From Ella : Udawalawe & YALA Safaris With Breakfast & Lunch

Embarking on a remarkable 14.5-hour adventure, travelers will discover the captivating wildlife havens of Udawalawe and YALA National Parks from the picturesque town of Ella. This immersive experience promises exhilarating safaris, where guests can spot majestic elephants and a diverse array of fauna in rugged 4×4 vehicles, guided by experienced drivers. Interspersed with a hearty breakfast and a delectable local lunch in Tissamaharama, the tour also includes a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, offering insights into wildlife conservation efforts. With a personalized touch and a limited group size, this excursion guarantees an unforgettable adventure that will leave travelers yearning for more.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive full-day tour from Ella that includes safaris in Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, with pickup, transportation, meals, and entrance fees included.
• Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as elephants, leopards, and sloth bears, with insights provided by an experienced driver-guide.
• Visits to the Elephant Transit Home for a behind-the-scenes look at elephant conservation efforts.
• Scenic journey to Tissamaharama for a local lunch, allowing time to recharge between the morning and afternoon safaris.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, making it convenient for travelers.

Overview and Pricing

This adventure through Udawalawe and YALA National Parks costs from $144.57 per person, offering an opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s renowned wildlife havens.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the Reserve now & pay later option is available.

The immersive 14.5-hour experience includes morning and afternoon safaris in the national parks, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and delectable meals.

With small group sizes, an air-conditioned transfer, and an experienced driver-guide, this tour ensures a safe and comfortable journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating natural wonders.

Pickup and Transportation

Guests are picked up from hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya, with three convenient departure time options of 4:30 a.m., 5:00 a.m., or 5:30 a.m.

Comfortable air-conditioned cars or mini-vans transport the small group, limited to 12 participants. An experienced driver cum guide ensures a safe and comfortable journey, providing insights along the way.

The intimate group size allows for a more personalized experience as you embark on your wildlife adventure through Udawalawe and YALA National Parks.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

The safari at Udawalawe National Park kicks off the wildlife adventure. Guests will spend 2.5 hours exploring this vast, arid landscape, spotting herds of majestic elephants roaming freely.

The rugged 4×4 vehicles navigate the park’s winding trails, providing an up-close encounter with Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna. Travelers may catch sight of buffaloes, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

The experienced driver-guide shares insights about the park’s ecology and wildlife, enhancing the overall experience.

After the safari, guests enjoy a 30-minute breakfast break, refueling with sandwiches, boiled eggs, sausages, and fresh Sri Lankan fruits before continuing their journey.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

Visiting the Elephant Transit Home provides a rare opportunity to witness the rehabilitation and care of orphaned baby elephants.

This sanctuary, located near Udawalawe National Park, serves as a temporary home for young elephants until they’re ready to be released back into the wild.

Guests can observe the caretakers bottle-feeding the calves, who eagerly await their daily feedings.

The tranquil setting allows visitors to appreciate the dedicated efforts to nurture and protect these vulnerable creatures.

It’s a heartwarming experience that highlights the importance of conservation and the delicate balance between human intervention and the elephants’ natural habitats.

Tissamaharama and Lunch Break

After the morning safari at Udawalawe, the tour heads to the charming town of Tissamaharama, where a well-deserved lunch break awaits.

Nestled near the famous YALA National Park, Tissamaharama offers a peaceful respite from the excitement of the morning. During the 1.5-hour journey, guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside views.

Upon arrival, they’ll savor a delicious local lunch spread, featuring rice, spicy curries, and fresh fruits. This nourishing meal provides the energy needed for the upcoming afternoon safari at YALA.

The lunch break gives travelers a chance to recharge, reflect on the day’s sightings, and prepare for more wildlife adventures.

YALA National Park Safari

Following the lunch break in Tissamaharama, guests journey on towards the renowned YALA National Park, where the afternoon safari commences.

The 3-hour safari in YALA explores the park’s diverse landscapes, from scrublands to lagoons, in search of its abundant wildlife. Guests may spot majestic elephants, timid leopards, playful sloth bears, and a wide array of birds.

The experienced driver-guide navigates the rugged terrain, sharing insights about the park’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.

The afternoon adventure in YALA completes the day’s wildlife-filled experience, leaving guests with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Inclusions and Costs

The package includes a range of services that cater to the needs of travelers.

Pickup and drop-off are included, along with a professional driver-cum-guide to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Participants will enjoy wildlife safaris in rugged 4×4 vehicles at both Udawalawe and YALA National Parks.

Meals are provided, including a hearty breakfast of sandwiches, boiled eggs, sausages, and local fruits, as well as a lunch of rice, curries, and more.

All necessary entrance fees are covered, including those for Udawalawe, the Elephant Transit Home, and YALA.

Bottled water is available throughout the day, keeping guests hydrated.

With these inclusions, the tour offers excellent value for the price.

Important Information

Entrance fees for the national parks and Elephant Transit Home must be paid in cash using Sri Lankan rupees at the respective park entrances.

A minimum of two guests is required per booking, though children aged 5 and below can join for free, while those 5-12 receive a 50% discount.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the rugged nature of the 4×4 vehicles used for the safaris.

However, customer reviews indicate high satisfaction with the tour’s organization, experienced drivers, and the quality of the provided meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Meals?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian or dietary-restricted meals upon request. Guests can inform the tour provider of their dietary needs, and they’ll accommodate them during the provided breakfast and lunch.

How Do I Get to the Pickup Location if I’m Not Staying in Ella?

Travelers not staying in Ella can arrange alternative pickup locations with the tour operator. The company provides pick-up services from hotels in nearby towns such as Bandarawela and Wellawaya to ensure easy access to the safari excursion.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Safari Tour?

Yes, the tour provider allows guests to store their luggage during the safari. Participants can leave their bags at the pickup location, so they can enjoy the tour without having to worry about their belongings.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

While the standard tour duration is 14.5 hours, guests can’t extend the safari time. However, the itinerary provides ample time for wildlife viewing at both Udawalawe and Yala National Parks to maximize the experience.

What Should I Bring for the Safari Besides the Provided Items?

For the safari, visitors should bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars to spot wildlife, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and animals. Bug spray is also recommended to ward off mosquitoes.

The Sum Up

This exhilarating 14.5-hour adventure from Ella offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonders of Udawalawe and Yala National Parks. Witness majestic elephants and diverse wildlife in rugged 4×4 vehicles, explore the Elephant Transit Home, and indulge in delectable local cuisine. With a personalized touch and convenient hotel pickup, this tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and enriching experiences.