Privet 2 Day Tour Udawalawe & Ella From Colombo

Travelers looking for a quick but immersive escape from Colombo often turn to tours like this 2-day adventure through Udawalawe National Park and Ella. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-organized, value-packed experience, perfect for those wanting to combine wildlife, culture, and scenic views in a short time.

What truly stands out about this tour are the guaranteed elephant sightings in Udawalawe, the stunning Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, and the thoughtful inclusion of cultural stops like the gem museum and spice garden. On the downside, some travelers mention that entrance fees, accommodation, and meals aren’t included, so budgeting for extras is necessary.

If you’re after an authentic, well-reviewed Sri Lankan experience packed with wildlife, scenic train rides, and cultural highlights, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided journeys with detailed itineraries and value for money.

Key Points

• Guaranteed elephant sightings at Udawalawe National Park make this trip unique.
• The scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy offers memorable views through lush landscapes.
• The tour includes cultural stops like the gem museum and spice garden, enriching the experience.
• Transportation is via modern, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during long drives.
• Reviews highlight the professionalism and punctuality of guides and drivers.
• Budgeting for entrance fees, meals, and accommodation is essential, as these are not included.

An Authentic Experience in Sri Lanka’s Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

This tour offers a fantastic balance of wildlife encounters, scenic train rides, and cultural insights, making it a prime choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions. What makes it stand apart is the focus on nature and local culture, all wrapped into a manageable two-day package.

Starting from Colombo early in the morning, the tour kicks off with a visit to the renowned Udawalawe National Park. Known for its guaranteed elephant sightings, this park is a favorite among wildlife lovers. Reviews consistently praise the well-organized safari, noting that herds of majestic elephants and playful calves are almost guaranteed. One reviewer enthusiastically shared, “Great elephant safari,” highlighting how the park’s undisturbed natural environment provides excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife up close.

Day 1: Wildlife and Gem Museum

The trip begins at 6:00 am, with a pickup from your hotel, taking you southward to Udawalawe. En route, you stop at Ratnapura’s gem museum — a fascinating visit that adds a spark of Sri Lanka’s famous gem trade to your day. This is a nice break from the drive and offers insight into Sri Lanka’s gemstone history, which is often overlooked in typical safaris.

Once at Udawalawe, your safari jeep awaits for a three-hour exploration of the park. Reviewers mention the prolific herds of elephants, especially noting the playful calves and majestic adults that dominate the landscape. The park’s reputation for year-round elephant sightings is backed by consistent praise, making it a highlight of this tour.

The safari experience is often described as relaxing yet exciting, with many reviewers appreciating the knowledgeable guides who help spot and interpret wildlife behaviors. One traveler noted, “The arrangement was well-handled, and the safari driver was very helpful,” which underscores the professionalism of the tour team.

Day 2: Scenic Views, Cultural Stops, and a Scenic Train Ride

Early morning, the journey continues to Ella, stopping first at the Nine Arches Bridge. This railway marvel is a favorite for its spectacular architecture and picturesque setting. Situated amidst lush jungle and tea plantations, it’s a perfect photo spot and a peaceful moment in your hectic itinerary.

After marveling at the bridge, the tour includes the most scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy. Reviewers rave about how this train journey offers breathtaking views of the landscape, with lush hills, tea plantations, and forests passing by in a blur of green. It’s a highlight for many travelers, providing a different perspective on Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

In Kandy, the visit to the Temple of the Tooth adds a cultural and spiritual element, with many reviewers praising the well-maintained temple and the serene atmosphere.

Before heading back to Colombo, the tour stops at a spice and herbal garden, adding a sensory element with fragrant herbs and medicinal plants. Multiple reviews mention this as a relaxing and educational moment, often describing the friendly guides explaining Sri Lanka’s spice trade.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour’s price point—just $5 per person—is astonishingly low, but it’s important to understand what this includes. The cost covers transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, the services of an English-speaking driver, and all fees and taxes. However, it does not include meals, entrance fees, or accommodation, so budget accordingly.

Travelers frequently mention that the guides are punctual and helpful, making the long drives smooth and enjoyable. The group size is not specified, but reviews suggest a personalized experience with only your group participating, which is a significant advantage for those who dislike large crowds.

One reviewer summed it up: “Good arrangement, on-time pickup, and helpful driver. The safari was fantastic, and I loved every moment.” Another added how appreciated the well-organized logistics made the trip feel seamless despite the busy schedule.

Authentic Wildlife and Scenic Experiences

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant populations and stunning landscapes. The guaranteed sightings in Udawalawe make it a reliable choice for wildlife enthusiasts, especially those who may not have much time but still want a meaningful encounter with nature.

The train ride through Ella’s hillside tea plantations offers a breathtaking view that’s hard to match elsewhere. The Nine Arches Bridge, with its impressive architecture set against the backdrop of jungle, often leaves visitors speechless.

Cultural stops like the gem museum and spice garden provide added depth, turning a wildlife safari into a well-rounded experience. Many reviewers appreciated how these stops complemented the natural sights, making the trip feel both educational and fun.

Finally, the cost-effectiveness of this tour, combined with its positive reviews for organization and guide professionalism, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who value authentic experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see elephants in their natural habitat without spending a fortune. It also suits culture enthusiasts interested in Sri Lanka’s gem and spice trade, along with those who want to enjoy scenic train rides and breathtaking landscapes.

Travelers with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka will find this itinerary well-paced and fulfilling. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate organized, guided tours with knowledgeable drivers and positive reviews backing the experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day adventure from Colombo offers a balance of wildlife, scenery, and cultural discovery — all at an incredible price point. The predictable elephant sightings in Udawalawe are a major draw, and the scenic train journey through Ella’s lush hills is unforgettable.

While meals and entrance fees are extra, the overall value, combined with enthusiastic reviews praising the guide’s helpfulness and punctuality, makes this tour a smart choice for travelers wanting a rich, authentic Sri Lankan experience.

If you’re after a trip that combines wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights with ease and affordability, this tour is worth considering. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Sri Lanka’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

FAQ

Does the tour include accommodation?
No, accommodation is not included in the price. You’ll need to book your own hotels in Colombo or elsewhere.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget for those separately.

How long is the safari at Udawalawe?
The safari lasts approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to spot elephants and other wildlife.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is provided by a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drives more pleasant.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While the reviews don’t specify exact times, the tour starts early at 6:00 am, which is ideal for avoiding traffic and seeing wildlife when animals are most active.

Can I participate if I travel alone?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, making it suitable for solo travelers or small groups.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the nature of the activity and small group size suggest it could be enjoyable for families, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic views.

In essence, this tour provides a well-rounded, cost-effective, and authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and landscapes, making it a standout choice for travelers short on time but eager for a meaningful experience.