From: Ella – YALA Wildlife Safari – (Special Offer)

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness with Yala Wildlife Safari’s special offer starting at just $44.59 per person. Departing from the charming town of Ella, this immersive experience promises a thrilling encounter with the country’s diverse and captivating fauna – from majestic leopards and graceful elephants to a myriad of bird species. With convenient hotel pickup, a scenic drive, and a thrilling jeep ride, this eco-friendly adventure offers a unique opportunity to learn about the beauty of nature. But the real question remains: what unexpected sights and encounters will you uncover in the depths of Yala National Park?

Good To Know

• YALA Wildlife Safari pricing starts at $44.59 per person with no upfront payment required.
• Opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and birds.
• Comfortable air-conditioned transfers from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya to YALA National Park.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Eco-friendly operations, including the use of fuel-efficient 4×4 vehicles and locally sourced meals.

Pricing Details

For the YALA Wildlife Safari, the pricing starts at $44.59 per person.

You’ll be pleased to know there’s no upfront payment required – you can reserve your spot now and pay later.

The taxi fee from Ella to Tissamaharama is $65 for up to 3 guests, with an additional $32 per person beyond that.

The entrance fee for YALA National Park is approximately $37 per person.

Optional meals like breakfast ($8) and lunch ($10) are available.

Gratuities aren’t included, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

With the flexibility of no upfront costs and competitive pricing, this safari offers great value.

Safari Highlights

The YALA Wildlife Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the magnificent diversity of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

Guests can expect to encounter a variety of captivating species, including:

• Majestic leopards, the apex predators of the park, prowling through the dense vegetation
• Gentle elephants, gathering in herds and showcasing their remarkable intelligence
• Powerful crocodiles, basking in the sun along the park’s waterways
• Elusive sloth bears, foraging for food in the lush forests
• A vibrant array of bird life, from the majestic peacock to the colorful kingfisher

This immersive safari experience, conducted by knowledgeable guides, provides a window into the wonders of Sri Lanka’s remarkable natural heritage.

Itinerary and Transfers

The YALA Wildlife Safari experience begins with convenient pickup from guests’ hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya.

Participants are transported in an air-conditioned car or minivan on a sharing basis, with a 2-hour drive to the YALA National Park.

Once there, guests embark on a 30-minute jeep ride into the park for the wildlife safari.

The morning safari departs at 3:00 a.m., while the afternoon safari leaves at 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.

Guests may optionally stop at the scenic Ravana Waterfall on their return trip.

Throughout the journey, the rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles and the professional driver cum guide ensure a safe and comfortable safari experience.

Comfort and Safety

Ensuring the utmost comfort and safety is paramount for the YALA Wildlife Safari. Participants will travel in rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles, specially equipped to handle the off-road terrain.

These vehicles aren’t only reliable but also provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The safari is led by a professional driver cum guide, who offers valuable insights into the behavior and habits of the wildlife.

For added peace of mind, guests can leave their luggage safely in the taxi during the safari.

• Reliable and off-road-ready Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles
• Experienced driver cum guide to ensure a safe and informative experience
• Luggage can be left in the taxi during the safari
• Designed with the comfort and safety of guests in mind

Cancellation and Age Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund for guests. However, the safari may not be suitable for all travelers. Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, and wheelchair users are advised against participating. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, but discounts are available for those aged 5-12, and those under 5 can join for free.

Age	Discount
Under 5	Free
5-12	Available
12 and above	Regular price

Timely communication with hotel staff is crucial to ensure a smooth pickup and drop-off experience.

Pickup and Dropoff Locations

For the YALA Wildlife Safari, guests are picked up from their hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya.

The journey starts with a comfortable air-conditioned car or minivan that will transport you on a shared basis.

The morning safari departs at 3:00 a.m., while the afternoon one leaves at either 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.

After the 2-hour drive to YALA, you’ll embark on a 30-minute jeep ride into the national park.

• Pickup from hotels in Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya
• Air-conditioned car or minivan for shared transfers
• Morning safari at 3:00 a.m., afternoon safari at 11:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m.
• 2-hour drive to YALA, followed by 30-minute jeep ride into the park

Optional Extras

Apart from the core safari experience, there are several optional extras that guests can consider.

For breakfast, guests can enjoy a hearty USD 8 meal, and for lunch, a USD 10 meal is available. These add-ons provide the opportunity to fuel up before and during the safari.

While gratuities aren’t included in the package, guests can choose to show their appreciation for the knowledgeable driver-guide and the team’s efforts.

With these optional extras, travelers can enhance their YALA wildlife adventure and make the most of their time in the park.

Eco-Friendly Operations

The YALA wildlife safari operator prioritizes eco-friendly practices, minimizing its carbon footprint and supporting local communities.

Their commitment to sustainability is evident through:

• Utilizing fuel-efficient 4×4 vehicles for safaris
• Sourcing meals from local suppliers to reduce food miles
• Employing guides from nearby villages, providing economic opportunities
• Partnering with the YALA National Park authorities to promote conservation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Safari Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The safari may not be suitable for those with physical disabilities. The itinerary involves extended periods of travel, walking, and exploring rugged terrain in the national park, which could be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

You’re allowed to bring your own snacks and drinks on the safari, though the operator offers optional meals. Enjoying your own provisions can help personalize the experience and make it more comfortable, particularly for those with dietary requirements.

Are Professional Photography Equipment Allowed During the Safari?

Professional photography equipment is generally allowed on the safari, but guests should check with the tour operator beforehand. Most tours encourage photography and provide advice on the best ways to capture the wildlife.

How Often Do the Safari Vehicles Stop for Better Wildlife Viewing?

The safari vehicles regularly stop to provide guests with optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. Experienced guides navigate the terrain and closely monitor animal behaviors, ensuring participants have ample time to observe and photograph the diverse array of species.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

The safari doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but it provides ample wildlife viewing opportunities during the 3-hour safari. Guests can opt for additional afternoon or evening safaris on their own for extended wildlife exploration.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Sri Lanka’s wild wonders with an unforgettable YALA Wildlife Safari from Ella. This thrilling excursion offers the chance to spot majestic leopards, gentle elephants, and a wealth of diverse wildlife, all while enjoying convenient transportation, comfortable amenities, and a commitment to eco-friendly practices. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature in the heart of Sri Lanka.