When families ask whether they should visit Yala National Park or Udawalawe, the consensus among family travel bloggers is almost unanimously Udawalawe.
While Yala has leopards, it is notoriously crowded. Jeeps often race each other to sightings, creating traffic jams and a stressful environment for young kids. Udawalawe, on the other hand, is vast, peaceful, and known as one of the best places in the world to see Asian elephants in the wild.
What to Expect With Kids
You don’t have to wait long to see animals here. Within 20 minutes of entering the gates, you are almost guaranteed to encounter herds of elephants roaming, bathing in the reservoirs, and eating right next to the dirt tracks. The kids will be absolutely mesmerized being so close to a wild elephant, safely from the heightened vantage point of the safari jeep.
Aside from elephants, you’ll spot water buffalo, crocodiles sunning themselves by the lakes, peacocks displaying their feathers, and troops of macaques.
Don’t Miss the Elephant Transit Home
Located just outside the national park gates is the Elephant Transit Home, supported by the Born Free Foundation. Unlike the controversial Pinnawala orphanage, this is a true rehabilitation center for orphaned elephant calves. Time your visit for the feeding times (usually 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, and 6 PM) to watch the baby elephants joyfully run down to the platform and gulp down giant bottles of milk. It is incredibly ethical and heartwarming.
Parent Tips
Book the early morning safari (departing around 6:00 AM). Yes, it’s an early wake-up, but the animals are most active, and you’ll beat the oppressive mid-day heat. Bring plenty of snacks, water, a hat, and a light jacket—safari jeeps are completely open-sided and the morning wind can be quite chilly!
