Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe W/ Picnic Lunch

Ella’s safari day trip to Yala and Udawalawe offers an exciting opportunity to explore two of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks. With convenient hotel pickups, guided safaris, and a delightful picnic lunch, this full-day adventure promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. Spotting elephants, leopards, and other endemic species in their natural habitats is just the beginning. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where visitors can learn about the crucial conservation efforts underway. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or seeking a memorable day in the great outdoors, this tour won’t disappoint.

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Key Points

This full-day tour from Ella includes safaris at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and a picnic lunch.
The tour offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, and leopards, in their natural habitats.
The Elephant Transit Home provides a chance to observe the rehabilitation and care of orphaned elephant calves as part of a conservation effort.
A picnic lunch is provided after the morning safari, allowing visitors to refuel and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a professional guide to ensure a seamless and immersive safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe w/ Picnic Lunch," offers a full-day adventure starting from $96.73 per person, with a potential savings of up to 5%.

The 1-day excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, safaris at both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and a picnic lunch.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, providing flexibility for booking.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

This one-day safari adventure takes travelers on an exhilarating journey through two of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks.

The day begins with an early morning visit to Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including leopards, elephants, and a vast array of bird species.

After a picnic lunch, the tour proceeds to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where visitors can observe the care and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants.

The final stop is Udawalawe National Park, famous for its high concentration of elephants and other large mammals.

Throughout the day, a professional guide ensures a seamless and immersive safari experience.

Exploration of Yala National Park

Yala National Park beckons visitors with its diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes. Home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, the park offers exceptional opportunities to spot a variety of fauna. Guests can expect to see majestic elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, and if lucky, the elusive leopard. The terrain varies from dense forests and scrubs to grasslands and lagoons, providing a dynamic backdrop for the safari experience.

| Animal Sightings | Habitat Diversity | Safari Experience |

|—————–|——————-|——————-|

| Elephants | Forests | Sunrise Exploration|

| Leopards | Scrubs | Jeep Safari |

| Sloth Bears | Grasslands | Professional Guide |

| Spotted Deer | Lagoons | Stunning Vistas |

Picnic Lunch Experience

How does the picnic lunch experience unfold on this safari day trip?

After the morning safari at Yala, guests are treated to a tasty picnic lunch. The tour operator provides a spread of local and international dishes, including fresh fruits, sandwiches, and beverages.

Guests can enjoy their meal in a scenic spot, taking in the natural surroundings. The picnic offers a chance to refuel and recharge before the afternoon safari at Udawalawe.

The picnic lunch offers a scenic respite, allowing guests to refuel before the afternoon safari at Udawalawe.

While some reviews note crowding at the picnic site in Yala, the overall experience provides a welcomed respite and sustenance during this wildlife-filled excursion.

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Visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

After the picnic lunch, the tour proceeds to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. This facility rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves, preparing them for release back into the wild.

Visitors can observe:

Elephant calves being fed milk and treated by veterinarians.
Keepers teaching the calves essential survival skills, like foraging and self-defense.
The expansive, lush habitat designed to mimic the elephants’ natural environment.

The transit home’s mission is to give these vulnerable elephants a second chance at life in the wild.

Witnessing this hands-on conservation effort leaves a lasting impression on the tour’s participants.

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Safari at Udawalawe National Park

Upon completing the visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, the tour proceeds to the Udawalawe National Park for an afternoon safari.

Udawalawe is known for its high concentration of elephants, as well as other wildlife like spotted deer, jackals, wild boar, and crocodiles.

Guests explore the park’s diverse habitats, including forests, scrubs, grasslands, and lagoons, in a sturdy 4×4 jeep led by a professional driver/guide.

The safari provides opportunities to observe the park’s abundant flora and fauna in their natural environment, making it a highlight of the day trip.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the day.

Travelers will be transported in a sturdy 4×4 jeep for the safaris at Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.

The professional driver/guide will provide:

Safe and reliable transportation to the parks and transit home.
In-depth knowledge about the local wildlife and ecosystems.
Assistance in spotting and observing the diverse fauna during the safaris.

With these transportation and comfort amenities, guests can fully enjoy the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers who’ve experienced this Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe have shared their insights and ratings.

The tour earns an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 6 reviews. Customers praise the transportation, describing it as a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and sturdy 4×4 jeeps for the safaris. Many also highlight the excellent value for money.

However, feedback is mixed on the picnic lunch and crowds at Yala National Park. Reviewers do commend the knowledgeable guides and the vastness of Udawalawe National Park, known for its high concentration of elephants and other wildlife.

Common Questions

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during the tour. However, it’s important to follow any rules or guidance provided by the tour guides or park authorities to ensure the safety and preservation of the natural environment and wildlife.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Bringing your own food and snacks is generally allowed on tours, but it’s best to confirm with the tour operator beforehand. Some tours may include a picnic lunch, in which case outside food may not be necessary.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children, as it includes a picnic lunch and visits to Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, which offer opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. However, the long travel time and safari activities may not be suitable for very young children.

What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It’s a private tour, so you can book it for just your group. This gives you flexibility in planning your safari experience.

Can I Request a Language-Specific Guide?

Yes, you can request a language-specific guide. The tour provider typically offers guides who speak English, as well as other languages upon request, subject to availability. It’s best to inquire about language options when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The Ella Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe with Picnic Lunch offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure. Guests can expect to spot elephants, leopards, and diverse flora and fauna across the two national parks. With hotel pickup, a professional guide, and the option for free cancellation, this tour provides a seamless and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.