Greenwood Udawalawa Safari Resort

The hotel we booked did not seem to exist. At the last minute, the owner changed our accommodation because Greenwood was under renovation. I found other reviews saying it had been under renovation for a long time, yet bookings were still open. He didn’t tell us on WhatsApp, and we only found out after reaching Greenwood and calling him. The listing was still available online even though it wasn’t operating. After a long motorbike ride, we went to the new location, Green Heaven, because we had no other option at nearly 7pm. We were tired, and the owner offered a similar room for a similar price, which we accepted, with no apology. Once we’d taken our bags off the bike, he asked if we wanted to book a safari through him. We politely declined because we were staying one night before continuing our journey. He then said our booked room price only applied if we bought his safari ticket. Otherwise, he’d charge USD25 instead of USD11 (RM43) per night. That felt misleading and unreasonable, since this condition wasn’t stated in the online booking details. We left with our bags. This should be disclosed when booking, not after guests arrive. False advertisement. On 7march 2026, the owner treated me with this email. He claimed himself a policeman when we arrived yesterday.

I especially enjoyed the Safari, and the breakfast was fresh, tasty, and had plenty of options. Greenwood Resort is close to everything while still feeling quiet and peaceful. From the moment I arrived, the staff were welcoming and professional. My room was spotless, comfortable, and nicely designed, with all the amenities I needed. Everyone showed genuine hospitality and paid attention to the details. It’s rare to find a place that gets everything right. I’d happily return and highly recommend it.

The name and location are also wrong on the listing. It’s actually Green Heaven Resort Udawalawa. I’d warn anyone who has booked a safari elsewhere to be prepared for pressure, or consider staying somewhere else. I was picked up free by tuktuk at the bus station and given mango juice when I arrived. Everyone was smiling until I said I’d already booked my Udawalawa safari for the next day. The host repeatedly wanted to know the provider’s name, tried to discredit them without me telling him who it was, and asked me to cancel. My friends had taken the same tour just a few days before, so I wouldn’t cancel. The woman who welcomed me had me speak by phone with her manager, who repeated the same things. He said I couldn’t stay unless I agreed to take their safari. He claimed this condition was clear in the booking terms, but I checked and couldn’t find it. I booked another hostel nearby in a hurry. The tuktuk driver kindly waited and took me there, and I paid him for the ride. There are positive reviews, so perhaps you’ll have a great time if you want the hostel to arrange your safari. I think guests should be able to choose. If it’s a requirement, it needs to be much clearer when booking.

The safari was great and the owner arranged it at a competitive price. He was knowledgeable about everything we asked, and both he and his colleague were so helpful and lovely. We’d booked a different hotel, but ended up staying at another one with him. He was accommodating, and it turned out to be an upgrade. Perfect one-night stay, thanks so much. We’ll be back!