Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Galle/Hikkaduwa & Udawalawe Safari

Planning a trip from Ella to the southern coast or Galle? Consider adding a Udawalawe Safari to your itinerary. This tour offers a chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife—particularly elephants—in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickups and drop-offs. It’s a solid option if you’re eager for a mix of adventure and comfort, especially if traveling with limited time or looking to maximize wildlife sightings.

What we really like about this experience are two things: First, the expert guidance provided by a guide with over ten years of experience—who’s great at spotting animals and sharing stories. Second, the scenic drive that includes views of the Udawalawe Reservoir, making the journey itself part of the experience. On the downside, the price—$104 per person—might seem a bit steep for some, especially considering you’ll need to purchase your own park entrance tickets. Still, for the chance to see elephants up close and enjoy a smooth, well-organized trip, many find it worthwhile.

This tour is especially ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, travelers with limited days in Sri Lanka, or those who want a hassle-free day combining transport, a guided safari, and scenic views. It’s not suited for travelers who prefer independent exploration or are on a very tight budget, but for everyone else, it offers good value and memorable sights.

Key Points

• All-in-one convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned transport
• Expert guidance: A guide with a decade of experience leading the safari
• Wildlife sightings: Elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, buffalo, and endemic birds
• Scenic views: Includes a drive past Udawalawe Reservoir
• Duration and flexibility: Approximately 9 hours, with checkable start times
• Cost and value: $104 per person, excluding park entrance fees

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Udawalawe Safari Day

If you’re considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand each part of the day. While it’s a full 9-hour experience, the core highlight is definitely the 4-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park. From hotel pickup in Ella, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, typically arriving at the park ready for your safari adventure.

Starting from Ella: You’ll be picked up early in the morning, often between 6:30 and 8 am, depending on availability. The drive to Udawalawe takes around 2 to 3 hours, giving you time to enjoy the countryside scenery and a glimpse of rural Sri Lanka. During the drive, your guide—who’s seasoned and knowledgeable—will likely share insights about the landscape, wildlife, and local culture, enriching your understanding before you even arrive.

Arrival and Safari: Your guide will lead you into Udawalawe National Park via a 4×4 private safari jeep, which is essential for wildlife viewing. This open-air vehicle is perfect for getting close to animals and capturing photos without glass in the way. The park is known for its large herds of elephants, often seen grazing or bathing near waterholes, making it a highlight for many visitors. But you’ll also see crocodiles sunning on the banks, playful monkeys, and buffalo wandering in the grasslands.

Your guide’s experience is invaluable here. They’ll know where to look for rare bird species or shy animals hiding in the trees. They also teach you about animal behaviors, making the experience more engaging. Whether it’s recognizing a crocodile’s eye peeking above the water or spotting a troop of monkeys swinging through the branches, their commentary adds depth to the safari.

Wildlife Encounters: Several reviews mention how the guide’s keen eyes lead to close-up sightings of elephants, baby elephants, and a variety of bird species. One traveler noted, “We saw lots of elephants, including babies, as well as crocodiles.” The chance to see wild elephants in their natural environment is a major draw and, for many, worth the trip alone.

Post-safari Scenic Drive: After the safari, you’ll head back in your air-conditioned vehicle. On the way to your final destination in Mirissa, Galle, or Hikkaduwa, you’ll pass the Udawalawe Reservoir, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. This scenic part of the trip is appreciated by travelers who enjoy a leisurely, comfortable journey.

Drop-off at your Hotel: The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or preferred area in the southern coast or Galle region, making it stress-free compared to self-organized transportation.

The Practical Details

Transportation: The tour features a comfortable, air-conditioned car or van, perfect for Sri Lanka’s warm climate and long drives. The transport is included in the price, along with highway tolls, ensuring no surprise costs.

Guide and Expert Knowledge: The guide’s 10+ years of experience is a major asset. They’re not just drivers but insightful storytellers who teach you about the wildlife and ecosystem, making your safari both educational and fun. Many reviews highlight how reliable and relaxed the communication is, with one traveler mentioning, “Communication with Gimhana was super relaxed and very reliable.”

Cost and Value: At $104 per person, this package includes hotel pickup, drop-off, transportation, and the safari itself. However, park entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those additional costs—usually around 25-30 USD. Considering the convenience and expert guidance, many find this to be a good value, especially compared to arranging your own transport and guide.

Timing and Flexibility: The tour lasts about 9 hours, with starting times checked upon booking. It’s designed to be flexible, with options to reserve without immediate payment, giving you a chance to plan ahead without risk. Always check your hotel pickup times and be prepared for early mornings, which are best for animal sightings.

What Travelers Love Most

Based on reviews and feedback, several aspects stand out as particularly appreciated:

• Knowledgeable guides who make the safari informative and engaging
• Close encounters with elephants, especially calves, which are often highlighted as a highlight
• Smooth, comfortable transportation, making the long drive less tiring
• Excellent wildlife sightings, with many birds and animals observed
• Good value for the comprehensive experience, despite the additional park fees

One reviewer shared, “The tour went smoothly. We saw a variety of birds, lots of elephants, including babies, as well as crocodiles. A very wild and fascinating tour!”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for animal lovers, families, or wildlife photographers looking for a reliable, guided safari without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. It’s suited for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing elephants and other wildlife, thanks to the experienced guide’s local knowledge. If you’re traveling from Ella and want a convenient way to include a safari in your itinerary, this tour offers good value.

However, it’s less suitable for those on a strict budget or requiring total independence, as park entrance fees aren’t included and you’re committed to the schedule. Also, if you have mobility issues or back problems, you might want to discuss the vehicle’s comfort beforehand, as safaris can involve some bouncing on uneven terrain.

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The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-organized, enjoyable way to experience Sri Lanka’s famed wildlife without the stress of planning every detail. The combination of expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see elephants and other animals up close makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager for a wildlife fix. The scenic drive past the Udawalawe Reservoir adds a peaceful, picturesque element that makes the whole day more memorable.

While the additional park entrance fee is an extra cost, many travelers feel the value for money is good, considering the ease, reliability, and quality of the experience. It’s especially suited for those who want a hassle-free, educational, and wildlife-rich adventure in Sri Lanka’s interior.

If you’re in Ella or nearby, and wildlife sightings are high on your wish list, this safari will likely meet and even exceed your expectations. Just be prepared for early starts and bring your camera—this is one day you won’t want to forget.

FAQ

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to Udawalawe?
No, transportation is included in the tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Ella or nearby towns and taken directly to the park.

Are park entrance tickets included?
No, park entrance fees are NOT included in the $104 price. You’ll need to purchase these separately on arrival, typically around $25-$30.

What should I wear for the safari?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for a safari—light, breathable fabrics—and sturdy shoes. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

Can I take photos during the safari?
Absolutely. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture wildlife and scenic views from the open safari jeep.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, but consider the ages and mobility of children, especially if they have back problems or difficulty sitting for long periods.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to plan with confidence.

This safari experience balances adventure, comfort, and education—making it a rewarding addition to any Sri Lankan itinerary. It’s a practical choice for those wanting to enjoy wildlife in its natural setting without the hassle of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: