Udawalawe

Udawalawe is the elephant park that works for families. The land is open grassland and scrub around a reservoir, so you can see a long way, and herds of wild elephants come down to the water often. A jeep safari here is short, usually two to three hours, which suits younger children.

The park sits between the hill country and the south coast, about two and a half to three hours from Galle and not much more from Ella, so it breaks the long drive down nicely. Go in the early morning or mid-afternoon, when it is cooler and the animals are moving.

Look out for water buffalo, peacocks, crocodiles on the banks and plenty of birds. Close to the park gate there is also a transit home that cares for young elephants before they return to the wild; your guide can tell you whether the feeding times fit your day.