Minneriya Elephant Gathering Safari

A half-day jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to see "The Gathering", when hundreds of wild elephants meet on the grasslands of an ancient reservoir. One of Asia's great wildlife sights, best from July to October.

About this experience

The Minneriya Elephant Gathering Safari is a half-day private jeep safari (about 3 to 4 hours) in Minneriya National Park, in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. In the dry season, elephants from the surrounding forests move to the shrinking Minneriya reservoir to feed on fresh grass and drink. Herds of several hundred can be seen together, an event known as "The Gathering". It suits families and first-time safari travellers. What is "The Gathering"? It is one of the largest seasonal gatherings of Asian elephants in the world. As the water level drops, grass grows on the exposed lake bed and family herds come together to feed, bathe and socialise, often with many young calves. When is the best time to see the elephant gathering? The peak is usually from July to October, especially August and September. Elephants are seen at Minneriya at other times of the year, but in smaller numbers. Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu? Elephants move between Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park and Hurulu Eco Park depending on water and grass. Your driver checks where the herds are that day and chooses the best park. What else can you see? Spotted deer, wild buffalo, crocodiles, macaques and many water birds such as painted storks, pelicans and herons. How far is Minneriya from Sigiriya and Habarana? About 15 minutes from Habarana and 30 to 40 minutes from Sigiriya, so it pairs well with Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa. Why book with Figo Holidays? Figo Holidays is a Colombo-based destination management company running private tours across Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We arrange private transport, licensed guides and timings that avoid the heat and crowds, and build this experience into a tailor-made itinerary.

Highlights

  • The Gathering of hundreds of elephants
  • Family herds with young calves
  • Ancient Minneriya reservoir
  • Private 4x4 jeep safari
  • Water birds and crocodiles
  • Option of Kaudulla or Hurulu parks
  • Close to Sigiriya and Habarana

Travel tips

Choose an afternoon safari for the gathering. Wear neutral colours, a hat and sunscreen, and bring binoculars and water. Stay seated and quiet near herds. Trust your driver's choice of park on the day.

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