From:Galle/Mirissa Transfer to Ella With Udawalawe Safari

Explore the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s southern region with a captivating journey from Galle or Mirissa to Ella. Embark on an 8-hour adventure that combines a scenic countryside drive and an exhilarating safari at Udawalawe National Park. Witness the majestic Asian elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat, alongside a diverse array of wildlife. This immersive experience promises an unforgettable encounter with the island’s rich biodiversity, leaving you with lasting memories. With flexible pickup options and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka’s captivating natural wonders.

Good To Know

• The tour package includes a transfer service from Galle or Mirissa to Ella, with a stop at Udawalawe National Park for a 3-hour jeep safari.
• Pricing for the tour starts at $92.58 per person, with potential savings of up to 30%.
• The safari at Udawalawe National Park offers the opportunity to spot wild Asian elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• The tour includes an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephant calves are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with the option to reserve the tour now and pay later, make the experience more convenient for travelers.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour package offers a convenient transfer from the coastal towns of Galle and Mirissa to the hillside town of Ella, combined with an exhilarating Udawalawe Safari experience.

Travelers can save up to 30% on the tour, with prices starting from $92.58 per person. The 8-hour journey includes pickup from various locations, a 2.5-hour drive to Udawalawe National Park, a 3-hour jeep safari to spot wildlife like elephants, and an optional visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later booking option, this package offers flexibility and convenience for an unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure.

Pickup and Transfer Options

Travelers have several pickup options for this tour, which include Bentota, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Moragalla, Unawatuna, and Aluthgama.

After being picked up from their chosen location, they’ll embark on a 2.5-hour journey by vehicle to reach Udawalawe National Park. The transfer provides an opportunity to take in the scenic countryside, with glimpses of lush tea plantations, verdant hills, and winding roads.

Once at the park, the highlight awaits – a 3-hour jeep safari to spot the park’s renowned population of wild Asian elephants. This immersive wildlife experience is the centerpiece of the tour, capping off the transfer from the southern coast to the central highlands.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

After the picturesque journey to Udawalawe National Park, it’s time for the highlight of the tour – the 3-hour jeep safari.

Venture into the park, renowned for its high population of wild Asian elephants. Spot these majestic creatures roaming freely in their natural habitat, often in large herds.

The experienced driver-guide will navigate the rugged terrain, ensuring you have an up-close encounter with the elephants and other wildlife, such as buffalo, deer, and an array of bird species.

Witness the park’s diverse ecosystem and stunning landscapes, from vast grasslands to dense forests.

This unforgettable safari provides a true appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife and conservation efforts.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

An optional stop at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home offers visitors a chance to witness the remarkable efforts to rehabilitate and release orphaned elephant calves back into the wild.

This unique facility is dedicated to caring for abandoned or injured young elephants, providing them with specialized medical treatment, nutritious meals, and a safe environment to grow and thrive.

Visitors can observe the dedicated staff in action, as they:

1. Bottle-feed the baby elephants and monitor their health and development.
2. Prepare the elephants for their eventual release by teaching them essential survival skills.
3. Celebrate the successful reintroduction of rehabilitated elephants into the protected Udawalawe National Park.

The Elephant Transit Home is a heartwarming example of Sri Lanka’s commitment to elephant conservation and welfare.

Wildlife and Conservation Efforts

Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its high population of wild Asian elephants, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Approximately 160 km from Colombo, this national park is the closest to the capital and is home to the Elephant Transit Home, established to care for orphaned elephant calves. As of February 2009, 39 orphaned calves were being cared for, with 65 elephants released to the wild by 2008. The park’s conservation efforts are crucial in protecting this iconic species.

Elephant Population	Elephant Transit Home
High	Established to Care for Orphans
160 km from Colombo	39 Orphaned Calves (2009)
Closest to Capital	65 Elephants Released (by 2008)

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the transfer and safari experience are the Jeep safari, a private 4×4 vehicle, an experienced English-speaking driver/guide, and bottled water.

However, the entry tickets to Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home, as well as food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour package.

The tour offers a comprehensive wildlife viewing experience, with the opportunity to witness:

1. The park’s renowned population of wild Asian elephants.
2. The Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary that cares for orphaned elephant calves.
3. Stunning landscapes and close encounters with the fascinating wildlife of Udawalawe.

Customer Reviews and Highlights

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, travelers have consistently praised the smooth operations, knowledgeable drivers, and breathtaking wildlife experiences offered by this tour. One guest described the safari as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness elephants in their natural habitat," while another highlighted the tour operator’s commitment to local employment and conservation efforts. The highlights of the experience are summarized in the table below:

Highlights	Descriptions
Elephant Encounters	Up-close views of wild Asian elephants in Udawalawe National Park
Stunning Landscapes	Captivating vistas of lush forests, rolling hills, and serene landscapes
Knowledgeable Guides	Experienced drivers who provide insightful commentary on the local wildlife and ecosystem

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour’s booking and cancellation policy offers travelers flexibility and convenience.

Prospective guests can reserve their spot immediately without any upfront payment, thanks to the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

Plus, the tour boasts a generous cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This ensures peace of mind, as travelers can adjust their plans without incurring any penalties.

The combination of a hassle-free booking process and flexible cancellation terms makes this Udawalawe Safari tour an attractive choice for those seeking a seamless Sri Lankan adventure.

1. Reserve your spot without paying today
2. Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund
3. Enjoy stress-free planning with the "Reserve now & pay later" option

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The safari attire is typically casual and comfortable. Visitors are advised to wear lightweight, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like hats and sunglasses. The weather can be hot, so dressing for the conditions ensures a pleasant safari experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Udawalawe safari tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though parents should ensure their child’s comfort and safety during the jeep ride and wildlife viewing experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, bottled water is provided by the operator. It’s a good idea to pack snacks and refreshments to enjoy during the safari and travel time.

Are There Any Photographic Restrictions During the Safari?

There are no strict photographic restrictions during the Udawalawe safari. Visitors are free to take photos, though they’re advised to be mindful of the wildlife and avoid disturbing the animals. Capturing the elephants and stunning landscapes is encouraged.

How Reliable Is the Tour Operator’s Customer Service?

The tour operator’s customer service is highly reliable, according to past travelers. Reviewers praise the smooth operations, knowledgeable drivers, and responsive communication, indicating a commitment to ensuring a positive experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable journey from Galle or Mirissa to Ella offers an exhilarating safari at Udawalawe National Park, where one can encounter the majestic wild Asian elephants and other wildlife. With scenic countryside views, knowledgeable guides, and an optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home, this adventure promises an immersive experience amidst stunning landscapes, all at an affordable price starting from just $92.58 per person.