From Ella: Yala National Park Safari & Back to Ella

Ella, a picturesque town nestled in Sri Lanka’s hill country, serves as the starting point for an unforgettable adventure to Yala National Park. Travelers can embark on a thrilling safari, spotting majestic Sri Lankan leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. This 8-hour journey, with hotel pickup and drop-off, offers a chance to take in nature’s wonders. However, there are essential considerations to keep in mind before embarking on this remarkable experience.

Key Points

• Yala National Park Safari from Ella is a full-day 8-hour adventure, including a 4.5-hour safari inside the park.
• The safari is priced at $220.00 per group (up to 6 people) with no upfront payment required.
• The safari experience offers the opportunity to spot Sri Lankan leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ella, an experienced guide/driver, and an air-conditioned private vehicle.
• Recommendations for proper attire, sun protection, and insect repellent are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Yala National Park Safari offers a comprehensive tour from Ella. Priced from $220.00 per group (up to 6 people), the 8-hour adventure includes a 4.5-hour safari inside the park.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t need to pay upfront to reserve their spot.

The safari starts either at 4:00 am or 11:00 am, with pickup and drop-off in Ella.

The safari starts either at 4:00 am or 11:00 am, with pickup and drop-off in Ella.

Though the itinerary is subject to change, the tour promises an opportunity to spot Sri Lankan leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Itinerary Details

The Yala National Park Safari starts with pickup from Ella, located just 1.5 hours away from the park.

The safari itself lasts 4.5 hours within the national park. Upon completion, the journey back to Ella takes another 1.5 hours.

The key details of the itinerary are:

1. Travel time from Ella to Yala National Park: 1.5 hours

2. Safari duration in the park: 4.5 hours

3. Return travel time from Yala National Park to Ella: 1.5 hours

The morning safari starts at 4:00 am, while the evening safari begins at 11:00 am.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Safari Experience

Visitors can expect to spot a wide array of wildlife during the Yala National Park Safari. The 4.5-hour safari ride in a soft-top jeep provides unobstructed views of the park’s diverse ecosystems.

With an experienced guide, travelers can witness the majestic Sri Lankan leopards, herds of elephants, exotic birds, sloth bears, and water buffalo. The scenic landscapes offer a glimpse into the park’s rich biodiversity.

Guests can enjoy the wild, following the guide’s instructions to ensure their safety and maximize wildlife sightings. The safari experience promises an unforgettable encounter with Sri Lanka’s captivating natural wonders.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Yala National Park Safari includes a 4-hour safari ride and hotel pickup and drop-off in Ella.

The tour also provides an experienced guide/driver and transport by air-conditioned private vehicle.

Exclusions include:

1. Meals and drinks

2. Gratuities (optional)

3. Personal expenses, park entrance fee, and jeep rental (Toyota Hilux: 15,000 LKR or Mahindra Bolero: 13,000 LKR).

Travelers should be aware of the important information and recommendations, such as the safari not being suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

Proper attire, sun protection, and insect repellent are also advised.

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Not Suitable for Certain Travellers

Although the Yala National Park Safari offers an exhilarating wildlife viewing experience, it may not be suitable for certain travelers. The safari isn’t recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with back problems. These groups may find the bumpy, off-road conditions challenging.

Safety is paramount, and visitors are advised to follow the guide’s instructions closely. The safari involves long periods of sitting in the jeep, which could be uncomfortable for some.

It’s essential to pack appropriate clothing and accessories like hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

What to Bring

Packing the right gear is key to making the most of the Yala National Park Safari. The 8-hour day trip requires a few essential items:

1. Sun protection – Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen. The equatorial sun can be intense, especially during the midday safari.

2. Comfortable, lightweight clothing – Choose breathable fabrics that can withstand heat and humidity. Opt for long sleeves and pants to prevent bug bites.

3. Insect repellent – Mosquitoes and other insects are common in the park. Bring a reliable repellent to keep them at bay.

Remember to stay hydrated and pack any necessary personal medications.

With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to spot Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.

Rules and Regulations

As visitors to Yala National Park, there are a few important rules and regulations to keep in mind.

Smoking and using plastic bags are strictly prohibited within the park. Guests must follow the guide’s instructions at all times to ensure their safety.

Children under 6 and pregnant women aren’t recommended on the safari due to the rugged terrain. Appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are essential.

Guests should stay hydrated and use insect repellent.

Safety Recommendations

Ensuring safety is paramount during the Yala National Park safari.

To keep visitors secure, the tour provider offers the following recommendations:

1. Follow the guide’s instructions at all times. They’ve extensive knowledge of the park and can ensure you stay out of harm’s way.

2. Stay hydrated by bringing enough water and drinking regularly. The safari can be physically demanding in the heat.

3. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. This will protect you from insects, thorns, and uneven terrain.

Adhering to these guidelines will help make your Yala safari a safe and enjoyable experience.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks, but they’re not included in the tour price. The tour operator recommends packing plenty of water and snacks to have on hand during the safari experience.

Can I Get a Refund if It Rains During the Safari?

Yes, you can get a full refund if the safari is canceled due to rain. The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you’ll receive a complete refund if the weather prevents the safari from taking place.

Is It Possible to Customize the Safari Itinerary?

The tour operator doesn’t offer customized itineraries for this Yala National Park safari. The itinerary is fixed, though it’s subject to change due to weather or other factors. Guests must follow the set schedule during the safari experience.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour has a minimum group size of 1 person. The price per group of up to 6 people is $220, so a solo traveler can book the tour without meeting a minimum group requirement.

Can I Leave the Safari Vehicle During the Tour?

Guests cannot leave the safari vehicle during the tour. For safety reasons, guests must remain in the vehicle at all times while on the Yala National Park safari. The guide’s instructions must be followed throughout the excursion.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable Yala National Park safari from Ella offers a chance to witness the majesty of Sri Lankan wildlife. Guests can spot leopards and elephants in their natural habitat on a thrilling 4.5-hour journey. With hotel pickup and drop-off, guided expertise, and safety recommendations, this 8-hour adventure immerses travelers in nature’s wonders while ensuring a comfortable and responsible experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: