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

Introducing the Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella Tour

If you’re exploring Sri Lanka’s southern coast and want to add a bit of wild adventure to your itinerary, the Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella tour might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the offered itinerary, it’s clear this experience balances wildlife encounters, comfortable travel, and scenic beauty very well.

What makes this tour special? First, the opportunity to see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat with expert guides leading the way. Second, the cruise through Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes to Ella, which offers some of the most memorable views the island has to offer. And third, the heartwarming visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where you can meet adorable baby elephants being cared for and learn about important conservation efforts.

A potential consideration? The entry fees for Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home, which are around $36 and $7 respectively, are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for those. But overall, the cost of $44 per person offers solid value when you factor in the private transfers, guided safari, and scenic journey.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, nature, and comfortable, hassle-free excursions. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife and elephants: Guided safari in Udawalawe National Park with expert naturalists.
• Comfortable transport: Spacious, air-conditioned vehicles ensure a smooth ride.
• Personalized experience: Safari jeeps tailored to your interests and preferences.
• Heartwarming visits: Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants being fed.
• Scenic views: Picturesque drive to Ella through lush landscapes and rolling hills.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Pick-up and Transport

The journey starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Galle, or Tangalle. The tour provider, Tiger Safaris, prides itself on punctuality, with reviews praising the timely pickup and drop-off. You’ll travel in a luxury, air-conditioned car, which makes the roughly 4-6 hour trip more comfortable and less tiring. The spacious vehicle is a bonus when covering the distance to Udawalawe, especially as the scenery along the way is part of the experience.

Safari in Udawalawe National Park

Once at Udawalawe, you’ll switch to a luxury, customized 4×4 safari jeep. This isn’t just a standard tour bus — the jeeps are designed for wildlife spotting and navigating the park’s diverse terrain, offering better views and access.

Your guide, an experienced naturalist, will lead you through different parts of the park, pointing out wildlife such as elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species. The reviews highlight how guides like the one Juan Luis Alcazar mentions, are “very good at pointing animals out,” adding a personal touch to the adventure. Expect to see elephants in close proximity, often walking just beside or in front of your jeep, making for memorable photo ops.

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Elephant Transit Home Visit

After the safari, you’ll head to the Elephant Transit Home, a conservation center that operates feeding sessions at specific times — 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM. All reviews commend this stop for its heartwarming atmosphere. Travelers get a chance to observe baby elephants being fed, learning about their rescue stories and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

Rinata, one of the reviewers, appreciated how “the elephants were amazing” and how it was “good to learn more about them in the transit museum.” It’s an educational experience, blending wildlife observation with an understanding of conservation.

Relaxing at Udawalawe Reservoir

Next, the tour takes you to the Udawalawe Reservoir, a quiet spot that offers panoramic views and a peaceful environment. Many visitors find this part ideal for taking photos, relaxing, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Scenic Drive to Ella

The final leg of your journey is a scenic drive to Ella. As you leave the park behind, you’ll traverse Sri Lanka’s lush countryside, characterized by green hills, tea plantations, and waterfalls. This part of the trip is often praised for its breathtaking vistas, making it more than just transportation — it’s a highlight itself.

In Ella, you’ll have the opportunity to explore waterfalls, visit tea factories, or simply enjoy the cooler climate and stunning views. Many reviews, such as David’s, mention how well-organized the trip was, with smooth transitions from wildlife to scenic exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $44 per person covers:

• Transport in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip
• A guided safari in a private, customized 4×4 jeep
• An experienced guide/driver who’s knowledgeable about wildlife and the area
• Pickup and drop-off from select locations including Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Galle, and Tangalle

However, you’ll need to budget separately for:

• Udawalawe National Park entry fee (~$36)
• Elephant Transit Home entrance fee (~$7)
• Food and drinks during the day

This setup offers excellent value, especially considering the private, guided safari and scenic drive, which typically cost much more if booked independently.

Reviews and Authentic Traveler Insights

Multiple reviewers, including Juan Luis Alcazar and David, speak highly of the organization and professionalism of the trip. Juan Luis appreciated how “they picked us up at our hotel in Tangalle at the agreed time and dropped us off in Ella around 2 pm,” highlighting punctual service.

The safari itself receives glowing praise: “We saw spotted deer, crocodiles, and elephants up close,” says Juan Luis, while Brian mentions, “You could touch the elephants, they walked so close to you.” The guides’ ability to spot animals and point them out is a recurring theme, making the experience feel personalized and engaging.

The Elephant Transit Home also gets high marks for its heartwarming environment and educational value. Rinata appreciated “learning more about elephants in the transit museum,” emphasizing how this stop adds depth to the trip.

Most travelers mention how well-organized and smooth the entire experience is, with many feeling it offers great value for money.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a well-rounded day of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect if you want to see elephants in the wild and learn about conservation efforts without the hassle of planning multiple trips or navigating Sri Lanka’s roads solo.

Travelers who value comfort and personalized service will appreciate the private vehicle and guided safari. The combination of an early morning safari, the adorable elephant feedings, and a scenic drive to Ella makes it suitable for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

However, if you’re not keen on paying for park entry fees separately or prefer a more budget-friendly, self-guided adventure, this might be less ideal. Also, those with back problems or pregnant women should consider the physical demands of the safari and the nature of the activities.

In all, this tour offers a balanced and authentic Sri Lankan experience, blending wildlife encounters with breathtaking landscapes — a memorable addition to any southern Sri Lanka itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $44 per person, which covers transportation, a guided safari, and the Elephant Transit Home visit. Entry fees for Udawalawe National Park (~$36) and the Elephant Transit Home (~$7) are paid separately.

What is included in the tour?
You get pickup and drop-off from select locations, luxury air-conditioned transport, a private safari jeep, and the services of an experienced guide/driver.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s advisable to bring some snacks or purchase refreshments during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers, including families, enjoy the experience, it’s important to note that it involves a safari and some walking. Pregnant women or those with back problems should consider this.

How long does the entire tour last?
Though not explicitly stated, the entire trip typically spans a full day, with flexible timings allowing for a relaxed experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your passport or ID card, and consider packing sun protection, water, and comfortable clothing suitable for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Is the safari guided?
Absolutely, the safari is led by an experienced naturalist who will help you spot wildlife and provide insights along the way.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While not specified, wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka are generally better during dry seasons when animals are more active and visible.

To sum it up, this Udawalawa Safari & Drop Ella tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife and landscapes comfortably. It’s especially suited for those who value guided experiences, scenic drives, and authentic encounters with nature. With great reviews backing its reliability and value, it’s a compelling addition to your travel plans in the south and central highlands of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: