Ella – Udawalawa Safari – Drop to Mirissa/Weligama/Galle

Traveling through Sri Lanka often means balancing natural wonders with the practicalities of getting around. This particular safari tour offers an appealing way to combine wildlife viewing with a scenic transfer from Ella to the southern coast. It’s ideal for those who want to see elephants and other native animals in their natural habitat without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

What we like most about this experience is the chance to see a variety of wildlife, especially elephants, in a setting that feels authentic and unspoiled. Plus, the inclusion of the Elephant Transit Home offers a heartwarming glimpse into conservation efforts. On the flip side, a few travelers have expressed concerns about the driving style, which is worth considering if you’re sensitive to rough rides.

If you’re someone who appreciates wildlife, enjoys scenic road trips, and prefers a flexible, small group setting, this safari could be a perfect fit. It suits travelers looking for a value-packed day combining adventure and travel comfort, all with the guidance of knowledgeable local guides.

Key Points

• Wildlife in Action: Offers a chance to see elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and many bird species in their natural environment.
• Flexible Timing: The tour has options for morning or afternoon safaris, fitting different travel schedules.
• Comfortable Transport: Includes air-conditioned transfers with experienced guides, making the long journey more pleasant.
• Community Support: Operated sustainably, supporting local communities and conservation efforts.
• Authentic Experience: Led by experts with over 30 years of guiding, providing insights that elevate the experience.
• Variable Reviews: Some travelers have loved the safari but noted concerns about driver safety, emphasizing the need to weigh this aspect.

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Detailed Review of the Ella – Udawalawa Safari Tour

Introduction to the Tour

This tour offers an engaging way to see Sri Lanka’s renowned Udawalawa National Park while traveling from Ella, a popular highland town, down south towards Mirissa, Weligama, or Galle. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply want an authentic experience with Sri Lanka’s elephants and birds, this tour covers both bases.

What stands out for us is how it combines a nature-filled safari with the practical convenience of door-to-door transfers. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—offering both morning and afternoon safaris—means you can choose what fits your travel rhythm best.

However, a word of caution: some reviews mention reckless driving, which might be uncomfortable for sensitive travelers or those prone to motion sickness. Still, the safari itself is often praised for its authenticity and the chance to see animals in their habitat. This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized day of wildlife spotting with a local flavor.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is attractive for those who want to combine wildlife viewing with a scenic road trip. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers staying in Ella or nearby highlands who want to explore Sri Lanka’s famous elephants without a separate, expensive park visit. It’s also good for families, small groups, or solo travelers interested in local conservation efforts and guided nature encounters.

The Itinerary in Detail

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Pickup and Transfer from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya

Starting early—or at noon if opting for the afternoon safari—the tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which we find convenient. The 2.25-hour transfer is on a shared basis in an air-conditioned vehicle. While some travelers have noted issues with the initial pickup (one mentioned being assigned the wrong driver at 4 am), the general experience is smooth once underway. The vehicle and driver help set the tone for a comfortable ride.

Arrival at Udawalawa National Park

Once at Udawalawa around 6:45 am or noon (depending on your choice), the fun begins. Here, you’ll switch into a shared safari vehicle, designed to maximize wildlife visibility while providing a sense of adventure. The game drive runs for about three hours, from 7 am to 10 am or 12 pm to 3 pm, depending on your schedule.

Wildlife Viewing and the Safari Experience

The safari offers the chance to see elephants up close, especially since this park is famous for its large herds. Other animals like crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and numerous bird species complete the scene. Guides who are well-versed in the park’s inhabitants will help you spot and interpret what you see—an aspect many reviews praise.

One traveler commented, “The safari itself was a 10/10 experience,” highlighting the authenticity and excitement of spotting wildlife in their natural environment. The guides’ extensive knowledge adds significant value, transforming a simple drive into a mini-lecture on animal behavior and park ecology.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

After the safari, there’s a 30-minute stop at the Elephant Transit Home. It’s a highlight for many; this rescue and rehabilitation center allows visitors to observe young elephants being cared for before release into the wild. Photographers and animal lovers alike will appreciate the chance to see these gentle giants up close in their semi-natural environment.

Break and Refreshments

A short 30-minute break at the park allows for some rest, snacks, or photos. It’s a good moment to reflect on sightings and take some memorable pictures.

Transfer Back and Drop-Off in the South

The return journey involves another transfer of about two hours, taking you from Udawalawa back to your hotel or accommodation in Mirissa, Weligama, Galle, or nearby areas. The tour concludes around 1 pm or later, depending on your schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $73 per person provides good value considering the full day’s activities, transport, and the safari. Included are hotel pickup, drop-off in the southern coast areas, air-conditioned transportation, and the expertise of guides.

However, entrance fees to Udawalawa are not included and cost approximately 11,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (around $37 USD) per person. This upfront cost is typical for safaris but should be factored into your overall budget.

Additional Considerations

While the experience itself is designed to be seamless, some travelers have voiced concern about the driving style—one review describes the driver as reckless, driving at 120 km/h on roads with a 70 km/h limit and overtaking carelessly. If you’re prone to motion sickness or have safety concerns, it’s worth considering this aspect.

Authentic Experiences and Expert Guides

One of the tour’s standout features is the guiding team, led by professionals with over 30 years of experience. Their extensive knowledge enhances the safari, providing context and background that elevate a simple wildlife drive to an educational experience.

Reviewers have praised the guides for helpfulness and local knowledge, which can make all the difference when it comes to spotting elusive animals or understanding the park’s ecosystem. It’s this personal touch that transforms a standard game drive into a memorable adventure.

Analyzing the Value

At $73, this tour offers a well-rounded package. The combination of wildlife viewing, the elephant rescue center, and scenic long-distance transfer makes it a good price point, especially considering the small group size—limited to 12 participants. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and transport in comfort adds to the overall value.

But, remember that the entrance fee is separate, so budget an extra $37 for that. The experience’s authenticity and the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat likely outweigh the extra cost for most wildlife lovers.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book?

This safari is best suited for travelers in Ella or nearby who wish to combine wildlife observation with a scenic journey to the coast. It’s perfect for those wanting a guided, eco-friendly experience that supports local conservation.

If you’re comfortable with group tours, enjoy learning from guides, and want to see elephants in the wild—this tour offers a lot for the price. However, if your travel style is more cautious or you prioritize safety in transportation, it’s worth considering the reviews about driving style.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Ella and drop-off at locations in Mirissa, Weligama, Galle, or nearby areas in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the duration of the safari?
The safari itself lasts about three hours, with the entire experience extending to around 7 hours including transfer times and breaks.

Are guides included?
Yes, you’ll have an experienced guide with extensive knowledge of the park and wildlife, ensuring a more informative and engaging experience.

How much are the entrance fees?
The entrance fee to Udawalawa National Park is approximately 11,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (about $37 USD) per person, which is not included in the tour price.

Can I choose between morning and afternoon safaris?
Absolutely, you can select either a morning or an afternoon safari, depending on your schedule and preference.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and small groups, especially those interested in nature and wildlife. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users.

To sum it up, this safari tour from Ella to Udawalawa offers an affordable, authentic encounter with Sri Lanka’s wildlife, complemented by experienced guides and scenic transfers. While the journey includes some concerns about driving style, the opportunity to see elephants and other animals in their natural habitat makes it a worthwhile choice for wildlife lovers and those looking for a flexible, well-organized day trip. It’s a practical pick for travelers eager to combine adventure, conservation, and a taste of local life—without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: