From Ella: Udawalawa Safari and Tangalle/Hiriketiya Transfer

Discovering Sri Lanka’s Wildlife with the Ella to Udawalawa Safari and Transfer

Our review focuses on a popular tour that promises a blend of wildlife adventure and comfortable transport — the Udawalawa Safari and Tangalle/Hiriketiya Transfer from Ella. It’s a package designed for travelers who want to see elephants and other native animals without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

We love that this tour includes a 3-hour safari in Udawalawa National Park, known for its impressive herds of elephants and abundant birdlife. The fact that it offers door-to-door service from Ella to the southern coast makes it a seamless experience, especially for those tired of navigating public transport or juggling multiple taxis.

However, there’s a small caveat: the entrance fee to Udawalawa National Park is not included in the price, so budget accordingly. Also, the reviews suggest that communication about pickup times can be a bit inconsistent, so travelers should be prepared for some coordination.

This tour is ideal for those who want a quick wildlife fix combined with a comfortable transfer, especially if you’re heading from Ella to somewhere along the southern coast — perfect for a day of adventure and relaxation in one go.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalo, and endemic bird species during a 3-hour safari.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long transfer more enjoyable, especially in Sri Lanka’s warm climate.
• Flexible Drop-off Options: After the safari, you can be dropped off at Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Talalla, or Matara, depending on your itinerary.
• Guided Experience: The professional driver/guide is knowledgeable, providing insights and helping you spot wildlife.
• Value for Money: At $69 per person, it’s a straightforward price for the combined safari and transfer, but remember park entry fees are extra.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the guides and scenery, some mention late pickups and communication issues, so planning ahead is wise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Ella, Haputale, or Bandarawela — no fuss, no need to navigate. From there, you’ll head towards Udawalawa National Park, a protected area famed for its large elephant herds. The drive itself is comfortable, with an air-conditioned vehicle making the long journey pleasant, especially after several days of Sri Lanka’s tropical heat.

Once at the park, you’ll switch to an open safari jeep — the best way to get close to the animals and enjoy unobstructed views. The open Jeep allows you to feel more immersed in the natural environment, and you’ll have chances to see elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and water buffalo, which are often seen wallowing along the riverbanks or grazing in the open plains.

A key highlight, noted by travelers such as Alessa, is the peacefulness of the park and the “breathtaking” sightings of animals. The guide’s local knowledge shines here, often helping spot elusive creatures or pointing out interesting behaviors. Bram mentioned that their guide, Pathum, “knew all the animals we spotted and had some cool facts,” enriching the experience with useful insights.

Wildlife and Scenery

Most visitors will find the wildlife to be the main draw. Watching a herd of elephants in their natural habitat is a moment that sticks with many travelers. The early morning or late afternoon start is recommended because animals are more active during these times.

You’ll love the views along the park’s waterways, where crocodiles sometimes bask in the sun, and water birds soar overhead. The combination of lush greenery, water reflections, and the occasional trumpeting elephants creates a truly memorable scene.

Post-Safari Transfer and Drop-off

After the safari, you’ll return to your vehicle for the transfer to your hotel or accommodation in the southern coastal towns of Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Talalla, or Matara. The ride offers a chance to relax and reflect on your wildlife encounters, or enjoy the changing scenery as you head toward the coast.

Travelers like Anastasia, who appreciated the door-to-door convenience, found this part of the tour straightforward, though she did mention the importance of confirming pickup times in advance to avoid early morning surprises.

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Pricing and Value

At $69 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value, considering the cost includes transportation, a guided safari, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Keep in mind that park entrance fees are not included, which may add a modest extra expense.

This all-in-one approach is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing separate bookings for transport and activities. It’s particularly attractive for travelers short on time or those who want a reliable, guided experience with less planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants and other animals without extensive planning. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, stress-free transfer from Ella to the coastline. With guided feedback and a small group setting, you’ll have a more intimate experience compared to large tour buses.

Who Might Find It Less Appealing?

If you’re a serious wildlife buff, you might find the 3-hour safari somewhat brief or want to include park entry fees in the price. Also, if communication about pickups is crucial to you, be aware that some reviews highlight late or unconfirmed pickups.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combined safari and transfer tour offers a practical way to see Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants and wildlife, with the convenience of door-to-door service. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with a smooth journey along the coast, without the stress of multiple bookings.

The tour provides a balance of comfort and excitement. You get a guided, informative safari experience that can be the highlight of a day, along with the ease of trusting a professional driver to handle the logistics. The scenic views of the park, combined with the chance to observe animals in their natural habitat, make it a memorable part of any Sri Lanka adventure.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in its simplicity and comfort—a good choice for those prioritizing stress-free travel and authentic wildlife encounters. Just remember, a little extra cash for the park entry fees and confirming your pickup is a wise move.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from anywhere in the Ella area, making it a convenient start to your day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including the safari, transfer, and drop-off.

How long is the safari?
The safari itself is 3 hours, giving you ample time to see elephants and other wildlife.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water or snacks for the day.

Is park entrance fee included?
No, the entrance fee to Udawalawa National Park is extra and not covered in the tour price.

What kind of vehicle do we travel in?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle for the long transfer, and switch to an open safari Jeep for the wildlife viewing.

Can I be dropped off anywhere?
Yes, after the safari, you can be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation in Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Talalla, or Matara.

What if my pickup time is late or I need to reschedule?
Some reviews note late pickups or communication issues. It’s wise to confirm your pickup details the day before, if possible.

Would this tour suit children or families?
Yes, the safari’s gentle wildlife encounters and comfortable transport make it suitable for families, with adult supervision.

This tour offers a straightforward way to combine wildlife adventure with travel convenience. It’s a practical choice for those eager to see elephants and enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty without complicated logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here: