From Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Shuttle to Ella With Yala Safari

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka just got more convenient. The "From Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Shuttle to Ella With Yala Safari" tour offers travelers a seamless way to experience the country’s natural wonders. With flexible booking options and a knowledgeable guide, this eight-hour adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Yala National Park, where the chance to spot elusive leopards and majestic elephants awaits. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled safari or a scenic shuttle ride, this tour provides the perfect balance of convenience and excitement.

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Key Points

Shuttle service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella combined with a Yala National Park safari, lasting 8 hours with a live English-speaking guide.
Pickup available from any hotel in the Tangalle area, with an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation and the safari conducted during prime viewing hours.
Opportunity to spot wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and various bird species during the Yala National Park safari.
Pricing ranges from $52.64 to $50.01 per person, with a "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Entrance and service fee to Yala National Park, approximately $40 USD per person, is payable separately at the park entrance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Activity

The activity offers a shuttle service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella, combined with a safari through Yala National Park.

The tour lasts 8 hours and is led by a live English-speaking guide. Pickup is from any hotel in the Tangalle area, with guests required to be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The shuttle service provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the safari takes place during prime viewing hours to maximize the chances of spotting native Sri Lankan wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species.

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Pickup and Pricing Details

Guests can be picked up from any hotel in the Tangalle area, and are required to be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The price for this shuttle and safari experience ranges from $52.64 to $50.01 per person, with a potential savings of up to 5%.

The booking process offers flexibility, as:

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
A "reserve now & pay later" option is offered, requiring no upfront payment.
Payment can be made upon arrival at the park entrance in Sri Lankan Rupees.

Cancellation and Reservation Process

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The company offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, so travelers don’t need to make an upfront payment. This flexible reservation process allows travelers to plan their trip without any financial commitment until they’re ready to go.

The shuttle service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella, combined with the Yala National Park safari, can be booked easily online. Travelers simply need to select their desired date and number of participants to check availability and secure their spot for this immersive wildlife experience.

Highlights of the Safari Experience

Exploring Yala National Park during the prime viewing time allows visitors to catch a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.

The open-topped jeep safari offers optimal viewing and photography opportunities to spot a variety of native species, including:

Leopards, the park’s star attraction
Sloth bears, known for their playful behavior
Majestic elephants roaming the landscapes
Crocodiles sunbathing on the banks of the lagoons
Monkeys scurrying through the trees
A wide array of vibrant bird species

With the guidance of a knowledgeable driver/guide, the safari promises an immersive and unforgettable experience in Yala’s natural wonders.

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Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

During the safari, visitors have the chance to spot a variety of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife within Yala National Park. This includes the elusive leopard, as well as sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and an abundance of bird species.

The open-topped jeep offers optimal viewing and photography opportunities, allowing guests to observe the animals in their natural habitat. With experienced guides leading the way, safari-goers are more likely to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

The prime viewing time ensures the best possible sightings, making this a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the region.

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Transportation and Guide Services

The shuttle service from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver and guide.

The driver and guide work together to ensure a smooth and informative journey. They will:

Provide live commentary in English about the sights along the way.
Coordinate the pickup from any hotel in the Tangalle area, ensuring travelers are ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
Deliver travelers safely to their destination in Ella, door-to-door.
Offer insights and tips to enhance the overall experience.

Entrance and Service Fees

Although the shuttle service and safari experience are included in the price, travelers must pay the Entrance and Service Fee to Yala National Park separately. This fee amounts to approximately 40 USD per person, which is payable in cash at the park entrance. The table below outlines the entrance fees in more detail:

| Fee Type | Cost (LKR) | Cost (USD) |

| — | — | — |

| Entrance Fee | 11,000 | 30 |

| Service Charge | 2,000 | 10 |

| Total | 13,000 | 40 |

Visitors should be prepared to pay this additional fee upon arrival at Yala National Park.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on 87 reviews, the shuttle service and safari experience received an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

The shuttle service and safari experience received an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on 87 reviews.

The guide received a 3.9/5 rating, while the transportation received a 4.2/5 rating. The value for money was rated 3.6/5.

The reviews highlighted:

Guides’ ability to spot wildlife
Informative commentary provided by guides
Open-topped jeep for optimal viewing and photography
Chance to see a variety of native Sri Lankan wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, and monkeys.

Common Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Safari?

Photography is allowed during the safari. The open-topped jeep provides optimal viewing and photography opportunities to capture the native Sri Lankan wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes transportation and park entrance, guests are generally permitted to bring their own food and drinks for the safari. However, it’s advised to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions.

Are Restroom Facilities Available During the Safari?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available within Yala National Park during the safari. Guests can use the designated restroom areas provided by the park authorities to accommodate their needs throughout the wildlife viewing experience.

What Kind of Vehicle Is Used for the Safari?

The safari takes place in an open-topped jeep, providing optimal viewing and photography opportunities to see the native Sri Lankan wildlife during the prime viewing time in Yala National Park.

Can We Add Any Additional Stops Along the Way?

The shuttle service does not include any additional stops along the way. The focus is on transporting passengers from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella and providing a safari experience through Yala National Park during the journey.

The Sum Up

This shuttle tour from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella with a Yala National Park safari provides a convenient and exciting way to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife, it’s an unforgettable adventure. The flexible booking and cancellation options make this tour an appealing choice for travelers seeking to make the most of their time in this stunning destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: