Mirissa/Galle: Transfer to Ella & YALA & UDAWALAWA Safaris

Embark on an exhilarating journey from the southern coastal towns of Mirissa or Galle to the captivating town of Ella, immersed in the lush tea plantations of Sri Lanka’s highlands. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of two of the country’s premier national parks – Yala and Udawalawa. From tracking the elusive leopard to witnessing the gentle giants of the elephant herd, this seamless transfer promises unforgettable wildlife encounters that will leave you in awe of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse landscapes and the chance to uncover the secrets of these remarkable ecosystems.

Good To Know

Convenient transfer service from coastal towns like Mirissa and Galle to the picturesque town of Ella.
Immersive safaris at Yala and Udawalawa National Parks, offering the chance to spot diverse wildlife like leopards, elephants, and birds.
Unique experience at the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home, observing the rehabilitation efforts for orphaned and injured elephant calves.
Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles and open-top safari jeeps for an enjoyable and unobstructed wildlife viewing experience.
Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with expert local guide support to ensure a comprehensive and enriching adventure.

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Overview of the Transfer and Safari Experience

This transfer and safari experience typically begins with pickup from popular coastal towns like Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle, or Hikkaduwa, transporting guests comfortably by air-conditioned vehicle to the picturesque town of Ella.

Included in the experience are visits to Yala and Udawalawa National Parks, renowned for their incredible biodiversity. Prices range from $140 to $133 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The flexible 1-day itinerary allows guests to enjoy a sunset safari for optimal wildlife viewing, including potential sightings of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and an array of other fascinating creatures.

Highlights of Wildlife Viewing

Exploring the immense biodiversity of Yala and Udawalawa National Parks is the highlight of this transfer and safari experience.

Guests can observe a wealth of wildlife, including majestic leopards, gentle elephants, playful sloth bears, mighty crocodiles, curious monkeys, and diverse bird species.

The opportunity to see hundreds of wild elephant babies at the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours is a truly special experience.

The sunset safari offers the best chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats when they’re most active.

With the guidance of local experts, travelers can enjoy the wonders of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks and create unforgettable memories.

Yala National Park Safari

Teeming with diverse wildlife, Yala National Park offers a thrilling safari experience for visitors. Home to the world’s highest density of leopards, the park is a prime destination to spot these elusive felines. Elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a vast array of bird species also thrive in Yala’s rugged terrain. Explore the park in a sturdy safari jeep, navigating through lush forests and arid grasslands. As the sun dips below the horizon, witness the park’s inhabitants stirring to life, creating an unforgettable safari adventure.

Safari Highlights	Key Sightings
Leopard Tracking	Leopards, Elephants, Sloth Bears
Wetland Exploration	Crocodiles, Waterbirds, Water Buffaloes
Grassland Safari	Spotted Deer, Monkeys, Diverse Birdlife

Udawalawa National Park Safari

After exploring the captivating wildlife of Yala National Park, visitors can venture to Udawalawa National Park, another gem in Sri Lanka’s natural tapestry.

Known for its immense biodiversity, the park is home to a vast population of elephants, including hundreds of wild calves at the nearby Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home. Guests can witness these magnificent creatures during their feeding hours, a truly awe-inspiring experience.

The safari experience also offers sightings of other iconic species like leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird life.

Traversing the park in sturdy open-top vehicles, travelers can revel in the beauty of the landscapes and the thrill of spotting these incredible animals in their natural habitat.

Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home

The Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home stands as a beacon of hope and conservation, providing a safe haven for orphaned and injured elephant calves.

During the safari, visitors have the chance to witness this remarkable facility in action. Here’s what awaits:

Feeding Time: Observe the caretakers diligently nourishing the young elephants, ensuring they receive the proper nutrients and care.
Rehabilitation and Release: Learn about the center’s rehabilitation efforts, as they work to reintegrate the elephants back into the wild, giving them a second chance at life.
Heartwarming Interactions: Witness the touching bond between the caretakers and the elephants, a testament to the power of compassion and dedication.

This unique experience offers a window into the critical work being done to protect Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant population.

Transportation and Comfort

Consistently, travelers are transported in sturdy, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the journey.

These modern, well-maintained vehicles provide a smooth ride as you venture from the coastal towns to the lush hills of Ella.

Once at the national parks, you’ll board an open-topped safari jeep, which offers unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities.

The jeeps are designed for the rugged terrain, allowing you to navigate the winding paths and spot wildlife with ease.

With a professional driver at the helm, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the natural wonders of Yala and Udawalawa National Parks.

Guided Experience

With the transportation arrangements in place, the guided experience takes center stage. A local guide and driver are included to provide insightful exploration of the parks. Guests will embark on jeep safaris at both Yala and Udawalawa National Parks, offering the best views and photo opportunities.

The guided experience includes:

Knowledgeable local guides to share their expertise on the parks’ diverse flora and fauna.
An included picnic lunch to refuel during the adventure.
Bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

This comprehensive guided experience ensures a truly immersive and enriching wildlife encounter.

Booking and Availability

One can easily check availability for specific travel dates and the number of participants on the transfer and safari experience.

The booking process is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without immediate payment. Once availability is confirmed, you can secure your preferred date by making a reservation, paying later when you’re ready.

The meeting point is hotel pickup from the designated areas of Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle, or Hikkaduwa, making the logistics convenient.

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, this experience offers peace of mind in planning your Ella adventure and wildlife safari.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Safari Experience Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The safari experience can be customized to individual preferences, offering flexibility in park selection, tour duration, and activity focus to ensure an unforgettable wildlife adventure tailored to each traveler’s interests and needs.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs Involved?

There are no additional fees or hidden costs for the transfer and safari experience. The price quoted includes all transportation, park entry fees, guides, and a picnic lunch, providing excellent value for the adventurous wildlife journey.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Safari Tour?

The safari tour typically accommodates small groups, with a maximum group size of 7-10 participants. This allows for an intimate and personalized wildlife viewing experience in the national parks.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?

The safari tour accommodates all ages, with special provisions for children. Families can enjoy the experience together, spotting wildlife at Yala and Udawalawa National Parks. There are no age restrictions, ensuring an adventurous journey for travelers of all ages.

Can the Departure and Return Times Be Adjusted to Suit Personal Schedules?

The tour offers flexible booking options, allowing travelers to adjust their departure and return times to suit personal schedules. This ensures a seamless and tailored wildlife viewing experience during the Yala and Udawalawa National Park safaris.

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The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Mirissa or Galle to Ella, immersed in the wonders of Yala and Udawalawa. Spot majestic leopards, observe gentle elephants, and explore the vibrant ecosystems of these iconic Sri Lankan national parks. With modern, comfortable transportation and expert guidance, this adventure promises thrilling wildlife encounters and a seamless, enjoyable experience.