If you’re looking for a safari that conveniently slots into the typical Sri Lanka tourist loop, but without Yala’s crowds, Udawalawe is a great option. While you won’t see big cats here, it’s a beautiful place to spot elephants and diverse birdlife. You will encounter other jeeps, especially early in the morning, but for the most part, safaris here are a slow, mindful affair. With over 400 elephants across the park, sightings are almost guaranteed. You may also see water buffalo, deer and crocodiles.

Udawalawe was established in 1972 to protect animals displaced by the Udawalawe Reservoir, and spans over 30,000 hectares. It’s known amongst the guides as the ‘Land of Lakes’, with a vast, open landscape of wetlands and forest wrapped around the reservoir. As this is a popular tourist attraction, the animals are well acquainted with the rumble of jeeps – you’ll get close encounters with unbothered elephants sloshing around in the mud. There’s accommodation very close to the entrance gate, and it’s conveniently placed if you’re exploring the south coast or coming down from Ella.