Ella – Udawalawa Safari – Drop to Mirissa/Weligama/Galle

Traveling from Ella to the southern coast of Sri Lanka? This safari tour offers an exciting chance to spot elephants and other wildlife in Udawalawa National Park while conveniently transferring you to popular beach towns like Mirissa, Weligama, and Galle. It’s a combination of wildlife adventure and scenic transfer, making it perfect for those looking to blend nature with a touch of coastal relaxation.

What we love about this experience is how it provides a wildlife fix in the morning, combined with the practicality of a smooth transfer to the south. The knowledgeable guides and stunning animal sightings are real highlights, though the driver’s reckless driving noted in reviews might give some travelers pause. This tour suits travelers eager for an authentic safari experience without sacrificing their travel plans to the south coast.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters in Udawalawa include elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and more.
• Flexible timing options for morning or afternoon safaris cater to different schedules.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with experienced guides makes the journey smooth.
• Support for local communities and eco-friendly operations add a responsible travel element.
• A bit of risk is involved due to some drivers’ reckless behavior, as noted in reviews.
• Great value at $69 per person, considering transportation, guided safari, and the chance to see wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed as a half-day safari combined with a transfer from the central highlands to Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The morning or afternoon options give flexibility, but the real focus is the safari in Udawalawa National Park, renowned for its elephant populations and diverse wildlife.

You start early with a pickup around 4:30 a.m. (for the morning option), from your hotel in Ella or nearby towns like Bandarawela or Wellawaya. The transfer vehicle is an air-conditioned car or minivan, shared with other travelers, which smoothly transitions into a shared safari vehicle at Udawalawa. The safari itself lasts about three hours, with game drives from around 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., giving you plenty of time to spot elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, and even sloth bears, if luck is on your side.

After the safari, you’ll return to the transfer vehicle and be dropped off in the Weligama, Mirissa, or Galle area around 1:00 p.m., making this a practical way to combine wildlife viewing with coastal travel plans.

What to Expect on the Safari

Pick-up and Transfer

Your day begins with an early pickup, which can feel quite demanding but is necessary to maximize your wildlife viewing. The driver will pick you up from your hotel, and the journey is around 2-3 hours, depending on your starting point. The transfer is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, helping to beat the morning heat and keep the mood relaxed during the drive.

Safari Experience

Once at Udawalawa, you’ll switch to a shared safari vehicle, led by guides with extensive local knowledge. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and ability to spot animals that travelers might miss, such as elephants grazing at the edge of the water or crocodiles basking on the banks. You’ll need to purchase entrance tickets (around 37 USD per person), which are not included in the tour price.

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Wildlife Highlights

Expect to see elephants close up, often in family groups, and possibly even sloth bears or buffalo if your timing is right. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diversity of local avifauna, with many endemic species thriving in the park. One reviewer described the safari experience as a “10/10” for the animal sightings, especially elephants, which are the main draw.

Guides and Vehicle

The guides are experienced, with some reviews mentioning individual guides like Ranjith, who is described as “super friendly” and “totally helpful.” Their knowledge enriches the experience, helping you identify animals and explaining their behaviors.

Return and Drop-off

Post-safari, you’ll head back to your transfer vehicle and be dropped off at your hotel or guesthouse in the south. The timing allows for a relaxed journey with plenty of time in the afternoon for beach activities or exploring coastal towns.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation

The shared transportation ensures a cost-effective experience, but it’s worth noting that some reviews mention inconsistent driver quality. One traveler described their driver as “driving like a madman” at speeds well above limits, nearly causing accidents. It’s a reminder that safety can vary, so paying attention during the transfer is wise.

Timing and Duration

Total tour duration from pickup to drop-off is roughly 8-9 hours, with the safari itself lasting about three hours. The early start is ideal for wildlife viewing but may be challenging for those not accustomed to such early mornings.

Cost and Value

At $69 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the included safari, transportation, and guide. Entrance fees to the park are extra (~37 USD), which is standard for safaris but still something to budget for.

Eco and Community Support

The tour promotes sustainable practices and supports local communities, aligning with responsible travel goals—a bonus for eco-conscious travelers.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many travelers find the safari experience rewarding for animal sightings, especially elephants. One review highlights how the guides “knew how to get to animals,” increasing the chances of memorable sightings. Conversely, the driver’s reckless behavior has been a concern, with one traveler noting, “He drove at 120 km/h on roads where the speed limit was 70 km/h,” which is alarming but not necessarily reflective of all drivers on the tour.

Another guest praised the organization and helpfulness, stating, “Our driver Ranjith was super friendly and totally helpful,” which emphasizes the importance of choosing a good guide. The overall sentiment is that the safari itself is a “10/10 experience,” making the early morning wake-up worth it.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants and other animals in their natural surroundings. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for a practical way to combine a safari with their coastal itinerary, saving time and effort.

However, those who are sensitive to rough driving or early mornings should consider the mixed reviews on driver behavior and plan accordingly. If you’re comfortable with a bit of adventure in transit, this safari delivers genuine animal encounters and a taste of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

The Sum Up

This Ella to Galle safari transfer with a wildlife focus offers excellent value, especially when you consider the opportunity to see elephants up close in Udawalawa National Park. The guides’ expertise and the chance to spot a diverse array of animals make it a memorable part of any Sri Lanka trip.

While the transportation safety can vary, the overall experience – rich with wildlife and supported by eco-conscious efforts – makes it a worthwhile addition for adventure-minded travelers. It’s perfect if you’re seeking an authentic safari experience without missing out on coastal exploration.

If you’re prepared for an early start, enjoy wildlife sightings, and prefer guided tours with knowledgeable staff, this tour hits the right notes. Just keep an eye on driver safety and be ready for an exciting, fulfilling day in Sri Lanka’s wilderness before heading to the beaches.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s primarily designed for those who enjoy wildlife safaris and are okay with early mornings. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users.

How long does the safari last?
The safari itself runs from around 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the entire day including transfer times lasting roughly 8-9 hours.

What animals can I expect to see?
Elephants are the main highlight, but you might also spot crocodiles, sloth bears, buffaloes, and various bird species.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fee to Udawalawa Park (~37 USD) is paid separately.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle on a shared basis, with the safari itself in a shared jeep led by knowledgeable guides.

How reliable are the guides?
Reviews praise guides for their helpfulness and animal-spotting skills, though driver behavior can vary, so stay alert.

Can I book a last-minute reservation?
Yes, with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option, you can book now and pay at a later date, offering flexibility.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the operation supports sustainable practices and the local community, aligning with responsible travel principles.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to adapt your plans.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, if you are keen on a wildlife experience paired with a practical transfer, it offers great value and authentic encounters, just stay cautious about driver safety.

You can check availability for your dates here: