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A Guide to Visiting the Elephant Transit Camp and Udawalawe Safari in Bentota, Sri Lanka
When visiting the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, a visit to the Elephant Transit Camp and Udawalawe Safari in Bentota should definitely not be missed. Located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, Bentota is home to one of the most unforgettable safari experiences in the world, and exploring the natural habitats of elephants, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, is sure to be a memorable experience for any traveller.In this guide, we will talk about what Bentota has to offer, and the sights and activities that you can do while visiting. Read on to learn more about this unique landmark and how to enjoy the full experience of what Bentota has to offer.
The Elephant Transit Camp in Bentota
The Elephant Transit Camp in Bentota, Sri Lanka, is an animal rehabilitation and enrichment centre. Founded in 1995 by wildlife veterinarian Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando, the camp is run under the auspices of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s natural heritage and safeguarding native wildlife. Located just east of Bentota, the camp serves as a refuge for abandoned baby elephants left orphans from poaching or other natural disasters. The goal of the camp is to provide comfort and care for young elephants until they are ready to be released back into the wild. Animal keepers provide feedings, medications, and enrichment activities while monitoring the elephants’ growth and development. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close and learn more about their care and native habitat.
Things to Do at The Elephant Transit Camp
The Elephant Transit Camp provides a great opportunity for visitors to explore and discover the beauty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Here are some of the activities you can take part in:
- Observe Baby Elephants: This once-in-a-lifetime experience will leave you captivated. Observe baby elephants interacting with each other and even playing with their toys.
- Educational Talks: The knowledgeable guides will provide talks on individual species and elaborate on conservation efforts and rehabilitation programs.
- Meet the Veterinarians: Get special access to meet with veterinarians and learn about the elephant health care program.
- Learn About Elephant Restoring: Learn more about the initiative of restoring captive elephants back in to their natural habitats.
- See Sri Lanka’s Wildlife: Observe a range of other wildlife around the camp, including kangaroos, exotic birds and mammals.
Udawalawe Safari in Bentota
Udawalawe National Park, also located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is just a few hours’ drive from Bentota and is renowned for its abundance of wild elephants roaming freely around its vast land. The park is a protected haven for hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, including over 350 wild Asian elephants which you can see safely from jeeps with experienced naturalist guides. The park spans some 30,821 hectares of grasslands and tropical forests skirting around two man-made reservoirs. With over 150 species of birds, 12 species of amphibians and 25 species of fish, Udawalawe National Park is definitely worth visiting. Among one of the main attractions at Udawalawe is its elephant families that roam freely within the rocky outcrops and open grasslands, watering hole lagoons and evergreen forests in their natural habitats.
Things to Do at Udawalawe Safari
Udawalawe National Park provides an array of activities that you can enjoy while taking in the beautiful scenery of Sri Lanka in all its glory. Here are some of the activities you can do while at Udawalawe:
- Elephant safari tours: Experience Udawalawa’s majestic elephant families from jeeps and get up close with these gentle giants.
- Game drives: Take a 4×4 vehicle ride around park trails where you can spot a variety of large mammals including deer, monkey, wild boar and water buffalo.
- Birdwatching tours: Keep an eye out for some fascinating residents like endemics such as Grey Hornbill and Chestnut-backed Owlets.
- Camping/ nature hikes: For those who prefer a more rustic experience, camping out in the wilderness will be an unforgettable experience as you explore trails amid dense jungle flora.
- Cultural visits: Visit neighbouring villages to get a glimpse into traditional Sri Lankan rural life.
Conclusion
Visiting sites like the Elephant Transit Center and Udawalawe Safari during your travels to Sri Lanka is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you will never forget. With an abundance of sights and activities to do at both destinations, there is something for everyone regardless of age or interests. If you’re looking for an adventure like no other, then be sure to add these two spots to your itinerary for your next Sri Lankan vacation. Also don’t forget to book your activities before your trip with GetYourGuide’s great offers! Book your activity now on GetYourGuide!
