From Ella: Udawalawe & Yala National Parks 2-Day Tour

Traveling through Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes often means seeking out its remarkable wildlife, and this 2-day tour from Ella offers just that — a chance to see elephants, leopards, and bears in their natural habitat. Designed for nature lovers and curious adventurers alike, it’s a package that balances comfort with authentic wildlife encounters.

What we like most about this experience is its focus on two iconic national parks — Udawalawe, known for its elephant populations, and Yala, famous for leopards and other big cats. Plus, the inclusion of a cozy overnight stay in a hotel in Yala makes it easier to relax after exciting safari mornings.

One potential consideration is the cost of entrance fees, which aren’t included and add approximately $35 per park per person. So, budget-wise, it’s important to factor these in. However, the comprehensive transportation, guided safaris, and comfortable accommodation make it a convenient choice for travelers who prefer a well-organized wildlife adventure.

This tour suits travelers who want to see Sri Lanka’s wildlife without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transport. It’s perfect for those who enjoy early mornings, wildlife photography, or simply want a deeper connection with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Two National Parks: Visit Udawalawe for elephants and Yala for leopards and bears, ensuring a diverse wildlife experience.
• Comfortable stay: Overnight at a hotel in Yala on a bed and breakfast basis, making the journey relaxing.
• All-inclusive transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle with fuel and driver charges included, so you won’t worry about logistics.
• Wildlife safaris: Jeep safaris at both parks (additional fees apply) promise intimate wildlife encounters.
• Additional sights: Rawana Falls offers a scenic stop en route, adding a touch of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to book now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Wildlife Tour

If you’re eager to witness Sri Lanka’s famed wildlife, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. It is designed to maximize your chances of spotting iconic animals while providing comfortable transportation and a cozy place to rest.

Day 1: From Ella to Udawalawe and Yala

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Ella, a charming town nestled in the hill country. The journey is made easier by the air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you off without the stress of navigating Sri Lanka’s sometimes unpredictable roads. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of lush tea plantations and rural life.

Your first stop is the Rawana Falls — a popular and picturesque waterfall that’s often overlooked by travelers rushing between destinations. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and take in the natural beauty before heading to the safari parks.

Next, the focus shifts to Udawalawe National Park. Known for its large herds of elephants, this park is a favorite for wildlife photographers and nature lovers. The half-day game drive involves hopping into a jeep with a guide who will share insights about the park’s flora and fauna. As one review noted, “We loved how close we got to the elephants — it felt like a special privilege.” Expect to see water buffalo, monkeys, lizards, and perhaps some elusive leopards, though they are less common in Udawalawe.

After your safari, you’ll continue to Yala, where a comfortable hotel awaits. Settling in for the night on a bed and breakfast basis lets you relax and recharge for the early morning ahead.

Day 2: Yala’s Safari and onward journey

The highlight of day two is the early morning safari in Yala National Park. This is Sri Lanka’s most renowned park for spotting leopards, with some visitors even catching sightings of sloth bears or crocodiles. The early start is worth it, as wildlife tends to be most active at dawn. The guides are experienced and eager to help you spot these elusive animals, making for a memorable experience.

One guest commented, “We managed to see a leopard lounging in the bushes — a real highlight of our trip.” That said, wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, so it’s best to go with realistic expectations.

Post-safari, your trip concludes with a transfer back to Arugam Bay, perfect if you’re planning to relax on Sri Lanka’s eastern beaches afterward.

Transport, Accommodation, and Overall Value

The private vehicle, with all fuel and driver charges included, offers peace of mind and flexibility. You can relax knowing the logistics are handled, allowing you to focus on the experience. The accommodation, rated 3 or 4 stars, provides a comfortable base after long mornings on safari.

While the price is $340 per person, it’s important to remember that this includes transport, safaris (jeep charges), and lodging. Entrance fees to the parks are additional, but roughly $35 each, per park, is a reasonable expense for access to these protected areas.

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What Travelers Say

People often mention how well-organized the tour is, especially appreciating the transportation logistics and the chance to see big wildlife in natural settings. Some reviews highlight the early morning safaris as the most exciting part, while others appreciate the opportunity to visit Rawana Falls. There are notes about the potential for wildlife sightings being unpredictable but worth the effort.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather — early mornings can be cool, but daytime can get hot.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• A camera with a zoom lens is ideal for wildlife photography.
• Be prepared for early departures — safaris typically start around dawn.
• Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance; guides will help you do so.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic animals. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer a packaged tour that handles all logistics, so they can focus on enjoying the experience.

It’s not suited for very young children (under 6), pregnant women, or people with health issues related to back problems, as safaris involve some bumpy jeep rides and early mornings.

If you’re looking for a balanced combination of wildlife, scenic stops, and comfortable accommodation, this tour checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Ella offers a solid, well-organized way to glimpse some of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife and landscapes. The combination of safaris in Udawalawe and Yala, along with a scenic stop at Rawana Falls, provides a well-rounded experience for those who want to see animals in their natural environment, without the hassle of self-planning.

The included transportation, comfortable hotel stay, and flexible booking terms make it a convenient choice for travelers willing to invest a little more to ensure a smooth, memorable adventure. While the entrance fees are extra, the overall value for the chance to see elephants, leopards, and bears in two of Sri Lanka’s top parks makes this a worthwhile option.

If wildlife is high on your Sri Lanka bucket list, and you prefer a guided, comfortable experience, this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Are the safaris included in the price?
The safaris are included in the package price, but jeep charges for the safaris are extra, approximately $35 each park per person.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in a 3 or 4-star hotel in Yala on a bed and breakfast basis, offering a comfortable place to relax after your safari adventures.

How long are the safaris?
The safaris are half-day in Udawalawe and early morning in Yala, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the parks without feeling rushed.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from Ella and takes you through the journey, with all driver and fuel charges covered.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for the weather. Don’t forget your wildlife enthusiasm!

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back problems, due to early start times and jeep rides.

What if I don’t see certain animals?
Wildlife sightings depend on luck and animal activity; guides do their best but cannot guarantee sightings of specific animals.

Can I extend my trip after the tour?
Yes, the tour concludes in Arugam Bay, so you can plan to stay longer on the beaches or explore further.

This tour balances adventure and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore Sri Lanka’s remarkable wildlife while enjoying the ease of organized travel.

You can check availability for your dates here: