Ella – Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home – Arugambay

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush southern landscape, the Ella to Udawalawe safari and Elephant Transit Home tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for nature enthusiasts. Set out on a thrilling adventure through the diverse ecosystems of Udawalawe National Park, where you’ll witness the majestic presence of elephants in their natural habitat. With flexible booking options and expert guidance, this immersive journey promises breathtaking encounters with Sri Lanka’s wildlife. But the real magic lies in the Elephant Transit Home, where you’ll witness the remarkable efforts to rehabilitate and release these gentle giants back into the wild. Are you ready to uncover the wonders that await?

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Safari Tours In Udawalawa.

Good To Know

• Explore Udawalawe National Park from Ella on a morning, afternoon, or full-day safari, with the option to visit the Elephant Transit Home.
• Witness a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and various bird species, in their natural habitat.
• Enjoy a hassle-free experience with flexible booking, free cancellation, and professional driver-cum-guide services.
• Cater to different budgets and preferences with pricing starting at Kč2,831 per person for the safari options.
• Secure convenient pickups and drop-offs from hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya for a seamless safari adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Options and Pricing

The Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home offers visitors two captivating tour options: a Morning/Afternoon Safari with a stop at the Elephant Transit Home or a comprehensive Full-Day Safari featuring three exhilarating game drives.

Prices start from just Kč2,831 per person, making these experiences accessible to a wide range of budgets.

What’s more, the tours feature flexible booking and free cancellation policies, allowing travelers to plan their adventures with ease.

Whether you choose the morning/afternoon or full-day option, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable wildlife encounter in the heart of Sri Lanka’s stunning Udawalawe National Park.

Itinerary Overview

Immersing visitors in the captivating wildlife of Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home offers two distinct itinerary options that cater to diverse preferences.

The full-day safari features three game drives, allowing guests to witness the park’s diverse inhabitants at various times throughout the day. Alternatively, the morning safari offers a more focused experience, including a visit to the Elephant Transit Home for a chance to observe the feeding of these gentle giants.

Both options provide ample opportunities to spot a variety of species, from majestic elephants and crocodiles to elusive sloth bears and vibrant birdlife.

• Morning Safari: Pickup at 4 AM, game drive starts at 7 AM, visit Elephant Transit Home at 10:30 AM
• Full-Day Safari: 3 game drives from 7 AM to 6 PM, with breaks for meals and rest
• Flexible pickup locations in Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya
• Experienced driver-cum-guide to enhance the safari experience
• Estimated duration of 11-17 hours, depending on the chosen option

Wildlife Experience

Nestled within the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, Udawalawe National Park is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to encounter an array of captivating species.

Home to a significant elephant population, the park also boasts diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and an abundance of bird species.

Visitors can expect to witness the majestic elephants roaming freely, along with the opportunity to spot other iconic creatures in their natural habitat.

The safari operations are designed to be sustainable, ensuring a responsible and enriching experience that supports the local communities.

Prepare to be immersed in the wonders of Udawalawe’s vibrant ecosystem during this unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Inclusions and Additional Information

Your Udawalawe safari experience includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and memorable journey.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, and a professional driver cum guide to enhance your wildlife viewing.

Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home are also covered, allowing you to learn about the park’s diverse ecosystem.

While meals are optional, you can choose to start your day with a hearty breakfast or refuel with a delicious lunch during the safari.

With these inclusions, you can focus on capturing the breathtaking sights and sounds of the Udawalawe wilderness.

• Pickup and drop-off from specified areas
• Professional driver cum guide
• Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home
• Optional breakfast and lunch
• Hassle-free experience to focus on wildlife viewing

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Restrictions and Contact Information

Certain restrictions apply to the Udawalawe safari experience to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the terrain and activities.

However, children are welcome, with those 5 and under admitted for free, and a 50% discount for ages 5-12, provided they’re accompanied by an adult.

To book the tour or inquire further, travelers can reach out via email or WhatsApp +94777905532.

The organizers are dedicated to providing a sustainable and enriching wildlife experience for all visitors.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour operators provide convenient pickup and drop-off services from hotels located in Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya. This ensures a seamless start and end to your Udawalawe safari adventure.

The process is straightforward:

• A professional driver will pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time, typically as early as 4:00 AM for the morning safari.
• You’ll be transported comfortably to the Udawalawe National Park, where the safari experiences commence.
• After the fulfilling wildlife encounters, the driver will return you to your hotel, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s wonders.
• The pickup and drop-off service caters to your convenience, so you can focus on enjoying the safari’s magic.
• With this level of support, you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable Udawalawe adventure.

Schedule and Duration

With a carefully curated schedule, the Udawalawe Safari & Elephant Transit Home experience offers visitors a comprehensive wildlife adventure.

The full-day safari features three game drives at strategic times, allowing travelers to witness the park’s diverse inhabitants at their most active. The morning safari provides an early start, followed by a visit to the Elephant Transit Home for a unique elephant-feeding experience.

Whether it’s the 11-hour half-day tour or the 17-hour full-day excursion, the schedule is meticulously planned to maximize wildlife sightings and provide an immersive, unforgettable journey through Udawalawe’s natural wonders.

Flexible Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can reserve their Udawalawe safari experience with ease, taking advantage of the flexible booking options. The tour operator offers:

• Reserve now and pay later for added convenience.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Secure online booking through the website or WhatsApp.
• Personalized customer support via email and phone.
• Flexible dates and itinerary options to suit individual preferences.

With these hassle-free booking policies, adventurers can plan their Udawalawe safari and Elephant Transit Home visit with confidence. They can adjust their plans if needed.

This flexibility allows travelers to focus on the exciting wildlife encounters that await them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Safari Tours?

The tour group sizes typically range from 2 to 8 people, providing an intimate and personalized wildlife experience. The small group size allows for more flexibility and better opportunities to spot the diverse animals in Udawalawe National Park.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With the Elephants?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home where visitors can observe the elephants being fed. While direct interaction isn’t allowed, it’s an opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close in a natural setting.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Information About the Local Culture?

The tour guides provide engaging information about the local culture and customs during the safari experience. They share insights into the traditions and lifestyles of the communities surrounding Udawalawe National Park, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the region.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the safari. The tour provider encourages guests to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy during the long game drives and breaks, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari Tours?

Yes, there are age restrictions for the safari tours. Children 5 and under are free, while those aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Sum Up

Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wildlife on this captivating journey from Ella to Udawalawe. Witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat, explore the diverse ecosystem, and visit the Elephant Transit Home – a truly immersive experience for nature lovers. With flexible booking, expert guidance, and convenient pickup, this tour promises unforgettable encounters that will leave you in awe of Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity.

You can check availability for your dates here: