Minneriya Evening Jeep Safari

Minneriya National Park Evening Safari Overview

An Minneriya evening Jeep safari at Minneriya National Park is a fantastic way to experience the park’s wildlife during the cooler hours when animals are most active, particularly as they gather near water sources to drink and feed. Here’s a detailed guide for an evening jeep safari:

Wild Minneriya Safari Itinerary:

1. Afternoon Pick-Up:

– 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Pick-up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in the nearby area. Afternoon pickups allow you to reach the park comfortably before the safari begins.

2. Entering Minneriya National Park:

– 2:30 PM: Arrival at the park entrance. Here, you will meet your driver-guide and board a 4×4 open jeep. The entry process includes ticket purchase and a brief orientation about the park and safety guidelines.

3. Safari Drive:

– 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM: The safari lasts approximately 3.5 hours, offering prime viewing opportunities as the animals become more visible and active in the cooler part of the day. Key highlights include:

– Elephants: Large herds gather around the Minneriya Tank, especially during the dry season (July to October), making this a prime time to witness the famous Elephant Gathering.

– Other Wildlife: Look out for sambar deer, wild buffalo, monkeys, and occasionally sloth bears or leopards. The park is also rich in birdlife, including kingfishers, eagles, and hornbills.

– Scenic Landscape: Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the park with its grasslands, forests, and wetlands bathed in the golden light of the setting sun.

4. Sunset Viewing:

– 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Experience the beautiful sunset over the Minneriya Tank, a perfect end to your safari. This is a great time for photography, capturing both wildlife and the park’s stunning landscapes.

5. Exit and Return:

– 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Conclude the Minneriya Jeep safari and exit the park. Drop-off back at your hotel or meeting point follows immediately after.