From Ella : Udawalawa Safari & Drop Tangalle/ Mirissa/ Galle

Traveling through Sri Lanka often means balancing incredible wildlife encounters with scenic drives—and this tour from Ella offers just that. For around $40 per person, you get a taste of the wild side of Udawalawe National Park, combined with a comfortable transfer to some of the country’s most popular coastal destinations. Whether you’re an animal lover, a nature photographer, or just looking for an authentic Sri Lankan adventure, this experience offers a practical and memorable way to see the island’s iconic elephants and more.

What really makes this tour shine are three things: the chance to see elephants and wildlife up close, the expertise of guides who know where to find those elusive creatures, and the luxurious comfort of the transport. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the entry fees for the park and Elephant Transit Home aren’t included, which adds a little extra to the budget. But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, flexible day combining wildlife spotting with smooth transfers—perfect for those with a curiosity for Sri Lanka’s natural beauty but limited time.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Elephant Experience: Spot elephants, crocodiles, and more in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable naturalists and drivers enhance your safari and overall experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles and spacious safari jeeps.
• Flexible & Customizable: Safaris tailored to your interests, with options for scenic stops.
• Value for Money: At $40, it’s an affordable, all-in-one day, considering the included activities.
• Additional Costs: Entry fees for Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes It Special

Pickup & Journey from Ella

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Ella, which most reviewers found to be punctual and smooth. As you leave the cool hills behind, you’ll traverse lush landscapes and rolling hills, setting the scene for a day immersed in nature. The drive itself is part of the experience—much of it offering picturesque views that make the long transfer feel less like a chore and more like the start of an adventure.

Udawalawe National Park Safari

Once you arrive at Udawalawe, the highlight is the safari in a luxury, 4×4 safari jeep. This isn’t just a quick spin—guided by experienced naturalists, you’ll traverse the park’s expansive terrain, which is known for its diverse wildlife. Expect to see elephants, often in large groups, as well as crocodiles, monkeys, wild boar, and various bird species including kingfishers.

Many reviews mention guides with eagle eyes for spotting animals—an essential skill in a park where animals often hide in the tall grass or behind trees. As Rogers noted, “The addition of a safari on a long transfer broke the journey nicely,” highlighting how this part of the day offers a chance to disconnect from the usual tourist spots and enjoy nature’s surprises.

Elephant Transit Home

Following the safari, you’ll visit the Elephant Transit Home, a dedicated center for rescued baby elephants. Here, you’ll witness the touching sight of elephants being fed at scheduled times—most commonly at 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM. Reviewers like Amanda mention, “We saw several families of elephants, getting quite close for photos,” emphasizing how special these moments are.

Visitors also learn about ongoing conservation efforts, which adds depth to your understanding of Sri Lanka’s wildlife protection initiatives. Expect to get some close-up views of these gentle giants in a safe, controlled environment that promotes awareness and kindness.

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The Serene Udawalawe Reservoir

After the elephant visit, the tour takes you to the Udawalawe Reservoir, a tranquil spot that offers spectacular views and a peaceful setting for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. The calm waters and surrounding greenery make it an ideal place to relax and reflect on your wildlife encounters.

Scenic Transfer to Coastal Towns

The final leg of the tour is a scenic drive to your chosen destination—Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Galle, or Tangalle. This part of the journey is often praised for its picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. As Elliott described, “The transfer was very smooth and on time,” and many travelers enjoy watching the countryside pass by as they head to their next adventure on Sri Lanka’s coast.

This transfer isn’t just a logistical step; it’s an opportunity to see more of the country’s natural beauty and to imagine the diverse experiences awaiting you in each destination.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Comfortable, air-conditioned car for your entire journey.
• A luxury, customized 4×4 safari jeep for your wildlife exploration.
• An experienced guide/driver who is knowledgeable and friendly.
• Pick-up and drop-off from select locations, including Ella, Galle, Mirissa, and more.

Not Included

• Park entry fee (~$36), which is a common extra in wildlife safaris.
• Elephant Transit Home entrance fee (~$7).
• Food and drinks—so plan to bring snacks or have a meal before or after your visit.

Reviewers mention that the prices are reasonable given what’s included, especially considering the quality of the safari and the comfort of the transfers. For example, Molly notes, “We still got to see a large variety of animals even though we hoped for more,” which underscores the value of the safari experience.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing: The park’s feeding sessions are at set times, so if you want to see elephants being fed, plan accordingly.
• Guide Quality: Guides like the one Elliott praised are key to spotting animals and explaining what you’re seeing, making the experience more engaging.
• Price & Value: At $40, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife, especially when you consider the included transfers and the safari.
• Flexibility: The tour offers tailored safaris, so if you’re interested in specific animals or scenery, communicate with your guide.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—ideal if your plans might change.

Overall Experience: Who Will Love It?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see elephants and wildlife in a natural setting without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfortable transport and guided insights but don’t want to spend hours on a long, complicated trip. The inclusion of the Elephant Transit Home adds an ethical and educational element, making it suitable for families or wildlife enthusiasts.

It works well for short-term visitors based in Ella or nearby who want a full day of adventure and scenic travel. While it’s not the most exclusive safari experience, the friendly guides and well-organized logistics make it a dependable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
It costs around $40 per person, which covers transportation, the safari, and guide services. Entry fees for Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home are additional.

What is included in the price?
You get a luxury air-conditioned vehicle, a private safari in a spacious 4×4 jeep, and a knowledgeable guide/driver. Pickup and drop-off from select locations are also included.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the park entry fee (~$36) and Elephant Transit Home entrance (~$7) are separate. Food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks if needed.

How long does the safari last?
The safari itself typically lasts 3-4 hours, guided by an expert naturalist who will help you spot animals and share facts along the way.

Can I customize the safari or itinerary?
Yes, safaris are tailored to your interests, so you can discuss what animals or scenery you most want to see with your guide.

What’s the best time to visit Udawalawe?
While the tour operates year-round, animal sightings tend to be good during the dry season when animals gather around water sources.

How punctual is the transfer service?
According to reviews, pickups are generally punctual and smooth, with guides and drivers making the journey comfortable.

Is this suitable for families or kids?
Absolutely, especially since the safari is in a safe environment, and children often love seeing elephants and other wildlife up close.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This safari from Ella offers a practical, well-priced opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife while enjoying comfortable travel between destinations. The combination of a wildlife-filled morning and scenic transfer makes it an excellent choice for travelers with limited time but a big appetite for adventure. The guides’ expertise and the chance to see elephants up close are definite highlights that add real value to this experience.

If you’re after an authentic, efficient way to see Sri Lanka’s elephants and explore its beautiful landscapes, this tour ticks all the boxes. It balances affordability with quality, making it an ideal day trip for wildlife lovers and travel explorers alike.

Whether you’re seeking a memorable wildlife encounter or a scenic journey to the coast, this tour delivers both—delivering Sri Lanka’s natural charm in a compact, enjoyable format.

You can check availability for your dates here: