Probably the best national park to see elephants year round – Uda Walawe is named after the large reservoir around which the park is based. Afternoon rounds are best, especially close to the water where elephants come to drink. The open savannah-esque grassland is a favourite habitat for elephant grazing, but an interesting selection of birdlife can also be found, as well as deer, wild boar and buffalo. Although leopards exist in the park, sightings are usually quite rare.
November to March are great months to catch migrant birds, and you will find as many birders as you would tourists seeking elephant sightings. Just don’t get too close to the herds; some elephants can be a bit unpredictable!
“Uda Walawe National Park is the Sri Lankan national park that best rivals the savannah reserves of Africa. In fact, for elephant-watching, Uda Walawe often surpasses many of the most famous East African national parks.” – Lonely Planet
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