Ridiyagama Safari Park: A Wildlife Haven in Sri Lanka

Located in Hambantota, in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is the country’s first and largest drive-through wildlife safari park. Opened to the public in 2016. The park spans 500 acres and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience wildlife in an open, natural environment.

The park is divided into several different zones, each dedicated to specific types of animals.

o Carnivore Zone: Home to large predators like lions, tigers, and leopards. Visitors can drive through the zone while observing these majestic animals in an environment designed to simulate their natural habitats.
o Herbivore Zone: This section is inhabited by a variety of herbivorous animals, such as zebras, deer, giraffes, ostriches, and rhinoceroses. Visitors can see these animals roaming freely across vast landscapes.
o Elephant Zone: Ridiyagama Safari Park has a dedicated zone for Sri Lankan elephants, offering them a naturalistic environment while allowing visitors to observe them at close range.

Ridiyagama Safari is a drive-through safari, were visitors can enter the park in designated vehicles or park-owned safari Jeeps. It allows tourists to view animals up close in their large, open enclosures without the constraints of traditional zoo cages.

Conservation and Education
Park serves as a center for wildlife conservation and education. It contributes to the protection of endangered species. The park also focuses on breeding programs for endangered species and aims to raise awareness about wildlife conservation among visitors.

Visitor Information:

Location: The park is situated near the town of Ridiyagama, in the Hambantota district, about 245 km from Colombo.

Opening Hours: Ridiyagama Safari Park is generally open every day, though it is recommended to check the park’s schedule in advance.

Facilities: There are visitor facilities like a cafeteria, washrooms, and a gift shop. The safari jeeps are equipped for safety and provide a guided experience throughout the park.

A Unique Wildlife Experience
Ridiyagama Safari Park stands out as a premier wildlife destination in Sri Lanka. Its sprawling landscapes and emphasis on creating a natural habitat for the animals, giving visitors a unique experience. The park is an important tourist attraction for animal lovers, conservationists, and families seeking an adventurous day out in the wild.

The park is a part of the Southern Province’s eco-tourism development, positioning Sri Lanka as a growing destination for nature and wildlife tourism.

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📸 credit to photographers