Ella: Udawalawe, Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour & Transfers

If you’re craving an authentic Sri Lankan wildlife adventure, this 2-day tour from Ella offers a wonderful blend of nature, culture, and scenic travel. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, value-packed experience that suits curious travelers eager to see elephants, leopards, and stunning landscapes without fuss.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance of wildlife safaris in Udawalawe and Yala, combined with a chance to see Rawana Falls and experience the traditional art of stilt fishing in Weligama. It offers a taste of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in just two days, making it perfect for those with limited time or a desire for a quick but immersive experience.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early start and long drives—roughly 3.5 hours each way—so travelers should be prepared for a bit of a packed schedule. But, if wildlife counts and scenic views are your priority, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s best suited for active travelers who appreciate comfort, are keen to see iconic species, and want to experience local traditions firsthand.

Key Points

• Wildlife lovers will enjoy the chance to see elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.
• The scenic stops like Rawana Falls and Weligama’s stilt fishing add memorable cultural and natural highlights.
• The inclusive price covers luxury transportation, safari jeep fees, and one night’s accommodation, offering good value.
• Timing starts early, with a focus on maximizing wildlife viewing and sightseeing opportunities.
• The tour’s private group format ensures a personalized experience and flexibility.
• Additional costs include entrance fees to parks and meals, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Day 1: Ella to Yala via Udawalawe

The day kicks off at 8:00 am with a scenic departure from Ella. The first stop is Rawana Falls—a breathtaking cascade that tumbles through lush greenery. It’s an ideal spot for photos and a quick stretch before the day heats up.

From there, the journey takes about three and a half hours to reach Udawalawe National Park. This park is famously home to a large population of Sri Lankan elephants—we’re talking about herds that seem to stretch across the plains. The half-day safari here is a chance to see these gentle giants in their natural environment. Reviewers often mention the “thrilling jeep safari” and the chance to spot water buffalo, monkeys, lizards, and a variety of bird species. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the elephants just strolled across the plains, and the guides were great at spotting wildlife.”

It’s worth noting that leopard sightings are possible but not guaranteed—a common theme in wildlife safaris. The landscapes are as scenic as the animals, with rolling grassy plains and scattered trees.

The afternoon continues toward Yala National Park, where you’ll settle into your hotel for the night. The evening can be spent relaxing, preparing for an early start the next day.

Day 2: Yala Safari and Weligama

The second day begins at 5:30 am with an early morning safari inside Yala. This is Sri Lanka’s most famous park for leopard sightings. Although sightings depend on luck and timing, seasoned guides often find leopards lounging in the early morning shadows. Besides leopards, expect to see sloth bears, elephants, wild water buffalo, and a stunning variety of bird species—125 bird species are recorded here.

A reviewer remarked, “Yala’s landscapes are simply spectacular, and the leopard sightings made the early start worthwhile.” The safari lasts about three hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the rugged terrain and spot wildlife.

After the safari, you’ll head south toward the coast, with a stop in Weligama around 11:30 am. Here, you can observe or even try stilt fishing, a traditional method that involves fishermen balancing on wooden poles in shallow waters. Many find this a charming and memorable cultural encounter, especially if you get a chance to chat with local fishermen or take a few photos of their skillful balancing act.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your selected beach destination, whether it’s Mirissa, Galle, Hikkaduwa, or another coastal town. The long drives are part of the experience, offering glimpses of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The price of $340 per person includes a night’s accommodation in a comfortable 3- or 4-star hotel with breakfast, all transportation in air-conditioned luxury vehicles, and safari jeep fees at both parks. These inclusions ensure maximum comfort and convenience.

The safari entrance fees, roughly US$35 each for Udawalawe and Yala, are not included, so be prepared for those additional costs. Also, food during the tour is not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries or pack snacks.

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Transport and Comfort

Travel is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives much more bearable. The driver’s charges and fuel are included, removing worries about hidden costs. The group is private, which offers a more relaxed, personalized atmosphere than large tour buses.

Timing and Flexibility

Starting times are listed as “check availability,” but the early morning start is consistent, allowing you to get the most out of each safari. The tour’s flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind if plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Many travelers praised the scenic beauty of the parks and the professional guides who help spot elusive animals. One review mentioned, “The landscape alone is worth the trip; I loved the sprawling plains of Udawalawe and the rugged terrain of Yala.”

The highlight for most is the elephant sightings in Udawalawe, described as “a heartwarming sight,” and the leopard chances in Yala—a true thrill even if not guaranteed. The cultural stop at Weligama’s stilt fishing receives praise as “a rare glimpse into local life that’s both fascinating and photogenic.”

Some feedback points out that early mornings are tough but ultimately rewarding, especially if wildlife sightings are your priority. “The early safari paid off—I saw a leopard relaxing in the sun,” one traveler wrote.

The Value Proposition

For just over $340, this tour packs in two full days of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural insight. When you consider the cost of private safaris, accommodation, and transportation booked separately, the package offers good value for a well-organized experience. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to maximize sights without the hassle of planning every detail.

While the price excludes park entry fees and meals, these are minor costs compared to the overall experience. The included luxury transportation and accommodation mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife rather than logistics.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits nature enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals like elephants and leopards. It’s ideal for those who appreciate comfort and convenience but are comfortable with early mornings and long drives.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka’s wilderness and culture, this tour offers a practical, memorable way to tick those boxes. It’s less suited for very young children or pregnant women due to early starts and the amount of driving, but for most active travelers, it hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Ella to Udawalawe and Yala parks makes wildlife and scenic experiences accessible and enjoyable, especially when paired with comfortable transportation and a bit of local culture. The chance to see elephants in Udawalawe, leopards in Yala, and traditional stilt fishing in Weligama provides a well-rounded snapshot of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural tapestry.

Travelers who appreciate good value, a balance of adventure and comfort, and unforgettable wildlife encounters will find this tour a fitting choice. It’s a great option for those with limited time but big wildlife dreams.

For those who want a smooth, guided experience that combines wildlife, waterfalls, and coastal charm in just two days, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts for two days, with starting times available upon booking.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, and those with back problems or pregnant women should consider their comfort with early mornings and long drives.

What is included in the price? The price covers one night’s accommodation with breakfast, private transportation, jeep safari charges, and all government taxes.

Are meals included? No, meals during the tour are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local restaurants or pack snacks.

How much are the park entrance fees? The entrance fees are approximately US$35 per person for each park, payable separately.

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

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for a day of outdoor activity.

Is the tour private or group? It’s a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention.

What kind of vehicle is used? An air-conditioned luxury private vehicle, making the long drives comfortable.

Where does the tour end? The tour concludes with a drop-off at your chosen beach destination along Sri Lanka’s south coast.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife and culture—ideal for travelers who want an authentic experience with a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: