From: Ella – Udawalawe Safari – Hiriketiya

Travelers seeking a close encounter with Sri Lanka’s renowned wildlife need look no further than this combined safari experience through Udawalawe National Park. Whether you opt for a half-day or a full-day adventure, this tour offers an authentic glimpse into the island’s natural harmony, all while enjoying the comfort of shared transportation and expert guides. It’s designed for those who cherish animals, scenic drives, and a touch of adventure—without the hefty price tag.

Two features particularly stand out: the chance to see elephants in their natural environment and the support for local conservation efforts, such as the Elephant Transit Home. However, keep in mind that the schedule is long, and early mornings are a must. But if you’re an animal lover or a first-time visitor wanting a comprehensive, budget-friendly safari, this trip fits the bill beautifully.

For travelers with limited time but a desire to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife, or those eager to combine a safari with a scenic transfer to the south coast, this tour offers a practical and meaningful option. Just prepare for an early start and some long hours on the road.

Key Points

• Wildlife in Action: Expect to see elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and possibly some elusive sloth bears in their natural habitat.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a morning or afternoon safari with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, or a full-day with three game drives for maximum wildlife viewing.
• Expert Guides: Guides are seasoned and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with insightful stories and spotting tips.
• Eco-friendly and Community Supportive: The operation emphasizes sustainability and benefits local communities.
• Comfortable Transport: Shared, air-conditioned vehicles for transfers and rugged 4X4 safaris for game drives ensure comfort and a 270-degree view.
• Thorough Itinerary: The tour covers park entry, game drives, feeding time at the Transit Home, and transfer logistics, making the day well-structured.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Adventure in Sri Lanka’s Wilderness

If you’re considering a safari from Ella to Udawalawe, you’ll want to understand what the day actually looks like. The tour is designed to maximize wildlife sightings, with options to suit different schedules and interests. We’ll break down what you can expect from each part of the experience, sharing insights to help you decide which version fits your trip.

The Pickup and Transfer: Early Mornings and Scenic Drives

Whether you start at 4:30 a.m. or 5:00 a.m., the day kicks off early. The pickup is from your hotel in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle on a sharing basis. The journey to Udawalawe takes approximately 2.25 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the early morning views and perhaps a quick chat with your guide about what to watch for.

Travel times are carefully planned so you arrive at the park around dawn—prime time for animal activity. Expect the transfer vehicles to be well-maintained, and guides to be friendly and knowledgeable, eager to point out interesting sights along the way.

Into the Park: Game Drives and Wildlife Encounters

Once inside Udawalawe, you switch to a shared 4X4 safari vehicle with individual seats and a 270-degree view—ideal for spotting wildlife. The morning or afternoon game drive lasts about three hours, providing ample time to explore key areas.

During the drive, you’re likely to see elephants, which are abundant here. The park’s open landscapes support a variety of animals, including crocodiles, buffalo, and sometimes elusive sloth bears. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse bird species flying overhead or resting along the water bodies.

The guides excel at spotting animals, often pointing out subtle movements or tracks, making the experience more engaging than just sitting and hoping. As one reviewer noted, “The guides are very knowledgeable, making every sighting feel special.”

Elephant Transit Home: A Heartwarming Visit

A highlight of the tour is visiting the Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary dedicated to caring for orphaned elephants. The timing varies depending on whether you choose the morning or afternoon session: morning visits happen after the safari, while afternoon visits come first.

Here, you’ll observe elephants being fed—an adorable and memorable scene. The facility is well-managed and supportive of conservation efforts, making this part of the tour not just entertaining but meaningful. The entrance fee is separate, around $12 USD, payable in cash.

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Breaks, Lunch, and Relaxed Observation

The tour includes a short break at Udawalawe for 20-30 minutes, allowing you to stretch, enjoy some snacks, or buy breakfast or lunch if you’ve pre-arranged. The optional picnic meals, costing around $8-$10 USD, can be a convenient way to fuel up without leaving the park environment.

For full-day participants, the schedule includes up to three game drives, with a longer break for lunch. This comprehensive approach maximizes your chances to see a variety of animals and enjoy different parts of the park.

Transfers to Hiriketiya: Scenic and Comfortable

After the safari, you’ll rejoin your transfer vehicle and head towards the south coast, with drop-offs in Hiriketiya, Tangalle, or nearby beaches. The entire journey from the park takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The shared transport and scenic routes make the entire experience seamless, freeing you from logistical worries.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The detailed itinerary makes this tour transparent and easy to plan around. Starting with the pickups from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, the trip immediately immerses you in the rural landscape.

Once at Udawalawe, your game drive is the core activity. The morning session begins early, with a chance to enjoy the park’s morning activity peak, followed by a visit to the Elephant Transit Home. The afternoon option flips this, giving you the morning to relax before heading out for the evening when some animals might be more active.

If you choose the full-day safari, you get up to three game drives—an intensive, wildlife-rich day. The schedule is structured to maximize your chances of sightings, with breaks for meals and rest woven in.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small group size (limited to 12 participants) ensures personalized attention, and the guides’ extensive knowledge enhances the experience. Several reviews praise guides for their patience and insight: “We loved the way the guides could spot animals others missed,” and “It felt like we were exploring with a friend who knew the park inside out.”

The shared safaris are a cost-effective way to enjoy the park without sacrificing comfort or viewing quality. The rugged 4X4 jeeps provide excellent vantage points, and the 270-degree views mean you won’t miss a thing.

Price and Value

At around $80 per person, including transfers, park entry, and a knowledgeable guide, this safari offers good value. The additional costs for park and elephant home entry are reasonable and transparent. Considering the length of the tour and the included amenities, most travelers will find it well worth the expense.

The optional meals are affordable, especially given the convenience of on-site food options or pre-arranged picnic meals. For those keen on maximizing wildlife sightings without the hassle of planning, this tour strikes a practical balance.

Authenticity and Sustainability

This operator emphasizes eco-friendly practices and support for local communities, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Supporting conservation efforts adds a layer of purpose to your wildlife viewing, which many travelers find satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If your goal is to see elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife in a well-organized, budget-friendly way, this safari ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for first-timers to Sri Lanka’s national parks or travelers who want a stress-free experience, with all logistics handled for you.

It also suits those interested in supporting conservation efforts while enjoying authentic wildlife encounters. The tour’s flexible options cater to different schedules, enabling you to choose a shorter or longer day according to your plans.

However, keep in mind the early start and the long hours involved. If you’re not a morning person or prefer relaxing on your vacation, consider opting for the full-day experience for maximum value and wildlife sightings.

The Sum Up

This safari from Ella to Udawalawe offers a compelling way to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. The combination of experienced guides, scenic transfers, and multiple game drives makes it a highly practical and authentic choice. It’s best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a meaningful wildlife experience without breaking the bank.

The opportunity to see elephants in the wild, coupled with visits to the Elephant Transit Home, adds a heartfelt dimension. The team’s dedication to sustainability and community support enhances the value of this trip beyond just sightseeing.

In short, if you’re after a well-rounded, affordable, and genuinely enriching safari that combines wildlife, scenery, and local conservation, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this safari?
Starting times vary depending on your chosen option—early mornings around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m. or in the afternoon, with check availability for precise times.

How are transfers handled?
Transfers are via air-conditioned shared vehicles on a sharing basis, from your hotel in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, to Udawalawe and onward to your hotel or accommodation near Hiriketiya or Tangalle.

What animals might I see?
Elephants are the main attraction, but you may also spot crocodiles, buffalo, sloth bears, and various bird species, depending on the time of day and animal activity.

Are meals included?
No, meals are optional and can be pre-arranged for an additional fee ($8 for breakfast, $10 for lunch, or $18 for both). You can also buy meals on-site.

What’s the duration of the full-day safari?
The full-day option lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, with three game drives and breaks for meals and rest.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 5 and below ride free, while those aged 6-12 pay half price. Children below 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

How much does park entry cost?
Park entrance fees are separate and approximately $37 USD, paid in cash in Sri Lankan Rupees.

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.

In sum, this Udawalawe safari tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, comfort, and eco-conscious travel—perfect for travelers eager to see Sri Lanka’s animals in their natural home without overcomplicating the logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here: