From Ella: Udawalawe National Park Safari with Elephant

From Ella: Udawalawe National Park Safari with Elephant

Traveling in Sri Lanka often means exploring its captivating landscapes and unique wildlife. This particular day trip from Ella to Udawalawe National Park offers a blend of adventure, nature, and heartwarming encounters—perfect for those who love animals and scenic views. While we haven’t yet experienced it firsthand, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of a well-balanced, authentic wildlife adventure that’s accessible for most travelers.

What stands out are the chance to see large herds of elephants in their natural habitat and the opportunity to visit the Elephant Transit Home, where rescued baby elephants are cared for before being released back into the wild. Plus, the scenic stops at Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall promise moments of relaxation and picture-perfect scenery.

A possible consideration? The entry fees and safari jeep costs aren’t included in the base price, which could add to the overall expense, especially if you’re traveling as a small group. But for many, the convenience of a private transport, combined with the chance to see elephants and other wildlife in a single day, makes this a worthwhile outing. This tour suits travelers who want a focused, nature-oriented day without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

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Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Excellent opportunity to see elephants and other native animals in Udawalawe National Park.
• Conservation Connection: Visit the Elephant Transit Home and observe orphaned elephants during feeding, adding an ethical and educational element.
• Scenic Highlights: Enjoy peaceful moments at Udawalawe Lake and the spectacular Ravana Waterfall.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private vehicle with an English-speaking driver, hotel pickup, bottled water, and a small group size for a personalized experience.
• Additional Costs: Entry fees and safari jeep costs are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Timing: Early departure in the morning maximizes wildlife sightings and park experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Udawalawe Safari Experience

Starting Early from Ella: Setting the Pace for a Wildlife-Rich Day

The adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Ella. This timing is crucial for getting the most out of your safari, as animals tend to be more active in the cooler hours and early mornings are generally less crowded. The round-trip comfort of a private vehicle or van means you can relax and enjoy the scenic drive through rural Sri Lanka, with the driver providing insights or answering questions along the way.

The cost of the vehicle, along with an English-speaking driver, is included, but keep in mind the safari jeep, which is essential for exploring Udawalawe’s vast plains, costs extra and is typically shared among passengers. This arrangement makes the experience more flexible and intimate compared to larger group tours.

Safari in Udawalawe National Park: Spotting the Big and Small

Once inside Udawalawe, the real fun begins. The park is renowned for its large elephant population, often seen grazing or bathing near water sources. Expect your guide to navigate the jeep through open grasslands, where wildlife viewing is often a matter of patience and a bit of luck.

The park is also home to water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species—making each safari a new chance to see something extraordinary. Reviewers mention that the park’s expansive vistas and the chance to watch animals in their natural environment are unforgettable. One noted, “The safari was fantastic, and we loved the way the elephants were free to roam around, not in confined spaces.”

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Elephant Transit Home: A Heartwarming Visit

After your game drive, you’ll visit the Elephant Transit Home, a facility dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned elephants. Visiting during feeding times—which are advised to be scheduled in advance—provides the best opportunity for up-close encounters with adorable baby elephants.

The Elephant Transit Home isn’t just about cute photos; it’s a place where you learn about conservation efforts and the challenges faced by orphaned wildlife. Several reviews praise this part of the tour for its educational value and the chance to see elephants in a more relaxed, less wild environment. One reviewer shared, “Getting to see the baby elephants being fed and playing was a highlight that made the whole day special.”

Scenic Stops: Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall

Midway through your trip, you’ll pause at Udawalawe Lake. This tranquil spot offers stunning views, perfect for photos or a quick rest. Expect to see water birds and perhaps some distant elephants crossing or drinking—adding to the day’s wildlife sightings.

On the way back, the stop at Ravana Waterfall is a short, refreshing break. The waterfall is a local favorite, with lush surroundings and a powerful cascade. Reviewers often mention how this quick stop provides a relaxing moment away from the safari’s excitement, ideal for some photos or simply enjoying the cool mist.

Returning to Ella: Reflecting on a Day Well Spent

As the day ends, your driver will take you back to Ella, typically arriving in the evening. This full-day itinerary makes the most of your time, packing in wildlife, scenic beauty, and the chance to learn about elephant conservation—all without the need for multiple bookings or complicated logistics.

Cost and Value Considerations

The tour costs about $178 for up to four people, which breaks down to roughly $44 per person. That’s a reasonable price when you factor in private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and the convenience of an organized trip. However, the entry fees to the park ($50 USD per person) and the safari jeep are additional costs, which can add up, especially for small groups.

Many reviewers feel that the value lies in the ease and quality of the experience—you’re transported comfortably, guided by an English-speaking driver who can enrich the trip with local insights, and you get to see some of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife. For wildlife lovers and those pressed for time, this day trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to connect with nature.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book ahead and confirm the feeding times at the Elephant Transit Home for the best experience.
• Bring a hat, camera, snacks, and sunscreen—the sun can be strong, and you’ll want to capture moments.
• Be prepared for additional costs—entry tickets and safari jeep fees aren’t included in the base price.
• Early departure is key to maximizing your wildlife sightings and avoiding crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for animal lovers, wildlife photographers, and anyone seeking a convenient, all-in-one day from Ella. It’s also good for families, small groups, or solo travelers who want a personalized experience without the hassle of self-organizing transport and park logistics.

Those with limited time in Sri Lanka will appreciate the focused nature of this tour—covering key wildlife highlights, scenic stops, and a meaningful visit to an elephant conservation project.

However, if you’re particularly keen on seeing a broader variety of wildlife or prefer more flexible, longer safaris, you might want to consider other options or extending your time in the park itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
You get a private car or van with an English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and the safari jeep (not included in the base price).

Are entry fees and safari costs included?
No, they are additional. Entry to Udawalawe National Park costs about $50 USD per person, and the safari jeep is not included in the main price.

What is the best time to visit the Elephant Transit Home?
It’s best to visit during feeding times for the most fun and engaging experience with the baby elephants, so check the schedule in advance.

How long does the safari last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the overall day trip is designed to maximize your wildlife sightings and scenic stops within a single day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, consider the early start and walking involved at the stops. Check with the provider if you have specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
A hat, camera, snacks, and sunscreen are recommended. Smoking is not allowed during the tour.

Is this a small group experience?
Yes, limited to four participants, which helps keep the atmosphere personalized and comfortable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Udawalawe National Park safari from Ella offers a well-rounded, wildlife-focused day that combines adventure with conservation education. The small-group setup and private transport make it comfortable and personal, especially suited for those who want to avoid crowded tours.

You’ll get a good chance to see elephants in their natural habitat, learn about their protection, and enjoy scenic stops that round out the experience. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a special, meaningful day in Sri Lanka’s wilderness without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

While extra costs for park entry and safari jeeps are a consideration, many find the overall value—especially with hotel pickup and the chance for genuine wildlife encounters—well worth it.

In essence, this tour is perfect if you’re after a convenient, wildlife-rich day that leaves you with memorable images and stories to tell. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, a family, or a solo explorer, it offers a sincere taste of Sri Lanka’s vibrant natural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: