Wilpattu National Park Safari

Tour Overview

Duration: days / nights

Price: $

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.

Nestled along the Northwest coast's lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka, Wilpattu National Park is characterized by its unique landscape of Villus, natural basins filled with rainwater and encircled by open grassy plains amidst dense scrub jungle.

The park's network of sandy paths leads visitors through this scenic expanse, unveiling the beauty of its expansive natural lakes.

As one of Sri Lanka's largest and oldest national parks, Wilpattu offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Yala, inviting travelers to enjoy a tranquil and undisturbed drive.

Established as a National Park in 1938, Wilpattu sanctuary sits on the western coast near the historic city of Anuradhapura. Its dense dry zone jungle is abundant with natural lakes called villus, which are crucial water sources for both resident and migratory water-birds, with the exception of two that are rainwater- fed.

Beyond its natural wonders, Wilpattu National Park holds a rich historical legacy. Ancient ruins scattered throughout the park tell tales of its past inhabitants.

Legends speak of Queen Kuweni, regarded as the mother of the Sinhala race, residing in the area known as Kalli Villu.

Additionally, historical records indicate that Prince Saliya, the son of King Dutugemunu, called Wilpattu home over 2,000 years ago.

Wilflife, Birdlife, Flora in the Wilpattu National Park Wilpattu's main attractions are its elusive leopards and sloth bears, drawing wildlife enthusiasts from far and wide.

In addition to these majestic creatures, visitors may also encounter Asian elephants, spotted deer, barking deer, wild pigs, Asiatic buffalo, and mugger crocodiles.

The park's riverine habitats provide a haven for endemic bird species such as the Ceylon Junglefowl, Brown-capped Babbler, Ceylon Woodshrike, and Black-capped Bulbul. Muntjac or Barking Deer are particularly abundant in Wilpattu, offering excellent viewing opportunities.

The park is also home to a variety of butterfly species, including the Great Eggfly, Great Orange Tip, Glad-eye Bushbrown, Blue Mormon, Common Mormon, Common Rose, and Crimson Rose.

In Wilpattu National Park, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including Monitor Lizards, Mugger Crocodiles, Common Cobras, Rat Snakes, Indian Pythons, Pond Turtles, and Soft-Shelled Turtles.

Within Wilpattu, a diverse array of flora thrives, including Palu (Manilkara hexandra), Satin (Chloroxylon swietenia), Milla (Vitex altissima), Weera (Drypetes sepiaria), Ebony (Diospyros ebenum), and Wewarna (Alseodaphne semecarpifolia).

Book Your Dream Wildlife Adventure: Chauffeur Service: Sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery while a professional chauffeur whisks you away to Wilpattu 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 Wilpattu 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 Wilpattu 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: This national park can be visited throught out the year but the best period is from February to Ocotber.

The Park typically experiences an annual temperature range of 27°C to 30°C, with an approximate annual rainfall of 900 mm.

Despite being located in the dry zone, Wilpattu National Park boasts lush green flora and abundant water sources.

Rainfall is heaviest during the rainy season from September to December, with additional inter-monsoonal rains occurring between March and May. The Park faces a period of drought from June to early September.

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

Rates for Wilpattu 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

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

5:30 AM - 6:00 AM - Arrival at Wilpattu National Park Entrance Complete entry formalities and meet your safari guide.

6:00 AM - 9:00 AM - Morning Safari Drive Begin your safari exploring Wilpattu’s unique landscape, characterized by its “villus” (natural lakes) and dense forest.

Early mornings are ideal for spotting leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and various bird species.

Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the early light that enhances wildlife viewing.

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 Wilpattu National Park Entrance

Complete entry formalities and meet your safari guide.

3:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Afternoon Safari Drive Explore different areas of Wilpattu National Park.

The cooler afternoon temperatures can bring out more wildlife activity.

Look for leopards, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species.

The park's diverse habitats offer exciting opportunities for wildlife sightings.

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Return to Entrance Return to the park entrance as the safari concludes.

7:00 PM - 7:30 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 snacks

05. All applicable government taxes are included.

*Please note that rates might vary due to currency fluctuations. Feel free to contact our sales expert for more information.

Additional Information

It can get hot and dusty on safari, so wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen and pack for the warmth Bring binoculars if you have them.

Jeeps can be bumpy, so be prepared for a bit of a rough ride.

Want more info? Get in touch with our tour experts for a quote or reach out directly at +94 77 368 6402.