Ella: Drop to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle & Udawalawa Safari Tour

Ella: Drop to Tangalle/Mirissa/Galle & Udawalawa Safari Tour offers a unique blend of comfortable travel and wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka’s lush landscape. While it’s primarily a transfer service, this tour stands out because of the opportunity for a wildlife safari in Udawalawa National Park, known for its elephants, crocodiles, and birdlife.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the chance to see iconic Sri Lankan animals in their natural habitat. Plus, the expert guidance and comfortable transportation make it accessible even for those unfamiliar with planning safaris. One potential downside to keep in mind is that the entrance fee to Udawalawa isn’t included, which means an extra cash payment in Sri Lankan Rupees. This tour suits travelers who appreciate combining travel with wildlife sightings or those looking for an easy, hassle-free way to add a safari to their itinerary in the south.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Spot elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of birds in Udawalawa National Park.
• Convenient Transfer: Door-to-door pickup from Ella and drop-off in popular southern resorts saves time and effort.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable drivers and safari guides enhance the experience with wildlife spotting tips.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel free up to 24 hours in advance; pay later to keep plans adaptable.
• Cost Consideration: The tour costs $73 per person, excluding park entrance fees, which are paid separately in cash.
• Authentic Experience: Small-group size and local guides help you connect more deeply with Sri Lanka’s natural environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Ella Drop to the South & Udawalawa Safari Tour

If you’re exploring Sri Lanka and want a combination of scenic travel and wildlife encounters, this tour offers a practical option. It’s designed for travelers who prefer not to worry about logistics—your driver picks you up in Ella, and after a comfortable ride, you’re dropped off at your hotel or accommodation in the south, with a safari adventure included.

Why Choose This Tour?

The real draw here is the chance to see elephants and other wildlife in Udawalawa, one of Sri Lanka’s prominent national parks. The tours are hosted by Shehan Safari Jeep Tours, a provider praised in reviews for their professional drivers and knowledgeable guides. The open-topped safari vehicle ensures you get the best views and photos of animals, which is especially enjoyable if you love wildlife photography or simply want to see some of the country’s famous fauna.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The standout feature is the combination of transportation and wildlife safari in a single day. For many travelers, it’s an efficient way to maximize their time in Sri Lanka, especially if they’re heading south afterward. The 7-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering enough time to enjoy the safari without feeling rushed.

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides—Nikolina mentions both their “exceptional” skills and their passion for wildlife, which meaningfully enhances the experience. The driver’s friendly manner and the smooth coordination make the day feel effortless, turning what could be a long journey into a pleasant adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup in Ella:
Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Ella, a scenic town nestled in hill country. From here, your driver begins the approximately 3-4 hour journey southward. Expect to pass through lush tea plantations, small villages, and expansive farmland—Sri Lanka’s rural heartland. The ride itself is part of the charm, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to chat with your guide about local life.

Drive to Udawalawa National Park:
The ride is comfortable, thanks to air conditioning, and the driver is experienced in navigating Sri Lanka’s sometimes unpredictable roads. You’ll likely arrive at the park entrance in the late morning or early afternoon. During the drive, guides often share insights about the wildlife and environment, making the journey informative as well as scenic.

Safari in Udawalawa National Park:
Once at the park, you’ll switch into an open-topped safari jeep with a local guide. This is where the real excitement begins. As several reviews mention, the guides excel at spotting animals and ensuring you get close enough for great photos. Nikolina’s review notes that the safari driver, Pathum, “went above and beyond” to get sightings, consistently seeking out wildlife in the vast park.

In the span of a few hours, you’ll likely see elephants, the stars of the show, often in herds near water sources. Crocodiles bask on the banks, and water buffaloes roam in the wetlands. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of species, from kingfishers to storks. While sightings can vary based on weather and animal activity, many travelers report seeing multiple elephants and other big game.

Wildlife Tips:
Your guide will share tips on animal behavior and photography, helping you make the most of your time. The safari offers a chance to capture memorable images of Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife in their natural setting.

Return Journey and Drop-off:
Post-safari, you’ll head back to your vehicle, then continue your drive to the southern coast—whether it’s Mirissa, Galle, or Hikkaduwa. The entire trip is designed to be seamless, with the driver dropping you directly at your hotel or a designated location in the south, saving you the hassle of arranging separate transport.

More Great Tours Nearby

What You Should Know About Pricing and Inclusions

At $73 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it’s a good value considering the logistics and guided experience. The price covers hotel pickup, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and the Udawalawa National Park safari.

However, the entrance fee to the park (approximately 40 USD or Sri Lankan Rupees 13,000) is not included. You’ll need to pay this in cash at the entrance, so it’s worth bringing small bills in Rupees. Nikolina’s review points out that this extra cost could feel steep, especially for budget travelers or those on a tight schedule, but it’s clearly stated beforehand.

Some reviews mention that the shared vehicle may feel a bit crowded, with 4-6 people sharing the jeep in addition to your driver. While some might prefer private safaris, others find the shared experience sociable and enjoyable.

Authentic Experience and What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-organized, enjoyable day. Molly highlights that “the drivers were all amazing,” and the day went so smoothly. Even in challenging weather conditions, like rain, the safari was still deemed worthwhile.

Lilla notes that their guide Jasha was “very professional,” which added to the quality of the adventure. Reviewers also appreciate the knowledgeable guides who help spot animals and share interesting facts.

Many mention that the safari isn’t just about seeing animals; it’s about experiencing Sri Lanka’s wilderness, often for the first time, in a safe and accessible way. For those who love nature photography, the open vehicle and guided spotting tips mean you’ll get plenty of opportunities for great shots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits animal lovers and nature enthusiasts who want a convenient way to combine a scenic drive with a wildlife safari. It’s ideal if you have limited time but still want to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife—especially elephants—in the wild.

It’s also perfect for travelers staying in Ella or the southern resorts who prefer door-to-door service and don’t want to hassle with organizing separate transport or park entry. The shared jeep and extra costs for park entry might be less appealing for budget travelers or those seeking privacy, but overall, the experience offers good value for the price.

Final Thoughts

This Ella to south transfer combined with a safari offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. It’s a practical choice for those who want to see elephants and other wildlife without the complexity of planning from scratch. The guides’ passion, combined with the chance to photograph wildlife in an open vehicle, makes this a memorable part of any Sri Lankan itinerary.

While it isn’t an all-inclusive safari package—since the entrance fee isn’t included—the overall experience remains worthwhile. The ease of pickup and drop-off, the opportunity to see iconic animals, and the friendly guides make it a solid choice for travelers eager to add a wildlife adventure to their Sri Lanka trip.

If you’re someone who values local expertise, convenience, and authentic wildlife sightings, this tour will fit right into your travel plans. Just remember to carry cash for the park entry, and you’ll be set for a day of discovering Sri Lanka’s remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup in Ella, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the safari in Udawalawa National Park, and the driver/guides.

Are park entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fee (around 40 USD) to Udawalawa National Park is paid separately in cash at the park entrance.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.

What kind of vehicle is used for the safari?
An open-topped safari jeep is used to give you the best possible views and photo opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience is generally family-friendly, especially if your children enjoy wildlife and outdoor adventures.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing water and snacks is recommended.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring cash for the park entrance, a camera, binoculars if you have them, sun protection, and water.

How many people will be in the safari vehicle?
The vehicle can accommodate 4-6 guests, depending on group size, sharing with other travelers.

Do guides speak other languages besides English?
The tour is conducted in English, so proficiency in other languages isn’t specified.

This tour offers a well-rounded way to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, especially if you’re eager to see its famous elephants and vibrant birdlife without extra hassle. It’s a memorable activity that balances comfort with authentic wildlife encounters—perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: