We hired an open jeep and driver for a 3 hour tour through the park. Although the description of the park said there were lots of different types of animals we only saw elephants - which was an amazing experience! The day we went there were many jeeps. Unfortunately this meant that there was a frenzy to get close to the elephants and at one stage an elephant was clearly distressed at being cornered by the jeeps. Our driver was good and tried to tell other drivers to make a path for the elephants to cross but many drivers just wanted to get as close as possible. There was no sign of any regulation by park rangers - this is desperately needed.

If you want to see wild elephants, then this is the place. We saw over 70, and you would have to be very unlucky not to see any. However, we also had mixed feelings. We had a brilliant driver who kept a distance from the elephants and parked up in areas where he thought they would come our way, which they mostly did. Some of the elephants came very close to our jeep which was amazing. Other drivers were much less considerate and drove up to the animals. Some drive guidelines/training/regulation would be helpful to ensure animal welfare isn't compromised.

This is a stunning place with a lot of elephants on site. We saw 15 elephants during the half day morning trip (unsure on the name of our company) but this is a beautiful place and we were advised not to visit as we were already booked to visit Yala but if you can afford to do both i would recommend it as the elephant encounters we experienced (i know this is not the same for everyone) was worth every penny. We and a number of our vehicles did get stuck due to the ground conditions.

We had an excellent Safari with a young driver who knew the park and tried to find quieter spaces. I understand comments about the Grand Prix approach to the start of the Safari with so many vehicles but it’s a lovely park and one to enjoy. We saw dozens of elephants in several herds, including baby elephants, and the bird life was excellent too.

An absolute mesmerizing! Our visit to Minneriya National Park in Habarana was beyond extraordinary. Thanks to our expert safari driver, we had the privilege of encountering over 100 elephants in their natural habitat. From observing their daily routines to witnessing their playful antics, every moment was enchanting. Our kids were over the moon seeing so many elephants for the first time. This half-day adventure from Sigiriya is an absolute steal – unbeatable value for an unforgettable experience

The best jeep safari I’ve ever been on. Seeing the elephants in the wild was something special. Do’s - Find an honest Sri Lankan who can help you with cost. Our Uber driver has helped us. Instead of paying 40 000 SLR offered by our hotel staff. We paid 9 000 SLR to the jeep driver who picked us up at 6am and returned us at 9:45am - Entrance fee to the park at 22 000 SLR for my wife and I Don’t - Pay 40 000 or more SLR with hotel Give it a go. I’ll never forget our experience today 28/07/2024

This is among the world's best locations to see wild elephants. The visitor's vehicle park is next to the Habarana - Polonnaruwa main road. A huge visitors' vehicle parking area is available. There is a ticket booth where you must purchase a ticket in addition to making arrangements for a safari vehicle. It takes close to three hours to finish this entire journey.

As a tour guide at Minneriya National Park, I am constantly amazed by the park’s remarkable wildlife and stunning landscapes. Known for its incredible elephant gatherings, Minneriya offers a unique and awe-inspiring safari experience. Visitors have the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, especially during the dry season when the park’s large reservoir attracts hundreds of elephants. Beyond the elephants, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and endemic wildlife. Our goal is to provide an informative and immersive experience, ensuring that each guest leaves with a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to connect with nature, Minneriya National Park is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable moments. #ExploreSriLanka#ScenicLankaPersonalTourDrivers

Visiting Minneriya National Park was a highlight of my trip to Sri Lanka. The park is famous for its impressive “Gathering” of wild elephants, and seeing hundreds of these magnificent animals converging around the waterholes during the dry season was absolutely breathtaking. The park’s diverse landscapes, from lush grasslands to dense forests, provide a great backdrop for wildlife spotting. Besides elephants, I encountered a variety of birds and other animals, each safari drive offering new surprises. The peaceful environment and natural beauty made for a truly relaxing experience. I also appreciated the historical significance of the park, with its ancient irrigation systems hinting at Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. For the best experience, I’d recommend visiting during the peak gathering season and going with a knowledgeable guide to get the most out of your visit.