Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe W/ Picnic Lunch

Escape the tranquil tea plantations of Ella and embark on an exhilarating safari adventure. Venture deep into the untamed wilderness of Yala and Udawalawe, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing dance of wild elephants and the elusive prowl of majestic leopards. Indulge in a picturesque picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural landscapes, fueling your exploration of Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna. With comfortable transportation and expert guidance, this captivating day trip promises an immersive encounter that’ll leave you longing for more of the island’s captivating wonders.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Safari Tours In Ella Sri Lanka.

Good To Know

• A private guided full-day jeep safari covering both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, with the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife.
• A comprehensive package that includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, guided safaris, picnic lunch, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and prices starting at $103.26 per person with up to 5% savings available.
• Chance to see the elusive leopard, along with herds of elephants, water buffalo, and jackals during the sunrise and sunset experiences.
• Positive customer feedback on exceptional wildlife sightings, particularly of leopards and elephants, as well as the memorable visit to the Elephant Transit Home.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Embarking on a private guided full-day jeep safari adventure, travelers can experience the wonders of Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.

The all-inclusive experience includes a picnic lunch and hotel pickup/drop-off. Prices start at $103.26 per person, with up to 5% savings available.

Flexible booking options allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This 1-day safari provides a chance to spot an array of wildlife, from leopards and elephants to jackals and water buffalo, during both sunrise and sunset experiences.

Wildlife Highlights

Yala National Park teems with an impressive array of 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, providing visitors the opportunity to spot an array of captivating wildlife.

Guests may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard, the park’s star attraction. Herds of elephants, water buffalo, and jackals also roam the landscape.

The Elephant Transit Home offers a unique chance to observe dozens of wild elephant calves in their natural habitat.

Whether during the tranquil sunrise or the vibrant sunset, the parks promise an unforgettable safari experience filled with diverse and remarkable wildlife.

Safari Itinerary

The day’s safari adventure begins with a pickup from guests’ accommodations in Ella.

Travelers are then transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to Yala National Park, where they can experience the "Golden Hours" of the day during their safari.

After exploring Yala, the group heads to Udawalawe National Park for an afternoon safari, arriving around 3 PM and staying until the park closes at 6 PM.

Throughout the day, guests are treated to a picnic lunch, bottled water, and soft drinks.

The experience also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home to see the wild elephant babies.

The day concludes with drop-off at their original accommodations.

Inclusions & Exclusions

This day safari adventure includes a comprehensive package to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

It covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, guided jeep safaris at both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.

Guests will enjoy a delightful picnic lunch, bottled water, and soft drinks throughout the day.

All entrance fees are included, allowing for a hassle-free exploration of these remarkable wildlife havens.

The professional driver-guide’s expertise ensures visitors make the most of their safari, with opportunities to spot a variety of animals, including the elusive leopard.

This all-inclusive package provides excellent value and allows travelers to focus on the wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems.

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Pricing and Bookings

Prices for this safari day trip start from $103.26 to $98.09 per person, allowing travelers to save up to 5%.

Travelers can take advantage of flexible booking options, reserving their spot now and paying later. The experience also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Spanning a full day, this private guided jeep safari adventure includes hotel pickup, drop-off, a picnic lunch, and exploration of both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.

With opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife, from leopards to elephants, this safari experience offers an immersive and unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning natural landscapes.

Customer Experiences

Travelers have praised the safari day trip for its exceptional wildlife sightings, especially of leopards and elephants.

Guests were delighted by the abundance of animals they encountered in Yala and Udawalawe National Parks. Many reported spotting majestic leopards lounging in the brush, as well as herds of elephants roaming freely.

The Elephant Transit Home visit also left a lasting impression, allowing visitors to observe young elephants being cared for.

While some noted occasional delays at the start of the day, the expertise and friendliness of the drivers more than made up for it.

Transportation and Logistics

Upon pickup from their accommodations in Ella, guests embark on their safari adventure in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

The journey takes them to the renowned Yala National Park, where they’ll experience the "Golden Hours" of the day during the safari.

Afterwards, the tour continues to Udawalawe National Park for an afternoon safari, exploring the park until sunset.

Throughout the day, the professional driver and guide ensure a seamless and informative experience, providing insights into the local wildlife and ecosystems.

Convenient hotel drop-off at the end of the day completes this comprehensive safari experience.

Elephant Sanctuary Visit

During the safari, the tour makes a special stop at the Elephant Transit Home, where guests can witness hundreds of wild elephant calves being cared for and prepared for eventual release back into their natural habitats.

This sanctuary plays a vital role in rehabilitating orphaned and injured elephants, providing them with the necessary medical attention and nurturing environment to thrive.

Visitors have the opportunity to observe the elephants up close as they feed, roam, and socialize, offering a unique insight into the conservation efforts supporting these magnificent creatures.

The Elephant Transit Home is a highlight of the day, showcasing Sri Lanka’s dedication to protecting its iconic wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent at Each National Park?

The safari experience includes approximately 3 hours at Yala National Park in the morning and around 3 hours at Udawalawe National Park in the afternoon, providing ample time to spot wildlife during both the sunrise and sunset experiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate personal interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the driver/guide, who can adjust the safari experiences at Yala and Udawalawe to suit their needs and maximize wildlife viewing.

What Language(S) Do the Guides Speak?

The guides on this safari tour speak English, as they cater to international travelers. They’re knowledgeable about the local wildlife and eager to provide an engaging and informative experience throughout the day.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Safari?

There are generally no restrictions on photography during the safari, allowing visitors to freely capture the wildlife encounters. However, the guides may advise caution to avoid disturbing the animals’ natural behaviors.

What Should Guests Bring With Them for the Day Trip?

Guests should bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. It’s also recommended to bring a camera, binoculars, and a light jacket or sweater for the cool evenings.

The Sum Up

This safari day trip from Ella promises an unforgettable adventure. Guests can witness diverse Sri Lankan wildlife, including majestic leopards and elephants, during guided jeep safaris. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, offering a unique opportunity to observe orphaned elephant calves. With a delightful picnic lunch, comfortable transportation, and expert guidance, this all-inclusive excursion provides an immersive exploration of the country’s rich natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: