Exploring the lush landscapes from Ella to Udawalawe and ending in the coastal charm of Mirissa is a must-do adventure for any traveler in Sri Lanka. This thrilling day tour offers an immersive wildlife safari, a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, and the opportunity to unwind on Mirissa’s picturesque beaches. Whether you opt for an early morning or full-day excursion, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories amidst Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. What else can this captivating journey offer?

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Key Points

The Udawalawe Safari tour offers a Morning Safari or a Full-Day Safari option from Ella to destinations around Mirissa.
The Morning Safari includes a 3-hour game drive in Udawalawe National Park and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, with drop-off in Mirissa around 1:00 p.m.
The Full-Day Safari provides three game drives throughout the day, a lunch break, and drop-off in coastal towns around 8:00 p.m.
Prices for the Morning Safari and Full-Day Safari are $98.31 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, and includes pickup/drop-off, a professional driver-cum-guide, and entrance fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Options and Pricing

The article outlines several tour options for a safari experience from Ella to Mirissa, each with varying pricing.

A range of safari tour options from Ella to Mirissa, each with differing prices, are detailed in the article.

Visitors can choose between a Morning or Afternoon Safari with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, priced at $98.31 per person.

Alternatively, they can opt for a Full Day Safari with three game drives while transferring from Ella to Mirissa.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "Reserve now & pay later" option provide flexibility.

Durations range from 9 to 16 hours, depending on the selected tour.

Bookings require a minimum of two adults.

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Itinerary Overview

The Morning Safari begins with pickup from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya at either 4:30 a.m. or 5:00 a.m.

After the early start, guests embark on a 3-hour wildlife safari/game drive in Udawalawe National Park.

The tour then includes a 30-minute visit to the Elephant Transit Home.

Finally, guests are dropped off at their destinations along the Koggala, Ahangama, Weligama, Mirissa, Matara, Dondra, or Talalla coast around 1:00 p.m.

The Full-Day Safari follows a similar pickup process but includes two additional game drives, totaling three, and a lunch break.

Drop-off for the full-day option is around 8:00 p.m.

Morning Safari

Kicking off the day bright and early, guests are picked up from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya at either 4:30 a.m. or 5:00 a.m. for the Morning Safari.

After a short drive, they embark on a 3-hour wildlife safari through Udawalawe National Park, teeming with elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and diverse bird species.

Guests embark on a 3-hour wildlife safari through Udawalawe National Park, teeming with elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and diverse bird species.

The experience continues with a 30-minute visit to the Elephant Transit Home, an organization supporting the local community and promoting sustainable ecotourism.

Guests are then dropped off at their desired destinations along the Koggala-Mirissa coast around 1:00 p.m., completing this immersive morning adventure.

Full-Day Safari

For the Full-Day Safari, guests enjoy a similar pickup process starting from Ella, Bandarawela, or Wellawaya.

They’ll embark on two additional game drives, totaling three throughout the day. Included is a lunch break to refuel.

The tour wraps up around 8:00 PM with drop-off at the coastal towns.

The full-day experience offers:

Three comprehensive game drives in Udawalawe National Park.
Sightings of diverse wildlife like elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and bird species.
Eco-friendly operations that support the local community.
Expert drivers and guides with extensive park knowledge.

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Wildlife Experience

Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including a healthy population of elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and an abundance of bird species.

Visitors can expect an immersive safari experience led by expert drivers and guides who possess extensive knowledge of the park. The tour operator’s sustainable and eco-friendly operations support the local community, ensuring a responsible and meaningful encounter with nature.

Travelers will have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from specified areas, a professional driver cum guide, a shared safari vehicle, and entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park and the Elephant Transit Home.

However, there are a few exclusions:

Entrance fees must be paid in cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) at the park entrances – no foreign currency accepted.
Optional meals such as breakfast and lunch are available for an additional charge.
Children aged 5 and below can join for free, while those aged 6-12 receive a 50% discount, but must be accompanied by an adult.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Important Information

Pickup times may vary depending on the hotel locations, as the tour providers aim to optimize the route for efficiency. The safari option is not suitable for all travellers, so it’s important to consider the restrictions.

| Requirement | Limitation |

| — | — |

| Pregnant Women | Not suitable |

| Back Problems | Not suitable |

| Wheelchair Users | Not suitable |

| Minimum Booking | 2 adults required |

Despite these limitations, the tour receives excellent reviews for its organization and guide expertise, with an overall 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews. Flexibility is provided with the reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Customer Reviews

According to customer reviews, the Ella – Udawalawe Safari to Mirissa tour receives an impressive 5-star rating.

Reviewers consistently praise:

The exceptional organization and smooth logistics.
The knowledgeable and passionate driver/guides who share rich insights.
The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including majestic elephants.
The seamless transfer from Ella to Mirissa, making the most of the day.

Customers highlight the tour’s eco-friendly approach and support for the local community.

With these glowing endorsements, the Ella – Udawalawe Safari to Mirissa emerges as a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.

Common Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Safari?

The dress code for the safari is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat to protect against the sun. Bringing sunscreen and insect repellent is also recommended.

Can I Take Photos During the Safari?

Yes, visitors can take photos during the safari. The tour company encourages guests to capture the wildlife and natural scenery they encounter. However, they advise being respectful and not disturbing the animals or their natural habitat.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has age restrictions – children aged 5 and below can join for free, while those aged 6-12 receive a 50% discount. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes entrance fees, transportation, and an expert guide, but any additional meals or refreshments must be purchased separately at the park or during the lunch break.

What Should I Bring for the Safari?

You’ll want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Don’t forget to pack snacks and water, as the safari can last several hours. Wear comfortable, light clothing and closed-toe shoes to protect against the elements.

The Sum Up

The journey from Ella to Udawalawe and on to Mirissa offers an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Early morning pickups allow for a thrilling safari in Udawalawe, where visitors can encounter majestic elephants and diverse wildlife. After visiting the Elephant Transit Home, guests are dropped off at the beautiful coastal town of Mirissa, ready to enjoy the stunning beaches and local attractions.