rent a Car with Driver: Explore Minneriya and beyond at your own pace by renting a car with a driver.

This option offers flexibility and allows you to tailor your itinerary to your interests.

Book your wildlife exploration in Minneriya National Park with us.

We can help you arrange your chauffeur service, car rental with driver, park entrance fees, and even suggest comfortable accommodations near the park.

Best time to visit Minneriya National Park forms a crucial link in a wildlife corridor connecting Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks.

This means you're practically guaranteed to see elephants year-round! But if you dream of witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Elephant Gathering, where hundreds of Asian elephants converge, plan your visit between May and October. 

Minneriya National Park boasts the largest recorded congregation of Asian elephants worldwide.

During this time, herds of up to 350 elephants, and sometimes even 700 according to reports, gather within a small area around the Minneriya Tank in the 8,890-hectare park.

In August and September, as the dry season sets in, wild elephants migrate from Wasgamuwa National Park to Minneriya in pursuit of sustenance and refuge.

Tourists are drawn to Minneriya, particularly during the dry season, primarily to witness these magnificent elephants in their natural habitat.

Safari Tours: Safaris are typically conducted in Jeeps with experienced guides who will help you spot wildlife.

Rates for Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari- Half Day 

Adults               Cost (USD)

1                        $93

2                        $142

3                        $189

4                        $237

5                        $285

6                        $333

7                        $383

7+ 8 Adults and Above Please Request A Free Quote

Tour Itinerary

Morning Safari

5:30 AM - 6:00 AM - Pickup from Hotel Early morning pickup from your hotel or accommodation.

6:00 AM - 6:30 AM - Arrival at Minneriya National Park Entrance Complete entry formalities and meet your safari guide.

6:30 AM - 9:00 AM - Morning Safari Drive Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including grasslands and forests.

Morning safaris are ideal for spotting elephants, especially during the “Gathering” season, as well as other wildlife such as deer, leopards, and various bird species.

Enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere and scenic views.

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Return to Entrance Head back to the park entrance.

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM - Drop-off at Hotel or Designated Area Return to your hotel or a designated area for breakfast and relaxation.

 

Afternoon Safari

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM - Pickup from Hotel Pickup from your hotel or accommodation.

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Arrival at Minneriya National Park Entrance Complete entry formalities and meet your safari guide.

3:30 PM - 6:00 PM - Afternoon Safari Drive Discover different areas of the park as the wildlife becomes more active in the cooler afternoon.

Focus on the park’s famous elephant herds and other wildlife.

The late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photography and a chance to see animals in their natural habitat.

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Return to Entrance Return to the park entrance as the safari concludes. 

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Drop-off at Hotel or Designated Area Return to your hotel or a designated area for dinner and relaxation.

Inclusions

01. A 4 x 4 safari jeep for 4-5 hours of safari

02. Entrance tickets to the park

03. An experienced driver

04. Provision of water and snack

05.All applicable government taxes are included.

Additional Information

Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing.

Bring Essentials: Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.

Stay Hydrated: Carry water and light snacks.

Follow Park Rules: Respect wildlife and park regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Enjoy your safari adventure in Minneriya National Park!

Want more info? Get in touch with our tour experts for a quote or reach out directly at +94 77 386 6402.

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