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

Set out on a captivating journey from the serene shores of Hiriketiya to the wild wonders of Yala National Park, culminating in a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Ella. This special offer safari promises an unforgettable experience, with the chance to spot majestic leopards, gentle elephants, and a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat. Priced at just $44.59 per person, this hassle-free adventure includes convenient pickup, an air-conditioned ride, and a guided safari, making it a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Discover the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation as you learn about the beauty of Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Safari Tours In Matara.

Good To Know

• Hiriketiya to Ella Safari offers a 2-hour guided tour in Yala National Park, with the opportunity to spot leopards and other wildlife.
• The safari package includes pickup and drop-off from various locations along the southern coast, with a 1.5-hour air-conditioned transfer to Tissamaharama.
• Participants can choose between a morning or afternoon safari, with a 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach and an optional stop at Ravana Falls.
• The safari is priced at $44.59 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
• The tour can accommodate up to 12 participants, with taxi fees ranging from $68 for up to 3 guests to an additional $34 per person for larger groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hiriketiya to Ella Safari offers an exhilarating journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s diverse wildlife.

Priced affordably at $44.59 per person, the tour provides a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The 8-hour experience accommodates small groups of up to 12 participants, with pickup locations conveniently situated across the region.

The taxi fee is $68 for up to 3 guests, with an additional $34 per person for larger groups, payable at the Ajith Safari Office.

Itinerary Details

Travelers can choose between a Morning Safari at 3:30 a.m. or an Afternoon Safari at 12:00 p.m. for this excursion.

The transfer vehicle is an air-conditioned car or minivan on a sharing basis. The journey begins with a 1.5-hour drive to Tissamaharama, followed by a 30-minute Jeep/SUV ride to Yala National Park.

Guests will then embark on a 2-hour guided wildlife viewing tour, followed by a 30-minute break at the picturesque Patanangala Beach.

The safari continues for an additional hour, and the return trip includes a 30-minute Jeep/SUV ride and a 2-hour drive to Ella, with an optional 20-minute stop at the famous Ravana Falls.

Wildlife Experience

Witnessing the magnificent leopards in their natural habitat is the highlight of this safari. Yala National Park is renowned for its high leopard density, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to spot these elusive predators.

Along With leopards, the diverse wildlife of Yala includes elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and buffaloes. The guided tours provide valuable insights into the local wildlife’s behaviors and habitats, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a thrilling adventure, this safari promises an unforgettable encounter with the captivating fauna of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

Pickup Locations and Taxi Fees

Pickups are available from several locations along the southern coast, including Hiriketiya, Tangalle, Dikwella, Rekawa, Nilwella, and Mawella.

The taxi fee is $68 for up to 3 guests, with an additional $34 per person beyond that. This fee is payable at the Ajith Safari Office.

The safari provides:

• Air-conditioned transportation on a shared basis
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at your location
• Flexibility to join the tour from different towns
• Hassle-free travel arrangements for your YALA experience

Whether you’re based in Hiriketiya or another southern coastal town, this safari offers a seamless way to explore the wildlife wonders of YALA National Park.

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Safari Timings and Transportation

Visitors can choose between two convenient safari timings – a morning departure at 3:30 a.m. or an afternoon start at 12:00 p.m.

The journey begins with an air-conditioned car or minivan ride to Tissamaharama, which takes around 1.5 hours. From there, guests transfer to a Jeep or SUV for the 30-minute drive into Yala National Park.

The safari itself lasts 2 hours, with an additional 1 hour of wildlife viewing before the return journey. A 30-minute break at Patanangala Beach offers a chance to stretch and refresh.

The final leg of the trip includes a 20-minute stop at Ravana Falls on the way back to Ella.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The safari package includes pickup and drop-off from the specified areas, along with the services of a professional driver cum guide.

The entrance fees to Yala National Park are around $37 per person. Travelers can enjoy optional meals, with breakfast costing $8 and lunch $10 per person. These additional costs are payable at the Ajith Safari Office.

The safari experience also includes highway toll charges. Visitors should note that the entrance fee can be paid in Sri Lankan Rupees or by credit card upon arrival at the Yala National Park entrance.

• Pickup and drop-off from specified areas
• Professional driver cum guide
• 3-hour wildlife safari at Yala National Park
• Highway toll charges included

Restrictions and Discounts

This safari experience isn’t suitable for certain traveler groups.

Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users should avoid this tour as the Jeep/SUV ride and wildlife viewing can be physically demanding.

However, children aged 5 and below ride for free, and those between 5-12 years old receive a 50% discount.

Guests must meet the minimum booking requirement of two participants for the safari to operate.

Entrance fees at the YALA National Park can be paid in Sri Lankan Rupees or by credit card upon arrival.

Travelers can contact the tour operator via WhatsApp for any additional arrangements or inquiries.

Contact Information

Travelers can contact the tour operator, Ajith Safari, via WhatsApp at +94777905532 for any additional arrangements or inquiries.

The team is readily available to assist with:

• Tailor-made safari requests to accommodate personal preferences
• Advice on the best time to visit Yala National Park for optimal wildlife viewing
• Suggestions on extending the tour to explore other destinations in southern Sri Lanka
• Information on any changes or updates to the safari itinerary or logistics

The team’s responsiveness and attention to detail ensure a seamless booking and travel experience for all guests.

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 recommends purchasing the optional breakfast and lunch offerings for a more convenient and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Special Photography Tips for the Wildlife Viewing?

The safari operator recommends using a DSLR camera with a telephoto lens for the best wildlife photography. They also suggest bringing extra batteries and memory cards to capture the diverse animal sightings during the guided tours.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration for More Time?

Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the safari duration. Guests can purchase additional hours at the Ajith Safari Office for an extra fee, allowing more time to explore Yala National Park and increase their wildlife viewing opportunities.

How Frequently Do the Safaris Depart From the Pickup Locations?

The safaris depart from the pickup locations at two set times – either at 3:30 AM for the morning safari or 12:00 PM for the afternoon safari. Guests can choose the option that best fits their schedule.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Safari?

There are age-based restrictions for the YALA National Park safari. Children aged 5 and below ride for free, while those aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount. However, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

The Sum Up

Set out on a thrilling safari adventure from Hiriketiya to Yala National Park, culminating in a scenic drive to Ella. For just $44.59 per person, spot majestic leopards, elephants, and more in their natural habitat. With convenient pickup, an air-conditioned ride, and a guided safari, this is a perfect outing for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here: