From Ella:Transfer to Galle/Mirissa With Udawalawa Safari

Embarking on an unforgettable journey from Ella, travelers can enjoy the wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife. This comprehensive tour promises a seamless transfer to the picturesque coastal towns of Galle or Mirissa, complemented by an exhilarating safari through the Udawalawe National Park. With the opportunity to spot majestic leopards and elephants in their natural habitat, as well as an encounter with orphaned elephant calves, this full-day adventure offers a remarkable blend of wildlife encounters and scenic transportation. Prepare to be captivated by the untamed beauty and ecological marvels that await.

Good To Know

• This tour offers convenient transfer from Ella to Galle or Mirissa, along with an exciting safari experience at Udawalawe National Park.
• The 8-hour tour includes a 3-hour jeep safari to spot wildlife like leopards and elephants, as well as a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
• Udawalawe National Park is home to over 600 wild Asian elephants and offers sightings of other animals like crocodiles during the safari.
• The tour includes private 4×4 safari jeep transportation with an experienced driver/guide, and pickup options from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale.
• Customers have praised the exceptional value, immersive experience, and knowledgeable guides provided by this tour.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a convenient transfer from Ella to the southern coastal towns of Galle or Mirissa, combined with an exciting safari experience at Udawalawe National Park.

Priced from just LKR 2,091 per person, you’ll save up to 30% compared to the standard rate. The full-day tour lasts 8 hours and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Customers also have the option to reserve now and pay later. With pickups available in Ella, Bandarawela, and Haputale, this tour provides a seamless experience, ensuring you make the most of your time in Sri Lanka.

Itinerary and Highlights

The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale.

After a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Udawalawe National Park, a wildlife haven renowned for its large elephant population.

Embark on an exhilarating 3-hour jeep safari, where you’ll have the chance to spot majestic leopards and gentle giants.

Afterward, you can visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary that cares for orphaned elephants, and experience the joy of feeding these gentle creatures.

This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience, blending wildlife encounters with the opportunity to support conservation efforts.

Udawalawe National Park

Nestled approximately 160 km (99 mi) south of Colombo, Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife oasis renowned for its substantial population of wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus maximus). Established in 1972 to support orphaned elephants, the park is home to over 600 of these majestic creatures. Visitors can witness these gentle giants roaming freely in their natural habitat during the Jeep safari, which also offers sightings of other wildlife like leopards and crocodiles. The park’s Uda Walawa Reservoir, the third-largest in Sri Lanka, provides a vital water source for the diverse flora and fauna. Udawalawe’s mission to preserve and protect these endangered pachyderms makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Fact	Value
Established	1972
Elephant Population	Over 600
Largest Reservoir	Uda Walawa

Included Services and Transportation

A private 4×4 safari jeep with an experienced driver/guide transports visitors through the stunning landscapes of Udawalawe National Park.

Bottled water is provided to keep travelers hydrated during the adventure.

The tour includes hotel pickup from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale, and drop-off in southern areas like Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, and Galle.

However, entry tickets to Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home aren’t included in the package.

Travelers should remember to bring their passport or ID card for the experience.

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card to ensure smooth entry and enjoyment of the Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home experience.

The tour offers an exceptional wildlife encounter, with possible sightings of majestic leopards and herds of elephants.

To make the most of the adventure, visitors are encouraged to:

• Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for the tropical climate.
• Bring sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Pack insect repellent to ward off any pesky mosquitoes.
• Bring a camera to capture the awe-inspiring moments.
• Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle.

With these essentials in tow, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

Customer Feedback

Glowing customer reviews underscore the tour’s exceptional value and immersive experience.

One traveler raved about the knowledgeable guide who enriched the safari with captivating insights into the park’s flora and fauna. Another highlighted the thrill of spotting majestic elephants roaming freely, a highlight they’ll cherish forever.

Visitors consistently praise the seamless logistics, from prompt pickups to smooth transportation. Many appreciated the option to customize the itinerary, allowing them to fully tailor the experience to their interests.

Pickup Locations

Pickup locations for the tour span three popular destinations in the central hills of Sri Lanka – Ella, Bandarawela, and Haputale.

Situated amidst lush tea plantations and verdant landscapes, these locations offer convenient starting points for the excursion. Travelers can choose from:

• Ella, the picturesque hill town known for its stunning vistas and hiking trails
• Bandarawela, a charming hill station with a vibrant local market
• Haputale, a quaint town perched on the edge of the central highlands

From these pickup points, the journey continues towards the Udawalawe National Park, where the safari experience and encounter with orphaned elephants await.

The seamless transportation and the convenience of multiple departure locations make this tour an enticing option for nature enthusiasts visiting the southern regions of Sri Lanka.

Elephant Transit Home

As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a unique sanctuary dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned elephant calves back into the wild.

This 30-minute optional stop provides a chance to witness the remarkable work being done to support Sri Lanka’s endangered Asian elephant population. Visitors can observe the feeding of these baby elephants, a heart-warming experience that showcases the dedication of the sanctuary’s caretakers.

The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home plays a vital role in preserving the natural balance of the Udawalawe National Park by helping to reintegrate these young pachyderms into their rightful place in the ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Safari?

Yes, visitors can take photographs during the Udawalawe Safari. The safari provides ample opportunities to capture the diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and other animals in their natural habitat. Cameras are welcome, and visitors often treasure the photos from this unforgettable experience.

How Accessible Is the Udawalawe National Park for Elderly Visitors?

The Udawalawe National Park is relatively accessible for elderly visitors, with well-maintained roads and designated viewing areas. However, some paths may be uneven, so they’ll need assistance or sturdy mobility aids to fully explore the park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

Customers can extend the safari duration for an additional fee. The standard 3-hour safari can be lengthened to provide more time to spot wildlife like elephants and leopards within Udawalawe National Park.

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

Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the safari. This allows them to customize their experience and enjoy the journey at their own pace. However, bottled water is provided as part of the included services.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing stated covers the main tour services, but there may be additional fees or taxes not explicitly mentioned, such as park entrance fees or optional add-ons. It’s best to check with the tour provider for a full breakdown of costs.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable tour offers a seamless and thrilling adventure. Travelers can enjoy a scenic drive, an exhilarating safari, and an encounter with orphaned elephant calves, all before reaching the beautiful beaches of Galle or Mirissa. With convenient pickups and all-inclusive services, this tour provides an exceptional wildlife experience complemented by a seamless transfer to the coast, creating memories that will last a lifetime.