Kalu’ s Hideaway
Waraka
Udawalawe National Park
One of the world’ s best places to see wild elephants
Udawalawe National Park sits in the southern shadows of Sri Lanka’ s Central Highlands and is largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest. The park is regarded as the prime location for observing Asian elephants, with over 500 roaming the park. They often roam in herds of up to 100, so it is not unusual to see adults and their young feeding or bathing and playing in the water- it’ s a truly remarkable and memorable experience. In addition the park is home to a great number of other species, including spotted deer, sambur, water buffalo, wild boar, macaque, monitor lizards and jackal. While leopards and other wild cats reside in Udawalawe, it is rare to spot them. Endemic birds include the Sri Lankan junglefowl, green pigeon, grey hornbill, woodshrike and swallow. You may also see a huge variety of beautiful butterflies. Supported by the Born Free Foundation, the nearby‘ Elephant Transit Home’ helps care for injured elephants from all over Sri Lanka. After rehabilitation, the elephants are released back into the wild, many into Udawalawe National Park. A highlight is to watch the orphans at feeding time from the viewing platform( at set times each day).
Kalu’ s Hideaway
3H Udawalawe National Park
Nestled amidst five acres of beautifully manicured gardens and neighbouring the breathtaking Udawalawe Reservoir, Kalu’ s Hideaway is just 15 minutes drive from the entrance to Udawalawe National Park. Your included safari jeep excursion gives you the chance to see some of the abundant wildlife, including monkey, buffalo and leopard, as well as an incredible variety of birds and butterflies. Rooms at this eco-friendly property are simple yet comfortably furnished while the swimming pool and outdoor deck are the perfect spots to refresh and relax after wildlife watching. The dining room serves Sri Lankan curries and a selection of international cuisine, and why not round off your evening with a tipple at the bar.
Features: 14 rooms • restaurant • bar
• swimming pool • jacuzzi • spa • yoga • badminton • games room • children’ s play area • bicycle hire • fishing • free WiFi
Accommodation: In deluxe rooms in the main building with shower, mini bar, safe and pool view.
2nt wildlife experience from £ 529pp
Meals: Half board.
Activities: Your wildlife experience includes a visit to the nearby Elephant Transit Home, which helps to care for injured elephants( feeding times are at 9am and noon), and an afternoon game drive by jeep.
2nt wildlife experience from £ 599pp
Sri Lanka- Udawalawe National Park
Getting there: Driving time to Udawalawe from Yala National Park, Tangalle or Hambantota is 2 hours, or from Nuwara Eliya is 4½ hours drive.
Best time to go: All year, however migrant birds can only be seen November-March.
Wildlife experience price: Includes 2 nights accommodation, meals and activities as shown. For complete flexibility the price does not include transfers. Supplements are available to / from a variety of locations within Sri Lanka.
Waraka
4H Udawalawe National Park
This eco-conscious boutique hotel nestles in a unique location just 20 minutes from Udawalawe National Park. Cocooned by towering jackfruit trees and overlooking a scenic waterway, it’ s just the place to escape urban life. Together with an infinity pool overlooking the waterway and rejuvenating spa, Waraka offers a diverse array of activities and excursions, so you can experience the true essence of authentic Sri Lanka. Waraka also proudly supports‘ Eth Athuru Sevana’, Asia’ s first Elephant Transit home, which focuses on rescuing and nurturing orphaned elephants.
Features: 12 rooms • restaurant & bar
• swimming pool spa • bicycle rentals
• canoe rentals • optional activities and experiences • free WiFi
Accommodation: In deluxe rooms with shower, mini bar and safe.
Room upgrades: Deluxe attic rooms with extra beds on a mezzanine floor are ideal for a family or four adults; and two storey spacious suites with a large balcony and an attic with extra beds. Please ask for prices.
Meals: Half board.
Activities: Your wildlife experience includes a visit to the nearby Elephant Transit Home, which helps to care for injured elephants( feeding times are at 9am and noon), and an afternoon game drive by jeep. Also receive one free kayaking experience( per person per stay).
visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 444 • www. premierholidays. co. uk Sri Lanka 207