Memories Made Together
Your Family's Wild Playground
Country Side Udawalawe isn't just a hotel it's a launchpad for the kind of family memories that last a lifetime. Imagine your children's faces as a wild elephant walks within metres of your safari jeep. Picture the whole family splashing in the pool after an adventure-filled morning. Think of the laughter around the dinner table as everyone shares their favourite sighting of the day.
We've designed every aspect of our hotel with families in mind. Spacious rooms give everyone room to breathe. Our restaurant caters to even the fussiest young eaters. Our safari drivers know exactly how to keep kids engaged and excited. And our pool provides the perfect reward after every outdoor expedition.
Whether your children are toddlers experiencing their first tropical holiday or teenagers craving real adventure, Country Side Udawalawe delivers an experience the whole family will treasure.
Everything Your Family Needs
We've thought of every detail so you can focus on what matters most quality time together.
Child-Friendly Safari Adventures
Introduce your little ones to the wonders of the wild. Our experienced safari drivers are specially trained to keep children engaged pointing out baby elephants, colourful birds, and playful monkeys. We provide booster seats, extra water, and sun protection for the youngest explorers.
Splash Time at the Pool
Our pool features a gentle shallow section that's perfect for kids, while adults can relax in the deeper end or on the surrounding sun loungers. Fresh towels, poolside refreshments, and attentive staff ensure worry-free fun for the whole family.
Spacious Family Rooms
Our rooms are thoughtfully designed with families in mind extra bed options, ample space for luggage and gear, and quiet air-conditioning for restful nights after action-packed days. Cribs and rollaway beds are available on request.
Kid-Approved Dining
Our restaurant serves a dedicated children's menu alongside the full Sri Lankan and international spread. From pasta and sandwiches to fresh fruit and ice cream, even the fussiest eaters will leave the table happy.
Hassle-Free Transfers
Travelling with kids means extra luggage, car seats, and frequent stops. Our cab service is equipped to handle it all spacious vehicles, patient drivers, and door-to-door convenience from the airport to the hotel and beyond.
Activities for Every Age
Beyond safaris, families can enjoy nature walks through the hotel grounds, bird-watching sessions, storytelling evenings, and stargazing under the clear Udawalawe sky. There's never a dull moment for curious young minds.
A Perfect Family Day
Here's what a typical day looks like for families staying with us packed with adventure, great food, and plenty of downtime.
Early Morning Safari
The best wildlife sightings happen at dawn. Bundle the kids into the safari jeep for a magical sunrise drive through Udawalawe National Park. Watch elephant herds graze, spot crocodiles basking by the reservoir, and listen to the jungle wake up around you.
Hearty Family Breakfast
Return to the hotel for a well-earned breakfast feast. The buffet has something for everyone hoppers for the adventurous, pancakes for the little ones, fresh tropical fruits, and unlimited juice and Ceylon tea for the grown-ups.
Pool & Free Play
Let the kids burn off energy in the pool while you relax on a sun lounger with a book. Our shallow end is safe for young swimmers, and poolside snacks and drinks are just a wave away.
Lunch Together
Gather around the table for a family lunch. Try the Sri Lankan rice and curry for a true local experience, or stick with the kids' favourites. Our kitchen is always happy to accommodate special dietary needs.
Afternoon Adventures
Choose your own adventure a guided nature walk through the hotel's tropical gardens, a visit to the nearby Elephant Transit Home (baby elephant orphanage), or simply some quiet downtime in your room before the evening excitement.
Sunset Safari or Pool Time
Head out for a golden-hour safari drive to catch the elephants at their most active, or stay back for another dip in the pool as the sun paints the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Family Dinner & Stargazing
End the day with a delicious dinner together, then step outside to marvel at the star-filled Udawalawe sky. Far from city lights, this is one of the best spots in Sri Lanka for stargazing with the kids.
“Our 6-year-old still talks about seeing the baby elephants. The whole family had the time of our lives the pool, the food, the safaris. We can't wait to come back.”— David & Maria, Australia
Family Travel Tips
Helpful advice from our team to make your family holiday stress-free and unforgettable.
What to Pack
✓Lightweight, breathable clothing for the tropical heat
✓Sun hats, sunscreen (SPF 50+), and insect repellent
✓Comfortable closed-toe shoes for safari
✓Swimwear and pool towels (we also provide towels)
✓Binoculars for wildlife spotting kids love them!
✓A small backpack with snacks and water for safari drives
Safari Tips for Kids
✓Early morning safaris (6 AM) offer the best sightings and cooler temperatures
✓Keep voices low in the jeep animals are more relaxed around quiet visitors
✓Bring a camera or phone for the kids to take their own wildlife photos
✓Our drivers always carry extra water and snacks for little ones
✓Half-day safaris (3-4 hours) are ideal for younger children
✓The Elephant Transit Home visit is a wonderful addition for animal-loving kids
Making Memories
✓Ask the front desk about our family photo packages
✓Keep a safari journal kids can sketch the animals they see
✓Try at least one traditional Sri Lankan meal together
✓Watch the sunset from the pool deck as a family
✓Collect leaves and flowers from the garden for a holiday scrapbook
✓Let the kids order their own drinks at the poolside bar (mocktails!)
Family Moments
A glimpse of the joy that awaits your family at Country Side Udawalawe.
