From Ella: Udawalawe National Park Safari With Elephant …

Embark on an unforgettable safari from Ella to Udawalawe National Park, home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations. This 4-hour adventure offers a chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With a private vehicle and English-speaking driver, you’ll enjoy scenic stops and an optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home. Get ready to create lasting memories amidst nature’s wonders and discover why this safari is a must-do experience.

Key Points

• A 4-hour safari in Udawalawe National Park, known for its large elephant population, with the option to visit the Elephant Transit Home.
• Pickup from Ella hotel and a 2.5-hour journey to the national park, with scenic stops at Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall.
• Opportunity to spot wild elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
• Private car or van with an English-speaking driver provided, along with complimentary bottled water.
• Recommended items include a hat, sunscreen, camera, and snacks, as the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Udawalawe National Park safari from Ella is priced at £137.50 per group, accommodating up to 4 participants.

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also choose the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

The safari’s duration is 4 hours, with an optional 1-hour visit to the Elephant Transit Home. Scenic stops at Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall are included, and the tour departs from the traveler’s Ella hotel or a specified location.

Itinerary and Highlights

After the pickup from the traveler’s Ella hotel or a specified location, the journey to Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Once at the park, the safari lasts 4 hours, allowing ample time to explore this wildlife haven. Travelers may also opt for a 1-hour visit to the Elephant Transit Home to observe the feeding of baby elephants.

Along the way, the tour makes scenic stops at Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall. In the evening, the group returns to Ella, concluding the comprehensive wildlife experience.

Wildlife Experience

Udawalawe National Park is renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s best wildlife havens, known for its large elephant population.

During the safari, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including wild elephants, water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and an array of bird species.

The highlight is the optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home, where you can witness baby elephants being fed and cared for before their release back into the wild.

This unique experience offers an up-close and personal encounter with these gentle giants.

Transportation and Amenities

For the safari tour, a private car or van with an English-speaking driver is provided to transport visitors to and from Udawalawe National Park. Bottled water is complimentary throughout the journey. The entry fees are as follows:

| Entry Fee | 1 Pax | 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax |

|———–|——-|——-|——-|——-|

| Elephant Transit Home | $5 USD | $5 USD | $5 USD | $5 USD |

| Udawalawe National Park | $50 USD | $76 USD | $105 USD | $134 USD |

The cost of the safari jeep hire is shared among the passengers. Smoking is not allowed during the tour, and it’s recommended to bring a hat, camera, snacks, and sunscreen.

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Departure and Arrival Times

The tour departs early in the morning from the Ella hotel or a specified location to maximize the chances of wildlife sightings.

The drive to Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours, and the safari within the park lasts for 4 hours.

After the safari, there’s an optional 1-hour visit to the Elephant Transit Home to observe baby elephants during feeding times.

After the safari, visitors can opt for a 1-hour visit to the Elephant Transit Home to observe baby elephants during feeding times.

The tour then makes scenic stops at Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall before returning to Ella in the evening.

• Early morning departure for optimal wildlife viewing

• 2.5-hour drive to the national park

• 4-hour safari within the park

• Optional 1-hour visit to Elephant Transit Home

Recommended Items and Warnings

Although the Udawalawe National Park safari promises an unforgettable wildlife experience, visitors should come prepared.

Visitors are advised to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and animal sightings. Snacks are also recommended, as the safari can last up to four hours.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems. Smoking is prohibited during the tour.

Visitors should also be aware that itineraries may be subject to change. By being prepared, travelers can fully enjoy the natural wonders of Udawalawe National Park.

Elephant Transit Home Visit

Why visit the Elephant Transit Home during the Udawalawe National Park safari?

The Elephant Transit Home provides a unique opportunity to witness the rehabilitation and care of baby elephants. This optional visit offers:

• A chance to observe the feeding of these young elephants at designated times

• Up-close views of the elephants as they roam freely within the protected facility

• Insights into the conservation efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s iconic elephant population

• The ability to support the Elephant Transit Home’s important work through the entry fee

The Elephant Transit Home visit is a memorable addition to the Udawalawe safari experience.

Scenic Stops and Viewpoints

Along the journey to Udawalawe National Park, visitors can enjoy scenic stops at the Udawalawe Lake and Ravana Waterfall.

The Udawalawe Lake offers a tranquil setting, where one can spot birds and water buffalo.

The Ravana Waterfall, a popular attraction along the way, cascades from a height of 82 feet, creating a stunning display of nature’s power.

These breaks provide opportunities to stretch one’s legs, capture picturesque photographs, and immerse in the lush, verdant surroundings before continuing the safari adventure within Udawalawe National Park, known for its remarkable elephant population.

Common Questions

Can We Take Photos During the Safari?

Yes, visitors can take photos during the safari. The tour provides opportunities to capture photos of wildlife such as elephants, water buffalo, deer, and various bird species within Udawalawe National Park.

Is There a Dress Code or Specific Clothing Required?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for the safari. Avoid bright colors that may scare the animals. Layering is advised as it can get chilly during the early morning or evening.

Are Meals Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include any meals. Travelers are responsible for their own food and snacks during the safari. Bottled water is provided, but all other meals and refreshments are not part of the tour package.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized to an extent, though core activities like the Udawalawe National Park safari and optional Elephant Transit Home visit are fixed. Travelers can discuss any specific requests with the tour operator.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if We Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you need to reschedule, simply notify the provider within 24 hours of the tour to avoid any penalties.

The Sum Up

This Udawalawe National Park safari from Ella offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe the park’s impressive elephant population and other wildlife in their natural habitat. With a private vehicle and an English-speaking driver, travelers can enjoy scenic stops along the way and an optional visit to the Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants being fed, creating lasting memories amidst nature’s wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: