From : Ella – YALA Safari – To: Hikkaduwa (Special Offer)

Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife on an unforgettable journey from Ella to Hikkaduwa. This special offer by a reputable tour operator promises an immersive 9-hour safari experience, complete with a thrilling 3-hour game drive in a rugged 4×4 and a relaxing break at the picturesque Patanangala Beach. Priced at just LKR 1,004 per person, this eco-friendly adventure allows you to witness the country’s iconic leopards and elephants while supporting sustainable tourism. With a convenient reserve now, pay later option, this offer is not to be missed. But the real question is, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes?

Good To Know

• Enjoy a 9-hour YALA National Park safari starting from Ella, Wellawaya, or Bandarawela, with a drop-off in Hikkaduwa.
• The safari package includes free cancellation up to 24 hours, a "reserve now, pay later" option, and a 30-minute beach break.
• Experience the park’s diverse wildlife, including a high density of leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.
• Sustainable safari operations support local communities and minimize environmental impact, fostering an eco-tourism experience.
• Pricing starts at LKR 1,004 per person, with additional charges for the taxi service and YALA National Park entrance fee.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Ella, Wellawaya, or Bandarawela to Hikkaduwa typically costs from LKR 1,004 per person.

This 9-hour safari experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

Plus, the safari includes a taxi fee of US$84 for up to 3 guests, with an extra US$42 per person for more than 3 guests.

Entrance to YALA National Park costs approximately 11,000 LKR (37 USD) per person, while optional meals like breakfast (USD 8) and lunch (USD 10) are available for an additional charge.

Itinerary and Experience

The safari experience begins with a pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Ella, Wellawaya, or Bandarawela.

Depending on the selected option, the safari can start as early as 3:00 a.m. or as late as 11:45 a.m. The transfer vehicle is an air-conditioned car or minivan, shared with other guests.

Once at the YALA National Park, the safari continues in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4, also shared with other travelers.

The 3-hour wildlife viewing includes two game drives, lasting 2 hours and 1 hour, respectively. Travelers also get a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach to stretch their legs.

Wildlife and Eco-Tourism Focus

YALA National Park is renowned for its unparalleled leopard density, hosting an estimated 100 individual leopards within its expansive wilderness.

Home to a diverse array of wildlife, the park offers thrilling opportunities to spot elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and a vast array of bird species.

The safari operations are designed with sustainability in mind, supporting local communities while minimizing environmental impact.

The best times to witness the park’s rich flora and fauna are during the dawn and dusk hours when the animals are most active.

This eco-tourism experience allows visitors to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders while contributing to their preservation.

Transportation and Logistics

Your safari adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya. Authorized safari drivers with special licenses from the Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka will transport you in an air-conditioned car or minivan. Ensure timely communication with your hotel staff regarding your pickup location. Once the safari is complete, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Dodanduwa, or Rathgama.

Pickup Area	Vehicle Type	Drop-off Locations
Ella	Air-conditioned car/minivan	Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Dodanduwa, Rathgama
Bandarawela	Air-conditioned car/minivan	Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Dodanduwa, Rathgama
Wellawaya	Air-conditioned car/minivan	Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Dodanduwa, Rathgama

Important Information and Restrictions

Despite its thrilling wildlife encounters, this safari may not be suitable for all travelers.

The tour is restricted to guests who aren’t pregnant, don’t have back problems, and aren’t wheelchair users.

While children aged 5 and below can ride for free, those between 5-12 years old will be charged 50% of the adult fare.

A minimum of two guests is required for booking.

Guests must pay the taxi fee and any meal charges at the Ajith Safari Office before the safari, while the entrance fee to YALA National Park can be paid in cash (LKR) or by credit card directly at the park entrance.

Package Inclusions

The package includes a transfer vehicle, a safari vehicle, and access to YALA National Park.

The transfer vehicle is an air-conditioned car or minivan, which is on a sharing basis. The safari vehicle is a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4, also on a sharing basis with individual seats.

The package provides a 3-hour game drive in YALA National Park, including two separate drives of 2 hours and 1 hour. Plus, it includes a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach.

The tour supports sustainable safari operations and local communities. Guests can expect to spot various wildlife such as leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and diverse bird species, typically during dawn or dusk.

Booking and Payment

Booking this tour is straightforward. You can reserve now and pay later to secure your spot. The process involves three easy steps:

1. Choose your preferred safari timeslot – either the morning pickup at 3:00 a.m. or the afternoon options at 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.

2. Provide your hotel details for pickup and drop-off, which can be in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya.

3. Pay the taxi fee and any additional meal costs at the Ajith Safari Office before the safari, while the YALA National Park entrance fee can be paid in cash (LKR) or by credit card upon arrival.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for a full refund. This flexible policy ensures guests can book with confidence, knowing they can receive a complete reimbursement if plans change.

The tour operator understands unexpected events can occur, so this cancellation window provides ample time to adjust arrangements without penalty. Guests who need to cancel closer to the safari date may incur fees, but the operator aims to be as accommodating as possible.

This commitment to customer satisfaction is part of providing a seamless and stress-free experience. With the reserve now, pay later option, guests can secure their spot early without an upfront payment, further adding to the convenience of booking this YALA safari adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Safari Duration or Timings?

The tour operator offers some flexibility in customizing the safari duration or timings. Guests can choose between morning or afternoon safaris, and the duration can be adjusted based on their preferences and availability.

Are Private Tours Available for Larger Groups?

Yes, private tours are available for larger groups. The tour operator offers custom options with private vehicles and exclusive safari experiences to accommodate groups of 4 or more travelers seeking a more personalized adventure.

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The dress code for the safari is casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear light, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat or sunglasses to protect against the sun. Layering is recommended as the temperature can fluctuate.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, but the tour doesn’t allow outside food or beverages in the safari vehicle. There are meal options available for purchase to ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience.

Do You Provide Binoculars or Other Equipment?

The tour operator does not provide binoculars or other equipment. Guests are responsible for bringing their own binoculars or other gear they may need to enhance their wildlife viewing experience during the safari.

The Sum Up

The Yala Safari from Ella to Hikkaduwa offers an unforgettable adventure. Guests will experience diverse wildlife, including the chance to spot leopards and elephants, on a thrilling 3-hour safari. The package also includes hotel pickup, a relaxing break at Patanangala Beach, and supports sustainable tourism. With a special offer starting at just LKR 1,004 per person, this 9-hour experience is not to be missed.