From: Ahungalla – Udawalawe Safari – To: Ella

Travelers looking for a true wildlife experience in Sri Lanka might find this Safari tour from Ahungalla to Ella a compelling choice. It offers a mix of adventure, scenic drives, and a glimpse into the island’s renowned elephant populations. Whether you opt for a quick game drive or a full day exploring Udawalawe’s wilderness, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s iconic animals.

What we love about this experience: first, the opportunity to observe elephants in their natural habitat—a highlight for many wildlife fans. Second, the flexibility in scheduling, with options for half-day or full-day safaris that suit different travel plans and interests. The possible drawback? The tour’s timing is early and long, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re a morning person or eager to maximize your wildlife sightings, this tour delivers value and adventure in spades.

This experience is perfect for those who want an authentic wildlife encounter combined with scenic transfers, especially if you’re traveling from the southwestern beaches to central highlands. It suits travelers who appreciate a small-group atmosphere and are okay with some early mornings and full-day commitments.

Key Points

• Wildlife viewing: Spot elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and many bird species in Udawalawe National Park.
• Flexible options: Choose between a morning/afternoon safari with Elephant Transit Home visit or a full-day adventure with three game drives.
• Eco-friendly and community-supported: The tour emphasizes sustainable practices and supports local communities.
• Comfortable transport: Ride in air-conditioned vehicles, with safari jeeps designed for optimal wildlife viewing.
• Timing and convenience: Early pick-up from southwestern beaches, with drop-offs in Ella or nearby areas, making it easy to connect with your broader Sri Lanka itinerary.
• Cost analysis: $127 per person covers transportation, guides, and safari arrangements, but park and elephant transit fees are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

Introduction to the Tour Options

This tour, operated by Ajith Safari Jeep Tours with over 30 years of experience, offers two main options: a half-day safari—either in the morning or afternoon—paired with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, or an all-day adventure including three game drives stretching from early morning to late afternoon.

Why Choose This Tour?

Travelers consistently praise the expert guides and the well-maintained safari jeeps. The guides’ extensive knowledge of the park and its inhabitants means you’re not just sitting in a vehicle, but gaining insights into the behavior and ecology of Sri Lanka’s wilderness. Multiple reviews mention the personalized service and the small group size of limited 12 participants, which enhances the experience.

Transport and Logistics

The journey begins with a pick-up around 4:00 a.m. from several locations along the southwestern coast—Ambalangoda, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Balapitiya, or Ambalangoda—offering convenience for those based near beaches or hotels. The transfer to Udawalawe takes approximately 2.75 hours in air-conditioned vehicles, a necessary respite after an early start.

Once at Udawalawe, travelers switch into rugged 4X4 safari jeeps with individual seats and a 270-degree view, perfect for spotting wildlife. The safari itself lasts three hours in the morning or late afternoon, depending on your choice, giving ample time to see animals in their usual routines.

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The Safari Itself

The park is one of Sri Lanka’s best spots for wildlife in their natural setting. Expect to see elephants—the park’s star attraction—along with crocodiles sunning themselves on river banks. The presence of sloth bears and buffaloes adds to the excitement, especially for seasoned wildlife enthusiasts.

What makes Udawalawe particularly special is its reputation as a sanctuary for elephants. Many reviews highlight how the elephants seem unbothered by jeeps, providing excellent photo opportunities. The Elephant Transit Home, which you visit during the trip, offers a chance to see baby elephants being fed at specified times (10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), and many visitors find this a heartwarming highlight.

The Elephant Transit Home

The ETH visit is included in the tour, and it’s a delightful interlude. You’re able to observe young elephants being fed and playing in a natural, open setting. The timing of the visit varies depending on whether you choose the morning or afternoon safari, with the guide adjusting the itinerary accordingly. The entrance fee to ETH (around USD 12) is not included, but many find it worth adding for the up-close view of elephant calves.

Food and Breaks

For the full-day safari, a lunch break is built into the schedule, with an optional picnic meal or purchaseable options at around USD 8-10. The afternoon safari also includes a short break for breakfast or snacks, typically purchased in advance or brought along.

Scenic Transfer to Ella

After finishing the safari and ETH visit, you’ll journey approximately 2 hours towards Ella. An optional 20-minute stop near Rawana Ella Waterfall provides a scenic photo opportunity, although this depends on your route and timing. The drop-off is typically around 1:00 p.m. for the half-day or 8:15 p.m. for the full-day options, at hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya.

Pricing and Value

At $127 per person, the tour covers transportation, guides, and jeep arrangements, making it a good deal considering the inclusive nature of the safari experience. However, entrance fees to the park and ETH are additional, roughly USD 37 and USD 12 respectively. Adding meals costs extra, but options are available, and pre-booking meals ensures no surprises.

Authenticity and Support

A notable aspect is the tour’s support for sustainable and eco-friendly practices. It also aids the local community, which adds an ethical dimension to your wildlife adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, or anyone wanting a close encounter with Sri Lanka’s elephants. Its flexible schedule suits travelers who prefer early mornings and full-day activity. It’s also well-suited for those who value small-group tours for a more personal experience. However, it might not be perfect for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and early hours.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Safari

• Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Bring cash in Sri Lankan Rupees for park and ETH entrance fees, as card payments are not accepted.
• Prepare for early mornings and a full day on your feet, with comfortable clothing, hat, and sunscreen.
• Consider meals ahead of time if you want to skip extra costs, or pre-arrange meals with the tour provider.
• Opt for the full-day safari if you’re eager to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities, but be ready for a long day.
• Small group size means your experience feels intimate, but it also emphasizes punctuality and flexibility.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The $127 fee covers transportation from select southwestern beaches, a safari jeep experience, guides, and transfers between the park and Ella. Entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are paid separately.

Are meals included?
No, meals are optional and not included in the base price. You can buy breakfast or lunch on-site for around USD 8-10, or request pre-arranged meals in advance.

What is the best time of day to go on the safari?
The tour offers morning and afternoon options, typically starting around 4:00 a.m. or 11:30 a.m., respectively. Early mornings are often best for wildlife activity.

How long does the entire trip last?
Duration varies from 9 hours for the half-day options to approximately 16.5 hours for the full-day safari, including transfers, park time, and meals.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants are the main attraction, but expect crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and many bird species in the park’s diverse environment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 5 ride free, and those between 5-12 pay half. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides are experienced, and jeeps are well-maintained. Still, expect rugged terrain and early starts, so pack accordingly.

Can I customize the pickup or drop-off locations?
If your hotel is outside the specified areas, contact the provider for arrangements and potential extra charges.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the tour emphasizes sustainable practices and supports the local community, ensuring your wildlife viewing has a positive impact.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to your planning.

This safari tour offers a well-organized, authentic way to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a natural setting. It balances adventure with comfort, thanks to knowledgeable guides, good vehicles, and flexible scheduling options. Whether you’re seeking a quick wildlife fix or a full day of exploration, the tour provides value without sacrificing authenticity.

It’s best suited for nature enthusiasts, photography buffs, and those who enjoy small-group experiences. If early mornings and long days don’t scare you off, this safari promises some memorable encounters with the island’s gentle giants and other creatures of the wild.

For travelers eager to see Sri Lanka’s elephants in the wild and experience its lush scenery, this tour strikes a compelling balance between convenience, adventure, and responsible tourism.

You can check availability for your dates here: