The "From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Hiriketiya with Udawalawe Safari" combines transportation and wildlife viewing for an engaging day trip. Travelers are whisked from Ella to Udawalawe National Park, where they’ll discover diverse wildlife with a knowledgeable guide. While feedback on the tour’s punctuality and value has been mixed, the convenient pickup and flexible cancellation policy make it an enticing option for those seeking a hassle-free adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to explore, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.

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Key Points

A shuttle service from Ella to Tangalle or Hiriketiya, including a 3-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park, lasting a total of 7 hours.
The safari offers opportunities to see elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and endemic bird species in an open-concept jeep.
Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and highway toll charges included.
Pricing ranges from Kč 2,184 to Kč 2,074 per person, with up to a 5% savings, but the entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park are not included.
Customer feedback is mixed, with some concerns about the driver’s punctuality, safety, and vehicle condition, as well as the value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The activity offers a shuttle service from Ella to either Tangalle or Hiriketiya, along with a 3-hour safari through Udawalawe National Park.

The total duration is 7 hours, and a live English-speaking tour guide accompanies the group. Clients can book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The safari experience allows opportunities to see elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and endemic bird species.

Clients will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with highway toll charges included, and be dropped off at their Tangalle/Hiriketiya accommodation.

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Safari Experience

During the 3-hour safari tour in Udawalawe National Park, visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, and an abundance of endemic bird species.

The safari takes place in an open-concept jeep, allowing for optimal wildlife viewing. Guests are guided by a professional who provides insights about the local flora and fauna, enhancing the overall experience.

The safari offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Udawalawe, home to a diverse ecosystem teeming with fascinating creatures.

Transportation Details

As part of this experience, the shuttle service includes hotel pickup from the Ella area and drop-off in the Tangalle/Hiriketiya area.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. Highway toll charges are included in the overall cost.

The journey takes approximately 7 hours, providing a seamless transfer from the Ella region to the Tangalle/Hiriketiya area, with a safari experience in Udawalawe National Park along the way.

The 7-hour journey offers a seamless transfer with a safari experience in Udawalawe National Park along the way.

This hassle-free transportation arrangement allows visitors to focus on the wildlife viewing and avoid the inconvenience of self-driving or arranging separate transfers.

Costs and Inclusions

The price for the Shuttle to Tangalle and Udawalawe Safari experience ranges from Kč 2,184 to Kč 2,074 per person, allowing for up to a 5% savings.

The tour includes:

Professional driver/guide
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
3-hour safari tour in Udawalawe National Park

However, the entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park, approximately $25 per person, aren’t included in the tour price.

While the overall experience has received a 3.8/5 rating, some customers have noted unexpected costs and variable quality of the vehicle and safari guide knowledge.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have provided mixed feedback on the Shuttle to Tangalle and Udawalawe Safari experience.

While some praised the driver’s punctuality and safety, as well as the safari guide’s knowledge, others felt the value for money was lacking.

Mixed reviews on the driver’s punctuality and safety, as well as the safari guide’s knowledge, with some feeling the value was lacking.

Complaints included the condition of the vehicle and unexpected additional costs for park entry fees.

Reviewers’ experiences varied, with some finding the safari genuinely enjoyable, while others noted unexpected expenses.

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Convenient Pickup and Dropoff

One of the key conveniences of the Shuttle to Tangalle and Udawalawe Safari is the included hotel pickup and dropoff service.

This service allows you to:

Start your day stress-free without needing to arrange your own transportation.
Enjoy a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle from your Ella area hotel.
Be dropped off directly at your final destination in Tangalle or Hiriketiya, making it easy to continue your journey.

This pickup and dropoff arrangement ensures a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on the highlights of the tour without logistical hassles.

Explore Diverse Wildlife

Although the highlight of the Shuttle to Tangalle and Udawalawe Safari is the 3-hour wildlife viewing experience, participants can expect to encounter a diverse array of animals throughout the national park.

Elephants, the park’s most renowned residents, roam freely in herds. Crocodiles bask on the riverbanks, while monkeys and water buffaloes graze nearby.

Birders will delight in spotting endemic species like the Sri Lanka Hornbill. The open-concept safari jeep provides optimal viewing conditions, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural habitats of these magnificent creatures.

A professional guide offers insightful commentary, enriching the overall safari experience.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

The Shuttle to Tangalle and Udawalawe Safari offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to book with confidence.

This tour features:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Reserve now & pay later option available.
Worry-free booking with the flexibility to change plans if needed.

This policy provides peace of mind, enabling travelers to book the tour without commitment until the last minute.

With the option to cancel or reschedule, the flexible cancellation policy adds convenience and takes the stress out of planning.

Common Questions

Is the Shuttle Service Wheelchair Accessible?

The shuttle service does not explicitly mention wheelchair accessibility. Customers with mobility needs should inquire about accessibility options when booking to ensure the service can accommodate their requirements.

Can Children Under 12 Join the Safari?

Children under 12 can join the safari. The activity allows children of all ages to participate in the wildlife viewing experience, though parents should supervise younger kids during the safari tour.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Safari?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the safari. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the wildlife sightings, but they should be mindful of the safari guidelines and respect the environment.

What Should I Bring for the Safari Tour?

For the safari tour, it’s recommended to bring binoculars, camera, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, and water. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes to enjoy the wildlife viewing experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Safari Duration?

The tour offers a 3-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park. There’s no option to extend the safari duration, but customers can opt to explore the park further independently after the guided tour. Additional fees would apply for any extended time in the park.

The Sum Up

The "From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Hiriketiya with Udawalawe Safari" offers a convenient day trip combining transportation and a wildlife safari. Travelers can expect to witness diverse wildlife, including elephants, with a knowledgeable guide. Although feedback has been mixed, the tour provides a flexible cancellation policy and the opportunity to explore Udawalawe National Park. The 7-hour journey ensures a memorable excursion for those seeking both convenience and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: