In short
- Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing.
- Pack a dust mask or scarf for the dry trails.
- Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and binoculars.
In this article
Riding in a safari jeep means you are exposed to the elements. The dry-zone tropical climate averages 27.3 °C, and the dirt tracks get very dusty. Packing correctly ensures you can focus on spotting elephants rather than worrying about the sun or the dust.
What is the best clothing to wear?
Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing like khaki, beige, or olive green.
Bright colors can attract insects and make you stand out too much in the natural environment. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics. Long sleeves and pants offer protection against both the sun and any insects you might encounter.
How do I deal with the dust on the safari?
Bring a dust mask or a lightweight scarf.
The trails inside Hurulu Eco Park are unpaved. When multiple jeeps are moving through the park, dust kicks up quickly. A scarf or mask will keep you from breathing in the dirt during your 3- to 4-hour drive.
What sun protection is necessary?
Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat with a wide brim.
Open-top 4x4 jeeps offer limited shade, and the Sri Lankan sun is strong. Apply sunscreen before you arrive and reapply during the tour. A hat with a strap is helpful so it does not blow away while driving.
What gear should I bring for wildlife viewing?
Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
While elephants often come close to the tracks, other wildlife like peacocks, purple-faced langurs, and rare leopards might be further away. Binoculars are essential for spotting birds and distant herds in the grasslands.
Should I bring food and water?
Bring bottled drinking water, but leave fragrant food behind.
Many tours include bottled water, but having extra is a good idea in the heat. Do not bring strongly scented snacks. The rules state that fragrant food can attract and provoke wildlife, and feeding animals is strictly prohibited.
| Item | Bring or Leave? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Bottled Water | Bring | Stay hydrated in 27.3 °C heat. |
| Binoculars | Bring | Essential for bird and leopard spotting. |
| Scented Snacks | Leave | Attracts wildlife; against park rules. |
| Drones | Leave | Strictly prohibited inside the park. |
What else is on the Hurulu Eco Park packing list?
Pack insect repellent and consider any specific needs for an afternoon tour.
Insect repellent helps keep bugs away, especially if you tour late in the day near the seasonal waterholes. Keep your gear in a closed bag to protect it from dust.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear bright colors on a safari?
It is not recommended. Bright colors can attract bugs and make you more visible to the wildlife. Neutral colors are much better.
Are drones allowed in Hurulu Eco Park?
No, flying drones is strictly prohibited inside the park. Leave them at your hotel.
Does the tour price include water?
Most private safaris, ranging from $35 to $70, include bottled water. Check your specific booking details to be sure.
