Minneriya National Park
The year of the elephant! We couldn’t resist the chance to see elephants in the wild. Minneriya National Park, in the heart of the cultural triangle near the center of Sri Lanka, is known for its large population of migrating elephants. The park proved to be an excellent place to spot several mamas and babies grazing in the jungle. While we encountered a few other jeeps, the crowds of a whopping 5-10 jeeps (hardly a smidge in the safari world) did not distract from witnessing the amazing animals in their natural habitat doing what they do best—EAT!
If you ever wanted to work your core while driving, popping the top and standing up for a 4 WD safari is the move.
At the park entrance, we quickly learned we weren’t alone.
Oddly, there are so many groups of young blonde women backpacking through Sri Lanka. We think these ladies may be on safari looking for the elusive traveling young male—a unique species in these parts.
Safaris Require an Eagle Eye
Believe it or not, even elephants can be hard to find. A safari is a bumpy, dusty, endurance event requiring patience and a lot of good luck. An excellent jeep driver helps too. The best drivers know where to look for the critters and also how to anticipate animal movements to quickly ace out the other drivers giving their clients a front row seat.
Spotting mamas and babies was a treat.
Behind the scenes—-the rumbling jeeps arrive.
Taking cover to sneak a snack—we’ve all been there!
He had to do it—THE signature move
Now accepting pose requests—this one by popular demand.
Hours in the jeep require a much needed break to stretch the legs!
At last, we found a herd!
Elephants grazing in different areas called back and forth to each other signaling it was time to move on together to a new location.
Wet feet coming from a water stop.
Our jeep driver tried to get closer to watch the elephants drink. The mama elephant would not have it. She stared down and approached the jeep multiple times making the driver back up. Our driver was a bit wide eyed during the encounter.
….And backing up again and making more room.
The reason for the the extra room—-a cute little baby.
Two week old baby
