Sri Lanka’s Galle region delivers two outstanding wildlife experiences. Udawalawe National Park stands out for its excellent elephant viewing – the 3-hour Jeep safaris are just right for most travelers, while the full-day option with the Elephant Orphanage is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. I particularly love the morning safaris when animals are most active.
Yala National Park is a sure bet for leopard spotting (it has one of Asia’s highest concentrations), plus plenty of wild buffalo and exotic birds. The private safari tours here are worth the extra cost – guides know the best spots and timing.
We’ve hand-picked the most reliable tours that include comfortable transportation and expert naturalist guides. Check out our top recommendations below.
Key Points
- Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour offers a 3-hour guided Jeep safari with a high traveler recommendation rate and included hotel transfers, lunch, and bottled water.
- Yala National Park Private Safari Trip provides a personalized safari experience to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife with a professional guide.
- Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Galle/Mirissa/Ella is a full-day tour with a high recommendation for wildlife sightings and an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage.
- The Half Day Safari at Yala National Park offers a 3-hour 4WD safari to spot leopards, elephants, and birds, with a perfect 5-star rating from reviews.
- The 6 Nights 7 Days-Muslim Halal Tour includes accommodation, transportation, an English-speaking guide, and highlights like Yala National Park and Galle Dutch Fort, with Halal meal options.
Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour – Private & Customize Tour
For an excellent opportunity to spot wild elephants in their natural habitat, the Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour is a top choice.
This private and customizable tour offers a 3-hour guided Jeep safari, with a 100% traveler recommendation rate based on 52 reviews. Included are hotel transfers, lunch, and bottled water, providing a comfortable and convenient experience.
The tour’s flexibility allows for various pickup points, and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. While not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, most can participate, including those in wheelchairs or with strollers.
At a starting price of $110 per person, this tour provides great value with its Lowest Price Guarantee.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour – Private & Customize Tour Review
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6 Nights 7 Days-Muslim Halal Tour With Yala National Park
This 6-night, 7-day Muslim Halal tour offers an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
Priced from $950 per person, it includes accommodation, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
Explore Kandy’s Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Nuwara Eliya’s tea country, and Yala National Park for an evening safari.
Visit historical sites like the Galle Dutch Fort and enjoy activities like stilt fishing and a Madu Ganga River boat safari.
With halal meal options available, this tour caters to the needs of Muslim travelers.
The itinerary covers the country’s top attractions, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive Sri Lankan adventure.
Read our full review: 6 Nights 7 Days-Muslim Halal Tour With Yala National Park Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Galle/Mirissa/Ella
Embark on an exhilarating Udawalawe National Park safari adventure from the comfort of Galle, Mirissa, or Ella.
This full-day tour offers a 97% traveler recommendation, with guests scouting for elephants, crocodiles, birds, and exotic plants.
The 4-hour game drive provides an immersive experience, and an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage adds to the journey.
With hotel pickup, a private safari jeep, and national park entrance tickets included, this family-friendly tour is perfect for nature lovers.
Reviewers praise the timely pickups, knowledgeable guides, and incredible wildlife sightings, making this safari an unforgettable experience starting at $190 per person.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari Trip From Galle/Mirissa/Ella Review
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Galle: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Hotel Pickup
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience can enjoy a Galle-based Udawalawe National Park safari adventure.
This private tour offers a convenient pickup from Mirissa, a 3-hour safari in an open-top 4×4 vehicle, and a drop-off in Ella, all for $101.65 per person.
During the safari, you’ll have the chance to spot elephants, deer, boar, and even leopards while exploring the park’s grasslands, marshes, and forests with a local guide.
The tour also includes birdwatching opportunities and is ideal for butterfly enthusiasts.
With a private air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking driver, and 1-liter water bottle provided, this tour offers a comfortable and unforgettable wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Galle: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Hotel Pickup Review
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Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari
Udawalawe National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Travelers can embark on a private safari tour through the park, where they’ll ride in a comfortable four-wheel-drive jeep and have the chance to spot abundant wildlife. This highly recommended experience, awarded a Badge of Excellence, boasts a perfect 5.0-star rating from 19 reviews.
Guests can enjoy hassle-free hotel pickup and an air-conditioned vehicle, with breakfast available before the safari.
The tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policy, starting at €117.18 per person, make it an attractive option for those seeking an immersive wildlife encounter in Galle.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park Half Day Safari Review
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Yala National Park Private Safari Trip From Galle/Unawatuna/Mirissa
For those seeking a thrilling wildlife encounter, a private safari trip to Yala National Park from Galle, Unawatuna, or Mirissa promises an unforgettable adventure.
As Sri Lanka’s second-largest wildlife park, Yala is renowned for its roaming elephants and the highest density of leopards globally.
On a private safari, travelers can expect close encounters with a diverse array of animals, from elephants and bears to monkeys and pelicans.
Riding in a private safari Jeep with an experienced wildlife tracker, guests will enjoy refreshments and insider knowledge from a professional guide.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, along with included park entrance fees, this private tour offers a seamless experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Private Safari Trip From Galle/Unawatuna/Mirissa Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari From Mirissa
Leaving the grand Yala National Park behind, adventurers can embark on another thrilling wildlife expedition at Udawalawe National Park.
This private safari tour from Mirissa offers an all-inclusive package, including return private air-conditioned transport and a 4×4 safari.
Explore the scenic landscapes and keep an eye out for elephants, deer, boar, and a variety of birdlife.
With an English-speaking chauffeur and driver/tracker, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour covers hotel pickup, drop-off, and park entrance fees.
Priced from $92 per person, this tour is a great option for those seeking a moderate adventure in Udawalawe National Park.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari From Mirissa Review
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Half Day Safari at Yala National Park With Lunch
Travelers in Galle can frequently embark on a half-day safari adventure at the renowned Yala National Park. This tour offers a full safari experience, including a 3-hour 4WD safari to spot wild leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various birds.
The tour includes private transfers, park entry fees, a safari jeep and driver-tracker, a local lunch, refreshments, and all taxes and gratuities. The tour starts at 5:30 AM, and guests should be ready 15 minutes prior to pickup from their Galle hotel.
This private tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate. With a perfect 5-star rating from 8 reviews, this tour is an excellent option for those seeking a short yet immersive wildlife experience.
Read our full review: Half Day Safari at Yala National Park With Lunch Review
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Yala National Park Safari Experience From Galle Including Lunch at a Campsite
Visitors to Galle can embark on a captivating Yala National Park safari experience that includes a guided tour and a delightful lunch at a campsite.
The tour offers the opportunity to spot an array of wildlife, such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears, Hanuman langurs, toque monkeys, and water monitors.
Travelers will enjoy round-trip transportation from their Galle hotels, entrance fees, a professional guide, a 4-course lunch with beer, and more.
With a perfect 5-star rating from over a dozen reviews, this safari is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the Galle region.
The experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions, and booking in advance is advised.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Safari Experience From Galle Including Lunch at a Campsite Review
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Udawalawe National Park Safari From Weligama
For those seeking a captivating wildlife adventure, the Udawalawe National Park Safari from Weligama offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
Boasting an impressive 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, this tour provides a full-day experience, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and an English-speaking chauffeur.
Visitors can expect to embark on a thrilling Jeep safari within the park, though those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility may want to consider the physical requirements.
With flexible booking options and a lowest price guarantee, this tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts visiting the Galle region.
Read our full review: Udawalawe National Park Safari From Weligama Review
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One Day Yala National Park From Galle/Hikkaduwa/Mirissa/Unawatuna
Exploring the expansive wilderness of Yala National Park is a captivating adventure easily accessible from the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
This private jeep safari departs from Galle, Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, or Unawatuna, providing personalized attention with a driver-guide. The tour includes park entry, snacks, bottled water, and the services of a wildlife tracker. Breakfast and lunch are also provided.
The safari operates daily from 3 AM to 10 AM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. Though not wheelchair-accessible, most travelers can participate.
Priced at €180.59 per person, the tour has earned a 5-star rating based on 4 reviews, making it an excellent choice for exploring Yala’s diverse wildlife.
Read our full review: One Day Yala National Park From Galle/Hikkaduwa/Mirissa/Unawatuna Review
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Yala National Park Private Safari (All Inclusive) From Mirissa
A private safari through Yala National Park’s lush wilderness beckons adventurous travelers departing from Mirissa.
This all-inclusive tour ensures a hassle-free experience, with an air-conditioned transfer, bottled water, and a delicious lunch. Guests can expect personalized attention and an early arrival to beat the crowds and enhance wildlife spotting.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the safari is suitable for most travelers. Priced from €147.96 per person with flexible payment options and free cancellation, this private tour promises an unforgettable day exploring one of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks.
Reviewers praise the overall experience, though some note room for improvement in communication.
Read our full review: Yala National Park Private Safari (All Inclusive) From Mirissa Review
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Day Excursion at Udawalawe National Park From Galle
Travelers seeking an intimate encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife can embark on a day excursion to Udawalawe National Park from Galle.
The private safari offers the chance to spot elephants, leopards, wild buffalo, and more in their natural habitat. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides a guided experience and a high chance of sighting 35-40 elephants from the park’s population of 600.
Guests will enjoy bottled water, seasonal fruits, and free Wi-Fi on the 4×4 Jeep. The tour also includes pickup, drop-off, and national park entrance fees.
Recommended items to bring include sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent. Priced at $175 per person, this tour promises a rewarding wildlife adventure.
Read our full review: Day Excursion at Udawalawe National Park From Galle Review
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Sum Up
Galle offers a range of exciting national park tours. Visitors can choose from private, customizable safaris at Udawalawe National Park or day trips to Yala National Park. These tours provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and birds, in their natural habitats. Whether you’re seeking a half-day excursion or a multi-day adventure, Galle’s national park tours cater to various preferences and budgets, ensuring a memorable wildlife experience.