Ella, Bandarawela or Haputale to Udawalawe Safari With Jeep

Are you craving an authentic Sri Lankan wildlife adventure that combines stunning scenery with a dose of adventure? This Udawalawe safari from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale offers just that. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, and here’s what you can expect if you’re considering booking.

What we love about this experience:
– The chance to see elephants in the wild up close—an unforgettable sight.
– Visiting the picturesque Ravana Waterfalls, which provides a refreshing break and excellent photo ops.
– The opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka’s wildlife and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides.
– Traveling in a comfortable, private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day much more relaxed.

The main consideration? Since the tour involves long drives (around 2 hours each way) and a full day outdoors, it might not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more leisurely pace.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a well-rounded day trip that combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Spot elephants, crocodiles, and exotic bird species in their natural environment.
• Beautiful Waterfalls: Ravana Waterfalls is a highlight, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Educational Experience: Guides share insights into Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation efforts.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind.
• Ideal for Nature Seekers: Best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour begins with a pickup from one of nine locations around Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale, starting as early as 9 am—perfect for maximizing your day. The exact pickup point is flexible, allowing you to choose what’s most convenient.

Ravana Waterfalls: A Refreshing First Stop

After roughly two hours of driving, you arrive at Ravana Waterfalls. This spot is often praised for its stunning cascade and the cool mountain air that surrounds it. Visitors appreciate the photo opportunities, with reviews mentioning “capturing beautiful shots” and enjoying the “misty freshness.” It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs, soak in the scenery, and prep for the wildlife adventure ahead.

Udawalawe National Park: Wildlife Safari Time

Next, you head into the iconic Udawalawe National Park. The journey takes around two hours, but it’s comfortable in a licensed, insured, and safety-checked vehicle. Once inside, your guide—who “ensures a safe, respectful experience”—leads you on a 4×4 jeep safari across grasslands, wetlands, and forest patches.

Here’s where the magic happens: wild elephants are the star of the show, with many reviews highlighting encounters with herds just meters away. You might also spot crocodiles basking on the banks and a variety of bird species like peacocks and hornbills. One review notes: “We saw elephants close up and learned a lot about their behavior from our guide, Mr. Kumar, who was very knowledgeable.”

The safari lasts about four hours, with plenty of chances for photo moments and spotting different animals. The guides adhere to strict rules, keeping a safe viewing distance and ensuring respectful interactions with wildlife.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ravana Falls: A Short Visit on the Return

After your safari, you’ll stop at Ravana Waterfalls again, this time for a brief 20-minute stop to enjoy the scenery or snap some additional photos. Many travelers find this quick visit a lovely way to round off the day’s adventure amid nature’s beauty.

Return Journey: Scenic Drive Back

Your journey back takes roughly two hours, winding through Sri Lanka’s lush countryside. This part of the trip is relaxing, and you can reflect on the day’s highlights, often commenting on how stunning the views are along the way.

Drop-offs at Various Locations

The tour concludes with drop-offs at your selected location—be it Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale—making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Wildlife Experience: Unlike zoo visits or crowded safaris, this trip offers sightings in the animals’ natural habitat. The presence of experienced guides like Mr. Kumar ensures you get insightful commentary and safe, responsible viewing.

Natural Beauty: The combination of waterfalls, open grasslands, and lush forests offers plenty of visual variety. You’ll see Sri Lanka’s landscape at its best—verdant, vibrant, and full of life.

Comfort and Convenience: The private vehicle and flexible pickup points make this a hassle-free day trip, ideal for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without worrying about logistics.

Educational and Responsible Tourism: The guides share knowledge about conservation efforts, and strict rules prevent feeding, touching, or chasing animals. This tour supports ethical wildlife tourism.

Value for Money: The all-inclusive nature (transport, guide, park entry, and safari) means you get a full day’s adventure without surprise costs, making it a worthwhile investment for wildlife lovers.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Ravana Waterfalls and when entering the park.
• Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the Sri Lankan sun can be strong, especially near the water and open plains.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture elephants, waterfalls, and scenic vistas.
• Pack snacks and water—although the tour may provide some, having your own can keep you energized.
• A light jacket can be useful for the early morning or cooler mountain areas.

What to Avoid

• Feeding or touching animals is strictly prohibited for safety and ethical reasons.
• No littering—help preserve the environment and keep the parks beautiful for everyone.
• Alcohol or intoxication will disqualify you from participating, as safety is a priority.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This safari is best suited for nature and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants and indigenous birds in the wild. It’s also a good fit for travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines scenic landscapes with wildlife encounters. However, it’s less ideal for those with limited mobility or who prefer a more relaxed, less physically active experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded day of wildlife watching, natural beauty, and cultural education. The chance to see elephants in their native habitat, combined with the stunning Ravana Waterfalls, makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking genuine Sri Lankan experiences. The comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and ethical approach add substantial value, making it a memorable day out.

If you’re a wildlife lover or someone who simply wants a taste of Sri Lanka’s incredible outdoors, this safari provides a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and get up close with nature.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts with pickups around 9 am, but exact times depend on your location. Confirm your pickup time when booking.

What is included in the price?
The booking typically covers transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, park entry fees, a guided safari, and visits to Ravana Waterfalls.

How long is the safari inside Udawalawe?
The safari itself lasts about four hours, giving you ample opportunity to see animals and enjoy the scenery.

Can I see elephants close up?
Yes, many travelers report seeing elephants from close range—guided safaris are designed to allow safe and respectful viewing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Mostly suited for older children and adults, especially those comfortable with outdoor activities. It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, the guides are fluent in English and provide educational insights about wildlife and conservation.

Will I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, snacks, water, and a jacket are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The tour follows strict wildlife conservation guidelines, promoting responsible tourism and environmental protection.

This safari promises a combination of adventure, learning, and stunning scenery—all in a single memorable day. For anyone craving authentic wildlife encounters paired with Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: