Explore the wild beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coast with a captivating YALA Safari tour from Ella to Hiriketiya. This special offer promises an unforgettable 8-hour adventure, whisking you away to the heart of Yala National Park for two thrilling game drives. Spot elusive leopards, diverse bird species, and other native wildlife against a backdrop of stunning landscapes. With personalized attention in a small group setting, you’ll discover the park’s hidden gems. But the journey doesn’t end there – a refreshing beach break at Patanangala Beach awaits, leaving you energized and eager to uncover more of this remarkable region.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Safari Tours In Matara.
Good To Know
- Special offer for an 8-hour YALA Safari to Hiriketiya starting at £33.35 per person with a small group experience of up to 12 participants.
- Pickup locations include Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya, with morning and afternoon safari options available.
- Safari includes 3 hours in Yala National Park, 2 game drives, and a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach.
- Tour conducted in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicle designed for wildlife viewing with off-road capabilities.
- Opportunities to see diverse wildlife, including leopards, during the safari, with expert guides enhancing the experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This special offer for the YALA Safari to Hiriketiya starts from £33.35 per person.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour lasts 8 hours and is limited to a small group of 12 participants.
Pickup locations include Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya.
The safari includes 3 hours in Yala National Park with 2 game drives, a break at Patanangala Beach, and drop-off at Hiriketiya Beach.
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned car or minivan on a sharing basis, with taxi fees starting at US$68 for up to 3 guests.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Matara.
Itinerary and Schedule
The YALA Safari to Hiriketiya offers pickup locations in Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya.
For the morning safari, guests are picked up at 3:00 a.m., while the afternoon safari has pickups at 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.
The safari includes 3 hours in Yala National Park with two game drives, one lasting 2 hours and the other 1 hour.
After the safari, guests have a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach before being dropped off at Hiriketiya Beach.
The safari provides opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including the highest density of leopards in the world.
Pickup Locations and Timings
For the YALA Safari to Hiriketiya, guests have the option of three pickup locations: Ella, Bandarawela, and Wellawaya.
The morning safari departs with a 3:00 a.m. pickup, while the afternoon safari offers two departure times – 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.
Regardless of the pickup location, the safari includes three hours within Yala National Park, with two game drives lasting two hours and one hour.
After the game drives, guests will have a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach before being dropped off at Hiriketiya Beach.
The safari is conducted in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and immersive wildlife experience.
Safari Vehicle and Transportation
As part of the YALA Safari to Hiriketiya, guests are transported in a rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicle. This Safari vehicle is specially designed to provide a comfortable and immersive wildlife experience.
With individual seating, passengers can enjoy a 270-degree view of the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Hilux’s impressive off-road capabilities ensure a smooth and safe journey, even on the uneven terrain of Yala National Park.
Guests are picked up by air-conditioned cars or minivans on a shared basis, with the option to book a private taxi at an additional cost. This well-appointed transportation allows travelers to fully focus on the wonders of the safari without worrying about the logistics.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife Viewing Opportunities
Teeming with an abundance of wildlife, Yala National Park offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
The park’s diverse ecosystems are home to a stack of species, including the elusive and majestic leopard, the largest population in the world. Guests can also catch glimpses of elephants, crocodiles, and a remarkable variety of bird life, from majestic eagles to vibrant peacocks.
With expert guides leading the way, travelers are immersed in a world of untamed beauty, where the thrill of spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is unmatched.
The park’s sustainable and eco-friendly operations ensure a respectful and enriching safari experience for all.
- From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Hiriketiya With Yala Safari
- Mirissa – YALA Safari – Drop Off: Arugam Bay/ Arugambay
- From: Hiriketiya/ Tangalle – YALA Safari – Drop Off: Ella
- Airport: Drop & Pickup Service
- From: Ella/ Bandarawela – YALA Safari – Drop Off: Hiriketiya
- From : Mirissa/ Matara – Udawalawe Safari – To : Arugambay
Entrance Fees and Meals
Visitors to Yala National Park can expect to pay an entrance fee of approximately US$37 per person, which can be paid in cash or by card.
Meals are available upon request, with options for breakfast at US$8 and lunch at US$10. The safari operator encourages guests to take advantage of these meal offerings to enhance their overall experience.
However, gratuities aren’t included in the tour price, allowing visitors flexibility in rewarding the guides and staff based on their satisfaction with the service.
The safari is designed to be an immersive wildlife adventure, catering to a range of traveler preferences and budgets.
Special Requirements and Restrictions
The safari operator notes that the tour may not be suitable for certain individuals due to specific requirements and restrictions.
Pregnant women, people with back problems, and wheelchair users are advised not to participate.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, with discounts available for those aged 5-12.
The tour involves some physical activity, and participants should be prepared for the safari environment.
The operator emphasizes the importance of adhering to these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Contact and Queries
For any queries regarding the YALA Safari to Hiriketiya, guests can contact the operator via email or WhatsApp at the provided number, +94777905532.
The team is available to address any questions or concerns about the tour, such as pricing, itinerary, transportation, wildlife, or special requirements.
They’re committed to providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. Guests are encouraged to reach out with any inquiries they may have, as the operator values open communication and ensuring customer satisfaction.
With their expertise and responsiveness, they aim to make the YALA Safari to Hiriketiya a memorable and hassle-free adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the safari. However, the tour operator also offers optional breakfast and lunch choices that can be pre-ordered for convenience. Snacks and water are recommended to bring along.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?
The tour company recommends bringing comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and insect repellent. While food and drinks can be purchased, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and water for the safari.
Is There an Option to Customize the Safari Itinerary?
Yes, the safari itinerary can be customized. Guests can request changes to the pickup/drop-off locations, timings, and activities within the overall tour duration and pricing. The company is flexible in accommodating personalized requests.
Can I Extend My Stay in Yala National Park if Needed?
Yes, guests can extend their safari in Yala National Park if needed. However, they’d need to coordinate with the tour operator as the overall itinerary and transportation may need to be adjusted to accommodate the extended stay.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The safari tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility to reschedule if needed. Guests can reserve now and pay later, providing convenience for the booking process.
The Sum Up
This exhilarating 8-hour Yala Safari tour from Ella to Hiriketiya offers a chance to explore the breathtaking wilderness. With a small group, guests can enjoy personalized wildlife viewing, including the opportunity to spot elusive leopards and diverse bird species. The tour includes pickup, two game drives, and a refreshing break at Patanangala Beach, all at a special price starting at just £33.35 per person. Convenient payment options and free cancellation make this an attractive and hassle-free experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Safari Adventures in Matara
- From: Hiriketiya/ Tangalle/ Dikwella/ Rekawa – YALA Safari
- Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Mirissa: Shuttle to Ella and Yala Safari
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- From : Ella – YALA Safari – To : Hiriketiya (Special Offer)
- From: Hiriketiya – YALA Safari – To : Ella (Special Offer)
- Hiriketiya- YALA Safari- To: Arugambay (Special Offer – B/L)
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