If you’re planning to visit the famous Yala National Park in Sri Lanka, there is only one place where you’ll want to stay. And that is Uga Chena Huts, a small-scale all-inclusive boutique lodge located on the edge of the national park, nestled between the jungle and the coast. Not only will you be completely pampered here, you’ll also stay in beautiful bungalows with private pools, enjoy delicious à la carte meals, and head out on daily safaris in search of leopards, elephants, and bears. In this travel guide, you will read more about my experiences in Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka.
From the moment you arrive at Uga Chena Huts, it feels as if you are stepping into a hidden world. A long driveway leads you through sandy paths until you reach a stylish reception area, surrounded by jungle sounds and the scent of the sea. Here, you’re welcomed with a refreshing drink as you take it all in for the first time: the main building sits right on the beach, with sweeping ocean views, surrounded by untouched nature and the occasional monkey passing by. Everything radiates calm and luxury, with great attention to detail and deep respect for the natural environment.
Curious about Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka? Here you’ll find the latest prices and availability.
The heart of Uga Chena Huts consists of an atmospheric main building where the reception, restaurant and bar come together. Everything has been designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings, using plenty of wood, open structures and wide views over the landscape. The restaurant and bar are elevated and offer panoramic views of the coastline. There is also a small beach bar where you can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sun sink into the sea.
A little further on, you’ll find the tranquil swimming pool, surrounded by palm trees and sun loungers, as well as a small spa offering Balinese massages and treatments. Several walking paths lead to the villas, which are spread out across the Uga Chena Huts grounds.
Uga Chena Huts features 18 exclusive villas, beautifully positioned in a lush green setting. And the moment you open the door, it feels like stepping into a small dream: an oasis of peace, space and thoughtful design.
The rooms at Uga Chena Huts Yala are enormous, around 200 m², and are stylishly decorated using luxurious natural materials. At the center of the room is a king-size bed, surrounded by comfortable seating areas, atmospheric lighting and large windows overlooking the greenery. The walls are adorned with photographs of animals from Yala National Park, and the minibar is well stocked and fully included.
Behind the bed, you’ll find a beautiful bathroom with a freestanding bathtub and a rain shower. Outside, there is a private swimming pool, sun terrace and enclosed garden where, if you’re lucky, you may spot a monkey, mongoose or other wildlife. Uga Chena Huts is one of those places you may not have known existed, but once you find it, you never want to leave.
Would you like to stay at Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka? Here you’ll find the latest prices and availability.
At Uga Chena Huts, you can choose from several safaris that are tailored to the rhythm of Yala National Park, and these are included in your stay. Both morning and afternoon safaris are offered in a 4×4 jeep, lasting approximately three to four hours, following the tracks of elephants, leopards, water buffalo and an impressive variety of bird species.
A safari from Uga Chena Huts offers several advantages compared to safaris booked elsewhere. First of all, your adventure starts directly from the resort, allowing you to head out early or later in the day before the crowds arrive and when wildlife is most active. Secondly, the guidance of a local, experienced ranger is a huge benefit: routes are flexibly adapted to current conditions, and the guide knows exactly where your chances of spotting wildlife are highest. Along the way, the guide provides detailed explanations about the flora and fauna, so you don’t just see animals, you also gain a deeper understanding of how Yala’s ecosystem works. And of course the tour comes with some lovely bites and drinks.
During my stay at Uga Chena Huts, I went on both a morning and an afternoon safari, and each drive had its own magic. The morning began with a cool, quiet ride through the savannahs as the sun slowly rose and the first birds began to call. We spotted countless water buffalo, deer, wild boar, peacocks, monitor lizards, elephants and crocodiles.
Later in the day, during the afternoon safari, the guide took us to a lagoon where a group of elephants slowly made their way through the water; the light of the setting sun painted everything in shades of gold. It felt almost surreal: no other vehicles nearby, just nature and wildlife, while I followed everything from the comfort of the jeep and listened as the guide explained what we were seeing. And just before the end of our safari, we even spotted the rare sloth bear.
After a morning or afternoom full of wildlife and adventure, there is nothing better than returning to Uga Chena Huts for a refreshing dip in your private pool, a lunch overlooking the savannah, or simply some time to unwind.
Would you like to read more about Yala National Park? In the next travel guide you’ll find everything you need to know about Yala National Park and how to best prepare for your visit.
The restaurant at Uga Chena Huts serves a mix of local and international dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and great attention to detail. Each day, you choose from a multi-course menu, and in the evening you can on top of that enjoy fresh fish from the barbecue. While dining, you overlook the savannah and the beach, as the colors of the sunset blend with the impressions of the day’s safari.
The bar is also a wonderful place to end the day. With a cocktail or a glass of wine in hand, you look out over the vast surroundings while hearing the sound of the sea in the distance. The great thing is that all meals and drinks are included, so you never have to think about extra expenses.
Uga Chena Huts is located on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, just outside Yala National Park. The lodge can be reached by a drive of approximately one hour from Hambantota Airport (Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport), or around four to five hours from larger cities such as Colombo, Ella, Kandy or Tangalle. Although the lodge is quite remote, it is easily accessible by transfer, Uber or a similar application.
Uga Chena Huts is part of Uga Escapes, a small luxury hotel group in Sri Lanka with seven boutique hotels spread across the country, combining luxury with nature, culture, and sustainability. Each property offers a unique atmosphere, from jungle retreats to beach paradises, with great attention to local traditions and personalized service. Would you like to stay at Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka? Here you’ll find the latest prices and availability. More information can be found on the website.
Did you find this travel guide about Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka interesting? On Passport the World, I take you on a journey through the most beautiful sights and destinations in Sri Lanka. Continue reading in the following articles.
Disclaimer: I was invited to stay at Uga Chena Huts Sri Lanka but this review is based on my personal view and is independent from the invitation.This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our disclosures for more information.
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
