Ussangoda National Park

Ussangoda National Park is a protected area in Sri Lanka.

Ussangoda National Park at a Glance

Location
Southern & Southeastern Dry Zone, Sri Lanka, South Asia
Coordinates
6.097179, 80.981255
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
January to March for Yala and southern parks. June to September for northern parks (Wilpattu).

Getting to Ussangoda National Park

Nearest airport: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), 26 km away.

Nearest international airport: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), 26 km away.

Big Five in Ussangoda National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard.

Weather & Climate in Ussangoda National Park

The warmest temperatures in Ussangoda National Park occur in June, averaging 27.9°C (up to 31.6°C). The coolest conditions are in December at 26.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 45.4mm. Average humidity: 76.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.2°C (rainfall: 137.4mm)
  • February: 27.1°C (rainfall: 73.1mm)
  • March: 27.4°C (rainfall: 102.9mm)
  • April: 27.7°C (rainfall: 130.7mm)
  • May: 27.8°C (rainfall: 162.0mm)
  • June: 27.9°C (rainfall: 45.4mm)
  • July: 27.9°C (rainfall: 75.5mm)
  • August: 27.8°C (rainfall: 74.3mm)
  • September: 27.2°C (rainfall: 98.4mm)
  • October: 26.9°C (rainfall: 184.0mm)
  • November: 26.2°C (rainfall: 318.1mm)
  • December: 26.1°C (rainfall: 215.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Ussangoda National Park

The best months to visit Ussangoda National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.19°C, rainfall 137.4mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.06°C, rainfall 73.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 73.7%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.39°C, rainfall 102.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 27.74°C, rainfall 130.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 80.9%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.83°C, rainfall 162mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 81.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 27.93°C, rainfall 45.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 27.87°C, rainfall 75.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 76%
  • August: Great, temperature 27.81°C, rainfall 74.3mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 75.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 27.24°C, rainfall 98.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 26.93°C, rainfall 184mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 80%
  • November: Good, temperature 26.16°C, rainfall 318.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 85%
  • December: Good, temperature 26.08°C, rainfall 215.5mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 83.4%

Wildlife in Ussangoda National Park

Home to 87 recorded species including 38 waterbirds, 20 iconic birds, 15 birds of prey, 8 tropical birds, 2 marine & freshwater, 2 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Ussangoda National Park

Based on average temperature of 27.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Southern & Southeastern Dry Zone

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Sri Lanka

Travel advisory for Sri Lanka

Ussangoda National Park FAQs

What makes Ussangoda National Park's landscape so unique compared to other Sri Lankan parks?

Ussangoda is renowned for its striking red, lateritic soil and sparse, wind-swept vegetation, which creates an almost otherworldly, barren landscape unlike the lush greenery typical of most Sri Lankan protected areas. This distinctive geological formation is believed to be linked to a meteorite impact or ancient serpentine rock, offering a truly unique visual experience for visitors.

What specific wildlife can I expect to encounter at Ussangoda, given its unique environment?

While Ussangoda's unique red soil and coastal scrubland might not host the large herds found in other parks, it is a crucial nesting site for several species of sea turtles, particularly during the nesting season. Visitors can also spot various bird species, monitor lizards, and smaller mammals adapted to this distinctive coastal habitat, making it a unique wildlife viewing experience.

When is the best time to visit Ussangoda National Park, and how can I best experience its tranquility?

The dry season, typically from May to September, offers the most pleasant weather for exploring Ussangoda, though it's accessible year-round. Given its exceptionally low crowding level, visiting during weekdays or early mornings will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the serene, untouched beauty of its unique landscape without disturbance.

What are the typical entry fees and access options for Ussangoda National Park, and is it suitable for a traditional jeep safari?

Ussangoda National Park generally has a modest entry fee for foreign visitors, which contributes to its conservation efforts. While traditional jeep safaris are possible to navigate the park's terrain, many visitors also enjoy exploring on foot along designated paths to fully appreciate its unique flora and coastal views, offering a more intimate experience than larger, more crowded parks.

Are there any specific safety considerations or unique tips for visitors exploring Ussangoda National Park?

Beyond the moderate malaria risk common in parts of Sri Lanka (for which precautions are advised), visitors should be mindful of the coastal environment, especially near turtle nesting sites, and respect wildlife from a distance. Due to its unique terrain and less developed infrastructure compared to larger parks, it's advisable to wear sturdy footwear and carry sufficient water, especially if exploring on foot.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.