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

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the tranquil shores of Hikkaduwa to the untamed wilderness of Yala National Park. For just $44.59 per person, you’ll experience the thrill of a 3-hour safari, where the chance to spot majestic leopards, mighty elephants, and a diverse array of wildlife awaits. With comfortable transportation and the option to include meals, this special offer promises a day filled with stunning landscapes, exhilarating encounters, and the chance to end your adventure in the picturesque town of Ella. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka’s natural wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Good To Know

1. This 9-hour tour provides a comprehensive safari experience in Yala National Park, with pickup from the Hikkaduwa/Galle area and drop-off in Ella/Bandarawela/Wellawaya.

2. The tour price of $44.59 per person includes a 3-hour safari, two game drives, and comfortable air-conditioned transportation, with the option to add a picnic breakfast or lunch.

3. Participants can choose from morning or afternoon safari timings, with the best chances of spotting leopards, elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and diverse bird species during dawn or dusk.

4. Luggage can be safely stored in the taxi during the safari, and the tour offers opportunities to explore additional attractions like Ravana Waterfall and Patanangala Beach.

5. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, and a minimum of two guests is required to book the experience.

Tour Overview and Pricing

For those looking to travel from Hikkaduwa to Ella, this tour offers an affordable and flexible option, priced at just $44.59 per person.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour lasts 9 hours and is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Pickup is available from several locations in the Hikkaduwa/Galle area, and drop-off is in the Ella/Bandarawela/Wellawaya region.

The taxi fee is $84 for up to 3 guests, and $42 per person beyond that.

Safari Experience and Itinerary

As part of this captivating journey, travelers can embark on a thrilling 3-hour safari adventure within the renowned Yala National Park.

Depending on their preference, guests can choose between a morning safari at 2:30 a.m. or an afternoon safari at 11:00 a.m./11:30 a.m.

The safari experience includes two game drives, each lasting 2 hours and 1 hour, providing ample opportunities to spot an array of wildlife, including:

1. Majestic leopards
2. Gentle elephants
3. Prehistoric-looking crocodiles
4. Elusive sloth bears, buffaloes, and a diverse array of bird species

The best times for wildlife viewing are at dawn or dusk, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.

Transportation Details

How will travelers be transported throughout this captivating journey?

The tour provides comfortable air-conditioned cars or minivans on a shared basis for the transfer from Hikkaduwa to Ella.

For the safari excursion, rugged Toyota Hilux 4×4 vehicles are used to navigate the terrain of Yala National Park.

Travelers can leave their luggage safely in the taxi during the safari, so they can fully enjoy the wildlife viewing experience.

The highway toll charges are included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free transportation experience.

With these thoughtful transportation arrangements, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife of Sri Lanka.

Fees and Additional Costs

Travelers will need to budget for a few additional costs associated with this captivating journey.

The entrance fee for Yala National Park is approximately $37 per person. For those seeking a delightful start to the day, an optional picnic breakfast is available for $8 per person. An optional lunch can also be enjoyed for $10 per person.

All payments for the taxi, meals, and entrance fee are made directly at the Ajith Safari Office or the Yala entrance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

1. Yala National Park entrance fee: ~$37 per person
2. Optional picnic breakfast: $8 per person
3. Optional lunch: $10 per person
4. Payments made at Ajith Safari Office or Yala entrance

Important Information and Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals due to the nature of the activities involved.

Pregnant women, those with back problems, and wheelchair users should avoid this safari experience.

However, children above the age of 5 and below 12 can participate at a 50% discount, while those under 5 can ride for free.

It’s important to note that a minimum of two guests is required to book this tour.

To ensure a seamless experience, guests are advised to communicate with their hotel staff about the pickup location to avoid any confusion.

The safari offers an exciting opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Where are travelers picked up and dropped off for this tour?

Travelers can be picked up from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Talpe, Dodanduwa, or Rathgama, and dropped off in the Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya area.

This convenient pickup and drop-off service makes it easy to start and end your adventure.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point in the Hikkaduwa/Galle/Unawatuna/Talpe/Dodanduwa/Rathgama area.
2. Transfer to Yala National Park for the safari experience.
3. After the safari, transfer to your final destination in the Ella/Bandarawela/Wellawaya area.
4. Drop-off at your hotel or a designated location in the Ella/Bandarawela/Wellawaya area.

Best Times for Wildlife Viewing

The best times for wildlife viewing during the Yala National Park safari are dawn or dusk.

As the sun rises or sets, the park comes alive with a flurry of activity as animals emerge from their resting places to feed, drink, and move about.

This is when you’re most likely to spot the elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and other remarkable creatures that call Yala home.

The soft, warm light adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making for an unforgettable safari experience.

Whether you opt for the morning or afternoon tour, you’re guaranteed to witness nature at its finest during these golden hours.

Optional Stops and Activities

Along With the exhilarating safari experience, travelers have the opportunity to explore two optional stops along the journey from Hikkaduwa to Ella.

Ravana Waterfall, a magnificent 25-meter cascading wonder, offers a refreshing respite from the safari. Visitors can bask in the natural beauty, capture stunning photographs, and even take a dip in the cool, rejuvenating waters.

Another highlight is Patanangala Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand where one can relax, unwind, and soak up the serene coastal ambiance.

These optional excursions allow travelers to enjoy Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and create lasting memories beyond the safari.

Optional Stops and Activities:

1. Ravana Waterfall
2. Patanangala Beach
3. Exploring the local culture and architecture
4. Purchasing unique handicrafts and souvenirs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Safari Guide Fluent in English?

The safari guides are fluent in English, ensuring seamless communication and a comprehensive understanding of the wildlife and natural wonders encountered during the excursion. Their expertise enhances the overall safari experience for English-speaking participants.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks for the safari. This allows them to enjoy their favorite refreshments during the adventure in Yala National Park. The tour company encourages guests to pack light and stay hydrated.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari?

The safari tour has some age restrictions. Children above 5 and below 12 years old are charged 50% of the adult price, while kids under 5 can ride for free. However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back issues, or wheelchair users.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Cameras Allowed?

The tour has no specific limit on the number of cameras allowed. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the incredible wildlife and scenery during the safari experience. However, it’s advisable to pack light and be mindful of any security restrictions.

Can I Extend the Safari Duration if I Want To?

Absolutely, guests can extend the safari duration if they’d like to spend more time exploring Yala National Park. This can typically be arranged directly with the safari operator, though additional fees may apply for the extended tour time.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable journey from Hikkaduwa to Ella promises an exhilarating safari adventure in Yala National Park. For just $44.59, you’ll witness the majesty of leopards, elephants, and more in their natural habitat. With comfortable transportation, optional meals, and flexible cancellation, this special offer ensures a memorable experience filled with stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters.